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 In the shadow of the Continental Divide, nestled between the contours of Little Bearwallow Mountain and Little Mount Pisgah are two preserves: Little Bearwallow Mountain and the Florence Nature Preserves. Little Bearwallow Mountain Preserve is an abundant forest and includes one of the best wildflower areas in the county. It has been designated by biologists as a “Significant Natural Area,” due to its rich cove diversity.
Walking in the forest, listening to tumbling waterfalls, and gazing at mountain vistas gives one the feeling of standing on ancient, sacred lands. Little Bearwallow Mountain Preserve comprises 230 acres of forestlands for enjoyment by the residents and visitors of Hickory Nut Forest and Gerton. People may hike on 3 miles of trails to cliffs, waterfalls, and scenic vistas. Another 5 miles of hiking trails down the gorge to Chimney Rock are currently being forged.
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Miles of hiking trails surround Hickory Nut Forest. Out your front door you can walk through forests, along streams, past waterfalls and up to rocky cliffs with spectular scenic vistas. The links below lead to hiking maps of some of the trails in the area.
Little Bearwallow Mountain Trail Map
Florence Nature Preserve Trail Map |
 Little Bearwallow Mountain is recognized as one of the best wildflower areas in Henderson County. In the springtime the forest blooms with thousands of trillium, violets, bloodroot, Indian paintbrush, flame azaleas and many other species. |
 This part of Hickory Nut Gorge has also been designated as a Significant Natural Area by biologists. It's Rich Cove Community is home to a very healthy and diverse ecosystem of plants and animals thriving in the undisturbed mountain environment. |
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