There is an amazing event that happens here in West Virginia every year; the blooming of our state flower, the Great Rhododendron. All across the Mountain State these beautiful plants burst forth with color and one place in particular is a prime location to take in not only the sights of these blooms but the smells as well. I'm referring to Grandview Park.

The original 52 acre tract of land was said to have been "purchased from the Admiralty Coal Company for development of a roadside park" back in 1939. In 1940, facilities were added to the location, such as benches, hiking trails, bathrooms and event shelters, with help from the Civilian Conservation Corps. In the following years additional purchases of land expanded the park to 892 acres of forest, rock formations, grand views of the world famous New River Gorge and of course, even more beautiful rhododendron.

Today the main parking area of the park offers visitors an incredible opportunity to get out among the beauty and experience it up close while also putting them in the largest, continuous line of blooming rhododendron bushes in southern West Virginia. So if you're planning a trip to the state or looking for a great new place to visit next Spring, make sure to put Grandview on your list. I guaranty you won't be disappointed.