Difficult Creek Natural Area Preserve

Difficult Creek Natural Area Preserve is a protected area covering roughly 800 acres of pine savannas, scattered hardwoods, and numerous plant species in the southern Piedmont region. The landscape consists of open pine forests mixed with dense woodland patches, creating a mosaic of different habitats across the property.

The land was originally an open landscape with scattered pines and hardwoods, shaped by regular natural fires before settlement. These periodic fires were essential in maintaining the open character of the ecosystem across the region.

The preserve protects rare plant species that have survived by adapting to roadsides and power line corridors over many years. Visitors walking through the different plant communities can observe how these species have learned to thrive in fragmented spaces.

Visitors can use two miles of fire breaks as hiking trails to explore the natural environment on designated routes. These paths provide straightforward access to different habitats throughout the preserve without difficult terrain.

Scientists discovered a new colony of Tall Barbara's Buttons here, making this one of only two known locations worldwide for this rare plant. This finding has given the area special importance for plant research and conservation efforts.