May 31 & June 1 at Cowee School in Franklin, NC
Conference registration is now open!
We’re thrilled to host this year’s 2024 Bartram Trail Conference here in gorgeous Cowee, in the heart of Western North Carolina. We hope you’ll join us unique blend of sharing local arts, cultural history, and some wonderful outdoor activities, all inspired by William Bartram’s incredible journey through this very region.
The Blue Ridge Bartram Trail Conservancy is putting together a great lineup of engaging speakers and activities to immerse attendees in the spirit of William Bartram’s Travels in this area.
So, whether you’re here to soak up some knowledge, experience the local heritage, or just enjoy the stunning landscapes of Western North Carolina, we’re sure you’ll find something that sparks your interest. Walk in Bartram’s footsteps with us in this special place we call home, where history and nature come alive!
About the Conference
Exploring the Legacy of William Bartram
Join us at the 2024 Bartram Trail Conference to connect with the enduring legacy of William Bartram. Bartram was the pioneering naturalist who explored Western North Carolina over two centuries ago. Our conference aims to blend historical insights, cultural richness, and the beauty of outdoor exploration. The Conference takes place here in the landscape that captivated Bartram himself.
What to Expect
As an attendee, you’ll dive into a world where past and present intersect. Expect fascinating presentations from authors, experts, and enthusiasts. Experience guided outdoor adventures that mirror Bartram’s own journeys.
Whether you’re enjoy history, nature, or cultural preservation, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Bartram’s contributions and a renewed connection to the natural world. Prepare for an experience that’s as educational as it is inspiring, set in the heart of the landscapes that Bartram so vividly documented.
Conference registration is now open!
Event Details
When and Where
- Date and Time: May 31 & June 1, 2024
- Location: Cowee School, 51 Cowee School Drive, Franklin, NC, 28734
- Map and Directions: Link to Google Maps
Conference Program
Schedule Overview (More Details Coming Soon)
Thursday, May 30
- Bartram Trail Conference Beer Release and Film Screening
Friday, May 31
- Barred Owl Felting Workshop with Carolina Artworks
- 1 – 4pm at Cowee School
- $70, all supplies included. Beginners. Class limit 10
- More information here
- Register here through Kim’s website
- Kinship Photography Collective and Community Art Gallery unveiling at the Cowee School
- Open to the public
- 4-7pm
- Registration, Sign-in, Reception and Social Hour with hors d’oeuvres at Cowee School
Saturday, June 1
Main Conference Schedule at Cowee School
- 8-9:00 am Breakfast
- 9:00 am – 12:45 pm – Speakers & Presentations
- 1:00 – 4:00 pm – Lunch & Guided Field Trips (Free for Conference Attendees)
- Little Tennessee Cultural and Ecological Heritage Tour
- Will depart from the Cowee School at 1pm and return at 4pm
- Explore the significant sites of the Little Tennessee River Valley that Bartram wrote about during his travels
- Register here
- Rapture and Astonishment at Wayah Bald with Brent Martin
- Will depart from the Cowee School at 1pm and return at 4pm
- About Wayah Bald
- Register here
- Bartram Trail 2024 Conference Leaf Felting Drop-in Workshop with Kim Keelor
- Carolina Artworks at Studio 102 in the Cowee School
- More information here
- Register here through Kim’s website
- Explore the Cowee mountains and Alarka Laurel
- Will depart from the Cowee School at 1pm and return at 4pm
- Visit a high elevation spruce bog and hike a couple of miles on the Walton Smith interpretive Trail
- Register here
- Botanical excursion along the Little Tennessee River Valley
- Little Tennessee Cultural and Ecological Heritage Tour
- 5:30 pm – Reception and Social Hour
- 6:30 pm – Banquet Dinner & Keynote Speaker
Sunday, June 2
- Little Tennessee River Kayaking Trip provided by Alarka Expeditions
- Seven mile kayak trip through Cowee, 13 native American fish weirs, many other historical features. Easy paddling, some experience helpful. Solo kayaks.
- 10:00 am – 3pm
- $65 per person includes kayak and gear rental
- Limited to 14 people
- Bring your own lunch
- Meet at beach located on the corner of Sanderstown Rd and Hwy 28 in Franklin.
- Hike from Jones Gap to Whiterock
- Join the Bartram Trail Conservancy on a short 4.6 mile hike to Whiterock Mountain.
- Meet at 10:30am and carpool to the trailhead
- Register Here
Speakers and Guests
Meet Our Esteemed Speakers
Keynote Speaker and Q&A with Charles Frazier, author of the historical novel Cold Mountain. Learn more about Charles here.
Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle, author of Even As We Breathe and first member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians to publish a novel. More information about Annette here.
Jordan Smith, Executive Director of Mainspring Conservation Trust. More information about Jordan here.
Susan Patrice, Documentary Photographer and Co-Founder of the Kinship Photography Collective. Learn more about Susan and Kinship Photography here.
Tyler Hays, GIS Professional who works with the US Forest Service & US Dept. of Energy. Tyler is eager to share insights on mapping the Bartram Trail—a cultural corridor from North Carolina to Florida. Tyler is eager to share insights on mapping the Bartram Trail—a cultural corridor from North Carolina to Florida.
Brent Martin, Author and Executive Director of the Blue Ridge Bartram Trail Conservancy.
Conference registration is now open!
Official registration is now open to the public. Click the button above to head over to the Bartram Trail Conference website to register.
Accommodations and Travel
Plan Your Stay
Information about nearby accommodations and travel tips for those coming from out of town.
Hotel – We’ve reserved a block of rooms reserved at the Hampton Inn, Franklin.
- Reference “Bartram Trail Conference”
- Phone: 828-369-0600
- Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/fknnchx-hampton-franklin/
- Address: 244 Cunningham Rd, Franklin, NC 28734
- Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JJ61z4VoaWVYEQUk8
- Directions from Hampton Inn to Cowee School (8.8. Miles)
AirBNB – There are a lot of lovely cabins and homes in the area that are available to rent. Here’s a link to local AirBNB’s.
Explore On Your Own
Bartram Hikes, Landmarks and more to do in the area.
Plan a longer trip around the conference schedule and enjoy some of the best that Western North Carolina has to offer.
Hike the Bartram National Recreational Trail – Our namesake trail traverses 112+ miles from the Chattooga River in North Georgia to its terminus at Cheoah Bald in the Nantahala National Forest. Let us know and we’ll connect you with one of our members, volunteers or hike leaders to show you the best of the Bartram Trail.
Stroll along the Little Tennessee River Greenway – This is a 6+ mile trail, mostly paved, that follows the Little Tennessee River. Great to spend a day with gardens, diverse trees and plants, birds, and lovely views. You’ll also walk a portion of the Bartram Trail that is shared with the Greenway. The easiest access to the Greenway is Big Bear Shelter located on Main Street in Franklin.
Continue On Main Street, Franklin – After walking along the river, continue up Main Street to browse the unique mountain shops, Gem Museum, and grab a bite to eat at one of the town’s restaurants. Guess what? You’ll be walking on the Bartram Trail while on Main Street as well!
Head Out and Up to Wayah Bald – Here you’ll find some of the most spectacular views of Western North Carolina. From the tower, you’re overlooking Franklin and the surrounding Nantahala National Forest. The fire-tower provides a great vantage point for ridge-spotting. You’ll also find prominent trailheads to both the Bartram Trail and Appalachian Trail here, to enjoy a day hike.
Let us know if you’ll be in town before or after the conference. We’re happy to recommend more ideas on how to spend your time here in Western North Carolina.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do I get the member pricing for the Conference if I am a member of the Blue Ridge Bartram Trail Conservancy?
A. The BRBTC is the host of this year’s conference, but the Bartram Trail Conference is the official parent organization. Member pricing is for Bartram Trail Conference members. Its $25 per year to be a member. Non-member pricing does include a 1-year membership. More details can be found on the Bartram Trail Conference registration page.
Contact Us
Get in Touch
You can reach us for questions any day of the week:
Email us: info@blueridgebartram.org
Stay Updated
Join Our Mailing List
Anyone else interested in the Blue Ridge Bartram Trail Conservancy to sign up for email updates regarding the conference.