An organization based in Franklin, but benefiting both Macon and Jackson counties, is Mainspring Conservation Trust.
The nonprofit’s three core initiatives in our beautiful mountains are to “conserve the land, restore the water, and connect the people to these valuable resources.” One of the ways it achieves its mission is by purchasing properties, many of which were once farms, to preserve them for perpetuity and make them accessible to the public.
While many residents and visitors of the Plateau make regular jaunts to Franklin to shop at places like Wal-Mart, they may not realize that a trifecta of Mainspring properties all meander along the lovely Little Tennessee River.
One is called Tessentee Bottomlands Preserve, and it is just off U.S. 441 (Georgia Road), for anyone traveling into Franklin from Highway 106 (Dillard Road – also known as Scaly Mountain Road). More than 70-acres of bottomland and river bluff land winds through tall rushes and rivercane and past a historic 100-plus-year-old farmstead, complete with clapboard home and outbuildings.
Gibson Bottoms, just off N.C. 28 (Bryson City Road), is a 64-acre property that includes forests and wide pastures along the river. And, a little farther down N.C. 28, toward Bryson City, are 16 acres of fields, flora, and fauna situated alongside and within sight of the Little Tennessee River.
Next time a drive down the mountain, from Highlands or Cashiers to Franklin, is planned, throw those hiking boots or walking shoes in the vehicle, as well as some binoculars and a camera, and take time to visit Tessentee Bottomland Preserve, Queen Branch, and Gibson Bottoms. Birds and other wildlife are in abundance at these properties.
And, at all three spots, there is practically no elevation – so nothing too strenuous. Dogs are allowed, and the trails are well maintained. Queen Branch even has a path for wheelchairs, strollers, and limited mobility persons.
No matter the season, meadow and forest bathing, picnics, trail running, plein air (open air) painting, and more are most definitely possible at these bucolic properties made accessible by Mainspring Conservation Trust.
And, this summer, consider taking a fishing pole (make sure an up-to-date permit is in the tackle box) and/or a bathing suit. The Little Tennessee River will definitely beckon!
To get specific directions to Tessentee Bottomland Preserve, Queen Branch, and Gibson Bottoms, visit mainspringconserves.org/be-a-mainspring/properties/.
Additionally, Mainspring’s website can be checked for its events schedule and outdoor-related volunteer opportunities. Events at these properties might involve such activities as how the Cherokee make baskets with rivercane, bird watching outings, and endangered aquatic species lectures.
Enjoy!
Favorites Count: 0