Enjoy a woodland stroll with us to welcome Spring’s first blooms!

PVAS Host: Mary Duke

Free and open to the public. All ages are welcome, though youth must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required and limited to 10 participants.

PVMN Continuing Education Credit Eligible

For just a short time each spring, delicate wildflowers emerge from the forest floor, transforming the woods with their vibrant colors before quickly fading away. These spring ephemerals take advantage of a brief window of sunlight before the trees leaf out, disappearing just as suddenly as they arrived. Their timing is everything—not just for them, but for the pollinators and wildlife that depend on their brief appearance.Join us for a walk through the springtime forest, where we’ll search for these short-lived blooms and take in the beauty of a season that never stands still.

At Ferry Hill, we can hope to see Cutleaf Toothwort, Early Saxifrage, Spring Beauty, Dwarf Larkspur, Squirrel Corn, Wild Ginger, Pink Shooting Stars, and Dutchman’s Breeches.

Thank you for leaving the wildflowers for all to enjoy!

• Walking Distance: Approximately 2 miles or less. An entire walk may take up to two hours, but participants may leave the group and turn back at any time.
• Pace/Activities: Leisurely (meandering, many breaks to stop and observe)
• Exposure: Mostly shaded
• Terrain: Earthen trail with some hilly, rocky sections that could be slippery when wet Steep in some areas.
• Restroom: Restrooms are available for this program.
• Parking/Where to Meet: Participants will meet at the Ferry Hill Mansion parking area at the top of the hill just over the bridge across from Shepherdstown. Directions and more information about Ferry Hill Plantation can be found here: https://www.canaltrust.org/pyv/ferry-hill-plantation/.
• What to Bring: Bring water and dress for the weather! We strongly recommend that you wear sturdy shoes (with good tread and ideally with ankle support) and bring a walking stick.

Register Here!

Registration will remain open until the start of the program.

Read our Program Policies.

About Mary: Mary Duke is a retired teacher & PVAS member who is an enthusiastic gardener & nature lover. One of her favorite joys of springtime is finding & learning more about spring wildflowers. For the past 15 years, she & her husband Walt have attended the WV Wildflower Pilgrimage at Blackwater Falls St. Park & have learned so much from the many knowledgeable leaders that have led their walks there.