May has arrived and is traditionally the best month for viewing wildflowers along the Blue Ridge.

Mayapple, Bloodroot, Trillium, and a few Dogwoods are left over as well. Flaming Pink Azaleas should be showing soon along with Mountain Laurel. Trillium is still blooming nicely, especially from Linville Falls to Crabtree Meadows. From the Boone/Blowing Rock area, traveling south, look for Dogwood, Frasier Magnolia, and Sarvis. These are the most prominent blooming trees.

Witch Hobble, Azaleas, Speedwell, and various types of violets are also out. Carolina Rhododendron are especially nice at Bear Den Overlook at milepost 323. Bluets and Trout Lily are still visible around Moses Cone and Price Park area, and Mountain Laurel is showing at Linville Falls.

Regular updates for color reports will be posted to our web site home page. You can also use the National Park Service information line @ 828-298-0398 to keep informed of what’s being reported on the Parkway.

Have a safe Parkway visit! Enjoy the view, but watch the road.