Posted in Tennessee
March 19, 2019
The 8 Best And Most Beautiful Places To See Wildflowers In Tennessee This Spring
When it comes to natural beauty, Tennessee has it all. And while most folks think first of East Tennessee’s towering, cloud-covered mountains or the staggering waterfalls of the Cumberland Plateau, the wildflowers found throughout the state are some of the most beautiful in the world and should not be overlooked. We’ve found some of the best spots in the state for viewing these beauties, so be sure to visit them all before they disappear this year.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
South Cumberland State Park is actually ten different areas over four counties on the top of the Cumberland Plateau near Monteagle. Each area highlights the best scenery in the state, including beautiful wildflower displays every Spring and Summer.
Roan Mountain in Northeast Tennessee is known for being home of the largest natural rhododendron garden in the world. They typically bloom in full force in June, which is also when you can attend the local Rhododendron Festival.
East Nashville's favorite park, Shelby Bottoms hugs the Cumberland River along the east side of East Nashville and has plenty of wildflower and natural grass fields that are the perfect oasis in the big city.
There are plenty of reasons why Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the country, but the wildflowers are probably the most underrated reason. A quick drive through Cades Cove in the spring will give you a memory you'll never forget.
Andrews Bald sits atop the Great Smokies at nearly 6000 feet above sea level, but while it's not the highest peak in the park, it is the highest grassy area in the park, offering absolutely stunning vistas that are rife with wildflowers.
The Memphis Botanic Garden is another great example of a wildflower oasis in the middle of the big city. The garden does have an entry fee, but it's open to the public year-round, and it's well worth the visit.
Overton Park in the heart of Memphis is home to one of the only remaining old growth forests in Tennessee, and this natural ecosystem is home to hundreds and hundreds of native Tennessee wildflowers. Visit the Memphis Zoo or the Brooks Museum of Art while you're at the park.
One of the most underrated natural attractions in the state, Taylor Hollow touts itself as one of the last remaining undisturbed forests in Tennessee, and of course that means the forest floor is covered with wildflowers. The 2.5 mile trail that winds through the park is the perfect way to take it all in. The land is privately owned, so you need to contact the Tennessee Nature Conservancy for access.
If you get hungry after all of your botanical adventures, then this local hidden gem might be the spot for you.
