Macon Outdoors

Piedmont NWR was established in 1939 as a "combination wildlife and game-management demonstration area" to demonstrate that wildlife could be restored on worn out, eroded lands. The vast forest which reigned supreme for eons had been cleared by European settlers in the early 1800's. Cotton became king and farming robbed the soil of its natural fertility. The loss of forest, with its soil stabilizing root system, led to massive erosion problems. The Civil War, the boll weevil and the Great Depression combined to cause large scale abandonment during the Dust Bowl Era. Few wildlife species and sparce timber remained in the early 1900's. Today, through the efforts of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the 35,000 acre wildlife refuge is once again a forest. It hosts loblolly pines on the ridges with hardwoods found along creek bottoms an in scattered upland coves. Clear streams and beaver ponds provide ideal wetlands for migrating waterfowl. Wildlife populations have been restored, many in greater numbers than when settlers first arrived. Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge now serves as a model forest ecosystem management for wildlife. There are many reminders of the homes and settlers that once were scattered throughout the area on the Refuge. Length: 5.5 miles. Bring the usual: water, snacks, bug spray, etc.

Meet across from trading post.
trail tbd. approx 8 miles.

Also if you're new to hiking with us, the maps portion of Meetup will direct you to where everyone is parking so you won't get lost if you use it. The pace will be moderate with elevation. We won't lose you!

Dogs must be on a 6' leash.

And we all know the rest but just for a checklist: sunscreen, hat, lunch at beach area, snacks, lots of water, maybe bug spra, walking poles if you use them.

Come join us on an island paddle where we will have home made turkey chili on the beach . Bring your normal paddling gear and a $5 park pass is also required . Please keep in mind life jackets are required during our events . There is no charge for lunch but if someone wants to bring a desert for the group I am certain it would be appreciated . If you have any questions or concerns please let me know . Safety talk on the ramp at 10:30 am . Boat rentals are also available at this location through the camping area . Hope to see you there !

Let’s work off that Thanks Giving calories hiking or biking the Man O War in Pine Mountain Ga . You can hike or bike as far as you want to go at your own pace . The bike trail is 13.5 miles to Hamilton Ga. There is also many places to eat , window shop , grab coffee in historic Pine Mountain . For those that have not biked in awhile you want be left behind ! If you are training or built for speed please enjoy ! If you can come out and joins us for this event and reach out for any questions or concerns . .