2025 Pre-Conference: Echoes in the Gorge - Climbing Toward Renewal

The program offers a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the environmental and economic consequences of a natural disaster and the resilience efforts underway in the affected communities. Through interactive discussions the group will gain a deeper understanding of both the challenges and strategies involved in recovery and learn about the long range plans for this incredible gorge. 

Tentative Schedule:

9:00 am - Meet at AB Tech Conference Center to board the Chimney Rock Park Management Shuttle. Travel via Highway 64 through Bat Cave.

10:00 - We will make a stop in Bat Cave to begin tour into HNG.

10:45 am-  Arrive in Chimney Rock Village to meet with Chimney Rock community leadership. 

11:45 am Welcome to Chimney Rock State Park. Shuttle to the upper parking lot. Ride the elevator to the Sky Lounge Deli for lunch on the patio at noon.

12:30 pm - After lunch see Chimney Rock then enjoy a guided hike down the Outcroppings trail, stop at Pulpit Rock to view the changes in Hickory Nut Gorge from above.

1:00 pm - Meet a Chimney Rock Park Ranger to hear about how park staff responded and is moving forward.

2:00 pm- Board the shuttle for a return trip to Asheville.

Need to Knows:

• The group will be shuttling to Chimney Rock, so please be on time to check in and catch the bus.

• Lunch will be on your own via the Sky Lounge Deli. If you have special dietary needs you are encouraged to bring what ever food iteams you need.

• Dress for the weather, most of this field trip will be outdoors.

• Wear good walking shoes!

• Don't forget water!

• There are gendered restrooms in the park, and restrooms at the Conference Center to use before you leave. Due to construction and recovery within Chimney Rock Village we cannot guarantee access to restrooms in that location.

This experience will count as 6 hours toward Criteria 2/CEUS for NC EE Certification.