Native spring wildflowers and children’s creativity will be celebrated during the Shenandoah National Park 32nd annual Wildflower Weekend, May 5-6, 2018.
Special hikes and programs will focus on the diversity and value of hundreds of species of flowering plants that are protected by the park. Visitors may also view the winning entries in the park’s annual “Youth Art in the Park” wildflower art contest. The top-winning works will be exhibited at Byrd Visitor Center (mile 51 on Skyline Drive) from May 5 – 12, and at Dickey Ridge Visitor Center (mile 4.6) from May 13 – 20. Winning artists will be recognized in a ceremony at noon Saturday, May 6, at Byrd Visitor Center.
Special features this year are a botanical art workshop by watercolor artist Betty Gatewood (Saturday only), and a citizen-science phenology project led by ranger Chrissy Cochran (both days). Both events start at Byrd Visitor Center. No art experience is necessary for the workshop, and all materials will be provided. Adults and children are welcome on all programs.
New this year is a one-way, 1.5-mile hike on the Appalachian Trail from Skyland to Timber Hollow Overlook. A van will return drivers to their cars afterward. There will also be a new hike on the 4-mile Saddleback Mountain loop. Easier hikes include strolls at Franklin Cliffs and Crescent Rock overlooks. There will also be a bird walk, hikes to waterfalls and peaks, and hikes on other favorite wildflower trails.
All programs are free and no reservations are needed. There is a $25 entrance fee to the park (good for 7 days). The complete program schedule is posted on the park website: www.nps.gov/shen. For more information, contact Park Ranger Mara Meisel at (540) 999-3500, ext. 3282.
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