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| Catawba College Ecological Preserve in Salisbury NC © Katrena |
The Catawba College Ecological Preserve does not boast or call attention to itself to those who happen to be in the area. Many people who live and work in or near Salisbury, North Carolina have never heard of the preserve. Although I grew up in Rowan County and live in the Piedmont, I only recently found this area mottled with beautiful native plants and animals.
I'll admit I did not locate the preserve the first time I took my daughters to see it, but I'm glad we tried again! West Innes Street runs through Catawba College, which is located at 2300. Driving from downtown Salisbury, look to your right and you'll see Keppel Auditorium. The entrance to the preserve lies behind Keppel Auditorium on the left corner of the parking lot; no admission is charged to enjoy the preserve. Parking may be limited when large events are hosted at Catawba.
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| Beautiful Flowers in North Carolina © Katrena |
The trail splits into two directions near the sign. Follow the path to the left; the right path appears to be a sort of service trail/road. Catawba students who study environment science and other related topics will likely be familiar with this trail, so you may be able to get directions from students walking in the area if you cannot find the preserve.
Although the trail seems pretty nonchalant, if you take the time to inspect various plants, you'll discover a nice variety of plants and animals along the path. Nameplates give visitors the opportunity to learn the names of some of flowers and trees. My kids got a kick out of the devil's walking stick plant! You might try bringing a field guide, searching online, or use an app to learn more about the various plants and flowers if you wish to delve into practical, hands-on education with the kids.
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| Cacti and Other Plants at Catawba College © H.W. |
You can peek through the windows of the large building near the beginning of the trail to see quite a few cacti and other indoor plants growing. These are being studied by college students who wish to preserve our dwindling natural resources.
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| Beautiful Hiking Trails in Piedmont Region of NC © Katrena |
My youngest would probably have been content to hang out at the little man-made pond with fish. This is a nice place to sit and listen to the running water, crickets, and birds. The mixture of sounds provides a wonderful backdrop for quiet contemplation. We saw a few students studying near this area.
The trail is heavily shaded, which can feel great on a hot summer day. Those who are mosquito magnets would do well to bathe in repellent. If North Carolina is looking to name a state nuisance, I'd vote for the mosquito. The trail has quite a few steps. Full access is not available, but those who cannot navigate steps might enjoy the upper part of the trail while the rest of the group heads farther down.
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| Hidden Lake and Hiking Trail in North Carolina © Katrena |
The trail eventually splits and circles a hidden lake. When we visited the ecological preserve, a family of Canada geese came in for a landing. Most areas of the trail will only give you a peek of the lake, but we did find one place with a clearing that gave a clear view. That area is located a short distance on the left where the trail splits near the lake.
We saw a few walkers and joggers on the trail, but many parts of the preserve made us feel as if we were at one with nature that day. This is a great place to enjoy the Tarheel State's natural beauty. One of the best benefits of enjoying natural habitats is that it is always changing. Seasons, weather patterns, and times of day will provide different experiences to enjoy.
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| Good Birding Trails in NC © Katrena |
Neon signs and flashing lights do not call passersby to this quiet and peaceful preserve. If you are looking for a place to unplug, unwind, and simply be in the moment, the Catawba College Ecological Preserve is a great choice.
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| Unusual Flowers in North Carolina © Katrena |
Readers may wish to read about other family-friendly activities in Rowan County:
Go to the
Travel NC With Kids site map and visit often to see more travel reviews, pictures, and tips by Katrena.
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