This is a specially arranged tour from the Nature Conservatory is to the real bat cave that the town was named after. We have pre-paid for 10 people, so if you can let us know that you would like to attend, we'd appreciate it. But, don't worry if you decide that morning; please come.
SITE INFORMATION:
After hiking a mile up a steep trail through a mature hardwood forest, you will be rewarded with Bat Cave’s natural air conditioning: a cool moist draft that constantly pours out of vents on the side of the large cave. Bat Cave is the largest known granite fissure cave in North America. The main chamber is a dark cathedral more than 300 feet long and approximately 85 feet high. Fissure caves are formed by rock splits, boulder movements, and other motions of the earth, while most other caves are formed by water dissolving and abrading rock.
While seeing this impressive cave opening is the attraction for most visitors, the rugged slopes around Bat Cave contain an equally important array of habitats and creatures. Hickory Nut Gorge is cloaked in cove hardwood forest, while Carolina hemlock and chestnut oak forest are found on the cliff tops and ridgeline. The forests harbor a number of threatened or endangered plants, such as broadleaf coreopsis and Carey’s saxifrage. The preserve has an abundance of spring wildflowers, including bloodroot, toothwort, trillium, and violets.
Where to park: Bat Cave at the Apple House. It's pretty much the only notable building and if about 10 minutes from Lake Lure towards Asheville. Be prompt. Bring water and wear sturdy clothes pants are recommended and hiking shoes(no flip flops or sandals). The hike is approximately 1 mile one-way and is moderate to very strenuous. The hike will be in the mountains and is highlighted by visiting the Bat Cave! This hike will be guided by The Nature Conservancy and they will explain the plants and wildlife of the preserve.
3 pm Boat Tour (Tentative)
Because it's listed as first come, we're saying tentative, but if we can reserve the spot as a group boat tour, we'll update it here to let you know.
Discover the beauty and charm of Lake Lure. Relax on one of our covered tour boats while your skipper guides you past local attractions and landmarks such as the locations used in filming the popular Dirty Dancing and the recently restored historic 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa. Listen to the legends, and learn about the natural and cultural history of Hickory Nut Gorge, home to Lake Lure, North Carolina.
Where to park: Lake Lure Marina this is the big park on the left when you drive over the bridge.
If you could let us know if you're planning on joining us, that will make sure we book enough spaces.
6 pm Cookout
Still working out the details, but we're planning on having a veggie burger, buffalo burger, organic hot dog kind of cookout in Lake Lure. We'll also have some of our favorite brews on hand. More soon.
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