When: September 24, 2025 @ 3:00 pm
Learn how to identify the trees of Southern Appalachia!
Join our Conservation Outreach Associate Alina and retired Forestry Professor Dr. Mark Vodak on a fall tree identification hike in the Joyce-Kilmer Memorial Forest outside of Robbinsville, where we will hike the Poplar Cove loop trail (2.6 miles, 620ft ascension) and explore the diversity of tree and shrub species that can be found in the region.
Participants will learn some beginner identification tips, as well as what photos need to be taken so you can make the identification back home or share with a knowledgeable botanist friend. We will discuss quick identification tips, the Natural History of the landscape, the science behind forest succession, wildlife use, and more! This event is geared towards beginner naturalists 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 long walks with frequent stops to observe the landscape and study what is around them.
We’ll begin gathering around 2:30pm at the Poplar Cove Loop Trail by the Cheoah Ranger District parking lot and begin just before 3pm on Wednesday September 24th. See the map below for exact location.
We will be hiking the Poplar Cove loop trail, which will take about two hours of stop-and-start walking, and is on slightly rocky, fairly hilly trail that is approximately 2.6 miles long and has an elevation increase of 609 ft. It is rated medium and is maintained regularly. Below is the map and elevation grade.
We suggest bringing a backpack with water, a snack, a light sweater, a rain jacket, sturdy hiking shoes, and trekking poles if you like them. Also bring: any naturalist tools you may want, such as a notebook, camera, or a hand lens. We will provide magnifying tools and phone photography tips 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 evening of learning about the tree 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!
