When and where to find Rhododendrons

+10 for Roan Mountain. Stay at Roan Mountain State Park, great campground and also have cabins for rent, pool for kids, river running through it, etc. Drive up to Carver's Gap (just a few beautiful curvy miles up the mountain), hike the AT up through dark spruce forests to the open balds about 6000' elevation. From the parking lot at Carver's gap the hike up the trail is only a mile or so to the first bald, I considerate it a moderate hike for this 68 year old. Lots of wild rhododendron and flame azalea and views of layered mountains in the distance. To the right of Carver's gap, take the drive to the top for the rhododendron gardens, just awesome. Last time I was there I think the charge for the gardens was only like $3 or so. Mid-June peak usually. Back down in the small town of Roan Mountain, there are a couple good BBQ restaurants and a drive in with excellent country breakfast and lunches, ice cream etc. Bob's Dairyland I think it is.

If you feel like taking a little drive, here is a fine destination:

Kruse Rhododendron State Reserve

It's on the coast of Northern California -- the flowers show up in May.

You've seen rhodies in EVERY state??? ;) Too bad we won't be in Washington until August. I'd love to see them!

Just a short drive from Franklin, NC is Georgia Mtn Fairgrounds in Hiawassee, GA. Beautiful Rhododendron Gardens! Here's a link for you... http://www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com/2015-events/hamilton-gardens

There is also camping available for you!

Merrykalia wrote:
Roan Mountain, TN has a Rhododendron Festival every year. They are usually magnificent during that time.

Clicky for festival info

Double ditto. This is a favorite of ours.

Sorry, but nothing can compare with Washington and Oregon roddies. We have the best by far and the peak comes in couple weeks so you still have time to come see and compare.

Hard to believe, but the left coast has some beautiful displays as well. Wash state has a good wet climate for rody's and azelea's Don't know the exact time of year, but they grow wild nearly as abundantly as the hills around Tenn, and Virginia. Just an alternate thought.

Roan Mountain has the most beautiful ones in the world.

You can drive to the natural gardens, and if you enjoy hiking hike up to the "balds" and you will see where the words: "From purple mountain majesties" come from

Normally the second week in June, but varies, so check with the national forest service for the prime dates.

Jack L

The rhodis are pretty much finished here. They are spectacular in bloom but don't last long.

Blue Ridge Parkway and SKYLINE DRIVE...

The Rhododendrons and Mountain Laurel thrive best in the mountain areas around here.