POP-UP Hike!

Date: Tuesday, October 8th

Time: Starting at 10:00 am

Where: Cherry Cove Overlook, Blue Ridge Parkway 

Distance: 3.50 miles out-and-back

Difficulty: Moderate (5-6)

Cost: FREE for all participants (but pre-registration is required)

Join the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy for a moderate hike along a migratory pathway for Monarch Butterflies on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The hike is a 3.5 mile out-and-back that begins at Cherry Cove Overlook (mile marker 415.7) and ends at Skinny Dip Falls before turning back.

Currently, monarchs are being spotted in the Appalachian area ( in some areas, by the hundreds!). Around late September through mid-October Monarch Butterflies leave their northern climes for sunny Winter real-estate in Michoacan, Mexico. The Appalachian Mountains are one of the primary pathways for southbound Monarchs. SAHC’s conservation work in the Southern Appalachians protects high elevation habitat and critical food sources for weary, traveling Monarchs. The group will hike through an area of historically high Monarch concentration and enjoy the first colors of Fall stopping for lunch at the beautiful Skinny Dip Falls. So come out and let’s celebrate the Monarchs and the changing of the seasons together. This hike is FREE for everyone!

You will receive additional information about carpooling, hike preparations, etc. from the hike coordinator via email.

Complete the form below to register for the hike