Name: Nature Walk: Tree Identification at Piney Knob Trailhead
Start: 2025-09-16T16:00:00-04:00
Location: Piney Knob Trail System

Nature Walk: Tree Identification at Piney Knob Trailhead

Register here: https://www.mainspringconserves.org/events/tree-identification-at-piney-knob-trailhead-9-16/
Replies on Facebook will not be included in the official registration.
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 1.8 miles long and has an elevation increase of 145 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.