Pinecone Pathways 2024

Pinecone Pathways 2024

The popular Pinecone Pathways program is returning to Moore County March 19-April 22, 2024. The program was created last year by the Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) to celebrate the Year of the Trail in North Carolina. Due to the overwhelming popularity of the program, the CVB decided to make the scavenger hunt an annual event. Once again, the CVB has partnered with glassmakers at Starworks, located in Star, to produce 100 colorful glass pinecones which will be hidden along trails throughout Moore County Trails for a five-week period starting on the first day of spring and ending on Earth Day (April 22).

“Last year, we had no idea that the Pinecone Pathways program would take off and become as viral as it did,” said CVB President and CEO Phil Werz. “The fact that word spread quickly and we saw people visiting from several states to try and find a rare glass pinecone made us realize we were onto something here. The thrill of the hunt coupled with knowing you cannot just go out and buy one made it a ‘must have’ for everyone taking the time to be part of the search.”

Glass pinecones will be hidden in weekly along selected trail systems throughout Moore County. Each week, a new series of trails will be announced via social media alerting pinecone hunters as to what trails they should explore to find a pinecone. The pinecones are actual size and will be tagged with a special number and QR code, so those finding them can register them and be eligible to win a prize including two ground passes for one day to attend the 2024 U.S. Open, admission for two to the World Golf Hall of Fame, round of golf for two at the Wee Pines miniature golf facility in Taylortown, pass for four for one hour at Double Eagle Indoor Golf, and a $100 gift card to 195 American Fusion restaurant. The pinecone image must be registered online to be eligible for the grand prize drawing.

Because there will only be a limited number of pinecones to be found in the program, the CVB asks that finders only keep one and any additional ones found remain hidden on the trail. Only one contest registration per finder will be permitted.

The CVB has enlisted the help of special “pinecone hiders” who will know the exact location of every pinecone. The pinecones will never be more than three to four feet off the ground and no more than three feet off any marked trail, but they may not be easy to find.

How to find a glass-blown pinecone:

Anyone can be a seeker!

Hit the trails in Moore County (view the list here) between March 19, 2024 (First Day of Spring), and April 22, 2024 (Earth Day) in search of one of 100 hidden glass-blown pinecones. These glass-blown pinecones are exclusive to this program and cannot be purchased. Finders Keepers!

On Tuesdays by 9:00am, we will share the trail list for the new week on Facebook and Instagram. Check throughout the program for updates and clues. #PineconePathwaysNC

Rules

  1. We ask that you only keep ONE pinecone, per household, per campaign.
  2. Register your find using the Pinecone Submission Form below and share on social media using #PineconePathwaysNC and you will be entered to win a grand prize.
  3. Stay on the trails. Pinecones will never be more than roughly 3 feet off any trails. They may be in bushes up to 3-4 feet high.
  4. Pinecones will never be on private property.
  5. Finders can be any age. However, winners who are registered for the Grand Prize must be 21 or older.
  6. Always watch for and be respectful of our animal friends and beautiful native flora.
  7. Practice Leave No Trace Principles and help keep our trails a welcoming place for all.

LEAVE NO TRACE PRINCIPLES

Together, let’s be good trail stewards respecting Moore County’s natural spaces so they will continue to be a welcoming place for all.

Be prepared.

  • Bring water and wear proper clothes and shoes for the weather and environment.
  • Stick to trails in your skill level.
  • Always let at least one person know which trails you are going on, with whom and when you are expected to return.

On the Trail.

  • Pack it in, Pack it out. Bring trash bags to dispose of potential litter and take it back with you.
  • Dispose of dog waste in trash receptacles.
  • Keep on designated trails.
  • Look for trail signs to ensure you are headed in the right direction.

Leave it as you found it.

  • Take pictures of treasures you find (expect the glass pinecone you can take that!).
  • Maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
  • Refrain from feeding wildlife.

About our Artist

Starworks is a local non-profit and arts-centered work community that promotes community and economic development by providing outstanding artistic educational programs and business ventures. They strive to engage the community with artwork and artists of the highest caliber. Starworks is a project of Central Park NC.

Each hand blown pinecone is unique. These pinecones are only made by Starworks for this program and CANNOT be purchased.

Similar pieces can be found at: Shop Starworks

Did you find one of our glass-blown pinecones?

Congratulations!

Finding one of the exclusive glass-blown pinecones is very special and we would love to share in your excitement. Please fill out the Pinecone Submission Form below to be entered for a chance to win the grand prize!

Note: Winners of the Grand Prize must be 21 years or older.

Grand Prize:

Be sure to share your find with friends and family and on social media! #PineconePathwaysNC