Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Roan Report

The organizers of the Roan Mountain (TN) Rhododendron Festival and the North Carolina Rhododendron Festival in Bakersville, NC usually pick just the right weekend -- and this year is no exception. A visit this weekend or anytime next week should be spectacular. While some of the rhodos are already in full bloom in the Rhododendron Gardens on top of the mountian, I'd say the majority of them could still use a few days of warmth and sun to fully open (which just so happens is our forecast for the rest of the week!).

If you visit this weekend, be sure to stop at Carver's Gap (where the rhododendrons are already at their peak) and hike up the beautiful Appalachian Trail over Round Bald and on to Jane Bald to see the stunning Flame Azalea in all their glory. Other bloomers you'll see: Bluets, Mountain Ash, and Yellow Hawkweed.

Click here for my post describing all there is to see and do on Roan Mountain, with links to individual hikes and directions. Click the festival links above for more information and schedules of events.

Related links:
Roan Mountain State Park
Friends of Roan Mountain

3 comments:

  1. I like the new banner, although I was just about to ask where the waterfall on the last banner was taken from. I was hoping I wouldn't miss the rhodos, they're well past bloom down in Bakersville and even a couple of weeks ago were blooming just 3 minutes down the road from the top on the NC side. Just taking their time. I recently found another neat bald near Clingman's Dome, Andrew's Bald, with beautiful views of the Nantahala National Forest, you should check it out next time you are in the Smokies, easy hike from the top of Clingmans Dome!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Hi Joy,
    The old banner had a picture of one of the waterfalls found at the Blue Hole outside of Elizabethton.
    I've been to Andrew's Bald - it's been awhile though! I'd love to return -- such a beautiful place!

    ReplyDelete
  3. hi joy,
    i love walk this place...


    Rozydesouza
    Get 28 movie channels for 3 months free

    ReplyDelete

Thanks for visiting and joining in the discussion on Appalachian Treks! Your comment will be sent to me to be approved. Sorry for this added step, but it is necessary to avoid spam. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!