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Upstate Chapter Field Trip to Ashmore Heritage Preserve

Posted on by Jesse Freeman (Upstate)

Photo Credit: Dan Whitten

Ready to step into nature’s classroom? Join the South Carolina Native Plant Society for a walk through the stunning Ashmore Heritage Preserve. It’s a chance to see an incredible variety of native plants up close, breathe in some good fresh air, and share the experience with folks who love plants as much as you do.

Registration opens on March 1, 2025.


Details:

  • Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
  • Time: 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM
  • Location: Ashmore Heritage Preserve, 45 Persimmon Ridge Road, Greenville County, SC
  • What to Bring: Snacks, water, sunscreen, bug spray, sturdy footwear, hiking poles (recommended) and binoculars (for a close-up look of the plants in the bog).

What to Expect: We’ll be hiking the scenic trails through a shaded forest and around Lake Wattacoo. The preserve features a bog, home to a variety of rare plants and species, including orchids, sundew, and ferns. If we’re lucky, we might see the marsh in full bloom with thousands of pitcher plants! Plus, keep an eye out for the beautiful pink lady slippers that can be spotted along the trails. You’ll also be treated to stunning views of outcrops, a water slide, and a lake.

 Directions: From where S.C. 11 joins U.S. 276 (near Cleveland), travel west on S.C. 11/U.S. 276 for 3.9 miles to Persimmon Ridge Road on the right. Go north on Persimmon Ridge Road for 0.8 miles to a parking area on the right.  The trails start just up the road on the right. We will meet in the parking area at 9:30am and be on the trail by 9:45am.

 Important Notes:

  • The Wattacoo Pond Loop trail is approximately 1.5 miles with 300 feet elevation gain.
  • Be prepared for large, loose gravel terrain that can be slippery and steep in a few sections. This is where your sturdy footwear and hiking poles will come in handy.

Space is limited, so save the date! Sign up on the Event Registration Page starting March 1st.