Beautiful, Vibrant Wildflowers Await along these Scenic Drives

In the spring, the Mountain State comes alive with beautiful blooming wildflowers. Throughout the state – especially in late April and May – visitors and locals alike are treated to the vibrant colors and unique shapes of the flowers.

Mountaineer Country

Journey to the Mountaineer Country region of the state to find the WVU Core Arboretum. Here you can hike and bike trails that show you exactly where you can find certain flowers and plant life. In the spring, you can take guided wildflower walks and leave with a newfound knowledge of the state’s wildflowers. Just a few miles away, visitors can find the West Virginia Botanic Garden, which includes nine gorgeous gardens like the Butterfly Garden, Secret Garden, Rhododendron Garden and Meditation Garden. At the botanic garden, beautiful perennials and annuals that change from year to year are on display for all to enjoy.

Potomac Highlands

The Potomac Highlands region of the state is a hotspot for beautiful flowers. Begin your scenic drive in Blackwater Falls State Park, where it’s full of blooming rhododendrons, and you can take in the beauty of Blackwater Falls and Elakala Falls. From there, head to Canaan Valley Resort State Park just 20 minutes away. Here, unique flowers and plants line the trails, which are perfect for hiking and biking. For incredible views of wildflowers and mountain views, visit Dolly Sods Wilderness Area, which includes more than 40 miles of beautiful hiking trails.

New River/Greenbrier Valley

Driving through the New River/Greenbrier Valley region is always fun thanks to its grand beauty. In the spring, this is area is a mecca for beautiful flowers and greenery. Known for its overlook of the New River’s horseshoe bend, Grandview blooms with Rhododendrons each spring. While you’re ther,e hike the two-mile Laurel Trail to view a variety of spring wildflowers. Visit the New River Gorge National River for their Wildflower Weekend where rangers and naturalists provided free guided hikes and guests can learn more about wildflowers along the way.

Metro Valley

Explore the Metro Valley region and visit the charming Sunrise Carriage Trail for an easy, breezy walk amongst beauty. Stroll the Sunrise Carriage Trail for stunning views of flowers and the capital city, Charleston. The trail is close to delicious restaurants and unique shops making it the perfect afternoon activity. Just a few miles away, you can find the Kanawha State Forest, which is known for its diverse plant and animal life. Kanawha State Forest has incredibly unique spring flowers like Wild Sweet William, Jack in the Pulpit as well as flowering PawPaw trees.

Wildflower Events

Osbra Eye Memorial Wildflower Walks

Visit beautiful Kanawha State Forest this spring and enjoy beautiful wildflowers at each corner. Each spring the park becomes blanketed with up to 40 types of wildflowers including Jack-in-the-Pulpit and Green Violet.

West Virginia Wildflower Pilgrimage

Join Blackwater Falls State park this spring for the annual Wildflower Pilgrimage. The pilgrimage features beautiful wildflowers at Blackwater Falls State Park, Dolly Sods, Canaan Valley and Seneca Rocks.

Sue Browning Wildflower Hike

Stop by Chief Logan State Park for the annual Sue Browning Wildflower Hike. Two hikes are available, one for a more challenging hike and one is an easier stroll along the beautiful wildflowers.

This post was last updated on February 24, 2022