SPRING IN THE WESTERN NC MOUNTAINS – WILDLIFE, BLOOMS, HIKING & MORE
There is nothing fresher than springtime in Haywood County, North Carolina. As March, April, and May roll in, the mountains awake from their winter slumber and burst into life with delicate trilliums, fiery azaleas, and a kaleidoscope of wildflowers blanketing the hillsides. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Great Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains, the picturesque towns of Waynesville, Maggie Valley, Canton, Clyde, and Lake Junaluska offer the ultimate spring escape.
Often referred to as “the other color season,” spring in the Western NC Mountains is an unforgettable sight. Daffodils, dogwoods, and cherry blossoms line the scenic byways, making every drive an unmissable journey through nature’s rebirth. Whether you’re cruising along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway in a car or feeling the unrivaled thrill of winding mountain roads on a motorcycle, the views are simply unbeatable. This is also the best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, known for its stunning wildflower hikes and diverse wildlife.
As the weather warms up, warmer days and mild evenings provide the perfect opportunity to indulge in a plethora of outdoor adventures and explore unique local hotspots. Whether you’re looking for an “off the beaten path” hiking excursion or want to test your golfing skills, our picturesque NC mountain towns offer experiences unlike any other. Springtime also marks the beginning of vibrant farmers’ markets and local agritourism experiences, where visitors can enjoy special events, farm tours, and weekly markets brimming with fresh Appalachian produce.
Here in Haywood, you’ll find an array of accommodations — from cozy cabins tucked into the hills to charming vacation rentals with stunning vistas — ensuring a perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure.
Experience the magic of spring in Haywood County! Plan your getaway and come immerse yourself in vibrant blooms, crisp mountain air, and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
SPRING FUN, CAPTURED BY YOU!
SPRING HIKES
Waterrock Knob
Waterrock Knob is a must-visit stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Located at Milepost 451.2, it boasts the last hiking trail before reaching the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Standing at 6,292 feet, it ranks as the 16th highest peak in the Eastern United States and the 15th highest among North Carolina’s 40 summits over 6,000 feet. Known for its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, this spot offers some of the most stunning panoramic views in the North Carolina mountains. For those up for a hike, the reward is an unforgettable, sweeping vista from the top.
Sam’s Summit Loop
This scenic hike consists of six interconnected trails forming a loop, allowing for shorter, customizable adventures. Along the way, you’ll encounter the cascading beauty of Flat Laurel Creek Falls, breathtaking 360-degree views from the summit of Sam’s Knob — overlooking Cold Mountain, Richland Balsam, and Black Balsam —and a serene walk through a dense, tranquil spruce plantation. It’s the perfect springtime escape into nature!
Max Patch
Hike a piece of the Appalachian Trail at Max Patch, one of North Carolina’s most popular Appalachian Trail hikes, on a grassy, bald mountain, rising 4,629 feet that’s covered in wildflowers. Catch a gorgeous sunrise, sunset, or afternoon picnic on this moderate two-mile loop with stunning 360-degree views. Hike through miles of wildflowers, wild blueberries, blackberries, and wispy, tall grasses.
SPRING BLOOMS
April
Daffodil, Dogwood, Painted Trillium, Phacelia, Pink Lady Slipper, Yellow Lady Slipper, Pinkshell Azalea, Redbud, Tulip
May
Crab Apple, Dogwood, Flame Azalea, Japonica, Mountain Laurel, Mountain Magnolia, Pinkshell Azalea, Trailing Arbutus, Painted Trillium, Violet, Wild Cherry
June
Fire Pinks, Flame Azalea, Gray’s Lily, Ox-Eyed Daisy, Purple Rhododendron, White Rhododendron, Turkeybeard
Wildlife
Elk
Most calves are born in late May through June. The cows hide their calves in the high grass. For safety and to avoid disturbing the calves, visitors should stay out of fields. Cows can be aggressive in protecting their young. By late June, visitors can often see calves up and moving with the herd.* Get our elk watching guide here! *Please note that Cataloochee Valley is currently closed at this time due to damage sustained from Hurricane Helene.
Black Bears
One to four cubs are born during the mother’s winter sleep, usually in late January or early February. Bears weigh eight ounces at birth. Females with newly born cubs usually emerge from their winter dens in late March or early April. Commonly born in pairs, the cubs will remain with the mother for about eighteen months or until she mates again.
Birds
Haywood County offers excellent high-elevation birding, with sought-after species like the Peregrine Falcon, Alder Flycatcher, and Northern Saw-whet Owl. Explore easy to moderate trails at Black Balsam. For diverse birding, visit Lake Junaluska, home to a variety of species year-round. Spot bald eagles, resident swans with cygnets in spring, and winter migrants like brown creepers and pine siskins.
Spring Events
Experience vibrant festivals and happenings during the springtime in Haywood County, NC. From lively street and flower festivals to exciting motorcycle and car shows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For a full schedule of spring events visit our events calendar.
Appalachian True Heritage Festival
Boho Hippie Fest
Whole Bloomin’ Thing
Thunder in the Smokies
Maggie Valley Fly Fishing Festival
