Spring feels special in the mountains of Pocahontas County, West Virginia. Wildflowers begin to bloom, the hills turn fully green and the woods fill back up with the sounds of wildlife. It’s a season worth celebrating, and there’s no better way to do it than at the Wildflower & Ramp Festival at Yew Mountain Center on April 18.
Yew Mountain Center
Located in Hillsboro, the Yew Mountain Center sits on a 500-acre nature preserve rooted in community and care for the land. Throughout the year, the Center hosts retreats, workshops and gatherings for visitors of all ages.
The annual Wildflower & Ramp Festival is a favorite spring tradition. Here’s what you can expect this year.
Hit the Ground Running
Start the day with a little adventure with the West Virginia Ramp 5K. This rugged course winds through forest paths, open fields and along rushing streams, with wildflowers and ramps lining the way. Whether you run or walk, it’s a beautiful way to take in the landscape.
Younger participants can join the one-mile Kids’ Fun Run, perfect for those who want the thrill of the trail without wandering too far into the woods. The 5K begins at 10 a.m., followed by the Kids’ Fun Run at 10:10 a.m., with registration open from 9:30 to 9:50 a.m.
Prefer a slower pace? Join one of the guided Wildflower Walks at 10 a.m. or 11 a.m., led by Bella Walker, Appalachian Headwaters’ Native Plant Program Manager. These relaxed strolls offer a closer look at the region’s native blooms and the stories behind them.
Get A Taste of the Season
After an active morning, grab a well-earned lunch. From noon to 2 p.m., enjoy seasonal favorites like ramp pizza and fresh salad, available for purchase on-site. Pair your meal with live music.
Learn, Plant & Share
At 1 p.m., roll up your sleeves for a hands-on workshop centered around one of Appalachia’s most treasured plants: ramps. Led by West Virginia Forest Farming Coordinator Will Lewis, this session walks participants through transplanting ramps to help support and expand native populations. You’ll even have the chance to take some home for your own forest garden.
Explore & Shop
All day long, families can enjoy activities together while browsing vendors offering handmade goods, native plants and locally crafted items. Pick up plants from Appalachian Headwaters or check out the offerings from Mountain Medicine Trail partners.
More To Enjoy This Spring
If you’re looking for another reason to return, Yew Mountain Center has more spring events on the calendar.
On May 1, the Wild Edibles Walk offers an easy, informative experience focused on safely and responsibly gathering food from the wild. Then on May 2, the Forest Farming Field Day covers the basics of forest farming, complete with a tour of the Center’s forest farm and practical tips for getting started.
Plan Your Trip
Make the most of your visit by exploring everything happening in Pocahontas County this season. View our calendar for more upcoming events, and request a free Adventure Guide to start mapping out your trip.