One of the best kept secrets in Charlotte

A stroll through PawPaw Nature Trail isenchanting. Visitors are transported to a place where time almost stands still,as nature-lovers of all ages can explore the easy-to-navigate looped trail.

A Charlotte treasure, the more than 100-year-old woods is home to manyforest friends. Listen closely for the call of barred owls often perched ornesting high in the trees. Look low for meandering box turtles making theirway in the lush undergrowth. Listen forthe hammering woodpecker or the mesmerizing and methodical call of the cicada.

For the plant lovers and budding botanists, catch a whiff of someextraordinary seasonal wildflowers including the intense Jack-in-the-Pulpit and the delightful bloodroot.

If you’re lucky you may also hear the whisper of a fairy whose house isnearby...

Life on the Paw Paw Nature Trail is full of relationships, even with people

With our new self-guided Paw Paw Nature Hike, children, parents and everyone in-between can discover local plants and animals commonly found in North Carolina. The connection between land and life often go unnoticed and being aware of the wonderful world around us improves well-being and increases happiness. Plus, learning your way around plants and animals native to your home will benefit you for life.

Trail guides are located at the start and end of the trail and must be returned.

A collaborative experience

Several community organizations are relevant to the Paw Paw Nature Trail experience at Discovery Place Nature, including:

• The North Carolina Wildlife Federation which offers programs that include Butterfly Highway, Certified Wildlife Habitat, Garden for Wildlife and Schoolyard habitats
• Trees Charlotte who organizes the Neighborwoods event
• The Catawba Riverkeeper which offers the Creek Program and hosts a range of annual events to connect people to their watershed

Explore the Paw Paw Nature Trail and download the guide below.