Spring brings flowering redbud, buckeye, and laurel to the foothills. Waterfalls and rivers are at their highest levels. Wispy fog often rolls through the forest canopy at this time.
Summer is the busiest time of the year in the parks for both people and animals.
You'll find high country meadows brimming with vibrant wildflowers through the season. Fall is equally colorful, with oak, dogwood, aspen and other trees turning gold, scarlet, and amber. The days are still warm, but nights are cool - ideal for hiking and backpacking. Fall is typically a quiet time, yet one of the most beautiful for a visit. NPS naturalists offer talks, slide shows, films, guided nature and history walks, and evening campfire programs for adults and children.