Springtime blooms are bursting and we’ve tapped a few Shenandoah Valley wildflower hot spots for you to enjoy this season. Plan a route, add a treat along the way, and enjoy the views.
Drives for Wildflowers
Shenandoah National Park is a no-brainer for wildflowers. Many varieties are found near water sources like South River and Rose River during the spring season, and then summer bloomers take over Big Meadows.
Wildflower Weekend in Shenandoah National Park is May 6 and 7 and include special hikes for flower spotting, amphibian habitats, birding, and instruction about spotting poisonous “leaves of three.” Additionally, botanical art workshops and a youth wildflower art contest are highlights of the weekend.
Wildflower Species List for Shenandoah National Park | Wildflower Calendar
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Blue Ridge Parkway connects to Skyline Drive at the top of Afton Mountain. Continue one scenic drive into another and be rewarded with continuous wildflower opportunities.
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Wildflower Walks
Shenandoah River State Park in Bentonville is home to an aptly named Bluebell Loop Trail where you can expect to see the pretty Virginia bluebells and more along the river. It’s an easy one-mile trek that can be extended by looping in additional trails.
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In Grottoes, Grand Caverns’ trail on Cave Hill is bursting with spring color. At 1.73 miles, the trail offers vibrant redbuds and blankets of Virginia bluebells.
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Edith J. Carrier Arboretum at James Madison University in Harrisonburg is 125 acres of blooming beauty. Stroll the woods along a wide path to spot native wildflowers, ferns, and also enjoy purposeful gardens.
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In Lexington, Boxerwood Nature Center & Woodland Gardens is a great place for a family walk. Meander through the mostly woodland gardens to encounter various clusters of wildflowers and wildlife habitats. It’s a hot spot for birding as well.
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We can’t wait to see the glorious blooms you encounter while you’re out and about in the Shenandoah Valley. Do tag us and the locations of your photos to share the beauty!
Header image courtesy of Shenandoah National Park.