Conserving Carolina is organizing a Members Hike on Youngs Mountain on Saturday, Oct. 20.

Located in Rutherford County near Lake Lure, Youngs Mountain is a cradle of biodiversity in the Blue Ridge Escarpment, representatives said. Its slopes are home to at least 25 rare species, including green and crevice salamanders and Diana fritillaries, and it provides habitat for over 80 species of animal and over 380 species of plants.

In the future, there are plans to create public access to Youngs Mountain and build hiking trails to this summit. This network will add to the Hickory Nut Gorge State Trail, a future 100-plus-mile trail network that will completely encircle Lake Lure.

For now, this conserved land is not open to the public.

Only current Conserving Carolina members can participate in the hike.

Conserving Carolina members will meet at 10 a.m. for approximately 4-5 miles of moderate to difficult terrain with several steep stretches, ending by 3 p.m. Attendees will hike to rock outcroppings that feature rare natural communities and offer scenic views overlooking Lake Lure and conserved lands in the lower Hickory Nut Gorge.

Those interested in attending can contact Membership Coordinator Ericka Berg to sign up by phone at 828-697-5777 or email at ericka@conservingcarolina.org, or may visit conservingcarolina.org and RSVP on the event calendar. RVSPs are required.

Participants should not attempt any hike beyond their ability and experience. Hikers should wear appropriate clothing and footwear, bring a bag lunch and/or snack and plenty of water, and make sure to bring any personal medication they may require.

In case of inclement weather, attendees may visit the Conserving Carolina Facebook page, facebook.com/conservingcarolina, to see if the hike will take place.

– Submitted by Ericka Berg