Highlands Botanical Garden

Frequently Asked Questions

What hours is the Botanical Garden open?

The Garden is free and open to the public every day during daylight hours.

Are there maps to the Botanical Garden?

Yes, brochures are available at the Nature Center as well as maps along the trails.  There is also another brochure that gives flowering times of native plants, as well as a list of what is currently in bloom.  These are also available on the Botanical Garden webpage.

Are there picnic tables on the trails?

On the trails, there are several benches but no tables.  However, there are a few picnic tables behind the Nature Center, by the field behind Valentine House, near the entrance to the Botanical Garden, and near the Butterfly Garden.  You may also eat in the Nature Center amphitheater if there are no programs in progress.  Please do not leave trash.

Are pets allowed in the Garden?

Leashed pets are welcome, but please clean up after them.

 Can we pick/dig up flowers from the Botanical Garden?

Absolutely not!  The Botanical Garden serves as a museum of living plants, including many rare and protected species.  But at the Nature Center and the Station Office we do have brochures about gardening with native plants that you are welcome to take.  They include information about local nurseries and gardening centers where native plants may be purchased.

 Where can I buy native plants locally?

Try Gates Nursery in Highlands, Chattooga Gardens in Cashiers, or Huffman’s Native Plants in Otto.

Where can I get more information about the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid problem?

Visit the U.S. Forest Service Nantahala District Ranger Station located off Highway 64 towards Cashiers (turn left before the hospital).  You can also contact the Jackson-Macon Conservation Alliance at (828) 526-9938, ext. 320.  There is also a link to an hemlock website for additional information.  A monitoring effort is underway.  If you have infestations on your property, you can complete a monitoring report through www.discoverlife.org.

I’d like to schedule a program for our group.

If you only want to visit the Garden on your own, you may come anytime during daylight hours.  For programs or guided tours, contact the Nature Center to schedule a time.  Our horticulturist will usually give guided Garden tours with advanced notification.  Most Garden tours are free of charge, but contributions are appreciated.

 What’s the hike to Sunset Rock like?

The trailhead is across the street from the Nature Center, and is not very difficult.  It is a 0.6 mile, gradual incline that takes about 10-20 minutes each way.  It is actually a road, but driving up is discouraged.  The rough gravel road is narrow with blind curves, and parking at the top is extremely limited.  Cars can also be dangerous for those who are hiking.  Sunset Rock at the top is a large granite outcropping that overlooks the town and has a great view, especially at sunset.  A short trail to another vista, Sunrise Rock, is at the top of the road to the left and overlooks Horse Cove.

What are some other good hikes around here?

There are MANY to choose from depending on ability.  Nearby hikes include the Chattooga River Trails at the old Iron Bridge and the Ellicott Wilderness (both are down Horse Cove Road, then right onto Bull Pen Road).  Nearby waterfalls include Glen Falls (a few miles down NC 106 towards Scaly), or Bridal Veil Falls and Dry Falls (down US 64 towards Franklin).  Visit the Highland Hiker or Nantahala Forest Service District Ranger Station (or the Visitor’s Center downtown), to obtain trail maps.

Where is the Fodderstack (or Bob Padgett) Poplar Tree?

Go down Horse Cove Road and turn right onto Rich Gap Road (which is gravel).  Parking for the tree is a few hundred yards down the road on the left.  The trailhead is on the right. It is a very short walk to this very large tree, which is more than 400 years old.

Can you identify this plant/flower?

Stop by the Nature Center during business hours and we can try to help you.  Or walk through the Garden and perhaps you will find the same plant with its species name labeled.  The Botanical Garden web page also has links to other sites about native plants and wildflowers.

How can I volunteer in the Botanical Garden?

For more information on volunteering, see the “Positions” section of the Botanical Garden webpage.

Where should I park my vehicle?

Visitor parking is available across the street from and behind the Nature Center, at Valentine House, and at the entrance to the Garden adjacent to Howell Cottage.  To access the Garden entrance, enter the Station from 6th Street and continue to the end of the driveway.

I’d like to reserve the amphitheater and/or Garden for a private event.

Only certain groups are permitted to use the amphitheater, as the Highlands Biological Station is State property and not a privately-owned business.  Events must conform to our mission statement and be co-sponsored by HBS.  Therefore, private events such as parties, weddings, concerts, etc. usually cannot be accommodated.  The Nature Center building may be reserved for meetings of some affiliated organizations after business hours.