Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve - Stevens Nature Center

This morning I read a post by Mom in Chapel Hill about Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve. Now being the recent mountain transplants that we are, this was irresistible. We love to hike. Tot begs to go hiking on a regular basis. Since the weather has turned cooler (NOT cool, just cooler, i.e. 86 today rather than 106) it was a perfect day to explore this fantastic hiking spot. Once we arrived, Mom's homesickness began to dissipate. The nature preserve is home to a unique ecosystem within the piedmont. The flora is reminiscent of the mountains. Within the forest are Eastern Hemlocks which are usually not found outside of the Appalachian Mountains, as well as galax and salamanders that are common to the west, but not anywhere in this part of the state. It's kind of neat knowing that only half an hour away we can visit a forest that feels like home.
The theory is that during the last ice age temperatures were (obviously) much cooler than they are today and that these types of forests were common throughout the region. As the area warmed up, different types of trees took over and the hemlock forests died off in the heat. The area that is now hemlock bluffs is cooler because of the north facing bluffs which provide a rare, cool, moist environment.
When you enter the preserve, you see a building which the Stevens Nature Center. Inside the Nature Center are exhibits that talk about the plant and animal life within the preserve. Tot enjoyed making animal footprints in the sand while looking cool in her movie star glasses.
The Nature center hosts a variety of nature programs for all ages. Cost varies depending on the program and whether you are Cary resident or not. We may try to attend one of the workshops; Tot would really enjoy it. However, unregistered siblings are not allowed. So for me to take her to the Nature Nuts program (for ages 3-5) Brother would have to stay home with Dad or Dad and Brother could come enjoy the preserve while Tot and I enjoy the class. For information about available programs click here.