Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden

Location: Federal Way

Length: About a mile of interlacing trails.

Level of difficulty: Flat to moderately hilly gravel trails.

Setting: During rainy periods, it's often more compelling to camp out on the couch rather than negotiate muddy paths and eroding trails. For a civilized walk on raked gravel trails under a canopy of conifers, visit one of the world's best collections of species (wild) rhododendrons, tucked away on the Weyerhaeuser corporate campus. It's free through February, and they even provide umbrellas.

Without the distraction of showy blooms, the amazing diversity of rhododendron foliage is more evident. Not all leaves feature the trademark oval shape, and plants range from alpine groundcovers with tiny leaves to giant specimens the size of trees. Many species of rhododendrons are native to Asia, and judging from the plant markers, they are well-represented here. I even spotted a species from an island in southern Japan that I had once visited.

Highlights: Several varieties of rhododendron already are beginning to open their violet and pink flowers. Other colorful garden plants include blooming heather plants and budding magnolia trees. Slip over to the adjacent bonsai garden to see tiny, flowering plum trees in bud, and catch the large fiery berries still remaining on several firethorn trees. Come back during March through May for the peak blooming season; red varieties peak in March, and purple varieties dominate in April.

Facilities: Restrooms, water and gift shop.

Restrictions: No pets or bikes.

Hours: Open October through February 11 a.m.-4 p.m. (closed Thursdays and Fridays); March through September 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (closed Thursdays). Free admission November-February; otherwise admission is $3.50/adults; $2.50/seniors and students; children younger than 12 (and school groups) admitted free.

Directions: From southbound Interstate 5 in Federal Way, take Exit 143 and turn left on South 320th Street (heading northbound, turn right on South 320th Street). Turn right on Weyerhaeuser Way South, and soon after going through a traffic circle, turn right into the Weyerhaeuser campus, and follow signs to the rhododendron garden.

Bus: Pierce Transit Route 501 goes by the Weyerhaeuser campus. 800-562-8109 or www.piercetransit.org.

Information: 253-661-9377 or www.rhodygarden.org.

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