We went to check out the trillium this afternoon during a break in the rain. We went on a loop hike through the Thompson Wildlife Management Area. They were past peak, but we found some nice flowers still. There were a lot of wild geranium and may-apple in full bloom.
My wife took these photos:
White Trillium Wildflower
Pink Trillium Flower
See Also: Awesome Trillium Display (with driving directions)
Large Flowered Trillium
Trillium Flower
If you like seeing blooming wildflowers as far as the eye can see, the display of large flowered trillium is not to be missed. In my opinion, the beauty is equal to the bluebell displays along Bull Run (see here and here).
Lots of Trillium
Normally, I consider early May the ideal time to see the impressive display of trillium at the G. Richard Thompson Wildlife Management Area near Linden, Virginia. This year, the showy flowers may be peaking a bit early. We visited the WMA last Friday (April 23, 2010) and the trillium appeared to be at peak. I recommend visiting soon to see the flowers this year.
Other Wildflowers
In addition to trillium, there are a lot of mayapple and wild geranium. We also spotted some jack-in-the-pulpits. The mayapple buds were not open as of last Friday.
Getting There
From the east, take exit 19 (Markham) off of I-66. Turn left at the bottom of the ramp, then turn right on Rte 55 west (John Marshall Highway) at the stop sign. Turn right on Route 638 (Freezeland Road) just past the Linden Post Office.
From the west, take exit 13 (Linden) off of I-66. Turn right at the bottom of the ramp, then turn left on Rte 55 east (John Marshall Highway) at the stop light across from the Exxon station. Turn left on Route 638 (Freezeland Road) just past the Monterey convenience store.
The Richard Thompson Wildlife Management Area is accessible from multiple parking lots on the right side of Route 638 just a short distance past Fox Meadow Vineyards.
See Also: Large Flowered Trillium in Linden
The Appalachian Trail cuts right through Linden, thus providing an excellent opportunity for those who enjoy hiking. The two-mile section just south of Linden, between Route 55 and Route 638 is a good one anytime as the trail passes through some pretty meadows as well as mountainous woodlands.
Another option is to hike the trails of Richard Thompson Wildlife Management Area just north of Linden accessible from Route 638. Each year in early May, an abundance of trillium wildflowers are in bloom there. The white and sometimes pink blooming flowers are remarkable to see. The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club maintains the trails and they also offer maps and guidebooks available through their online store; the Linden area shown on their Map 8.
There is Appalachian Trail parking near Route 55 by continuing on Route 55 East past Route 638 to Route 725. After making a left on Route 725, you will find the hiker’s parking lot on your right. Additionally, the Richard Thompson Wildlife Management area is accessible from multiple parking lots on the right side of Route 638 just a short distance past Fox Meadow Vineyards.
While in the area, you may also want to visit Linden Vineyards, which produces some of my favorite Virginia wines. Additionally, the Apple House is located just west on Rte 55 at I-66′s exit 13. The Apple House is Linden’s best (and only) restaurant, featuring barbeque sandwich platters, apple donuts, and souvenirs. Their bbq platter comes with a great version of baked beans, containing pineapple and other ingredients. There is also a convenience store is located at the intersection of Rte 638 and Rte 55.