April 11-14, 2024
Headquartered at Hawks Nest State Park in Ansted, West Virginia. Pre-registration is required. Space is limited and available on a first-come first-served basis.
Nature enthusiasts who love to explore the great outdoors won’t want to miss our upcoming Spring Botany Blast in the New River Gorge area of West Virginia. From April 11-14, 2024, we’re hosting a guided journey through the stunning Appalachian Mountains, where you’ll see 30 to 40 flowering plant species on two field trips in two days.
Our weekend package includes meals, field trip transportation, checklists, and evening presentations. Choose an option with lodging included for a private room at Hawks Nest State Park Lodge, or a private cabin with a hot tub for three nights - we'll handle your reservations for you! Regardless of where you stay, everyone's weekend begins at Hawks Nest with a casual welcome and dinner buffet, Thursday evening. Friday and Saturday, start with breakfast at 8am, followed by field trips at 9am. Lunch is picnic-style on the field trips, and we return to Hawks Nest at 4pm. Then, dinner starts at 6pm, followed by a presentation at 7pm. Sunday morning breakfast wraps up the weekend.
Our small groups, of up to 12 on each field trip, ensure that you’ll have a personalized experience with our guides: Jim McCormac, Jodi French-Burr, Rosanna Springston, and Mitchell Dech. Expect to walk up to two miles on mostly easy, and on somewhat moderate terrain Friday and Saturday. You’ll get to see and hear a presentation by renowned speaker, Jim McCormac on Friday evening; and Jodi French-Burr on Saturday evening.
Nature journaling is a great way to connect with nature, and it helps you to observe and appreciate the beauty of the natural world. You’re encouraged to bring your nature journal to record observations. As a bonus, we’ll give away a journaling toolkit!
Don’t miss the chance to witness the stunning wildflower blooms of spring in the New River Gorge, as the river flows north, giving blooms a lift up the Appalachian Mountains. Register now to secure your spot for this unforgettable experience!
One field trip each day, to a different destination each day: Glade Creek and Stone Cliff!
Check out our self-reservation recommendations on our Lodging page.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER - closed
If two people are registered with the same form, they're assigned together on field trips, and share a room if you selected lodging at Hawks Nest. Your personal detailed itinerary is provided before you arrive.
$475 for 1 person, no lodging included
$950 for 2 people, no lodging included
$715 for 1 person, Hawks Nest room single occupancy
$1,160 for 2 people, Hawks Nest room, double occupancy
Trip Leaders
Jim McCormac
Jodi French-Burr
Rosanna Springston
Mitchell Dech
All proceeds generated through our events go to the registered 501C3 local nonprofit Fayette County Education Fund, Inc. (FCEF). Learn more about Who We Support.
