Try to imagine being surrounded by the vibrant lush new growth of the forest, delicate, scented and colorful wildflowers, flowing waterfalls from melted snow, and newborn wildlife awakened to bask in the bounty of the Smoky Mountain’s freshness and new life. There is no better place to satisfy a case of spring fever and watch life awaken than here on Lake Santeetlah, amidst the Nanatahala National Forest.
The signs of spring are everywhere! Longer days, warmer temperatures, and flowers peeking from the ground are unmistakable indications everyone looks for this time of year. As spring fever spreads like an epidemic, the urge to bolt from our houses and do something outside seems overwhelming.
A trip to the mountains is the perfect outlet for those itching to break free from long underwear and parkas. Say goodbye to Old Man Winter and welcome Mother Nature.
If you like flowers, then the Nantahala National Forest is the place for you. The area is home to over 1500 varieties of flowers, with over 300 classified as rare. Spring flowers typically bloom from late March through mid May. Some of the beauties you can find include trillium, birdfoot violets, jack-in-the-pulpits, dutchman britches, purple phacalia and showy orchids.
It is time to take advantage of the vast number of hiking trails the area has to offer. It does not matter if you are an experienced hiker looking for an all-day trek or if your pace is more of a leisurely stroll. With almost 800 miles of hiking trails, you will find trails that lead through the gorgeous spread of wildflowers no matter what your speed.
The area not only contains a wonderful array of wildflowers, but also provides a home for many different types of wildlife. More than 65 species of mammals live here including red and gray squirrels, chipmunks, woodchucks, raccoons, opossums and deer. The animal that most often reminds people of the Smokies, however, is the black bear. There are approximately 500-600 bears in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Late March or early April is the time when most females and their cubs begin to emerge from winter dens.
Birds are also abundant in the are. Roughly 230 species can be found in these mountains. Some of those commonly seen are juneos, mourning doves, chimney swifts, barn swallows, blue jays, cardinals and chickadees. Hawks and eagles can also be found here and in late March you’ll begin to hear the first peeps of the songbirds.
Overcome your case of spring fever with a good dose of outdoor adventure. Pack your camera and binoculars and head for the mountains. Whether you crave peaceful beauty or an exciting excursion you will find just what you are looking for in Nantahala National Forest!
Please see our website, www.BlueWatersMtnL.com for more details.