There’s over 1,500 different types of flowering plants in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park – more than any other national park in North America. Every spring, visitors make their way into the mountains to hike and see all of flowers that are blooming throughout the park.
Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage
Each year, in April, you can be a part of the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage. The pilgrimage is a 5 day event that takes place in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. During the 5 days, you can experience guided hikes that explore all sorts of nature in the national park — wildflowers, wildlife, culture, history and more.
It’s a great way to experience the Smoky Mountains, learn a little bit more about the area and, of course, see all of the beautiful Smoky Mountain wildflowers!
You don’t have to worry about the weather – this 5 day pilgrimage takes place rain or shine with many indoor events, classes and seminars held in Gatlinburg also.
For specific information about this year’s Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage event, click here.
Smoky Mountain Wildflower Walks
If you’re looking to go hiking to see the Smoky Mountain wildflowers, these are some of the best trails:
Cove Hardwood Nature Trail
This is a great trail when you’re looking to walk and explore nature. It’s a ¾ mile loop trail that is known for having some of the best Smoky Mountain wildflowers in the entire national park. You start this trail at the Chimneys Picnic Area, about 5 miles south of Sugarlands Visitor Center on Newfound Gap Road.
Little River Trail
The Little River Trail is a great trail located just before you reach the Elkmont Campground. The trail follows along the Little River, so you can experience the scenic waterside and all of the Smoky Mountain wildflowers.
Middle Prong Trail
Middle Prong is a hiking trail with flowers and waterfalls. This trail starts at the end of Tremont Road, right at the west side of the Townsend “Y.”
Appalachian Trail
Of course, the Appalachian Trail is amazing for many reasons, but the 2 mile stretch between Newfound Gap and Road Prong Trail is great for flowers from mid-April through May.
Click here to see more Smoky Mountain wildflower nature walks.
Thoughts
We love seeing the Smoky Mountain wildflowers bloom throughout the year! Be sure to spend a little time in the Smokies during your visit this spring, so you can see hundreds of different types of flowers and plants!
Are you ready to visit the Smoky Mountains? Click here to learn more about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to start planning your trip to see the wildflowers this spring!
