peanutbutter

A friend and I are planning a trip to the Great Smokies and the Blue Ridge Parkway in late April. We've heard conflicting reports about how "green" everything will be at that time of year. I'm sure that mid-to-late May would be better, but we're unable to make the trip then. Does anyone have any thoughts about this? Would we still enjoy our trip even if things wouldn't be quite as lush? Thanks for your help!

Gretchen

Yes, you'll still enjoy it. The Parkway is at elevation so it isn't going to be very green. There may be splashes of dogwoods and redbuds on the hillsides. It will probably be just budding green at the higher elevations. It's still beautiful.

Gardyloo

Green, almost-green, white, yellow and pink. Superb, and when you come down, even better.

From late April last year, mostly around Roanoke and Lynchburg...

A hillside: http://gardyloo.us/20110425_21as.JPG
Another: http://gardyloo.us/20110425_8as.JPG
Roadside: http://gardyloo.us/20110425_27as.JPG
Another: http://gardyloo.us/20110426_52as.JPG

Trip report - http://www.fodors.com/community/unit...ring-break.cfm

Birdie

Those are beautiful pictures, gardyloo.

I love the soft pastel colors of our Virginia spring.

peanutbutter

Thanks so much! Your pictures are gorgeous, Gardyloo. I think you've both helped to make our decision for us. April it is!

willowjane

We live very close to the Parkway in Boone - April is our favorite time of year to visit the parkway. Have a great trip!

peanutbutter

Thank you! That is so good to know. We are thinking of spending some time in the area near Boone and then heading toward Shenandoah Natl. Park. Do you know of a town/area to stay between Boone and the park for a day or two? We're using VRBO for most of our lodging, but a B and B would be fine too.