This year, Southern California has been hit hard with the rain and it has brought us the most amazing super bloom. It is known as an explosion of wildflowers that exceeds typical spring blooms. I love seeing flowers bursting into colorful life that are popping up everywhere. Here are some of my favorite places to see the beautiful super bloom.
California Poppies at Walker Canyon
The California poppy is the state flower of California and it is native to the Pacific slope of North America from Western Oregon to Baja California. The flowers are blooming and display stunning at Walker Canyon. The trail starts right at the intersection of Lake Street & Walker Canyon Road. From there, you walk for about a mile walk uphill until you get into the valley where the flowers are blooming. If you can, time your visit for a sunny mid-morning for best viewing. The poppies open when it’s warmed up enough. Otherwise, the poppies close up when it’s too cold or windy. Remember to check the Lake Elsinore city website before you go to ensure the Walker Canyon is open for viewing and for road closures.
Coordinates: 33.732142, -117.393875
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Season: Mid-March to Early-April
Lupines along Lake Elsinore
Lupines are colorful flowers, reaching 1 to 5 feet. They grow wild in some areas of the United States and generally are purple color. These beautiful flowers can be seen along Lake Elsinore on Lakeshore Dr.
Coordinates: 33.676716, -117.350987
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Season: March to April
Diamond Valley Lake
Experience breathtaking displays of California poppies with countless bright orange petals unfurling in the sunlight at Diamond Valley Lake. The lake’s seasonal trail opens Wednesdays through Sundays covering the hills with vibrant colors of the region’s native wildflowers. Check Diamond Valley Lake website before you go for blooming status.
Address: 15101 Lancaster Rd, Lancaster, CA 93536
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Season: Late February to April
Website: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=627
Here are a few places that I haven’t had time to check out yet, but I cannot wait to go.
- Anza Boreggo Desert State Park
- Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
- Chino Hills State Park
- Joshua Tree National Park
Tips Before You Go
- Stay on trail.
- Wear hiking shoes.
- Stay hydrated.
- Bring snacks.
- Watch out for rattle snakes.
- It’s illegal to harm poppies and could result in $1,000 fine and a year in jail.
What other wildflower fields have you visited that you like?