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Spring Blossoms
in the
Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway Area

Wild Blue Phlox Olin Nature Preserve		Bluebell Pere Marquette State Park

From the end of March through early June, the limestone bluffs, roadside and managed prairie areas, and woodlands come alive with flowering trees and wildflowers. Those in search of spring blossoms have a variety of options to view these wonders of spring. Bike or walk the Sam Vadalabene trail, visit one of the area parks and nature preserves, take a drive along the Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway, or visit to Calhoun County. 

Each plant has its own set of environmental conditions under which it flowers producing a succession of different flowers during the spring season. Different flowers bloom at different times of the season and weather conditions may affect bloom dates. Therefore, flower viewers won’t see the full range of flowering plants in one or two visits. A number of visits during the spring season is required to fully appreciate the picturesque show which unfolds each spring in the Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway area.

Because the habitats where wildflowers grow are dwindling, picking wildflowers is not recommended. Many wildflowers are scarce and some are protected by laws. If you want a visual record of your experience, take along a camera or a sketch book and artist supplies.