Southern Highlands Reserve is a native plant arboretum research center dedicated to sustaining the natural ecosystems of the Blue Ridge Mountains. We accomplish this mission through the preservation, cultivation and display of plants native to the region, and by advocating for their value through education, restoration and research. Located in Western North Carolina at an elevation of 4500 feet, the varied topography and forest types found on our 120 acres allow us to emulate many of the plant communities found in the higher reaches of the Southern Appalachians.
Visitors’ Days, held the first Tuesday of each month, provide the perfect outing for backyard gardeners, plant enthusiasts or professionals in the fields of horticulture, design and ecology. Visitors’ Days are best suited for first-time guests to SHR and are led by a Garden Tour Docent. Admission is $25/person with a maximum of four per party.
Private Group Tours, guided by Executive Director Kelly Holdbrooks, provide the opportunity for a deeply personal look at the true beauty and wonder of the Reserve. Group Tours are ideal for garden clubs, plant societies and master gardener groups. Admission is $350 minimum per group up to 10 people, and $35/person from 11 – 20.