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

PVAS Host: Wanda Miller

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 the C&O Canal Towpath, we can hope to see Twinleaf, Yellow Corydalis, Rue Anemone, Bloodroot, Spring Beauties, Dutchman’s Breeches, Cut-leaf Toothwort, and Giant Chickweed.

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: Gravel. The route is generally flat. It is the most mobility-friendly of all of our spring wildflower walks.
• Restroom: Restrooms are available for this program.
• Parking/Where to Meet: Participants will meet at the parking lot near the C&O Canal Lock 38, located here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YRMLKDJuQppX2MdZ8. This is the Shepherdstown River Lock.
• 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 Wanda: Wanda is a Potomac Valley Master Naturalist. She is a retired high school biology teacher & lifelong resident of Berkeley County.  She grew up on a small family farm and spent lots of time outdoors observing the local plants and animals.