Annie Cannon Gardens
A serene free garden escape with vibrant blooms and access to the scenic Glen Burney Trail waterfalls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bloom and cooler temperatures
Annie Cannon Gardens
Best Time
Peak bloom and cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene free garden escape with vibrant blooms and access to the scenic Glen Burney Trail waterfalls.
"Absolutely loved this trail! The reward at the bottom was amazing!!"
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The Glen Burney Trail can be steep, especially on the return. Comfortable footwear is a must!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if you plan to hike the full 3-mile loop of the Glen Burney Trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Spring Blooms
Throughout the gardens
A riot of color with meticulously maintained flowers, creating a picturesque and fragrant atmosphere.
Cascading Waterfalls
Glen Burney Trail
Discover beautiful waterfalls along the Glen Burney Trail, a rewarding sight after a moderate hike.
Tranquil Garden Paths
Garden pathways
Meander through well-kept grass paths, offering a peaceful stroll amidst nature's beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Gardens' Charm
Trail Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The Glen Burney Trail can be steep, especially on the return. Comfortable footwear is a must!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if you plan to hike the full 3-mile loop of the Glen Burney Trail.
🌸 Enjoy the Blooms
Visit during spring for the most vibrant flowers and a truly magical garden experience.
🚶♀️ Escape the Crowds
A perfect spot to find peace away from the bustling downtown area.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The Glen Burney Trail can be steep, especially on the return. Comfortable footwear is a must!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if you plan to hike the full 3-mile loop of the Glen Burney Trail.
🌸 Enjoy the Blooms
Visit during spring for the most vibrant flowers and a truly magical garden experience.
🚶♀️ Escape the Crowds
A perfect spot to find peace away from the bustling downtown area.
🕰️ Allow Ample Time
The 3-mile trail can take about 2 hours, especially if you pause to enjoy nature.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Annie Cannon Gardens for its free admission, beautiful spring flowers, and well-maintained paths. The adjacent Glen Burney Trail offers rewarding waterfalls, though hikers should be prepared for steep sections, especially on the return. It's a peaceful escape from downtown crowds.
"We absolutely loved this trail! It was a little more steep than we expected but the reward at the bottom was amazing!! The beginning of the trail is all downhill, but the falls were absolutely beautiful! The trail back is basically all up hill so be prepared for that, but we took our time and enjoyed nature along the way there and back. It was a total of about 3 miles and we took about 2 hours to complete. It can be done much faster, but we were in no hurry."
Yudora Johnson
"It was a beautiful garden you can walk around, small area. Blowing Rock had a lot of flowers everywhere. Free"
Liz Wilson
"Very nice place to walk around if you’re any to escape the downtown crowd. Very close by to the downtown location."
rakshi hanbal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Annie Cannon Gardens is conveniently located near downtown Blowing Rock, making it easily accessible. There is a nice parking lot available for visitors.
Yes, there is a well-maintained parking lot available for visitors to Annie Cannon Gardens.
Yes, the gardens are very close to the downtown area, offering a pleasant walk for those wishing to escape the main crowds.
Information on public transport accessibility is limited, but its proximity to downtown suggests local shuttle services might be an option. It's best to check local transit schedules.
While specific road closures for the gardens are rare, it's always wise to check local traffic reports before your visit, especially during peak seasons or inclement weather.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Annie Cannon Gardens offers free admission, making it an accessible and budget-friendly attraction.
The gardens are generally open during daylight hours, but specific times can vary. It's advisable to check local listings or visit during standard park hours.
No advance booking is required as admission is free. You can visit anytime during operating hours.
Yes, the entrance to the Glen Burney Trail is located very near Annie Cannon Gardens, allowing for easy access to the hiking path.
While generally open, it's wise to be mindful of park closing times, especially if you plan to hike the Glen Burney Trail, which may have earlier closures.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy beautiful spring flowers, walk along well-maintained grass paths, and access the nearby Glen Burney Trail with its waterfalls. It's a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature. +1
Exploring the gardens themselves can take about an hour. If you plan to hike the full 3-mile Glen Burney Trail loop, allow approximately 2 hours.
Yes, if you're short on time, you can enjoy a pleasant walk through the gardens in about an hour without tackling the full trail.
Information on specific facilities like restrooms is not widely available. It's recommended to use facilities before your visit or in the nearby downtown area.
The gardens feature nice grass paths. The adjacent Glen Burney Trail is more challenging, with a steep downhill section and an uphill return.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant spring flowers and the cascading waterfalls on the Glen Burney Trail offer excellent photo opportunities. The well-kept paths also make for scenic shots.
Absolutely! With its diverse flora, flowing water, and mountain backdrop, it's a great location for capturing natural beauty.
Morning light is often ideal for capturing the vibrant colors of the flowers and the soft glow on the landscape.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to check local park regulations or contact the relevant authorities before flying a drone.
The overlooks along the Glen Burney Trail, especially near the waterfalls, provide stunning vistas for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the garden areas for younger children and only attempting the trail with older kids or those experienced with hiking. Packing snacks and water is always a good idea for family outings. The free admission makes it a budget-friendly option for a family day out.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Experienced hikers might find the Glen Burney Trail a good warm-up or a pleasant short hike. The 3-mile loop offers a decent workout with rewarding waterfall views. Remember to inform someone of your hiking plans and carry essentials like water and a phone.
❤️ Couples Seeking Romance
For a bit more adventure, the Glen Burney Trail offers a shared challenge with the reward of beautiful waterfalls. Completing the hike together can be a memorable experience. Pack a small picnic to enjoy amidst the natural beauty for an extra special touch.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Glen Burney Trail
The return hike is primarily uphill, so pace yourself and enjoy the natural surroundings. Many visitors find the effort worthwhile for the stunning views and the chance to connect with nature. Allow about two hours to complete the trail comfortably, taking time to appreciate the scenery along the way.
Pro-tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water, as the trail can be demanding. The trail's proximity to the gardens makes it an easy addition to your visit, offering a more adventurous element to your day.
The Gardens in Bloom
The well-kept grass paths provide a pleasant and easy walking experience, allowing you to stroll through the different sections of the garden at your own pace. This tranquil environment makes it an ideal spot to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Blowing Rock and find a moment of peace.
While the gardens themselves are a delight, their proximity to the Glen Burney Trail adds another layer of appeal. You can enjoy a leisurely walk through the flowers and then embark on a more adventurous hike, experiencing the best of both worlds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit