28 Jun Florence Nature Preserve
There is now a new trail head for the Florence Nature Preserve, a 600-acre preserve off of highway 74A in Gerton. The preserve is owned by Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy and is a special treasure in the upper Hickory Nut Gorge. The property was donated to CMLC by Dr. Tom and Glenna Florence, but access to the trail system was along a private property right-of-way.
To improve this access, Hickory Nut Forest Eco-Community is transferring 26 acres to CMLC, so they will have more vehicle parking and a scenic route of entry. Hikers can also use this trailhead to access the Hickory Nut Gorge Trail System which extends down through the gorge.
The location is approximately one mile down the gorge from Nita and Susan’s Hickory Creek Market in Gerton, at the old stone chimney. Hiking here can be fairly strenuous, so bring good hiking shoes and plenty of water. Please do not use the old access on Kelly Hill Road as that is now closed.
We are enthusiastic about the Florence Nature Preserve and the experiences it holds. We hope to see you on the trail. See the Trail Map.
Interested in ensuring the lasting future of the Florence Nature Preserve? Contact Volunteer Coordinator Julianne Johnson at julianne@carolinamountain.org to receive more information about the Florence Nature Preserve Volunteer Management Team today!
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