The Nature Conservancy in Virginia - Warm Springs Mountain

Autumn view from Warm Springs Mountain

Hike Information & Registration

Hikes depart from The Nature Conservancy office at 12181-A Courthouse Hill Road in Warm Springs. Participants should dress for the weather and be able to hike up to two miles over uneven terrain. No restroom facilities are available at hike locations. There is no charge for participation, but space is limited and pre-registration is required. Call (540) 839-3599 for more information or to register.

Experience the splendor of Warm Springs Mountain – an unexpected, unbroken forest in a well-traversed part of America. Featuring a globally rare montane pine barren and old-growth oak-hickory forest, this special natural area provides habitat for several rare plants and invertebrates.

From spring wildflowers to birding to fall foliage – the Conservancy's Allegheny Highlands Program offers a wide variety of themed field trips. Join our staff for one or more of these guided hikes at Warm Springs Mountain Preserve.

2009 Spring & Summer Guided Hiking Schedule

Natural History Hike

Date: April 11, 2009
Time: 1:00 – 4:00 pm

As the forests emerge from a season of cold temperatures, gray skies, and occasional snow, buds begin to break, flowers begin to bloom, and wildlife seems to come alive as if awakening from a long winter nap. On this afternoon hike, we’ll look for the first signs of spring and learn about the unique natural history of Warm Springs Mountain Preserve.

Spring Birding Hike

Date: May 23, 2009
Time: 7:00 – 10:00 am

Each spring our mountain forests are once again filled with the sights and sounds of neotropical migratory birds as they return to their nesting grounds or pass through in route to more northern destinations. Join us for this early morning hike in the George Washington National Forest as we search for these feathered, long-distance travelers.

High Elevation Hike

Date: June 6, 2009
Time: 1:00 – 4:00 pm

With elevations above 4,200 feet, Warm Springs Mountain Preserve is home to a diversity of communities and species adapted to lightning fires, high winds, ice storms, poor soils, and other harsh climate conditions. Join us as we hike through a rare montane pine barren and learn about life that is literally high and dry.

Local History Hike

Date: July 18, 2009
Time: 1:00 – 4:00 pm

Cherished by Native Americans, visited by presidents, and traversed by pioneers, the Allegheny Highlands has a rich history of exploration and settlement. Discussion will include mineral baths, Thomas Jefferson, the Civilian Conservation Corps, and more as we hike to Flag Rock and take in breathtaking views of the Warm Springs valley.

Fire Ecology Hike

Date: August 15, 2009
Time: 1:00 – 4:00 pm

Fire, whether ignited by lightning or Native Americans, has been a component of the Central Appalachians for millennia. On Warm Springs Mountain, a number of species and natural communities are dependent on fire for their survival. This hike will explore an area where fire is being restored to its natural role in the ecosystem.