NOTE:   Preregistration is required.  Please email Clayton Webster at:  webs4740@bellsouth.net

Field Trip Leader:   Clayton Webster

Description:    Our hike will begin at Mulky Gap in the 30,000+ acre Cooper’s Creek WMA where we will see how the pink lady’s slippers (Cypripedium acaule) have recovered from an unfortunate and ill-timed prescribed burn in 2021 when they were in bloom.  Since that incident, the BotSoc has worked closely with the USFS to ensure something of this nature will not reoccur.  Learn about the dedicated group of Georgia BotSoc members who pursued this incident, and how it has been positively resolved. Since 100% were burned in 2021, slow progress has been made in the ensuing years as they come back.  After this short walk to see the lady’s slippers, we will take about a three mile out and back hike on a fairly level, but unmaintained old logging road to see upwards of 30 or 40 different spring ephemerals in bloom, many not seen elsewhere very often. 

Location & Directions:   Due to parking limitations at Mulky Gap, we will all meet at the Park & Ride in Blairsville at 10:00 am, 391 Blue Ridge Hwy, Blairsville 30512.   Because of this, our hike is limited to 20 people. We will narrow our carpool down at the Park & Ride. NO ONE is to park at Mulky Gap on their own and keep others from participating. 

Bathroom Facilities:   Last chance is at McDonalds in Blairsville (19 Murphy Hwy, Blairsville 30512) which is just up the hill from the Park & Ride.

Walking Distance:   About 3 miles depending if you participate in the wildflower walk also. 

Bring:    Dress in layers for the weather.  Trip is rain or shine.  Bring lunch or snack to eat at our turn-around place on the wildflower walk. 

Contact:   Clayton Webster at webs4740@bellsouth.net  678-925-1091