Note: Preregistration is required. Trip is limited to 6 participants. Please email Sam Taylor at:
Field Trip Leader: Sam Taylor
Description: We will explore a small but incredibly diverse rich cove ecosystem situated on a tributary to the Chauga River. This area is incredibly unique as it is one of the many rich coves situated in the piedmont eco region. There are many rare, uncommon, and interesting plants in a relatively small area surrounded by dry ridges and acidic slopes. There will be multiple trillium species present as well as many other cove species. However, the star of the show will be Large Yellow Lady’s Slipper (Cypripedium pubescens or C. parviflorum var. pubescens depending on who you ask). Unfortunately, due to the fragile nature of this site and at the request of local botanists, the limit for attendees will be 6 participants.
Directions From Toccoa:
- Head toward S Broad St
- Turn right onto S Broad St
- Turn right onto W Tugalo St
- Turn left onto GA-184 N/Prather Bridge Rd, Continue to follow GA-184 N, entering South Carolina
- Continue onto Cleveland Pike Rd
- Turn left onto Unity Church Rd
- Turn left onto US-76 W, Destination will be on the right
Directions From Clayton:
- Head toward E Savannah St
- Turn right at the 1st cross street onto E Savannah St
- Turn right onto Hwy 441
- Turn left onto US-76 E/Hwy 76
Meet At: We will meet at the Long Creek General Store along Highway 76 at 10 AM before making our way to the trailhead.
Bathroom Facilities: None
Walking Difficulty: The hike into the cove is an in and out 0.5-mile old logging road that drops down roughly 300 feet. It isn’t particularly strenuous, but you should consider it largely ‘off trail’ as the roadbed is overgrown and has many fallen trees along it. I would consider it moderately difficult. Avoid this trip if you have difficulty walking on uneven ground or have a health condition that makes physical activity difficult.
Bring: Lunch, snacks, & water. Remember to dress for the weather and wear comfortable hiking shoes. Trekking poles help, but can be easily lost in the cove if you set them down to take pictures. You may wish to bring binoculars, hand lens, notebook, and camera. The birding isn’t particularly great once you are off the ridge but warblers can typically be heard on the hike down.
Contact: Sam Taylor, 706-599-9864,