Wildflower season in California is a lot like the fall colors season back east. People will drive for hours to see one bright orange poppy. This year, the wildflowers seem even more exciting that usual, probably because the emergence of the color signals that the endless rain and cold that pummeled us in February might actually be over. Of course, it’s this rain that is leading to a nice wildflower season, so there’s that.
Last weekend I decided to hit the road and try to find some color. I headed across the central valley and stopped just outside of Chowchilla to photograph the beautiful blooming almond blossoms in the orchards. As I worked my way up towards Raymond the flowers were obviously just coming out, but I was still treated to bright orange fiddlenecks and white popcorn flower lining the roads and green hills. I love the rocks around Raymond, and with the flowers and green hills it was a perfect day.
I eventually worked my way up to Merced canyon to see the poppies. They are beautiful! I only stopped in Briceburg, taking the opportunity to wander down an old dirt road and explore, instead of spending more time in the car driving up the Canyon. I saw plenty of poppies and other flowers, and got to enjoy a wonderful day of spring sun in California. It can’t get much better than that!
Beautiful picture! We (Bay Nature) did an article on poppies about this time last year (http://baynature.org/articles/apr-jun-2008/flower-power). I’m doing a wildflower hike this weekend and I can’t wait.
Pingback: itemprop="name">Calipidder’s excellent wildflower pix
hi,
great shots!!!
i am planning to photograph wildflowers in the northern
CA in the next week or so–any suggestions?
i like the bear valley road, but probably a bit early
for that area..
thanks for any help you can offer
ron