40 Acre Rock with the Midlands Chapter

Come join Andrew Lazenby as we explore the unique and beautiful geology, flora, and fauna of 40 Acre Rock.    The day will start at the upper parking lot with and easy walk to the exposed granite.     After looking at the variety and diversity that uses the stone for a habitat, we will head down towards the waterfall and follow the stream as we look for and discuss wildflowers and interesting plants that grow in this shaded environment along the stream bank.   We will continue to work our way through other habitats and will return to the outcropping and back to our vehicles.  If there is interest, we can travel towards the lower parking lot and explore the old roadbed where we can discuss the process of nature reclaiming the road as well as see trillium, atamasco lily, and much much more.

Please note that this walk will consist of multiple elevation changes as we exit and return to the exposed granite outcropping as well as normal terrain changes.     Good shoes are a must and caution must be exercised as we walk on the granite as water seeps create slick areas that can cause slips. This is also a semi remote area so there are few local stores available for food, water, and restrooms so plan accordingly.   So bring a snack, plenty of water, sunscreen and a sense of curiosity and join me for a walk.   

WHAT'S THE ROCK?  The rock seems bigger than life, larger than its actual 14 acres. The entire Forty Acre Rock Heritage Preserve encompasses of the most diverse protected area in the Piedmont region, including granitic flatrocks, waterslides, waterfalls, beaver pond, caves, hardwood and pine forests, and a variety of wildflowers and wildlife. The Forty Acre Rock Heritage Preserve & Wildlife Management Area is designated as a National Natural Landmark.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?  Nature Scene was there.  SCDNR's description.  Take a walk with DNR.

DIRECTIONS:  Our goal is the upper parking lot (34°40'30.8"N; 80°31'25.0"W).  From Columbia, take I-20E to exit 92 (US 601) to Kershaw, where it becomes the Gold Mine Hwy. Turn left onto SC 29-27 and then left again at Conservancy Road.  It is approximately 1 1/2 hours from Columbia.

WHAT TO BRING:  Please wear weather-appropriate clothing.  Bring a hat, sunscreen, water and a snack.

There is no restroom at this location.

Carpooling can be arranged.