Hike the Flat Creek Trail with the GSMA

Join avid hiker and Great Smoky Mountains Association employee Robyn Whitted on Saturday, August 18th, for a high elevation hike along the Flat Creek Trail on the North Carolina side of the Smokies. You'll meander through "elfin" forests and take in some wonderful scenic views. Let your senses drink in the sights, sounds, and fragrance of a spruce and hemlock forest.

This section of the park was heavily logged in the early 1900s. There are some stream crossings along the way and you'll encounter a second growth forest of serviceberry, maple, hawthorn, cherry, birch, and American beech - all creating good nesting habitat for a variety of birds, including brown thrashers and rufous-sided towhees.

Robyn has been a seasonal interpretive ranger at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Buffalo National River. She recommends you come prepared with sturdy hiking boots, a steady hiking stick, and rain gear. Bring snacks and water and a picnic lunch to enjoy after the hike at the Heintooga Picnic Area. And by all means don't forget your sense of adventure!

Participants from the Tennessee side are asked to meet at Sugarlands Visitor Center by 9:00 am to carpool. Those from the North Carolina side should gather at the Heintooga Picnic Area by 10:30 am.

Reservations are required and participation is limited to 20. Call 865-436-7318, ext. 222 or 254, to register.


Jeff
Hiking in the Smokies