TOP WAYS TO EXPERIENCE OUR FLAME AZALEA BLOOMS
Our famed flame azaleas are best viewed on Hooper Bald along the Cherohala Skyway between Robbinsville and the Tennessee/North Carolina border in mid June.
But there are many ways to experience these beautiful blossoms even if your visit does not coincide with peak season.
Blooms at our lowest elevations begin in late April and early May.
Attend the Flame Azalea Festival
A jam packed day of arts, crafts, music, food, and more. Watch Cherokee demonstrations, take in the Antique Tractor Show and keep the kids busy with a myriad of outdoor and educational activities. Learn more.
Take the Self Guided Driving Tour
Enjoy the landscapes all across Graham County, NC along a self-guided, driving tour of easily seen Azalea blooming sites. Meander along the Cheoah River, explore Stecoah Valley, and even head up across the Cherohala Skyway National Scenic Byway for a journey you won’t soon forget. Grab your driving guide here.
Visit Hooper Bald at Peak Bloom
Take a hike atop Hooper Bald for one of the most stunning vistas in the Appalachians. Wind through a secret garden of towering azalea bushes in a rainbow of fiery shades. These self-guided hikes are a great way to explore the beauty of the season along a fairly flat hiking trail. Don’t forget your camera, comfortable hiking shoes, water, and snacks. Download a hiking map.
Plan a Picnic
Plan a picnic! After hiking up to Hooper Bald, plan a picnic at one of the countless pull-offs along the Cherohala Skyway National Scenic Byway. Many of the seasonal blooms can be enjoyed from your picnic table while taking in sweeping vistas that span states.
Limited Time Azalea Themed Dishes & Products
Ready for some “Flaming Hot Wings?” Thinking of trying an Azalea cocktail? Well, keep your eyes peeled as you stop in at our area resorts and restaurants for specials celebrating the annual native Flame Azalea bloom. Who knows, this may be an opportunity to add to your photography submission for the Graham Star Azalea Photo Contest.
Learn More with a Guided Hike
Prefer a guided hike? Looking to dig a bit deeper into the history and lore of Hooper Bald? Then it’s time to plan ahead for the ever-popular Hooper Bald guided hikes led by the Joyce Kilmer Partners . Be sure to call and register at at the Welcome Center – there’s limited space so don’t delay! 828.479.3790
Enter the Photo Contest
Capture the beauty of these incredible blooms and submit your images to the Graham Star’s photo contest. From local, backyard blooms to images of the abundant reds, oranges, and golds atop Hooper Bald, there’s countless spots to grab that picture perfect moment. Be sure to pick up a copy of the Graham Star Newspaper or explore their website for the digital publication here.
Can’t Make It This Year? Take the Digital Tour
Visit our YouTube channel to watch a 360° hike to Hooper Bald, enjoy a virtual hike from the comfort of your home, and even learn about the history and important cultural significance of Hooper Bald and the Native Flame Azalea.