Back to Blog

See the Spider Lilies in Chester County

There’s a reason you need to make the drive to Chester County. You must see the Spider Lilies while they are in peak bloom.

The Legacy of the Lily

Located along the Catawba River on the South Carolina fall line, Landsford Canal State Park is home to the well-preserved remnants of the canal system that facilitated commercial navigation from 1820 to 1835. The park boasts the world’s largest population of Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies, flourishing thanks to its shallow rocky shoals. During their peak bloom in May and June, the park offers an excellent vantage point to view these stunning flowers. Efforts led by the Catawba Riverkeeper are underway to propagate new populations of these plants along the Catawba River at multiple sites due to the significant impact on the flower’s habitat.

See for Yourself

  1. Take a leisurely 1.5-mile round-trip hike along the Canal Trail to an overlook with a perfect view. This trail is also part of the Carolina Thread Trail.
  2. Paddle through the blooms in a canoe or kayak along a 2-mile trail through the park. Find guided tours or boat rentals at these local businesses: Catawba Riverkeeper or Great Falls Adventures.

 

See the Spider Lilies at Lilyfest

Lilyfest: An Event to Behold

Lilyfest returns to Landsford Canal State Park, celebrating the peak bloom of rare rocky shoals spider lilies. Experience these breathtaking flowers during their short, predictable window of bloom. Enjoy a leisurely stroll (3/4 mile one way) along the historic Canal Trail or Nature Trail to the lily viewing platform, where the world’s largest population of spider lilies creates a stunning display across the Catawba River.

Join guided nature hikes at 10 am, 12 pm, and 2 pm led by the Katawba Valley Land Trust. The Catawba Cultural Center offers history talks, dances, and songs at 11 am and 1 pm. Enjoy music, local vendors, and food trucks throughout the day.

Paddle through the spider lilies

Subscribe

* indicates required

Intuit Mailchimp