I don’t like talking about my feelings. Heck, as an introverted writer who lives deep in the mountains of Western North Carolina, I don’t much like talking at all. But earlier this year, as the lingering trauma of Hurricane Helene mixed with the nail-biting uncertainty of our country’s future, I found myself on a psychotherapist’s sofa, wading through messy emotions.

Two big things I learned: First, we all needed to be hugged more as children. (Seriously, parents, hug your kids.) Second, we could all benefit from wildflower hikes.

As I was spiraling about egg prices, political polarization, and raging forest fires, my counselor reminded me to search for beauty in the world. “Get outside,” she said. “Walk mindfully, and look for the wildflowers. Pay attention to their leaves and their blooms. Learn their names. Know their stories.”

At first, I rolled my eyes. Like that would soothe my existential dread. But funny enough, it actually worked. Stopping to notice trout lilies and trilliums was exactly the distraction I needed for life to feel a little less heavy.

So, if you’re also looking for calm amid the chaos, these five wildflower hikes promise to ground you in nature’s rhythms and Appalachia's splendor. (And bonus prize — they're cheaper than therapy.)

Near Sparta, North Carolina

Situated along the Blue Ridge Parkway, this 8.4-mile out-and-back meanders through hardwood forests and mountaintop meadows, where you’ll find fire pink, phlox carolina, flame azaleas, and other warm-weather wonders. During your visit, also give the Brinegar Cabin a gander. This humble, 19th-century domicile was once occupied by pioneers Martin and Caroline Brinegar, a cobbler and weaver, respectively.      

Near Blacksburg, Virginia

If your knees can no longer handle a long-distance traipse through the woods, visit Dense Blazing Star Field. Easily accessible from a gravel pull-off along State Route 621, this prairie-like nature preserve teems with dense blazing star, a striking perennial that grows four to six feet tall with vibrant purple, star-like flowers. During your visit, expect to see butterflies galore (think tiger swallowtails, painted ladies, and monarchs).  

Roan Mountain, Tennessee

In mid-summer, Roan Mountain comes alive with Catawba rhododendrons. To get eyes on these showy shrubs, summit Jane Bald via the Appalachian Trail. Gaining about 700 feet of elevation over 2.6 miles, this high-elevation hike traverses the open meadows of the Roan Highlands, offering glamorous glimpses of magenta blooms. 

Near Davis, West Virginia

At less than a mile in distance, Blackwater River Trail isn’t the Mountain State’s most arduous odyssey. But it sure is pretty. Located in the high plateau of Canaan Valley Resort State Park, this family-friendly footpath zigzags through a wetland ecosystem lush with wildflowers like blue vervain and swamp milkweed. There are also plenty of peaceful picnicking spots along the river, so pack a PB&J or two.

Near Forest Dale, Vermont

By far the most challenging trek listed here, this 10.2-mile loop traverses a narrow valley in Vermont’s Green Mountain National Forest. Along the way, you’ll encounter over 70 plant species, including wild ginger, large-flowered bellwort, walking fern, and a local favorite — the trout lily — which is known for its mottled leaves and nodding yellow flowers. For the best wildflower displays, the U.S. Forest Service recommends visiting from late spring to early summer.