When: August 19, 2025 @ 5:30 pm
Discover the hidden world of lichens!
Join our Conservation Outreach Associate Alina on an early fall lichen hike at the Piney Knob Trail System in Murphy, where we will explore the abundance and diversity of lichens that can be found along this trail. We will discuss the science behind these fascinating critters including what kind of creatures they are, what they eat, how they reproduce, and what they contribute to our forests.
Participants will learn some beginner identification tips, as well as how to take close-up photos of lichens using a smartphone and magnifying device! This event is geared towards beginner lichen-likers or those who are looking for a place to start, but 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 Piney Knob Trail System parking lot just before 5:30pm on Tuesday August 19th. See the map below for exact location. The walk will take about two hours of slow walking, and is on slightly rocky, fairly hilly trail that is rated medium and is mountain-biked regularly. We suggest bringing water, a snack, a light rain jacket, sturdy hiking shoes, and any naturalist tools you may want such as a notebook or a hand lens. We will provide magnifying tools as well!
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 that can be found here in the Cherokee valley! 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.
Please treat your registration as a formal ticket. Read this event description thoroughly and ensure that the date, time, and location work for your schedule. We monitor event sign-ups, and restrict group size to ensure you have a quality experience out in the woods with us. If you register and can no longer attend, email Alina at [email protected]. Thank you!
