Southern Highlands Reserve - Lake Toxaway, North Carolina

Southern Highlands Reserve is a botanical garden and research institute that is located in Lake Toxaway, North Carolina. The address is 558 Summit Ridge Rd, Lake Toxaway, NC 28747. You can give them a call at 88852050 or visit their website at southernhighlandsreserve.org for more information.

One of the key features of Southern Highlands Reserve is their focus on the conservation and research of rare and endangered plant species. They have a collection of over 10,000 plants, including many that are native to the Southern Appalachian region. Visitors can enjoy walking through the gardens and learning about the different plant species, as well as taking part in educational programs and events.

In addition to their botanical garden, Southern Highlands Reserve also has a research institute that is dedicated to the study of plants and their ecosystems. They have a team of scientists and researchers who work on projects related to plant conservation, ecology, and horticulture. Visitors can learn about the latest research and findings in these fields through the institute's programs and events.

If you're planning a visit to Southern Highlands Reserve, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the reserve is located in a rural area, so it's a good idea to bring comfortable shoes for walking. They also recommend purchasing tickets in advance, as they have a limited number of visitors per day to help protect the plants and ecosystems.

Another thing to note is that Southern Highlands Reserve is a great place for kids. They offer educational programs and activities that are designed for children, and the gardens and trails are a great way for kids to learn about nature and the outdoors.

According to the opinions of visitors who have left reviews on Google My Business, Southern Highlands Reserve has an average rating of 4.7/5. Many reviewers have praised the reserve for its beautiful gardens, knowledgeable staff, and educational programs.

Overall, Southern Highlands Reserve is a unique and special place that is dedicated to the conservation and study of plants. Whether you're a plant enthusiast, a researcher, or just looking for a beautiful place to visit, Southern Highlands Reserve is definitely worth a visit. Be sure to check out their website at southernhighlandsreserve.org for more information and to purchase tickets in advance.

Reviews of Southern Highlands Reserve

Stacy Sutton

5/5

Absolutely magical! What a gorgeous place - so calm, so peaceful, so healing. Southern Highlands Reserve does important work in the preservation, cultivation & research of plants native to the Southern Appalachian area. Definitely worth a tour - don't miss the wildflower labyrinth. It was beautiful in August (so green!) but I want to come back in spring to see the rare Rhododendrons, as well as in the fall to see the colors change.

Jennifer Shea

5/5

Spectacular! Book Visitor's day tickets well in advance and come in a vehicle that can handle steep grades (>20% including a steep uphill section immediately after a stop sign)

Rick Stehr

5/5

Beautiful facility. The new greenhouse is going to be fantastic. The views could be a postcard.
Make reservations in advance.
It's mentioned by other reviewers as well, but while it's all paved roads up to the entrance, it can get a bit steep with some sharp turns. You do not need 4 wheel drive though. Your car will do fine, but it's just something to be aware of.

Mandy Allen

5/5

First let me say that this is an amazing place. The attention to detail in trying to preserve the land with native plants and trees is amazing. All of the knowledge I learned was phenomenal. I can’t wait to go back. Thank you to Robert and Betty for such an amazing experience. Continue your great work for many others to visit and enjoy.

ELISABETH ST JOHN

5/5

A fabulous place, it defies description. The amazing owners and staff allow others to share it, like today! Definitely all those who have a hand in it and who tend it, tend God's garden. Thank you, Betty and Robert, Kelly, Eric and Diane for your amazing care for a native place.

Stephen Adkins

5/5

SHR operates with an exceptional team and pationately supports a mission to conserve, restore, and INSPIRE !

Kenneth Stein

5/5

We were lucky enough to take a tour of the Southern Highlands Reserve earlier this year and our expectations were exceeded across the board. The staff were welcoming, knowledgable and clearly dedicated to promoting local biodiversity and native plants in meaningful and creative ways. We highly recommend a visit to and/or supporting this very special place -- Southern Highlands Reserve is making a difference.

Caleb Melchior

5/5

Are you willing to go a little out of the way for an unforgettable experience? Southern Highlands Reserve is a phenomenal high-elevation landscape that will reward the effort to visit. Wander your way through the well-maintained paths to observe the breathtaking views and intriguing plant communities on the site. Make sure your phone’s memory has plenty of space, because you’ll want to take a bunch of photos in these beautiful gardens. The staff are gracious and helpful, with great amenities for guests. I visited during the spring Native Plant symposium, which was well-organized with great food from local businesses. Make sure to plan plenty of time to make sure you have time to meander through all the garden paths. Southern Highlands Reserve is the most memorable garden that I’ve visited this year. Well worth a visit!