Endangered Species Day Hike at Twin Arches on Saturday, May 17

Date: May 9, 2014
Contact: Marie Tackett, 423-569-9778
Contact: Dave Carney, 423-569-9778

Endangered Species Day is an opportunity for people of all ages to learn about the importance of protecting endangered species and everyday actions they can take to help protect them.  Join us at the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area for a two mile hike out to the magnificent Twin Arches on Saturday, May 17.  From the top of the arches is a grand panoramic view of the surrounding mountains on the Cumberland Plateau.  We will be able to see the federal endangered Cumberland sandwort, a small plant that grows in the sandstone rock-house habitat.  There are also other plants that are endemic to the rock houses.  We will not go if it is raining or it is predicted to rain.  Consult a weather report before the trip.  Dress appropriately, wear sturdy boots, and bring plenty of water and lunch.  As with any moderate hiking trip, please do not attempt this hike unless you are in good condition and able to negotiate rocky trail situations.  Parking is available at the Twin Arches trailhead.

The hike begins at 10:00 a.m. (CT), on May 17, and reservations are required.  For more information, contact Andrea Bishop at [phone] or [e-mail] or the Bandy Creek Visitor Center at [phone].

The hike is sponsored by Tennessee Natural Areas Program, National Park Service, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.  For more information, including descriptions, directions, and maps, about this as well as any other State Natural Area, visit the Division of Natural Areas web site at:  http://tn.gov/environment/natural-areas/natural-areas/twinarch/.  Close to Twin Arches trailhead is Pickett State Park.  Visit http://tnstateparks.com/parks/about/pickett to learn more about camping or cabin availability.