The 2026 Symposium ◆ September 11–12
Three voices, one living world
A celebration of the native flora of the Southern Appalachians — through science, design, and deep botanical knowledge. Friday's plant sale & garden tours are free; Saturday's symposium is ticketed.
The Laboratory, the Nature Center & the Botanical Garden are all part of the Station
Our Mission
Highlands Biological Station
The mission of the Highlands Biological Station, a multi-campus center of Western Carolina University, is to foster research, education, and conservation focused on the rich natural heritage of the southern Blue Ridge, a global biodiversity hotspot.
Located just minutes from downtown Highlands, the Station seeks to better understand the incredible biodiversity of our region while also sharing the Plateau's natural wonders with our community and visitors. From visiting researchers, to academic courses and workshops, to free educational programs for all ages, there's so many wonderful things going on at the Station.
The Highlands Nature Center, the Highlands Botanical Garden and the research and teaching laboratories are all part of the Station.
What's on
Programs, talks and walks — most of them free
Science on the Rocks
Discover alongside us!
Connect with researchers and staff, ask questions, and learn more about the science happening on and around the Highlands Plateau. Free and open to the public!
See the LineupSummer 2026
Nature Center Summer Programs
From hands-on activities and evening adventures to engaging talks by regional experts, our 2026 summer programs offer something for everyone. Join us for daily programs, Nature Center Nights, and the 2026 Zahner Conservation Lecture Series.
View Summer ProgramsStreaming now
Environmental Data
Near-real time environmental streaming data is now available! Click below for more information.
Learn MoreComing up
See all events →Getting here
Three entrances, three addresses
Highlands Nature Center
930 Horse Cove Road TODO — Nature Center hoursPark behind the Nature Center or at the Sunset Rock parking area across the street. The path behind the building leads along the Amphitheater to the Woodland Way trail and down to the main Botanical Garden entrance.
Directions →Research Facilities
265 North 6th Street TODO — access / by arrangementVisiting researchers and students taking courses and workshops should park here or at the Valentine House.
Directions →Botanical Gardens
111 Lower Lake Road Open year-round, dawn to dusk · FreeThe northern entrance, at the Stowers Teaching Pavilion & Native Pollinator Conservation Garden. Follow the gravel path through the garden and across the Lindenwood Lake dam to the boardwalk.
Directions →Please note: these are three separate addresses. Satellite navigation will often send visitors to the research station when they are looking for the Nature Center or the Garden.
Notes from the Archives
Ninety-five years, one photograph
On 29 August 1931 the photographer George Masa recorded the dedication of the Sam T. Weyman Laboratory. Twenty-one of the people gathered that morning have now been named.
Monthly
Stay connected with Highlands Biological Station!
Subscribe to our monthly newsletter and dive into all the latest happenings at HBS. From inspiring volunteer stories to fascinating botanical garden facts, event updates, and much more—there's always something exciting to discover.
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