In the early days of the NC Science Trail, even before the official 2023 launch, we said there needed to be a Citizen Science component to our work. Citizen Science is, in my opinion, a true spark of genius because it gets the public involved in scientific research. And when this was a completely new…
Back in March we announced the launch of seven Curious Minds Adventures Scavenger hunts for the 2025 Science Festival. Today the NC Science Trail (ncsciencetrail.org) wants you to know that we have ELEVEN State Parks (!) on the Goosechase scavenger hunt platform for you you to enjoy all summer long! The adventures are available on…
Nature is everywhere—from city sidewalks to mountain trails—and it’s time to discover it! Join the NC BioBlitz, part of the City Nature Challenge, happening April 25–28 during the NC Science Festival. This fun, statewide event invites everyone—scientists, students, families, and curious explorers—to document wildlife using the free iNaturalist app. A BioBlitz is a community-powered effort…
We recently brought in a new partner that I am so excited to share with you. The Cradle of Forestry is found in Pisgah National Forest in western North Carolina, and if you’ve never heard of it, please keep reading. This blog post is intended to educate you about the science of forestry as well…
The NC Science Trail (ncsciencetrail.org) announced today that it has created seven Curious Minds Adventures at six State Parks on the Goosechase scavenger hunt platform for the NC Science Festival (April 1-30). The adventures are available on the Goosechase app – a free download to your cellphone through your phone’s app store. Once you create…
Our partner, the Museum of Coastal Carolina and Ingram Planetarium on Ocean Isle Beach has worked with their local mayor on many important coastal projects over the years. This year, that very special mayor is being recognized for her outstanding dedication as a protector of North Carolina’s coastline. The Ocean Isle Museum Foundation (OIMF) will…
The WNC Nature Center will reopen to the public on Monday, March 17, five and a half months after closing due to the devastating effects of Tropical Storm Helene, which caused significant flooding that destroyed roads and the main bridge to the Nature Center. Before opening to the general public, the Nature Center will open…
Last week was Engineers Week. Also known as EWeek, this week of engineering celebration was established in 1951 by the National Society of Engineers with a goal of ensuring a “diverse and well-educated future engineering workforce.” Engineering is, of course, the “E” in STEM and it is still a goal to help create a diverse…
Nestled in the heart of North Carolina’s High Country, Grandfather Mountain State Park is a breathtaking destination celebrated for its rugged beauty and biological diversity. Towering at 5,946 feet, this iconic peak offers panoramic vistas, challenging trails, and a stunning array of natural communities that make it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Spanning nearly 2,500…
Celebrate the New Year with fun, fresh air, and scenic views by participating in a First Day Hike in one of North Carolina’s State Parks. These guided hikes are organized annually from Hawaii to Maine to encourage individuals and families to start the year on the right foot – by getting outside and connecting with…