2025 Spring Color Gallery
Look out for our spring color photographic reports as flowers begin to bloom on Grandfather Mountain. Enjoy a sampling of our colors in the park and nearby. Color reports are also posted on Grandfather Mountain’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages. Spring color in our Blue Ridge Mountains begins in the warmer valleys in April and gradually spreads up the slopes through June. You can even see the blooming and greening of the hillsides from one of our many scenic overlooks. Get some trip inspiration on our Spring Fun page.
Pinkshell azalea buds | April 25
As the weather gets warmer, this Pinkshell azalea is beginning to bud near Half Moon Overlook. (Photo by Skip Sickler)
Dimpled trout lily | April 25
Found near Wilson Creek, on the flanks of Grandfather Mountain, this flower is soaking up the sun. (Photo by Skip Sickler)
Violets | April 25
These violets, found blooming near Wilson Creek, thrive in indirect sunlight. They are a quintessential marker of spring. (Photo by Skip Sickler)
Carolina spring beauty | April 25
The Carolina spring beauty is known for attracting pollinators, encouraging growth of other blooms. (Photo by Skip Sickler)
Pinkshell blooms | May 2
Pinkshell azalea, native to N.C., adds a beautiful pop of color to the scenery at Grandfather Mountain. (Photo by Skip Sickler)
Hobblebush | May 2
Hobblebush is known for its ability to grow roots wherever the plant touches the ground. This hobblebush was found near Half Moon Overlook. (Photo by Skip Sickler)
Peaks and pinkshell | May 2
Pinkshell azalea can already be found blooming at Half Moon Overlook, enjoying the warmer weather. (Photo by Skip Sickler)
Painted trillium | May 6
The painted trillium is sometimes called the painted wake robin, as its spring bloom can coincide with the robins’ return. (Photo by Leslie Restivo)
Bluets | May 9
Bluets can be found all over Grandfather Mountain, decorating the sides of the road with pops of spring color. (Photo by Leslie Restivo)
Dwarf crested iris | May 13
These dwarf crested irises were found near the Mildred the Bear Environmental Habitats. (Photo by Skip Sickler)
Fraser magnolia | May 13
The Fraser magnolia, native to the Appalachian Mountains, blooms brightly. (Photo by Skip Sickler)
Linville Peak | May 16
Pinkshell azaleas are popping on Linville Peak with the Mile High Swinging Bridge in the background. (Photo by Skip Sickler)
Linn Cove Viaduct | May 20
The Blue Ridge Parkway is greeting guests with classic green hues on the iconic Linn Cove Viaduct. (Photo by Leslie Restivo)
Sand myrtle | May 23
Sand myrtle, native to the Blue Ridge Mountains among two other places, can be found near the Mile High Swinging Bridge. (Photo by Leslie Restivo)
Catawba rhododendron | May 23
Brilliant magenta from the Catawba rhododendron greets guests on their way to Half Moon Overlook. (Photo by Leslie Restivo)
Flame azalea | May 27
Fiery flame azalea can be found blooming near Split and Sphinx Rock at Grandfather Mountain. (Photo by Grayson Ross)
Meadow anemone | May 27
Anemone, growing at Grandfather, was a symbol of forsaken love in the Victorian language of flowers. (Photo by Skip Sickler)
Half Moon Overlook | May 30
The iconic Half Moon Overlook stands out in spring with Catawba rhododendron framing the mountains in the background. (Photo by Skip Sickler)
Mountain laurel | June 3
The native mountain laurel, sometimes confused with rhododendron, has appeared on and around Grandfather Mountain. (Photo by Skip Sickler)
Uno the otter | June 5
Even the fallen blooms add beauty to the mountain. Uno the otter can be found swimming in them. (Photo by Alyssa Iampietro)
Submit YOUR Spring Color Shots!
We’re Back and Blooming! The N.C. High Country’s signature events, charming downtown and vibrant wildflowers are ready to welcome you. Come on up!
For a list of spring events and attraction openings, call the High Country Host Regional Visitor Center at 800-438-7500 or visit www.VisitNCHighCountry.com.