Join us at the Nature Center for drop-in learning about black bears! All ages welcome | FREE | No registration required! Program funded by:

The Highlands Biological Foundation invites you to The Enchanted Forest! A family-friendly program Tuesday, October 28, 5:00-6:30 pm. Come trick-or-treating along the forest trails of the Highlands Botanical Garden and learn more about some creatures that we associate with Halloween! FREE | No registration necessary Costumes encouraged! Meet in the amphitheater behind Highlands Nature Center (930 Horse Cove Rd). Weather dependent Program funded by:

In accordance with Western Carolina University’s holiday schedule and protocol, the Highlands Biological Station will be closed to the public from Wednesday, December 24, 2025, through Friday, January 2, 2026. Please note that while our Botanical Gardens will remain open daily from dawn to dusk, all public facilities, offices, and indoor spaces will be closed during this time. We encourage you to plan your visit accordingly. We look forward to welcoming you back to the Station in the new year!