On Friday, June 26, 2009, The Little Tennessee Watershed Association (LTWA) and The Little Tennessee Land Trust (LTLT) will be co-hosting a hike led by Jack Johnston to see the rare Mountain Camellia (Stewartia ovata) in bloom. Join members of LTWA and LTLT on the annual quest to find the rare mountain camelia which is known to exist in only a few mountain locations, this member of the tea family produces one of the most spectacular blooms found in the region.

Jack will have a few Stewartia plants for sale and will give us a brief education about the growing habitat for this rare and beautiful species. We will meet at LTLT's Queen Branch property on Hwy 28 (11miles north of Franklin) at 9:30 to carpool to various bloom locations. Participants will want to wear appropriate clothing for hiking although the hikes will not be strenuous: bring snacks or lunch, water, and definitely your camera. Space is limited in order to protect this rare beauty, so please RSVP. For more information or to RSVP please contact us via email or phone 828-369-6402.