Adult Field Course: Exploring Natural Communities of Grandfather Mountain

Join us for an in-depth exploration of the natural community types found on Grandfather Mountain. In this class, you’ll learn to recognize distinct habitats by studying their characteristic flora, fauna and environmental conditions. Guided by ecological principles and scientific tools, we’ll examine how factors such as elevation, topography, soil composition and microclimates shape these unique ecosystems and provide habitats for some of the rare and endangered species that we’ll see during our exploration. This workshop will enhance your ability to classify habitats and deepen your understanding of the complex interplay between species and their environments.

Elizabeth Trott and Leigh Ann Emery have served as Interpretive Park Guides for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation since 2021 and 2022, respectively. Both are NAI Certified Interpretive Park Guides, and both are nearing completion of the North Carolina Environmental Educator certification. Elizabeth and Leigh Ann both have an immense passion for all aspects of nature. They often spend their time, both at work and personally, exploring Grandfather Mountain and sharing their passions with anyone that will listen.

Program Itinerary

10:00 – 10:15 – Meet at the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery and Introductions

10:15 – 11:30 – Classroom introduction to Natural Communities of Grandfather Mountain

11:30 – 12:00 – Lunch at Wilson Center

12:00 – 3:30 – Exploring different Natural Communities on the Mountain (shuttle provided)

3:30 – 4:00 – Wrap up/Evaluations

Tickets

This event costs $60 for general admission and $51 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club – plus tax.

Registration opens on this page on June 1 at 10 a.m. Limited to 20 participants.

What’s included?

Your program cost includes admission into the park, field instruction and transportation during your program (you may drive your own vehicle to visit sites on the mountain if you would prefer). It does not include meals or lodging. Bringing a bagged lunch is recommended for most field courses, although Mildred’s Grill will be open to attendees.

Tips are not accepted for field courses. However, donations to the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation are accepted if you would like to recognize a program.

General Clothing List

Much of your time will be spent outdoors and all programs are held rain or shine. You should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing, equipment and footwear are very important.

Equipment:

Daypack with enough room to carry extra clothing, water, lunch, camera, etc.

Water Bottle

Sunglasses

Sunscreen

Sturdy hiking boots or closed-toed shoes are required

Notebook and pencil

Long pants and preferably long-sleeved shirts are strongly encouraged as we will be walking through the woods.

Refunds/Cancellations

Adult Field Courses generally sell out and have a waiting list associated with the event. If you cannot attend t...