It’s wildflower season in the Shenandoah Valley. Some would even go so far as to call it our most beautiful season. Experience it at some of our favorite blooming hot spots.
Glen Burnie Gardens at Museum of the Shenandoah Valley | Winchester
Though far more formal than wild, the flowers at Glen Burnie Gardens are incredible. They’ve been a work of art and love since 1956 and have brought enjoyment to many visitors. In the Water Garden visitors will find the delicate, dainty Bleeding Heart and Virginia Bluebells among the blooms.
Make it a point to seek out Kathie’s Spring Garden which is so named for natural springs rather than the season. It is here that beautiful perennials and flowering shrubs are putting on a show.
The gardens and galleries are open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy the trails at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley daily from 7 a.m. to dusk.
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Edith J. Carrier Arboretum & Botanical Gardents | Harrisonburg
Wander the 125 acres of the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum & Botanical Gardens at James Madison University for free every day of the year. Open from dawn to dusk, more than three miles of trails meander through woods and meadows and along streams.
The Wood Wildflower Garden is bursting with colors right now. Specifically, you will find Lily of the Valley, Wild Geranium, and Large-Flowered Trillium.
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State Arboretum of Virginia | Boyce
The Native Plant Trail is where you want to be this time of year when you visit the State Arboretum of Virginia at the University of Virginia’s Blandy Experimental Farm. As you peruse the trail, watch for the identification signs to learn about the various native Virginia wildflowers growing in that area. Wild Columbine, Jack-in-the-Pulpit, and Blue Phlox are among those to see.
Blandy is open for free from dawn to dusk daily.
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Boxerwood Nature Center & Woodland Garden | Lexington
There are five distinct ecosystems represented with the 15-acre Boxerwood Nature Center & Woodland Garden. Comprised of native plants and showcasing interesting international trees, Boxerwood is also open daily from dusk until dawn. Though it is free, a $5 visitor donation is suggested, which helps offset costs for maintaining the garden.
The wildflowers at Boxerwood are much like those mentioned above. Ferns unfurl, Columbine open wide, and Lily of the Valley bloom into sweet little white bells.
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Shenandoah National Park
A simple ride along Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park will offer a glimpse of wildflowers, but it’s along the trails that visitors are rewarded. Take your time and see how many of the 862 species you can identify within the park. Species you’re likely to spot quickly are Snowy Orchids, Golden Ragwort, and Pink Lady’s Slipper.
Pro Tip: look along the streams for spring wildflowers. Rose River, Mill Prong, Hughes River, and South River are key locations.
Save the Date: Wildflower Weekend is May 11-12 and includes walks for wildflowers and other special programming. This is also Mother’s Day Weekend, if you’re looking for a special activity to share with mom.
More Wildflower Hot Spots
- Shenandoah River State Park in Bentonville
- Grand Caverns’ Cave Hill Trail in Grottoes
- Blue Ridge Parkway – entrances in Waynesboro and Buena Vista
Header Image: Dutchman’s Breeches at Shenandoah National Park. NPS Photo | N. Lewis