If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’re just as saddened as we are that the Wildflower Pilgrimage has been canceled this year. This annual event is a truly special time, but our primary concern is the health and safety of our fellow nature enthusiasts.

While the annual Wildflower Pilgrimage will not take place this year, we encourage you to explore a West Virginia state park near you and look for spring wildflowers.

A look back at previous wildflower pilgrimages

We’d like to take this time to celebrate previous Wildflower Pilgrimage events with a few throwback photos.

Do you have any photos of wildflowers you’ve viewed while hiking at a West Virginia state park or forest? Share them with us on social media and use the hashtag #WVStateParks.

Flowers aren’t the only eye-catchers on the trail

In addition to wildflowers, these birds can be spotted in Pipestem Resort State Park and Bluestone State Park areas.

• Eastern Kingbird  
• Blue-headed Vireo  
• American Crow  
• Chipping Sparrow  
• Eastern Towhee  
• Ovenbird  
• Worm-eating Warbler  
• Pine Warbler  
• Yellow-rumped Warbler

For now, plan your hike to a state park or forest and enjoy the thrill of coming across a wonderful wildflower or spotting the bird you’ve been hoping for. Use this guide to help you identify wildflowers in the state park or forest nearest you. For a birdwatching guide, check out this brochure. 

Make sure to follow WV State Parks on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates from the parks and forests or go to wvstateparks.com/travel-alert. 

We look forward to seeing everyone next year for the 60th Annual West Virginia Wildflower Pilgrimage taking place May 6-9, 2021!