Rocky Shoals Spider Lily

Landsford Canal State Park is home to the world’s largest population of Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies. These beautiful flowers bloom each year along the Catawba River and can be viewed from the park from May through mid-June. A 1.5-mile, round-trip hike down either the Nature Trail or Canal Trail takes you to an overlook where the spider lilies can be best viewed. 

 

 

Lily Watch Update

May 21, 2026

We are at peak bloom! The Catawba River is looking snowy white with thousands upon thousands of flowers out there. River levels may vary quite a bit this upcoming weekend, due to the drought and the oncoming rain. Check the local forecast to make sure your visit is as safe and comfortable as can be.

 

May 14, 2026

It looks like we have an early peak bloom coming! There are thousands of blossoms out there right now, so we’re close. River levels are low, but the rocky shoals spider lilies appear to be loving this weather and the conditions. Plan to visit now or in the next ten days to see the flowers at their peak. And remember to join us for Lilyfest this weekend if you can make it!

Looking to beat most of the crowds? Visit on a weekday before 10 am or after 3 pm.

 

May 7, 2006

There are hundreds of lilies blooming out on the water and that number will increase over the next two weeks as we approach peak bloom! This weekend will probably be the first busy weekend of the season, as more people start to visit to see the flowers. (The least crowded times tend to be weekdays before 10 am or after 3 pm.)

 

April 30, 2026

The flowers have multiplied this last week! It’s looking pretty out there as hundreds of white blossoms have now appeared. Beat the crowds by coming to see us now or get ready to see peak bloom near the middle or end of May! Plan your trip by checking the local weather forecast and water levels on the Catawba River, especially this weekend with rain expected.

 

April 23, 2026

The green leaves are reaching their full growth, so the rocky shoals in the river are looking lush. There are still a few dozen early bloomers out there with more expected to come soon. Despite the lack of rainfall and low river flow, the plants are still looking healthy and we are still expecting to reach peak bloom at the middle or end of May! 

 

April 16, 2026

There are several dozen early bloomers out there and about two feet of healthy, green leaves. The best way to see the early flowers right now is to paddle the river. In a little more than a month, you should be able to get a panoramic view of thousands of lilies at peak bloom from the viewing area on the trail.

 

April 9, 2026

A few early bloomers are starting to show up! We're still a month and a half out from expected peak bloom (when most of the lilies have flowers), but it's still a lovely time to visit and walk the trail or paddle on the river. 

 

April 2, 2026

Greenery is emerging from the rocky shoals as the plants begin to make their appearance for the season! About a foot of green growth is visible right now. We expect a normal blooming schedule this year, with flowers hitting peak bloom in mid to late May. Check back here for updates every Thursday!

 

Lilyfest

Lilyfest 2026

Lilyfest will be held on Saturday, May 16, and Sunday, May 17, from 10 am to 3 pm both days.

The festival will include scheduled nature hikes, programs by the Catawba Nation, 20+ vendors, ice cream and snow cone trucks, food trucks, a coffee truck, music on the porch, and more.  Don't miss it! 

To find out detailed information, like program and performance times, please check out our event page

 

Park Information  

Hours of operation: sunrise to sunset, daily.

Admission:  $6 for adults, $3.75 for SC Seniors (65 & older), and $3.50 for children (ages 6-15). Admission is waived with an ALL Park Passport.

Remember, you can purchase the ALL Park Passport at the park or online for unlimited admission during the lily season and special savings!  Contact the park for more information.

 

Paddling

Paddling the river is the best way to see the spider lilies up close! You are welcome to bring your own kayak or canoe. The park has a public kayak launch and takeout. It is approximately a 1.5-mile trip downriver from the launch to the takeout. Click here to view the park map. The spider lily stand is about halfway through the trip. The park does not rent kayaks or canoes, but several outfitters with business permits operate paddling tours: Aquatic Adventures, Carolina Safari Co., Catawba Riverkeepers, and North Carolina Outdoor Adventures. Questions? Please feel free to contact the park at 803-789-5800.