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Strawberry Gap Trail Opening

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New Strawberry Gap Hiking Trail

Mike Leonard speaking in front of trailheadThe newest section of the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Trail System opened to the public in September, creating a connection to Blue Ridge Pastures and the Trombatore Trail from a gravel parking lot on Drover’s Road Scenic Byway (US 74) in Gerton. seated guests gathered for trail opening ceremony

This newly opened trail was made possible by partnership between Conserving Carolina, Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy, and generous conservation-minded landowners.

A small group of guests gathered for the trail dedication and ribbon cutting, honoring the many partners and supporters who have worked for years to bring this trail opening to fruition. The trail is dedicated to the memory of Susie Skinner Clarke Hamilton, who passed away in 2020. 

About the Trail:

This segment of trail stretches a strenuous 3 mile climb from the parking lot at Gerton to the top of Blue Ridge Pastures. Plan for a total of 6 miles if you’re looking to do an out-and-back, or link up with the Trombatore Trail at Blue Ridge Pastures and continue onward for a longer trek. The Strawberry Gap Trail climbs a total 1,200 ft. one way, 1,450 ft. round trip. You’ll want to take a pause about halfway up the trail (at 1.5 miles) to enjoy a scenic vantage point atop Ferguson Peak looking back towards Fairview, Asheville, and distant mountain ranges. Read more

Strawberry Gap Volunteer Workday with Conserving Carolina

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Background Info:

Strawberry Gap Trail is a ~2.8 mile trail right on the continental divide in the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge. The trail features beautiful vistas, scenic rock outcroppings, high elevation pastures, and areas of old growth forest. It crosses land protected by Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s conservation easements and Strawberry Gap Preserve. The trail will be another section that is added to the State trail system that’s in the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge. This volunteer opportunity will have you helping remove non-native invasive species to help fulfill our stewardship commitment and get a sneak peek to one of our newest trails!

Workday Description: 

Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC) and Conserving Carolina are coming together to help remove non-native invasive plant species from the properties surrounding our newest up-coming trail at Strawberry Gap. There is opportunity for everyone, all ages and experience levels are welcome. During the workday we will be removing various non-native invasive species, such as Chinese privet, Japanese honeysuckle, and multiflora rose from the property. Among other methods we may be using, volunteers will be using pruners, handsaws, and pulling to remove invasive plant species. Volunteers must be able to walk moderate distances across rough terrain. Plant ID and removal techniques will be taught on-site.

What to Wear: 

Sturdy boots (they will get muddy), hat, gloves; dress for the weather. Long pants and sleeves are recommended.

What to Bring: 

Snacks, water, work gloves (if you have them)

RSVP below

Registration is required – RSVPs will close on 07/05/22 at noon. For more information, email volunteer@conservingcarolina.org

Strawberry Gap, Stony Point Conservation

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We purchased 170 acres in two adjoining tracts at Strawberry Gap and Stony Point near the Eastern Continental Divide  to protect water resources, plant and animal habitat, and scenic views from public trails and scenic byways. We plan to own these properties for the long term and manage the forests to promote resilience, diversity and longevity. Read more

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