Laurel-Snow State Natural Area Hike

Tennessee Valley Wild Ones members are invited to participate in an afternoon Wildflower Hike within the Laurel-Snow State Natural Area.

Laurel-Snow is a 2,259-acre natural area located in Rhea County, Tennessee. The natural area occurs on the Walden Ridge of the Cumberland Plateau and contains a section of gorge that is deeply dissected by Morgan, Henderson, Laurel, and Richland Creeks. The site is named after two scenic waterfalls, Laurel Falls (80 feet) and Snow Falls (35 feet), and features two prominent overlooks, Buzzard Point and Bryan Overlook (also known as Raven Point). The natural area also has scenic creeks, steep gorges, geologic features, a small stand of virgin timber, and a wide variety of plants.

We will hike up Richland Creek to its bridge crossing and just a little beyond that point to see if the Trillium grandiflorum are up. Most of the wildflowers are in the lower slopes near the creek. Then we will return part way and hike up to Laurel Falls, then back down and to the parking area. The hike to Laurel Falls is moderately strenuous. The hike along Richland Creek is fairly easy with only a few short uphill sections. There is one stream crossing on Laurel Branch that may require us to hop the creek because the old bridge is damaged and out. If the creeks are up really high, we may not be able to cross and that would be the end of the hike, but there are lots of wildflowers before that point. Participants will be welcome to leave the hike at any time and return on their own.

This program is free and open to Wild Ones members.

Limit: 15 participants.

Driving directions and additional program details will be provided upon registration