Spring will be sprung very soon–which means that vibrant flower fields and wildflowers will be in full effect in California. Here are a few favorites for a serious dose of flower power come springtime.
March 1 to May 8: The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
Beginning March 1, the jaw-droppingly gorgeous The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch will open to the public. Through May 8, visitors can take part in the immersive experience of strolling through 50 acres ranunculus flowers. To make a night of it, book the exclusive Stay, Smell, Smile Package at the neighboring, family-friendly The Cassara Carlsbad, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. The package includes overnight accommodations, two tickets to The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch, waived parking and a free shuttle.
Mid-February through May: Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
A variety of wildflowers are in full bloom come springtime at Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve in Lancaster, in the far northeast corner of L.A. County, which offers eight miles of trails. The duration of poppy season (poppy is California’s state flower!) can vary but generally lasts from mid-February through May and a sunny midmorning offers the best conditions for viewing. In addition to the sunshine-hued petals, visitors may even spy the likes of meadow larks, lizards, gopher snakes, coyotes and bobcats.
Mid-February through Mid-April: Death Valley National Park
You might have heard of the 2016 Death Valley Superbloom–a spectacular wildflower display that tends to happens once in a decade. Though 2022 isn’t predicted to be a superbloom year, its hills are still worth a visit to see the likes of Desert Gold, Notch-leaf Phacelia, Golden Evening Primrose and Gravel Ghost, to name a few.
March to Early May: North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve
A prime spot for wildflower-watching in the spring, North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve in Oroville is an elevated basalt mesa where visitors can also admire waterfalls, lava outcrops and Northern Basalt Flow Vernal Pools. Typically, by late March, the area is crowned with acres of wildflowers in myriad colors, from blue to magenta to yellow.