When: August 12, 2025 @ 5:30 pm
Explore the fascinating world of lichens!
Join lichen enthusiast and Conservation Outreach Associate Alina as she walks the Jackrabbit trails, where we will explore the abundance and diversity of lichens that can be found in this diverse region. We will discuss the ecology and biology of lichens, where one can find them, and what they contribute to our forests. Participants will learn some beginner identification tips, as well as how to use the free iNaturalist app for identification and building life lists. This event is geared towards beginner lichen enthusiasts as well as long-time nature nerds, and is open to nature lovers, hikers, and people all knowledge and skill levels who enjoy moving slowly through the landscape.
We’ll meet in the Jackrabbit Trail Head parking lot just before 5:30pm on Tuesday August 12th. See the map below for exact location.
The walk will take about two hours of slow walking, and is on a wide dirt trail with mild slopes with some roots that that is rated moderately easy. Other than the parking lot, the trail is adequately shaded. We will never be more than 20 minutes from the trailhead. We suggest bringing water, a snack, a light rain jacket, hiking shoes, and any naturalist tools you may want such as a notebook or a hand lens. Magnifying devices will be provided!
This event is free and open to the public, including children and families. Space is limited, so please fill out the form below to register then grab your notebook and prepare for a fun morning of learning about the lichen diversity along Lake Chatuge! This event is weather dependent and will be cancelled if there is heavy rain or thunder storms, but will proceed with a light drizzle. Please leave pets at home. Email Alina at [email protected] with any questions.
Meet your teacher
As Mainspring’s Conservation Outreach Associate, Alina Martin aims to encourage the protection and appreciation of land by connecting communities to the birds, plants, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles that share our home here in the Southern Blue Ridge. Her adventures up and down the east coast have introduced her to a wide variety of habitats, and those experiences inspire her to continue nurturing her understanding of wildlife and plant ecology. Armed with her identification knowledge and ever-increasing wonder, Alina leads a variety of educational programs here at Mainspring, and finds something curious and new each time. She is a life-long birder, all-around naturalist, and avid user of eBird and iNaturalist.
