August 8, 2008
It's August in the Blue Ridge and that means fields full of Yarrow, Sunflower, Goldenrod, Black-eyed Susan, and Queen Anne's Lace along most roadsides throughout the Parkway. Turks-cap Lily and Butterfly Weed add a touch of orange in many areas.
Specifically, in the Rocky Knob Mabry Mill area of Virginia, Lanceleaf Coreopsis, Queen Anne's Lace, Ox-eye Daisy, Black Cohosh, Horsenettle, and Spotted Touch-me-not are being reported. In North Carolina, in Doughton Park, the staff is spotting Black Cohosh, Black-eyed Susan, Coreopsis, Butterfly Weed, Turks-cap Lily, and lots of Goldenrod.
If you venture to the high elevations south of Asheville, you'll find a few Rosebay Rhododendron still left along the roadside, along with Coneflower, Black-eyed Susan, Sundrops, Pink Turtlehead, Joe-pye Weed, and Turks-cap Lily. These flowers are still being seen, even though they are a bit beyond peak.
Blueberries are ripening as well. Remember that visitors can pick up to a gallon for personal consumption.
Watch out for the built in distractions such as bicyclists, wildlife, and fantastic views. Have a safe visit to America's favorite drive.
Weekly updates at 828-298-0398 will keep you informed of what's being reported throughout the Parkway.
Click here for the full Blue Ridge Parkway bloom schedule.
Have a safe parkway visit! Enjoy the view, but watch the road.
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As one of the area's most celebrated photographers, J. Scott Graham spends much of his time on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Most recently, he has introduced a brand new set of giclee prints that portray some of the Parkway's most stunning landscapes.
Featured here is "Summer Surprise," a shot taken at Richland Balsam - the highest point along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The bright yellow of the coneflowers really sing against the foggy blue of the trees in the background. To see the entire collection of giclee prints, please visit the Blue Ridge Parkway Store. |
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