NOTE:   Preregistration is required. Trip is limited to 15 people.  Please email Rich Reaves at: 

Field Trip Leader:   Rich Reaves

Description:   We will explore several spots in the vicinity of the Buck Creek Barrens, including parts of the Barrens.  Some of the plants we may encounter include eastern red paintbrush (Castilleja coccinea), southern nodding trillium (Trillium rugellii), painted trillium (Trillidium undulatum), and gaywings (Polygaloides pauciflora).

Location & Directions:   From Atlanta, take I-75 north to 575, continue north on 575, continue on same road as it becomes 515 and then 515/76.  On the west side of Hiawasee, turn left to remain on 515 and continue to Hayesville, NC.  Turn East on US 64.  After approximately 15.5 miles, you will crest a substantial mountain. After you start down the mountain, at approximately 1.1 miles turn left on Buck Creek Road.  The meeting site is at the intersection at the bottom of the hill.

Meet At:    The 4-way intersection on Buck Creek Road: lat/long 35.075550, -83.609912, WGS 84 datum.

Bathroom Facilities:   None.

Walking Difficulty:   This hike will be mostly easy, but certain portions will be difficult and may include some bushwhacking.

Bring:   Lunch, snacks, water, and bug spray.  Dress for the weather and wear comfortable hiking shoes.  You may wish to bring binoculars, hand lens, notebook, and camera.

Contact:   Rich Reaves, (no email day of trip), 770-827-5186, may not have cell service at meeting site.