The Catawba Rhododendron is abundant all across Grandfather Mountain, from MacRae Meadows at 4,300 feet in elevation to MacRae Peak at 5,845 feet in elevation. Because the shrub abounds across this broad range of elevations, its purple flowers can be enjoyed at each successive elevation. The first blooms appear at the lower overlooks in early June and the display will arrive at the Swinging Bridge by the end of the month.
Naturalists at Grandfather Mountain will be waiting to share their excitement for the showy rose-lavender blossoms. Visitors can join park staff from June 1 thru June 13 for the "Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble" and participate in special programs and activities that celebrate this herald of summer.
All programs and guided walks offered as part of the Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble are included in the price of admission. For details, please
click here or phone 800-468-7325.
For information on the hiking trails at Grandfather Mountain State Park, please
click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
