Go for a pottery treasure hunt on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail this weekend

Here's a unique way to mark Valentine's Day ... a pottery treasure hunt!

Courtney Pernell, a Raleigh artist and trail enthusiast, has designed ceramic stars and hearts that will be hidden on Sunday, Feb. 10, along the Falls Lake section of the NC Mountains-to-Sea Trail in Wake and Durham counties, according to a news release. The hearts and stars are a gift from Pernell to the finders. Those with the hearts also will receive prizes, including a pottery coffee mug designed by Pernell.

The event is being organized by Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, a non-profit of volunteers who maintain and build sections of the trail. The MST stretches from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks.

"This event is in the spirit of the trail magic that the MST provides thousands each year," said Kate Dixon, executive director of the Friends of the MST in the release. "February is a great time to hike the Falls Lake section of the MST. With the leaves gone there are more scenic vistas."

A Facebook event page has more information about the event. If you're wondering where to hike, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail website offers some suggestions for good day hikes on the Falls Lake section.