Hepatica
I spent a day this week on the Cucumber Gap Trail. This trail is considered a moderately challenging route, taking a little over two hours to complete.
While no dogs are allowed, hikers might encounter other hikers and even horseback riders.
I quit counting when I reached three dozen Hepatica in full bloom or almost full bloom
They were on the first half mile of the trail from Jakes Creek. One of the blooms was a beautiful lavender color.
Tom Harrington is a regular hiker who reports on wildflowers in the Smokies.
