Be on the lookout for wild columbines during Shenandoah National Park's Wildflower Weekend/NPS file

Spring wildflowers and art will be celebrated during Shenandoah National Park's 38th annual Wildflower Weekend coming up May 11-11. Guided hikes and programs will focus on the diversity and importance of not only hundreds of species of flowering plants that are protected by the park, but also other seasonal changes. 

Winning entries in the park’s annual “Youth Art in the Park” wildflower art contest will be exhibited at Byrd Visitor Center (mile 51) following a recognition ceremony at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 11. 

Special features this year include a botanical art and journaling workshop led by watercolor artist Betty Gatewood on both Saturday and Sunday. No art experience is necessary, and participants should bring their own unlined journal. All other art supplies will be provided.

Guided hikes include Mill Prong, Skyland-Big Meadows Horse Trail, Hawksbill Mountain area, Millers Head, Story of the Forest Trail, Snead Farm, Lewis Mountain area, Hightop Mountain, and Lewis Falls, as well as walks focusing on the spring birds and amphibians. 

All programs are free. No reservations are needed. However, there is an entrance fee to the Park (good for seven days). Adults and children are welcome on all Wildflower Weekend programs. The complete program schedule is posted on the Park’s website: https://go.nps.gov/38th_wildflower_weekend