When: September 16, 2025 @ 4:00 pm
Learn how to identify the trees of Southern Appalachia!
Join our Conservation Outreach Associate Alina on a fall tree identification hike at the Piney Knob Trail System in Murphy, where we will explore the diversity of tree and shrub species that can be found in the region. We will discuss the Natural History of the landscape and the science behind forest succession, as well as what wildlife uses which species. We will also focus on quick tips for identifying if a tree is a walnut, hickory, oak, maple, azalea, or something else!
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.
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 moving slowly through the landscape and knowing what is around them.
We’ll meet in the Piney Knob Trail System parking lot around 3:45pm and begin just before 4pm on Tuesday September 16th. See the map below for exact location. We will be hiking the Grape Smuggler trail, which will take about two hours of stop-and-start walking, and is on slightly rocky, fairly hilly trail that is approximately 2 miles long and has an elevation increase of 229 ft. It is rated medium and is mountain-biked regularly. Below is the elevation map
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 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!
