Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.
Wild Plants of SWVA Walk
Where
Program Location: New River Trail State Park, Hiwassee, VA 24347
Main Park Address: New River Trail State Park, 116 Orphanage Dr., Max Meadows, VA 24360.
When
April 19, 2026. 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Enjoy a naturalist-led hike learning all about what's blooming and growing around you.
This easy hike will take visitors through our park's deciduous woodlands along the river granting an opportunity to see some of the New River’s native wildflowers and trees in one of the most biodiverse places on the planet! Please wear comfortable walking shoes, dress for the weather, and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Meeting location: Hiawassee parking lot (Julia Simpkins Rd)
The distance will be approximately two miles on flat terrain; the trail surface is crushed stone and a gentle grade. Leashed pets are welcome. This program is weather dependent. Please check our event listing on the New River Trail website for cancellations.
Our programs are designed to be inclusive and welcoming to all. If you require accommodations or assistance to participate, please contact us in advance at 276-699-6778. We are committed to ensuring accessibility for everyone.
Spring 2026 Wild Plants of SWVA Hikes
Sunday, March 8- Foster Falls, 2-4 p.m.- meet at the Caboose
Sunday, March 22- Austinville, 2-4 p.m.- meet in the parking lot
Sunday, April 12- Ivanhoe, 2-4 pm- meet at the Horse Show grounds
Sunday, April 19- Hiawassee, 2-4 p.m. meet in the parking lot
Sunday, May 3- Dannelly Park, 2-4 p.m.- meet in the parking lot
Sunday, May 17- Austinville, 2-4 p.m.- meet in the parking lot
About Earth Day
In celebration of Earth Day on April 22, Virginia State Parks offers a range of special events and activities highlighting the importance of conservation and sustainability. Visitors are invited to participate in educational programs, guided nature walks, wildlife observation, tree plantings and service projects to help preserve the beauty and biodiversity of the state’s 44 parks.
Other details
Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 276-699-6778
Email Address: NewRiverTrail@dcr.virginia.gov
Event types
Kids/Family | National Events | Outdoor/Nature/Natural History
Additional dates
Wild Plants of SWVA Walk - April 12, 2026. 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Wild Plants of SWVA Walk - May 17, 2026. 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
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