A note from Stowe Executive Director John Searby 

I have many reasons to love my job leading Daniel Stowe Conservancy. An amazing staff, passionate members, a supportive board and hundreds of dedicated volunteers make this a fabulous place to come to work every day. But one of my favorite things about working at Stowe is my weekly walks around the property.  While you might not think there is much to see this time of year at Stowe, I would argue that the weeks between Halloween and Thanksgiving are some of the most beautiful here; both on the trails and in the gardens. And now, there is a new way to explore our property. Last week we completed a one-mile sidewalk the full length of our property along South New Hope Road.

Not only will this give our neighbors in the McLean and Michaux Gardens neighborhoods safe and smooth pedestrian and bicycle access to Stowe, it also provides all visitors access to new parts of our property for the first time, unlocking even more interesting outdoor experiences. You can now check out views of our historic Rosa McLean House (circa 1872 and currently being studied for restoration) to an oak tree that is over 220 years old standing tall on our Southern property line next to a protective boardwalk. I’d encourage you to park at The Village, grab a coffee at The Trailhead Store and explore this new paved path to nature. When you’re done, don’t forget to visit The Farmhouse for some holiday shopping!

The Gardens at Stowe are the surprise beauty of this time of year. From the fire orange Bald Cypress trees that greet you in the parking lot to the to the Blue Mistflower and Chrysanthemums of the Four Seasons Garden, colors abound. Along Canal Garden, you’ll find our fall annuals popping including Sweet William and Blue Violets among others. And the Camelia bushes that welcome you to the Serpentine Garden are one of my favorites this time of year. As you explore beyond the formal gardens, Meadowwood Walk and the Lakeview Loop Trails provide vibrant changing leaf colors and views of Lake Wylie. This is a great 3/4 mile walk to add on to your Prairie Castle Playground or Adventure Trail visit. I end every walk through The Gardens with a stop in the Big Leaf Café + Shop for a snack or lunch.
You might not see our horticulturists digging in the ground much this time of year, but you will see them climbing trees and stringing lights. That’s because we are also in great anticipation of one of our favorite seasons on the year at Daniel Stowe Conservancy – Holidays at the Garden. The weekend after Thanksgiving, the gardens will come alive with over 1 million twinkling lights, providing the Charlotte region’s most inspiring pedestrian lights experience. With several new additions and level up experiences, this year’s lights are sure to be our best yet, so get your tickets today because many weekend nights sell out. I hope to see you here soon enjoying our unforgettable outdoor experiences across our entire 380 acres and finding your own path to nature.