A group of A.C. Reynolds Middle School seventh graders stand on the Hickory Nut Falls viewing platform.

Reynolds Middle Explores Chimney Rock

Tim Reaves - BCS Communications Department

October 13, 2026

Seventh graders from A.C. Reynolds Middle School visited Chimney Rock State Park last week, where they learned about the park’s history, met some native wildlife, and hiked to Hickory Nut Falls.

At the Animal Discovery Den, they met snakes, a 40-year-old box turtle, and a barred owl. During the hike to Hickory Nut Falls, they stopped to talk about geology, plant life, and how to identify poison oak and poison ivy. Rangers led the activities and brought to life some of the things the students have been learning in class.

“It was a really good learning experience,” said Raegan, one of the students. “It was really cool to see all the nature with my friends.”

Seventh grade science and social studies teacher Ashley Osmunson said the trip illustrated the importance of experiential learning.

“You can read about it or hear about it, but seeing it with your own eyes is so much more valuable,” she said. “We’re making connections with our senses, and that makes the lessons stick.”

A girl looks back and smiles at a box turtle in the Animal Discovery Den.A ranger shows a box turtle to students in the Animal Discovery Den.A ranger shows a barred owl to students in the Animal Discovery Den.Students gather in a section of the Hickory Nut Falls Trail.A student smiles while posing in front of a rock formation.A student smiles while posing on the trail.Two students hold up peace signs on the trail.A group of A.C. Reynolds Middle School seventh graders stand on the Hickory Nut Falls viewing platform.A group of A.C. Reynolds Middle School seventh grade boys stand, arms crossed, on the Hickory Nut Falls viewing platform.