Events

Join Tony Ward, Western Region Program Coordinator with MountainTrue, on a gentle walk along the Jackson County Greenway to identify trees in winter. Tony will share some tricks to identifying deciduous trees, even when the leaves are not visible. The 1-mile trail offers a relatively flat tour along the Tuckasegee River and features a wide diversity of native trees perfect for identification. This hike is open to all skill levels of tree identifiers!

Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing.

As much as we love our furry friends, pets are not permitted on this walk.

Rain date: January 16th, 2026. Please save both dates on your calendar.

This walk is part of the Great Backyard Bird Count, a global community science event that helps scientists track bird population numbers. The event will be led by Skye Cahoon, Outreach Director for Mainspring Conservation Trust. Open to birders of all skill levels, from beginner to seasoned birders.

Participants will meet at the Locust Creek trailhead on the Jackson County Greenway (342 Old Cullowhee Rd, Sylva).

Please wear weather-appropriate clothing and bring a water bottle, as well as any tools you may want (such as binoculars or field guides). Extra binoculars will be available to borrow.

This event is free and open to the public, including families and folks with mobility concerns. Registration is not required, but is recommended to receive weather-related communications.

* This event is weather-dependent. Scheduling changes will be emailed to registered participants.

More details to come.