The Norman Wilder Forest, a 185-acre protected forest on the slopes of Little Warrior Mountain, has plenty of space for you to roam.

The forest is located between Saluda and Tryon and there are several hiking trails in the preserve, which is part of the North Carolina Birding Trail.

One of most popular trails is the hike to Drip Falls. According to All Trails, the hike to Drip Falls is a 1.8-mile out-and-back trail that is considered a moderately challenging route that takes an average of 55 minutes to complete.

The North Carolina Birding Trail website states that you can see a variety of birds, including Wood Thrush, Black-throated Green Warbler, Worm-eating Warbler, Ovenbird, American Redstart, and Hooded Warbler, in the area.

According to the North Carolina Birding Trail website, “The mature mixed hardwood forest is located on the steep, south-facing slopes of Little Warrior Mountain and along the Pacolet River Scenic Byway. Trails wind through beautiful vistas and provide hikers with a leafy canopy of shade trees and stunning views of sheer rock walls. A number of streams flow through the property on their way to the North Pacolet River.”

PolkTrails states that “Drip Falls also provides a unique environment and is a haven for salamanders.” Check out the site’s page on Norman Wilder Forest by clicking here.

This area is managed by Conserving Carolina. Learn more about Norman Wilder Forest from the Conserving Carolina website.

Parking for Norman Wilder Forest can be found off Highway 176 between Tryon and Saluda. There’s a sign on the north side of the road (opposite the river) and a small gravel parking area at the trailhead.

Check out the weather and get outside to enjoy all of what our beautiful area has to offer.