The Champion Shellbark Hickory (Carya laciniosa) in Durham

[JQ Public]

Hi folks,

So one day I thought I'd take a trip to Durham from RTP to take a look at the Shellbark Hickory champion in Durham county.  I just wasn't sure where to go once I found the Fred Astaire Dance studio.  Secondly, I was a little nervous to park at the dance studio and just walk into the woods.  Is it okay to park there?  Is it best to look on the weekend?  Thanks Will or anyone that may help.

I just think hickories are so cool!

[Will Cook]

It's a little tricky to find. I'd park at the Githens Middle School parking lot, 4800 Old Chapel Hill Rd, Durham,
NC 27707. From here, walk east past the athletic field and into the woods. Continue east bushwhacking through the woods to the powerline. Continue east to a branch of New Hope Creek. Cross where you can to get to the large island in the creek. Continue east to the east side of the island, then head north along the creek until you find the tree. Simple. I would do this only on a Sunday during deer gun season. I have pics of the champion here: Carya laciniosa. It's a fun area to explore even if you don't find the tree. Good luck!

[JQ Public]

Thanks Will!