Rhododendron State Park

The beautiful Rhododendron Maximum tree, also known as the great laurel, rosebay rhododendron or American rhododendron, is one of the lovely indigenous trees of the northeastern United States. At Rhododendron State Park in scenic New Hampshire, a 16 acre grove of naturally growing Rhododendron Maximum trees blooms every July. Tourists gather every year to see the sight which makes the park famous.

About the park

The Rhododendron State Park, however, is more than just Rhododendron blooms. The park inhabits 2723 acres of land on and around Little Monadnock Mountain. The 1900 foot mountain is perfect for hiking and offers a uniquely beautiful view of the rest of the park from its summit. The mountain is also crossed by the 110 mile long Metacomet-Monadnock Trail. The entire park is open to hiking, picnicking and snowshoeing during the winter months.

Indigenous species

The Rhododendron Maximum trees bloom in mid-July every year, though the flowers begin to fall off by the end of July depending on the intensity of the summer's heat. The annual bloom and beauty of the mountain led to the area becoming a state park in 1982. While the Rhododendron Maximum trees are the most commonly known plant of the area, the park plays host to wild blueberries, cranberries, mountain laurel, mayflower and wintergreen, as well as a menagerie of wildlife.

Despite the miles of beautiful trails to choose from in the park, it is a sin to miss the white blooms of the rhododendron trees in the area. Certainly, the Rhododendron State park is perfect for any New Hampshire enthusiast.