18 Color Palettes Inspired by National Parks

Set against the dusky blue of the Appalachian Mountains, the rolling hills and rocky cliffsides of Great Smoky Mountains National Park spring to life each June with the blooming of the native Catawba rhododendrons. Found only at elevations greater than 3,500 feet, the large shrubs, loaded with clusters of purple-pink blooms, are a special treat for visitors to the park’s highest peaks, particularly above Chimney Tops Trailhead, Alum Cave Trail and along the Blue Ridge Parkway. To add a pop of their cheery fuchsia hue to your home, try Benjamin Moore Hot Lips (2077-30). For a dose of earthy green, mix a bit of Balsam (567) or Basil Green (2029-10) into your color palette. If blue is your color of choice, take a cue from the mountains’ smoky shade: Schooner (AF-520) works beautifully as a backdrop while the punchy peach of Sausalito Sunset (074) would be best as a small accent. (All colors by Benjamin Moore.)