I’m much obliged to reader Steve for bringing Manchester Cedar Swamp to my attention. This Nature Conservancy property straddles the line between Hooksett and Manchester, New Hampshire, not far from Hackett Hill Road. Among its features is the giant rhododendron, which happens to be a July bloomer. (Rhododendron State Park in Fitzwilliam is another great spot. The park’s web site says peak bloom there is just fading.)

Parking is in a well-marked spot on Countryside Boulevard, 0.4 miles from Hackett Hill Road. Bring your bug repellent and enjoy the walk. Three interconnected loop trails total 1.8 miles.

Kiosk at parking area

Glacial erratics are scattered around; typical of southern NH

Lily, Manchester Cedar Swamp

Giant rhododendron

Rhododendrons in white and palest pink