NOTE:   Preregistration is required.  Please email Sam Taylor at: 

Field Trip Leader:   Sam Taylor

Description:   We will explore several coves, rock outcrops, and the floodplain in a former channel of Panther Creek. The low grade marvel at this site has created the largest known rich cove site in the Piedmont ecoregion, once a candidate for the national natural landmarks program. Highlights include Pale Yellow Trillium, Southern Nodding Trillium, Eastern Columbine, Showy Orchis, Bishop’s Cap, Blue Cohosh, Southern Adder’s-tongue, Walking Fern, and Silvery Glade Fern. There will be many other wildflowers to see along the way! We will meet near Yonah Dam, and from there make our way up Panther Creek Road where we’ll park near the coves and cross the creek. Prepare to get wet or bring appropriate gear!

Location & Directions:   The coves are located at roughly these coordinates: 34°40’25.2″N 83°21’14.4″W.   However we will meet at the park where Panther Creek enters the Tugaloo River.

FROM TOCCOA:   Head West on E Currahee Street towards S Broad St.  Turn right on S Broad St.  After a quarter mile turn right on W Tugaloo Street.  After a mile turn left on GA-148 N/Prather Bridge Rd next to the large church.  After 5 miles, continue straight onto Yonah Dam Rd.  After another 5 miles, your destination will be on the right with the dam visible in the distance.

Meet At:   The gravel parking area at Yonah Dam Park. GPS Coordinates: 34°40’42.7″N 83°20’20.8″W.

Bathroom Facilities:   None.

Walking Difficulty:   This trip requires fording a creek that can vary in depth considerably. There are places to ford that aren’t as deep, but it can be a hassle. Aside from that, this visit will be off trail, but the walking is fairly easy. You may have to go over/under a log or two.

Bring:   Waders are highly recommended. You can bring a towel if you don’t mind getting wet. Lunch, snacks, & water. You may wish to bring binoculars, hand lens, notebook, and camera.

Contact:   Sam Taylor, 706-599-9864,