Hidden in Plain Sight - Green Salamander Art Trail
Get Ready to Discover What’s Hidden in Plain Sight!
Hidden in Plain Sight – Green Salamander Art Trail Launches in Lake Lure and Chimney Rock on Earth Day.
Lake Lure and Chimney Rock, North Carolina — A new regional public art and conservation initiative will soon bring creativity, wildlife education, and local business engagement together across the Hickory Nut Gorge. Hidden in Plain Sight – The Green Salamander Art Trail launches on April 22 (Earth Day) and will feature 33 custom-designed salamander sculptures placed throughout businesses and public spaces in Lake Lure and Chimney Rock. This event is funded in part by the Rutherford County TDA.
The project celebrates the Hickory Nut Gorge Green Salamander, a rare species native tO the cliff faces and rock crevices of the Hickory Nut Gorge and listed as endangered in North Carolina. Known for its remarkable camouflage, the salamander often goes unnoticed in its natural environment—making it the perfect symbol for an art trail designed around the theme “Hidden in Plain Sight.”
Local artists have been invited to create unique interpretations of the Green Salamander, with each artwork installed at one of 33 participating host locations throughout the region. While inspired by the species, the designs are intentionally open to artistic interpretation, allowing artists to explore styles ranging from realistic to whimsical or abstract.
Each sculpture will feature a QR code that visitors can scan to discover:
• Educational facts about the Green Salamander
• Information about the artist who created the piece
• Highlights about the hosting business and artist that made the piece• Insights into local habitat conservation efforts Visitors will be able to follow a printed or digital trail map to locate all 33 salamanders across Lake Lure and Chimney Rock. The experience encourages exploration of the region while learning about the fragile mountain ecosystem and supporting local businesses.
The trail officially begins with an Earth Day Kickoff event on April 22, known as “The Handoff.” During this symbolic launch to be held at Lured Market and Grill in Lake Lure, artists will deliver their complete salamander sculptures to their assigned businesses.
Press is invited to cover this event, please reach out to register as there will be limited space.
The Green Salamander Art Trail will run through August, creating a season-long interactive experience for residents and visitors alike.
Throughout the summer, guests are encouraged to:
• Explore all 33 trail locations
• Learn about the endangered Green Salamander
• Discover local shops, restaurants, and attractions
• Share photos and experiences online
• Support businesses across the Hickory Nut Gorge region
At the conclusion of the trail, the community will gather for an End-of-Season Celebration and Silent Auction in August. All 33 salamander sculptures will be displayed together before being auctioned, with proceeds benefiting the Hickory Nut Chamber of Commerce and supporting future community and tourism initiatives as our businesses recover from the impacts of Hurricane Helene.
