Notice to Hikers: Florence Nature Preserve Access Trail Under Construction

In December, CMLC began construction on a new section of hiking trail that connects CMLC's newly opened trailhead on Highway 74A to the 600-acre Florence Nature Preserve (FNP).  Located in the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge near the hamlet of Gerton, the new section of trail will replace a steep and eroded trail that currently accesses the FNP. This new, sustainable trail will feature multiple switchbacks to improve the grade of the ascent to FNP.  The new route, open to foot traffic only, will also incorporate multiple natural and cultural points of interest as it accesses the Preserve and its five-mile hiking trail network on the slopes of Little Pisgah Mountain.  The existing trail will be closed following construction of the new access trail.  Construction of this trail re-route is scheduled to be completed in January 2012.

HIKERS: Please use extra caution. Hiking access to FNP will remain open during trail construction. However, please pay extra attention to safety while hiking to FNP during the construction process. Heavy machinery & tools are in use among the trail crew.  Stay alert and ensure your presence is known if you hike near the construction.

For directions to the trailhead, click here to enter your address and receive turn-by-turn directions to the the trailhead. GPS users may enter N35.4734, W-82.3320 in their units. Located off of Highway 74A, the grassy parking area is most recognizable by a rock wall and stone chimney.  Park here, making sure to leave space for other vehicles.

Florence Nature Preserve'a 600 acres harbor pristine mountain streams, old growth forest, and rock outcroppings with scenic views.  The Preserve was donated to CMLC for preservation and public access by Dr. Tom & Glenna Florence in 1996 and 2001.  FNP and its new public trailhead on Highway 74A will one day be part of the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Loop Trail that will link conserved lands at Bearwallow Mountain and Hickory Nut Gap by footpath. For more information on CMLC's Florence Nature Preserve, click here.