Rain Date: Thursday, March 20

This pretty little plant shares a fascinating history with early explorers of the Jocassee Gorges... but the ‘back story’ of these men is as interesting as the discovery of the plant itself. Learn who these adventurers were, what led them to this unique place on earth, and what else they discovered here. Join us for a classroom introduction to Andre Michaux, Asa Gray, George Hyman, and others, followed by a 3- hour pontoon tour following Michaux’s route into the wild terrain of the Jocassee Gorges. What to bring: lunch or snacks, appropriate layers of clothing, including windbreaker/raincoat, sensible close-toed shoes, binoculars, and a sense of wonder!

Kay Wade co-owns Jocassee Lake Tours with her husband Brooks. Together they founded Jocassee Wild Outdoor Education to offer students access to a wide range of nature studies in the "perfect outdoor classroom"- Lake Jocassee and the Jocassee Gorges. Kay is a professional writer and garden designer who is passionate about clean air, water and food.