Smith Mountain Lake is a paradise of beautiful birds and wildflowers this time of year. For those of us who love the great outdoors, this season brings the heavenly smell of spring rains, colorful woodland feasts for the eyes and ears, and an abundance of beauty to soak up in every direction.
If you identify with this joy of God’s Creation you will want to come to experience Mantana Heim’s ‘Wildflowers of the World’ Presentation. It will be on Saturday, May the 10th from 1-2 pm. at Smith Mountain Lake State Park. Mantana is from Thailand and will be sharing information on wildflowers from Holland, New Zealand, Australia, and her own country. After the wildflower presentation, there will be a ‘Wildflower Walk’ at the park’s Visitor Center from 2:30 – 3:30 p.m., during which SML State Park personnel will lead a short hike to demonstrate some of Virginia’s natural beauty. Both events are FREE and open to the public. Regular parking fees apply. – Smith Mountain Lake State Park, Huddleston (540-297-5998).
If you were to rise early this Saturday morning of the 10th, you could also choose between two exciting opportunities for bird lovers, either at the Peaks of Otter or the Booker T. Washington National Monument. May 10th is the day to experience spring in all its glory. You don’t want to miss being part of at least one of these three wonderful events!
May 10 – Dawn Chorus Bird Walk– Bird lovers rejoice! The National Park Service will celebrate International Migratory Bird Day on May 10 at the Peaks of Otter Lodge. Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 86, the Peaks of Otter is a triangle of three mountains around a beautiful highland lake. On Migratory Bird Day, you’ll look for some of the amazing species of migratory birds that pass through the Peaks of Otter. On May 10 the walk leaves from the Lodge at 9 a.m. Mention the date and time of the hike(s) you wish to go on when you contact the Peaks of Otter Lodge. Bird walks are subject to weather. Space in the walk is limited. To participate, pre-register by sending an e-mail to peaksotter@aol.com. Call either 540-586-1081 or 800-542-5927.
May 10 – Booker T. Washington National Monument presents Bird Walk – 8:00 am – Take advantage of abundant birding resources and spring migration in the park by participating in a bird watch with fellow birders and experienced guides. – Booker T. Washington National Monument, 12130 Booker T. Washington Highway, Hardy – Free – 540-721-2094 – www.nps.gov/bowa