Carl Sandburg and his wife Lilian owned a 245-acre farm named Connemara in Flat Rock, NC, a few miles from Hendersonville. Carl was one of America's greatest writers, and Lilian achieved world fame for raising award-winning goats. Mrs. Sandburg sold the house and land to the National Park Service after her husband's death. The Park Service designated it as a National Historic Site and conducts tours of the home.

Little known except to locals, however, is the fact that the site is a naturally beautiful hiking paradise and admission is free. The grounds feature everything from an easy stroll around picturesque Front Lake, to a moderate hike to Little Glassy Mountain, to a more adventurous hike up the Glassy Trail to Glassy Mountain. Most trails pass through unspoiled forest and it isn't suprising to have a trail all to yourself. Dogs are permitted on leash.

The Sandburg farm is truly a hidden gem for a hike with your dog. Chances are your four-legged friend will also be intrigued by the goats kept in the barn area, as well as by the resident cat. Trails can be accessed from the field across from the barn and from Front Lake. See the POOCH PATHS page for additional information,  directions, and a link to a trail map.