In the shadow of Chimney Rock’s towering cliffs, a new chapter in conservation unfolds. Nearly 500 acres of rugged mountain terrain north of Lake Lure have been acquired by Conserving Carolina, completing a vast 2,669-acre nature preserve that threads through some of North Carolina’s most valuable wilderness. This unspoiled land marks the final frontier in securing one of the region’s richest wildlife habitats — a sanctuary rated excellent by the state for its biodiversity and natural vitality.

The terrain rises with steep ridges, dense forests, and winding creeks, offering visitors a glimpse into a wilderness fiercely alive. This area is more than scenery; it’s critical habitat for the rare Green Salamander, a species found only here and listed as endangered by the state. Equally important, the protected land embraces the Buffalo Creek watershed, ensuring clean mountain water continues its journey down the gorge.

For decades, this land was poised for transformation into GreyRock at Lake Lure, a sprawling, upscale planned community promising luxury homes with panoramic mountain views. Yet, economic hardship shattered those blueprints; the developer’s bankruptcy left many lot owners stranded with inaccessible land. Roads stalled. Power lines never reached. The future looked uncertain.

Responding to this precarious situation, Conserving Carolina partnered with the local GreyRock Community Association, purchasing parcels in stages starting in 2009. The recent acquisition closes that chapter with a victory for wilderness and public access. Today, over half of the preserve belongs to the Town of Lake Lure’s Buffalo Creek Park, while the rest forms the Joel Ridge Nature Preserve, under Conserving Carolina’s care.

Adventure seekers and nature lovers can soon explore trails linking the popular Hickory Nut Gorge State Trail and the Wilderness Gateway State Trail. These paths traverse a protective corridor where wildlife roams free and plants adjust to a warming climate. Hiking here means engaging with a landscape that’s fiercely itself — terrain shaped by geologic forces and cared for by conservationists.

Those planning a visit should prepare for steep climbs, thick forest cover, and variable weather. Trail shoes with good grip are essential. Water sources in the area remain clear, yet it’s wise to carry enough hydration as the rugged environment demands respect. The preserve’s protected status promises extraordinary views and intimate encounters with native flora and fauna, yet a challenge lies in acknowledging nature as an equal partner. This wilderness isn’t tamed; it invites you to move carefully, observe quietly, and leave no trace behind.

In protecting this final piece of Rutherford County’s wild heart, Conserving Carolina ensures that future adventurers will traverse land free from development, rich with history, ecological importance, and the pure, raw beauty of the southern Appalachians. For hikers, bird watchers, and conservation-minded explorers, this is a compelling destination where action and awe meet on every trail.