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North Carolina has
six Educational State Forests that have been developed as living environmental
education centers. These forests are designed to promote a better understanding
of the value of forests in our lives.
Rendezvous Mountain Educational State Forest, located near
Purlear, offers a rich mixture of
mountain hardwoods, rhododendron, flame azaleas and a variety of wildflowers.
These features are accessible to the visiting public by a series of well-marked
trails accented by exhibits and displays depicting the ecology of the managed
forest. The Talking Tree Trail features" talking trees," each with a recorded
message about itself, its site, and the forest history. Also, actual
forestry practices are explained on the Forest Demonstration Trail.
Close to the start of the trail, a natural amphitheater is available
for special sessions or groups.
Website:
Rendezvous Mountain Educational State Forest
Location: 21/2 hours west of Asheville
Address: 1956 Rendezvous Mountain Road, Purlear NC 28651
Telephone: 336-667-5072
Hours: Third season in March to the day after Thanksgiving.
Call office for hours.
Fees: None
Allow: Two hours
Directions: From Asheville take 1-40 East towards
Statesville. Take Exit 123 to Highway 321 North to Boone. In Boone
take US 421 East. Take the exit toward Blue Ridge Parkway, turn left
at Parkway and stay right on Parkway. Take the 1st right onto
Phillips Gap Road and then turn left at State Road 1300/Summit Road.
Turn right and the Forest will be on the right.
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