Experts think the best California wildflower superbloom will be in 2024. Here are the best spots to enjoy the rare view and tips to respect the environment.
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What is so special about a field of flowers in springtime? For much of the U.S, wildflowers are nothing more than a pretty scenery to take in while on your way somewhere else. Yet, those familiar with the deserts of California might also be familiar with the vibrant poppies that paint a rich tapestry of plums, marigolds, and tangerines from the state’s southern deserts to the Bay Area. This phenomenon, dubbed ‘California wildflowers superbloom’, generally happens once per decade. However, due to excessive rainfall, superblooms have become more frequent resulting in an increasing number of hikers flocking to the region.
This year, as sparks of color have begun popping up in early March, the California Department of Parks and Recreation has issued guidelines for tourists on how to partake in the picturesque landscapes while still being respectful to maintain and protect their beauty for future generations to enjoy them as well.
If you’re planning to partake in the beautiful blooms yourself this guide will offer sustainable tips and the best places to view the superbloom.
What Is The California Wildflowers Superbloom?
The California superbloom is a natural phenomenon that transforms a portion of the state’s landscape into a vibrant display of colors due to above-average rainfall followed by a period of drought. The flowers typically consist of a variety of wildflowers, with the poppy and desert lilies being the dominant species. Once seen as a rarity that only occurred every decade, it has become more frequent, leading environmentalists and scientists to speculate that climate change and warmer weather may be contributing factors.
The last superbloom took place in 2019, primarily in the Death Valley region. Unfortunately, the scenery quickly went viral on social media sparking an unprecedented number of visitors. With a lack of preparation for the influx, clear communication, and guidelines about how to respect the flowers and preserve the environment, parts of the scenery was trampled in an incident that became known as the “Poppy Apocalypse.”
In response, parks and local authorities have taken steps to better prepare for future superblooms. They have implemented changes to the rules and regulations surrounding Death Valley National Park and other blooming areas to accommodate the influx of visitors and guidelines on for how to enjoy the California wildflowers superbloom responsibly to ensure the preservation of the natural environment.
Embrace Responsible Tourism
One of the first rules to abide by is to resist the urge to pick any of the flowers. The California State Parks has asked the public to remain on the designated trails to take photos and refrain from taking flowers. A few other responsible tourism rules include:
- Stay on designated trails. Tread lightly in the desert. Do not trample flowers.
- Take only pictures. Flower picking is prohibited.
- Dogs must remain on leash, on designated roads, in campgrounds, and in picnic areas. Dogs are not allowed on hiking trails.
- Help keep the landscapes pristine, leaving it better than when you arrived by packing out anything you packed in—pack it in, pack it out.
Best Places To Visit
Isolated Channel Islands: Late March
Between late January and March, the isolated Channel Islands in California come alive with a vibrant display of wildflowers after the winter rains. The most prominent flower on the islands is the coreopsis, which blankets large areas with its dazzling yellow blooms. This spring bloom also happens to coincide with the migration of Pacific Gray Whales, which can be seen until mid-April.
Sonoma Valley: January to April
During the spring season, the vineyards of Sonoma Valley are covered in a stunning blanket of yellow mustard flowers. These flowers not only add to the beauty of the valley, but also provide essential nutrients to the soil and act as a natural repellent for pests. While driving through the valley, it is easy to spot these golden fields, but for a closer look, one can pull over at a safe location along Highway 12 and capture a picture. Other picturesque locations to admire the mustard flowers include B.R. Cohn Winery’s famous “mustard flower hill,” the terrace at Gloria Ferrer Vineyards, and Sugarloaf Ridge State Park in Kenwood.
San Diego Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: March to May
Drive to the rural East County of San Diego to experience a stunning assortment of wildflowers, ranging from tiny bursts of color to towering ocotillos adorned with fiery scarlet blossoms. The duration and intensity of the wildflower bloom is dependent on timing and the amount of winter rain, typically lasting anywhere from two to six weeks. From March to May 10, tourists can take a leisurely walk through 50 acres of magnificent Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers at the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch, located in North County of San Diego.
Orange County: March to April
Orange County offers a variety of parks and trails including Weir Canyon Trail in Santiago Oaks Regional Park, Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park in Laguna Niguel, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park in Laguna Beach, and Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park in Trabuco Canyon. Additionally, the cities of Newport Beach and Irvine have seven-day self-guided trails available for visitors to explore Buck Gully Reserve and Bommer Canyon.
Murrieta: March to May
The scenic hills of Murrieta burst into a kaleidoscope of colors with a stunning display of evening primrose, verbenas, poppies, desert lilies, and a variety of other wildflowers. While wildflowers can be found throughout the Murrieta and Lake Elsinore areas, the Walker Canyon Trail also offers a breathtaking view.
Lake County: April to May
To enjoy a wildflower hike, consider exploring the less crowded Redbud Trail in the Cache Creek Recreation Area or the Highland Springs Recreation Area. For a breathtaking display of wildflowers in Lake County, take a drive on Bear Valley Road, located just off Highway 20. This well-maintained dirt road spans over 16,000 acres and is consistently recognized as one of the top wildflower viewing areas in Northern California.
Nevada County: March to April
The forests and meadows surrounding Grass Valley and Nevada City in Nevada County are a paradise for those who love wildflowers. These beautiful and vibrant plants can be seen easily on various hikes and walks throughout the area. One of the top destinations is Wildflower Ridge Trail in Kenny Ranch, a large property that offers open meadows, forested hillsides, and a unique abundance of native plants. Another popular spot for spring wildflowers is Bridgeport Buttermilk Bend Trail, located in South Yuba River State Park. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the river canyon and access to numerous swimming spots.
San Luis Obispo: March to April
Located just a short distance from the heart of San Luis Obispo, there are two popular destinations for admiring wildflower displays. The Irish Hills Reserve boasts eight scenic paths, ranging from 1.9 to 8 miles, while the Reservoir Canyon trail covers 5.35 miles and has an elevation of 1,350 feet. These hikes offer a safe and unique opportunity to witness the blooming of central California’s stunning wildflowers in the spring.
Monterey County: April to May
Each year, during the spring months, the charming seaside town of Pacific Grove in Monterey County is adorned with vibrant magenta ice plants along its rocky shore. Begin your journey at Lovers Point in Pacific Grove and follow the trail on Ocean View Boulevard towards Pebble Beach to witness the most magnificent display of these blooms.
Mount Diablo: mid-April
Every spring, the majestic Mount Diablo is adorned with an abundance of poppies and wildflowers, which can be easily reached by driving to the first summit or taking a short walk to the second. Visitors can explore the park from 7 a.m. to sunset, and take advantage of the picnic tables, panoramic views, and the option to climb Rock City.
Yosemite Mariposa County: March to May
Witness the beauty of California poppies and western redbud trees. In the lower areas, the spring landscape is adorned with a variety of flowers such as poppies, spider lupines, evening primrose, owl’s clover, and redbuds. As the season progresses, these give way to larkspur and dogwood. At higher elevations, the hillsides are painted with vibrant Sierra forget-me-nots, monkshood, leopard lily, and marigold.
Tuolumne County: March to September
Tuolumne County is known for its extended wildflower season. The lower altitudes display blossoms in March and April, while the High Sierra region experiences them during the summer season. During the early months (March-May), the Dragoon Gulch Trail, West Side Trail, and New Melones Lake Area are worth visiting. In June and July, the Red Hills Recreation Management Area is a must-see. From August to September, tourists can admire a variety of flowers such as mules ears, sneezeweed, blue flax, and wandering daisy along the challenging Sonora Pass Area trail.