Here in early summer the Parkway is alive with color and the much anticipated bloom of Catawba Rhododendron is on display in many areas.

On the very north end of the Parkway between Rockfish Gap and Humpback Rocks there are tremendous displays of Mountain Laurel that line the roadway in many areas.

Elsewhere in Virginia across Apple Orchard Mountain the Rhododendron is in full bloom along with Yarrow, Milkweed, Bowman’s Root, Loose Strife, Ox-Eye Daisy, Tall Meadow Rue and Clover. Tulip Poplar and Mountain Ash are also out right now and some bright red Fire Pink is still on display around Peaks of Otter, milepost 86 to 87.

From Groundhog Mountain through the area of the Blue Ridge Music Center down to the North Carolina/ Virginia state line look for Elder, Daisy Fleabane, Mountain Laurel, Ox-Eye Daisy, Yarrow and Tulip Trees in bloom.

In North Carolina the road is lined with displays of Catawba Rhododendron north of Asheville from Mt. Mitchell to the area around Craggy Gardens although the big display at Craggy is not quite at peak yet, maybe a week or so away.

Regular updates for color reports will be posted to our web site home page. You can also use the National Park Service information line at 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.