Walking north with spring

We initially debated hiking north to south, because the trails and shelters would be far less crowded. But we chose to hike south to north, the more typical route, partly so we could 'walk north with spring'. Starting in Georgia at the end of March, we are able to see all the changes as spring and summer come to the mountains and woodlands. The trees leaf out, ferns unfurl, and countless wildflowers start to bloom. You really notice every little change when you're in the woods all day, every day. It's been quite an experience.

 Mayapple in bloom

 White violets

Pink azalea 

Pink azalea in Laurel Creek Gorge

 Flowering dogwood

 Trout lily and Spring Beauty

 Lady slippers - in triplicate

Pink azalea

Red trilium and Dutchman's breeches

Rhododendrons just starting to bloom (thank you, Carole, for the correct spelling)