Embark on an journey of discovery with us! Blue Ridge Discovery Center proudly presents the Mount Rogers Winter Naturalist Rally. This annual event, upcoming on Saturday, February 17, 2024, is a celebration of the region's diverse ecosystems and a testament to the wonders that winter unveils in the Appalachians.

A Day of SHaring discovery

A chilly wood frog (*Lithobates sylvaticus*) encourages you to attend the Winter Rally. Wood frogs have impressive and unusual winter adaptations, with a compound similar to those used in commercial anti-freeze found in their blood.

Dive into an experience like no other, where nature enthusiasts, from inquisitive amateurs to accomplished naturalists, come together to explore, share, and discover. The rally serves as a platform for fostering a deeper understanding of the rich biodiversity of the Blue Ridge region, offering a customizable array of field trips, presentations, and hands-on activities.

The day kicks off at 8:00 am with registration and trip selection, followed by a scrumptious breakfast (pre-registration required) served with piping hot coffee. After breakfast, the entire rally will gather for the featured speaker at 9:00 am, an expert ready to share profound insights into the beauty and mysteries of nature.

Diverse Field Trips and Programs

The heart of the rally lies in its diverse offerings of field trips and programs led by seasoned naturalists.

Morning Session (10:00 am - 12:00 pm):

Tracks and Signs with Cade Campbell
An Oral History of Konnarock with Dr. Edward Davis
Winter Waterfowl Trip
BRDC Habitats with Ali Reilly

Afternoon Session 1 (1:00 pm - 3:00 pm):

Introduction to Growing Your Own Native Plants with Ian Caton
Forest Pests with Liv Andrews
Glaciers in the Blue Ridge with Arthur Merschat
Nature Sketching with Josh Ward
Weather Survival in the Wilderness with Dr. Doug Miller

Afternoon Session 2 (3:00 pm - 5:00 pm):

High Elevation Dormant Trees with Jordon Blevins
Crafting Indigenous Snow Goggles with Doug Myers
Wetlands with Dr. Walter Smith
Mosses and Lichen with Cade Campbell
El Nino-influenced winters in the southern Appalachians with Dr. Doug Miller

Youth Programming

This day of discovery isn’t just for adults. Young naturalists aged 6 and above can partake in child-catered exploration opportunities, including geology, tracks and signs, beginning birding, citizen science, snow science, winter ecology, fire-building, and more. Led by BRDC staff, the youth programs are designed to spark curiosity and instill a love for the natural world.

Event Details and Tickets

Date: Saturday, February 17, 2024

Location: Blue Ridge Discovery Center

Time: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Ticket Prices: $25 (Non-members), $18.75 (Members), Youth attend for FREE!

Celebrating Tradition and the Rally

This marks the 2nd annual Mount Rogers Winter Naturalist Rally, but it’s part of a grander tradition dating back to 1974. As the 50th anniversary of the Spring Rally approaches in May 2024, the event continues its commitment to connecting communities with the spectacular landscapes of the Blue Ridge. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of the

Blue Ridge Mountains! Join us on Saturday, February 17, 2024, for a day of exploration, learning, and celebration at the Mount Rogers Winter Naturalist Rally.

For more information on the Winter Rally, see our event page here.

To purchase a rally or meal ticket, go to our store.

We would love to see you here!