About
If you’ve ever read the book, “The Secret Garden,” you’ll understand what I mean when I say the Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden is like a magical secret garden. Exploring this area is like stepping into a special, hidden place where you leave the world behind. And by the way, they actually have a Fairy Garden, so it’s not just me who thinks this!
This little hidden gem in Roanoke was made possible thanks to the hard work of the Mill Mountain Garden Club. Back in 1971, the City of Roanoke invited the Mill Mountain Garden Club to plan a wildflower garden on top of Mill Mountain. With two and a half acres to play with, the garden club got busy and the result is truly stunning.
Today, this area contains ten special areas of interest, including the aforementioned Fairy Garden, as well as an outdoor classroom, a pond, a pollinator garden for bees, and an amazing White Oak tree with burl and more.
This garden is absolutely pristine, so be sure to follow the examples of others and avoid littering. There are plenty of trash receptacles along the paths to help you out with that. Note that dogs on leashes are welcome, but be sure to clean up after any little droppings.
The paths are fairly smooth and the entire garden is well laid out. It’s wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly, too! Be sure to add a visit to your Smith Mountain Lake itinerary.
Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden: Fun Facts & Cool Features
You’ll find beautiful waterfalls, babbling pools of water, and plenty of places to sit, either on benches or on rock walls and natural formations. Ferns, trees, and shrubbery are everywhere, which will calm and soothe your spirit as you walk the well-maintained trails through the garden.
There are numerous vistas overlooking the distant mountains, as well as plenty of photo opportunities in the gardens. It's also popular as a venue for weddings and other celebrations, so you may encounter a group when you visit.
Another thing to note is that the garden leads to the Mill Mountain Zoo at the opposite end of the entrance. While it's modest, it might be fun for your kids to experience nature and the zoo animals.
The Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden has received numerous awards for its local species of flowers, trees, and shrubs. If you visit in the summer, the wildflowers will be in full bloom, attracting a variety of butterflies. Additionally, you'll see daisies, bee balm, Canada lily, Butterfly weed, and more.
At the Discovery Center, a donation box is available to support the landscapers, volunteers, and garden club members. While guided tours aren't offered, plaques in the center provide information about the garden and the Mill Mountain Garden Club!