NOTE: Preregistration is required. Please email Clayton Webster at:
Field Trip Leader: Clayton Webster, 678-925-1091
Description: We will walk the 1.5-mile Oconee Bell Wildflower Trail to see the rarely seen Oconee Bells (Shortia galacifolia). Over 90% of the world’s known population is in this small area called the Jocassee Gorges Region. Numerous other spring wildflowers should also be in bloom along the trail. After seeing the Oconee Bells, an additional option will be to also see some of the many great waterfalls clustered nearby in Upstate South Carolina.
Location & Directions: For those who wish to carpool from the Atlanta area, we will meet at Publix at exit 126 on I-85N at Braselton at 7:45 a.m. We will also stop at the South Carolina Welcome Center and meet others there at 9:00 a.m. Everyone will meet at the Devils Fork State Park Visitors Center, 161 Holcombe Circle, Salem SC 29676 at 10:00 a.m.
Meet At: Exit 126 on I-85N to carpool or at Devils Fork State Park Visitors Center at 10:00 a.m.
Fee: In South Carolina the entrance fee is per person, not per vehicle. It is $8.00 each or $5.00 for seniors.
Bathroom Facilities: At Visitors Center.
Walking Difficulty: Hike is easy on well-maintained woods trail. There are ups and downs along beautiful small streams. Sometimes necessary to go off trail a little bit to view the hard to see blooms, but no bushwhacking. Hikes to all optional waterfalls are also short and rated easy.
Bring: Lunch, snacks, & water. Remember to dress for the weather and wear comfortable hiking shoes. Dress in layers so that you can adjust to changes in the temperature and your activity level. You may wish to bring binoculars, hand lens, notebook, and camera.
Trip Limit: 15 people.