HISTORIC WARNER SPRINGS RANCH OFFERS “END OF AN ERA” DEAL

Have you ever driven to the northeast corner of San Diego County over the dizzying heights of Sunshine Summit (all of 3,282 feet) and into the lovely Valle de San Jose? Or over Palomar Mountain past the majestic Palomar Observatory? If you have had the pleasure, or not, either route leads to Warner Springs Ranch. For those who know....well, you know all the reasons to travel this way and there's no need to say anything more. For those who have never visited this most special destination and this most beautiful corner of San Diego County to you I say, "The time is now!"

In celebration of its upcoming sale to the Pala Band of Mission Indians, and prior to its closure before undergoing a major refurbishment, the historic Warner Springs Ranch is offering an “End of an Era” hotel deal.  Guests who stay two nights, Sunday through Thursday, can receive a discounted rate of $70 per night, plus tax; two-night stays over a weekend are also being offered at a discounted rate of $89 per night, plus tax. 

Warner Spring Ranch, located in the picturesque foothills of Palomar Mountain in San Diego’s Inland North County, offers a rich early California history.  Once a Cupa Indian Village, the property also served as a Butterfield Overland Stage Coach stop, hot mineral springs baths and semi-private membership resort in recent years. Its upcoming sale to the Pala Band of Mission Indians will return the land to its original inhabitants.

The upcoming closure for renovations has spurred a flurry of reservations from people who want to visit the property during its historic heyday. Guests who have a history of vacationing at the Ranch and ‘Old California’ history buffs are booking visits now before the modernization work begins. 

Guests can sleep in rooms once occupied by such celebrities as Kit Carson, Loretta Young, F. Scott Fitzgerald, John Wayne, Clark Gable and even Meatloaf and Ozzie Osbourne who visited in recent years.

Warner Springs Ranch is a 234-room resort featuring natural hot mineral springs, championship golf, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, a private airport offering glider rides and more.  Located in the scenic Valle de San Jose at an elevation of 3,200 feet, the historic property has been welcoming visitors to the region since the stage coach era.

To book an “End of an Era” hotel deal, contact the reservations department at 760-782-4220. And look forward to an improved Warner Springs Ranch but never forget the past and come take of the waters.

More Photos

Near Fairfield and just off Interstate 80, the turn-in at Erickson Ranch is almost as obscure as the road that leads you there. The driveway, dirt and gravel, is bordered by orchards and aging farm equipment. The “parking  lot” has no striping, but hay bales act as bumpers. Exiting your vehicle, you are likely to be greeted by a pack of tail-wagging farm dogs – old labs, some terriers, and a cheerful pit bull named Rocky.

Farmers Ray and Victoria Erickson lead a life from days-gone by and one that you may envy. A third-generation farmer, Ray’s known farming his entire life; his grandparents farmed this same land.  After a complete remodel, he and Victoria moved back to the family farm about six years ago.  But to maintain this life on the land they work hard. Really hard! Victoria’s day job is that of a full-time RN. While Ray, spends his days plowing, planting, pruning, and picking. During their agritourism season they are open to the public six days a week!

“The ranch has become more of everything,” said Victoria. “Originally it was just a farm stand.” One thing led to another. The Erickson’s increased their dried fruit production – the most popular item is their Blenheim apricots. Then Victoria started making jams and apple butter and they acquired a chili roaster. They also grow cut flowers, which are popular with local brides who cut their own bouquets. According to Victoria, the number of visitors has increased and the visitor type has changed. “It used to be mostly women who were canning and wanted a variety of fruit,” she said. “Now, we’re getting more families – folks who want to see where food comes from. Lots of people from the Bay Area have discovered us.”

A 2009 survey conducted by the UC Davis Small Farm Program (SPF) showed that many of California’s small farms are reaping the benefits of agritourism. Of the 554 responses (2,000 surveys were mailed), 332 farmers identified themselves as conducting agricultural tourism. “The total number of respondents hosted more than 2.4 million tourists,” said Penny Leff, SPF Agtourism Coordinator. “But this doesn’t account for the farmers who didn’t respond. Clearly there are many more people visiting. The Dell'Osso Pumpkin Maze in Lathrop had 140,000 visitors last year. That’s a huge number!”

According to the survey, farmers are looking to increase revenues from direct sales and/or event fees.  More farms are figuring out how to do weddings – especially wineries – and events in orchards. The survey found that pumpkin patches and corn mazes have become incredibly popular.  Erickson’s has a small pumpkin patch as one of their seasonal offerings.  Not far away in Dixon, Cool Patch Pumpkins’ roadside pumpkin stand has evolved into the “world’s largest corn maze” authenticated by the Guinness World Book of Records.  The combined effort attracts thousands of people each year. 

“Wineries are still the most popular part of agritourism,” according to Penny Leff.  “The wineries taught everyone else...set an example...of how to do it." To prove her point, try a visit to Fairfield’s Suisun Valley. Equidistant between Sacramento and San Francisco, just a few years ago there were only two tasting rooms in the valley. The numbers are multiplying and agritourism is flourishing. Vezér Family Vineyard and Blue Victorian Winery owned by Frank and Liz Vezér are but two of the newcomers. The wineries welcome guests to their tasting rooms and provide a spectacular backdrop for weddings, meetings, and concerts. Both the Blue Victorian and Ledgewood Creek (another Suisun Valley winery) offer guests and groups the rare occasion to enjoy the agricultural setting, a wonderful glass of wine, and a little bocce ball.

Agritourism is also about education. Rush Ranch Open Space and the Center for Land Based Learning are prime examples. Both offer educational opportunities on the importance of farming and the preservation of the land. Interpretive displays, living history, wagon rides, docent-led hikes, and team building opportunities are closely tied to agritourism programs and bringing guests close to the land. Craig McNamara, owner of Sierra Orchards, founded the Center to educate students about agriculture.  “Educational field days elicit a huge amount interest even with adults to come see the farm,” said Marion Adams, Center for Land Based Learning. “And there’s a huge trend for farm weddings.” Revenues generated from special events help support both nonprofits.

Day-of coordinator Genevieve Roja, owner of Lily Spruce, loves the Center for Land Based Learning. “The facility is gorgeous – the 100-year-old house is and a huge olive tree-lined drive leading up to house. It’s like something from a movie,” she said. “Some clients are more thoughtful andI  encourage them to use as much local produce as possible. Someone who interested in recycling and composting.“ All of this is part of the Center’s philosophy, too.

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is the growing trend for smaller farms according to Penny Leff.  “You become a member and get fresh produce delivered from the farm.” The CSAs have open-house days for members and invite you to the farm and do tours. “It’s a direct connection to fresh food and a place for families to visit,” said Penny.  Eat Well Farms near the Center for Land Based Learning does everything from Summer Solstice to Pumpkin Harvest events for their members. 

The “from farm to table” principles are growing and many more people are seeking out local farms and agricultural programs as getaways. Farm and wine trails exist as far south as San Diego County and in Tehama County to the north.

Back at Erickson Ranch, a tall and lanky Ray is the picture-perfect farmer. Torn jeans, mustache, and broad-brimmed hat. “People come here to see Ray,” says Victoria. “They want to talk to the person who does this and Ray loves to share his story.”

I know I am not the only daughter or child missing a Dad today. While I appreciate whoever (Hallmark) invented these holidays -- Mothers. Fathers, Grandparents -- those of us without are reminded of just that. And while I am glad to be reminded, I do miss my parents especially on these occasions.

So I was very glad to have stumbled upon the photo yesterday...the day before Father's Day 2010. I remember this day so well....my father-in-law (l) and my Dad (r) enjoying a reflective moment at Lotus Valley Nursery near Coloma, California. This was many years ago. And my Dads (sadly) are no longer with me. But their memories live on...through this photo...and this post.

Redding eagle-lovers and fans of the eaglet triplets are celebrating the impending flights of their very favorite California eaglets Peace, Shasta, and Justice. Proud bald eagle parents, Patriot and Liberty, oversee the progress of this feathery threesome. Though we wait and watch, breathless for them to fly...it's with sadness knowing that soon this incredible show will be over for another year.



2nd Annual Fledgefest

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

10 a.m to 11 a.m.  &  7 p.m to 8 p.m.

Park in the far end of the Turtle Bay Exploration Park parking lot  near the Monolith and look for signs at the trail-head. Follow signs 1/4-mile to Fledgefest location. Eagle watchers of all ages will be there, members of the Hancock Wildlife Caltrans Eaglecam Forum will have three spotting scopes set-up for viewing. Caltrans' biologist and Turtle Bay staff will be on hand to answer questions. Refreshments will be served!



Fledgefest 2009 Video Courtesy of The Record Searchlight

The eco-friendly guest rooms were designed with an eye toward an eventual roll-out throughout the Lodge's 245 rooms. The prototypes offer an opportunity for Delaware North Companies and the National Park Service to evaluate the success of the overall design and gather guest feedback from those who stay in the rooms. An additional goal is the eventual certification of Yosemite Lodge at the Falls as a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and Energy Star property.

The "green" rooms are elegant...warm and welcoming. Here's a little something about all that's environmentally-kind on the inside:

Room Entry

A new electronic key card entry system integrates with the room's energy controls, using a lock that requires 50% fewer batteries than older locks, with the batteries lasting for nearly four years. After unlocking the room, the guest places the key card in a wall slot just inside the door. With a faint click, the key card activates select circuits that power lighting and electronics. When the guest removes the key from the slot upon leaving, the room reverts to its unoccupied, energy-saver state, automatically reducing the demand for power to circuits that feed the television and accessory lights.

Bedding & Linens

The American-made, 100% organic cotton sheets were produced in a solar-powered factory in Rhode Island. The bed's blanket cover, throw and window drapery are made from washable cotton matelasse.

Lighting

Handsome new steel wall sconces, pendants and floor lamps in the guest rooms  use energy-saving compact fluorescent bulbs, which use one-third the energy and last roughly ten times longer than standard incandescent bulbs.

Flooring

With fibers produced in part from recycled plastic bottles and a backing derived from old tires, the carpet tiles in the guest rooms add warmth and comfort underfoot with a small carbon footprint. 

Vanity & Countertop

Produced just outside San Francisco, the countertop is made of 85% glass collected from curbside recycling bins. This striking surface alerts guests that there's something different and special about their room, especially when paired with drinking glasses made from wine bottles.

Furnishings

Richard Kollath designed a line of Old Hickory furnishings unique to the green rooms at Yosemite Lodge at the Falls featuring distinctive, inset bow tie joinery. Like other Old Hickory furnishings and accessories in the Yosemite Valley, this rustic, durable collection is made using mid-western hickory saplings - the hardest wood in North America (30% harder than oak) and a renewable source that continually re-sprouts from the same stump. 

Kollath McCann's prototype divided recycling caddies were also made by Old Hickory.



Water

The new shower and bath fixtures in the Yosemite Lodge prototype rooms are high-performing, water-efficient models that will save nearly 5,000 gallons of water each year, using just 1.28 gallons per flush.

Paint

The rooms are painted using California-based Kelly-Moore paints with low- and zero-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds).

ABOUT DELAWARE NORTH COMPANIES PARKS & RESORTS AT YOSEMITE, INC.

The Ahwahnee, Yosemite Lodge at the Falls and Wawona Hotel are operated by Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts at Yosemite, an affiliate of Delaware North Companies and an authorized National Park Service concessioner overseeing lodging, dining, guest recreation activities and transportation services in Yosemite.

Santa Catalina is waiting for Thee by Barbara L. Steinberg© 

Hey you travel enthusiasts and lovers of all things California! Everyone talks about California's diversity as a destination. Do you really know what that means when traveling California?  Beaches. Mountains. Deserts. Valleys. Vistas. Natural and man-made wonders. Urban and rural locales. Seriously, you can travel the globe in California enjoying every possible diversion and topography! Including islands!

There are a number of island getaways in California, but none more special than Santa Catalina Island. A trip to Cataina defines relax, renew, and rejuvenate.  And don't forget romance! Every visit is special and feels like a world away; each stay just as remarkable.

You know Catalina must be special because there are only two ways to arrive: by sea or by air. Part of the Channel Islands, there's obviously no driving the 22 ocean miles to reach the atoll. The majority of people choose the water route via Catalina Express out of Long Beach, San Pedro (seasonal) and Dana Point. The other options from Marina del Rey and Newport Beach are a bit longer and have fewer arrivals and departures. Private boast of all kinds – motor, sail, and luxury yachts – also ply the waters to reach the protected Avalon Bay. Helicopters arrive on an infrequent basis as do small private planes at the "Airport in the Sky." You have to love that name!

California is full of unexpected experiences. And Catalina Island is at the top of the "unexpected" list. The comparisons you often hear are Mediterranean or Greek Isle...another country. It's all true. Terraced across the hillsides, the tiny hamlet of Avalon is the "capital" city of Catalina and the major population hub. An eclectic assortment of tiny shops, restaurants, cobbled walkways and colorful tile work create a visual delight. The other major island town, rustic Two Harbors, is definitely less urbane, but you certainly won’t lack for food, comfort, or the friendly camaraderie of other island guests and staff. Lodging options on this quieter side of Catalina include camping and cabins.  The 1910 Banning House Lodge is available for guests seeking more refined accommodations

 Back in Avalon, places to stay fall right in line with the diversity realm. From camping to luxury vacation rentals the choices are many. On a recent visit, ocean and hillside views greeted us each morning from a sunlit balcony at Hamilton Cove – a vacation rental community of fully-equipped villas. It was surreal. Mainland California is just miles away, right? Catalina Island Vacation Rentals at Hamilton Cove Villas offer couples, families, and friends lots of extra room to relax and a true feeling of an island escape. And always that lingering question, "Where are we?"

Hamilton Cove Villas have a variety of rental options sleeping up to six people. Spacious living space, balconies, flat-screen TVs, DVDs, full bath (one or two) and endless views of Catalina Island are standard! Fully-equipped kitchens and barbecues provide additional dining options – favorable for families. A small private beach, playground, pool, Jacuzzi, tennis courts, croquet, and putting green – does this sound like a dream? Plus, the rentals include use of a golf cart – after walking – the preferred mode of transportation. Avalon is a short cart-ride away. The fun just keeps on coming.

It's amazing to hear someone say, "Catalina! There's nothing to do there." Sorry, cross those folks right off the list. After multiple trips to Catalina I look forward to each return. The list of distractions seems endless and something new is always happening. A tour of the Art Deco-splendid Casino (Italian for "place of entertainment") is another of Catalina's many must-sees. Built in 1929, the ballroom hosted dozens of Big Bands and thousands of music and dance enthusiasts. Many Catalina Island special events are still held at the Casino including the Catalina Island Jazz Trax Festival every October. A new "Behind the Scenes Tour" was recently added, one of two Casino tours, both come highly recommended.

A wide-array of dining experiences fit right into the "island time" concept of Catalina Island. Relaxed and  easy. Options to eat "al Fresco" are many, particularly along Avalon Bay. What better way to start the day then with eggs sunny-side up on a sun-drenched deck at Antonio’s.  Grab something to go from the gourmet deli at C.C. Beau Deli before heading out on a day of exploration.  Oh, yes, the Airport in the Sky’s Runway Café is famed for its buffalo burgers. If fresh seafood is what you seek...then your heart's desire is Catalina!  Fish tacos at the end of the Green Pleasure Pier are a must at Earl & Rosie’s…a decades-long tradition…and one of the first places I go once my feet hit the island shore. Or enjoy the very fresh, catch of the day at Armstrong's Fish Market & Seafood Restaurant along with a side order of those ocean views. Depending on your accommodations do a little grocery shopping, and enjoy an intimate meal from your very private balcony.

The Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden is another diversion from the already dreamlike island retreat.  The native plant gardens are impressive and showcase the diversity of species endemic to the California islands or, specifically, Catalina. The views from the Memorial are worth the hike – it’s an easy one – and the Art Deco architectural details will end any doubts as to Catalina’s exceptional attractions. You often find yourself alone in the garden, which presents terrific opportunities to reflect on Catalina’s beauty and peaceful nature. On a recent visit, a lone raven seemed to be crying out to us and followed our group up the stairs of the Memorial. Maybe it was the spirit of William Wrigley urging us toward the top to breathe in expansive views of Avalon Bay.

Every season is Catalina season. Check ahead for special and seasonal events. The flying-fish migration is reason enough to celebrate each July. Sign-up for one of the boat tours – you have to see it to believe this magical occurrence!  Plein Air, marlin fishing, silent films, jazz, wine tasting, marathon, and more; the list of events goes on and on. The shoulder months between the end of October and pre-Memorial Day holidays offer better rates and fewer people on the island.

Who said there’s nothing do on Catalina? Just Ask Barbara...

Catalina Island Photo Gallery

How the whole trip began...as a mystery departure from Sacramento

Wildflower Power!

by Barbara L. Steinberg

Spring heralds an explosion of color as California hillsides, mountains, valleys and deserts come to life after a long winter's nap.  A variety of climates and terrain keeps California wildflowers blooming throughout the year, but at no other time is the petaled pageantry this prolific. Especially in 2008, after generous winter rains and snows have blessed the entire state. Wet winters almost without fail mean an eye-popping wildflower season. And this year's wet and cold winter, will deliver the one, two  punch we needed for the wildflower season of your dreams.

Wildflower names like scarlet monkey-flower, Indian paint brush, Western cranesbill and hummingbird sage stir exotic images. These are but a few of the hundreds of wildflower species found in California. 

Everywhere the landscape is transformed into a palette of color. Fields of blue cornflowers, lupine and baby-blue eyes rival any Spring sky. Hills and dales are sun-splashed with the yellows and oranges of California Poppies, wild mustard and goldfields.  The High Desert is a Technicolor showing of desert candles, Mariposa lilies and white and pink primroses.  In the foothills, tiny "redbuds" clinging to leafless branches are some of the earliest signs of Spring.  Later, at the higher elevations, dogwood blossoms lace the trees.

Regardless of when visitors plan to take a walk on the wild(flower) side, they should keep in mind several helpful tips:

* It's against the law to pick wildflowers in California.  They are pleasures for the eye only.

* It's best to stick to specified trails so as not to damage fragile wildflowers and plants.

* Some wildflowers close up at night -- especially in the desert -- and need an hour or so of morning warmth to open up.

* Both wildflowers and cactus flowers depend on rain.  A quick call to any of the areas listed or to local visitor bureaus can confirm that the flowering has begun.

Following is a partial list of the many wildflower viewing areas in Northern and Southern California.

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA WILDFLOWERS

Jepson Prairie Preserve, Solano County (530/758-5093)

The time to visit Jepson is late February through late April.  Violas and owl's clover are among the wildflowers lending sun-color to the countryside.  The tiny blue downingia can be found here, too.  Wildflower Tours led by docents are free, but must be scheduled in advance.

Feather River Canyon, Plumas County (800/326-2247) Cascading waterfalls and wildflowers in the spring highlight the canyon's natural beauty - especially showy from mid-March through June with a constantly changing display of wildflower color.  Early color may be seen in the yellows of the delicate waterfall buttercups and the reds of redbud shrub  followed by the delicate white dogwood blossoms. Later wildflower colors may be seen in the yellow bush monkey flower hanging from the rock walls and the blues of the shrubby silver lupine. 

Chico's Bidwell Park, Butte County (530/891-4671)

Blossom-filled wildflower walks range from easy strolls to climbing over rougher terrain.  The Yahl Trail from Big Chico Creek to Brown's Hole, for instance, gradually stretches uphill for some two and a half miles while the round-trip on the North Rim Trail covers about nine miles of varying grades.  Spring brings out lupines, poppies, delphiniums, buttercups and Western Redbuds.

Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County (415/464-5100, ext. 2)

During March, April and early May, for many people, the sea views from Chimney Rock, near the lighthouse, take second-place to the sight of Douglas iris, violets, goldfields, lupines, poppies, baby blue-eyes and more.  Each month brings a different batch of wildflower blooms.   

San Bruno Mountain State and County Parks, San Mateo County (650/363-4020)

The Summit Loop--a three-mile walk that gains a bit in elevation--is the place to find yarrow, Wright's paintbrush, sun cups, seaside daisies, hummingbird sage, goldfields and others.  The best wildflower-viewing times are in March and April. 

South Yuba State Park, Nevada County (530/432-2546)

The volunteer-built Independence Trail is one of the few nature trails in the U.S. to have wheelchair access.  From late March to early June, a spectacular array of wildflowers -- California Indian pink, delphinium, California pipevine, mock orange, iris, pink phlox, white fairy lantern, yellow cat's ear -- are visible here.  More good wildflower viewing -- though not wheelchair accessible -- is along the Sierra Gateway Trail.  This trail is about 15 road miles from Independence Trail, but only eight miles or so down the South Yuba River.  Wildflower bloom here begins in late February and runs into April.

Sierra National Forest, Mariposa County (559/297-0706) 

From El Portal, a mile below Yosemite National Park, the Hite Cove Trail traverses the South Fork of the Merced River.  The trail -- about eight miles in all -- leads past 100 or so species of wildflowers.  In March, April and early May, the ground is carpeted with baby blue-eyes, lupines, California poppies, mariposa lilies and other wildflower blossoms.

Kern County (800/500-KERN)

If your schedule doesn't allow for hiking, Kern County offers driving views of California wildflowers.  In Kern River Canyon along Hwy. 178, lupine, blue dicks and popcorn flowers will delight you.  On Hwy. 223 at Hwy. 58, be sure to stop for the poppies and owl's clover.  In the Glennville-Woody area, you will be treated to fields of wild mustard and yellow thistle.  For more information, contact:  Kern County Board of Trade, 2101 Oak Street, Bakersfield, CA  93302

WILDFLOWER FESTIVALS & EVENTS

March:  Squaw Valley Herb Garden, Fresno County (559/332-2909 or 800/579-8043)

Tours of wildflowers, herbs & native plants feature guided walk, identification of local wildflowers, native plants and cultivated herbs, storytelling, history, recipes, remedies, demonstrations and refreshments. By appointment. Squaw Valley Herb Gardens are located at 31785 E. Kings Canyon Road, Squaw Valley, CA 93675.

March:  Blossom Day Festival, Sanger (559/875-4575)

Car show, a 10k run and two-mile walk, and a street fair with 50 arts and crafts booths, live music, and food booths with funnel cakes and Mexican specialties in surroundings that are expected to include the annual spring flowers in bloom.

April:  Mather Vernal Pool Flower Walks, Rancho Cordova (916/737-WILD)

Two-hour tour to explore this magic carpet of flowers.  These unique wildflowers bloom only for a brief period in the spring.  Sponsored by the Sacramento Chapter of the California Native Plants Society.

April:  Bufferlands Birds & Blooms Tour, Sacramento (916/875-9174)

California poppies, lupine, owl's clover, and baby blue-eyes grow around the uplands and wetlands edges. Thousoundsa of waterfowl and other wetland birds winter at the Fishhead Lake wetlands. Meeting location is weather dependent.

April:  Heron Festival & Wildflower Brunch, Kelseyville (800/525-3743)

Treat yourself to a scrumptious brunch outdoors under the trees with birds singing overhead! The Heron Festival and Wildflower Brunch combine a wide range of individual and family activities for everyone who loves nature and wants to learn more about it. All activities are FREE, except the pontoon boat tours and the Wildflower Brunch.

April: Western Railway Museum, Suisun City (707/374-2978)

The Scenic Limited takes visitors on a six-mile round-trip ride on the old Sacramento Northern Railway, south from Highway 12. The trip lasts about an hour and passengers catch views of the native wildflowers that cover the rolling hills and fields.

May:  The AVIA Wildflower Triathlons Festival, Bradley  (805/472-3211 or 800/310-2313)  View scenic wildflowers in their natural setting; triathlon competitions; photographic exhibits, arts and crafts, food and entertainment.  For more information, contact:  Monterey County Parks-Lake San Antonio, P.O. Box 2620, Bradley, CA 93426.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA WILDFLOWERS

During wildflower blooming season (from March through May), visitors to southern California can take advantage of the 24-hour Theodore Payne Wildflowers Foundation hotline in Sun Valley, (818/768-3533).  The hotline offers weekly updates on wildflower status in the Antelope Valley, Santa Monica Mountains, Angeles National Forest, Joshua Tree National Monument, and Anza Borrego Desert State Park.

Figueroa Mountain Recreation Area, Santa Barbara County  (805/925-9538.)

Located near the town of Los Olivos is La Jolla Spring.  March and April are the best months to see phacelias, mariposa lilies, lupine, delphiniums and a bouquet of other wildflower blooms.  As a result of a major wildfire last fall, a spectacular wildflower season is expected this year.

Point Mugu State Park, Ventura County (818/880-0363)

In February and March, along the Ray Miller Trail, dainty shooting stars are out in multitude together with larkspur, sage and rattleweed.  Other trails good for glimpses of spring color include La Jolla Valley Trail and Mugu Peak Trail.

Antelope Valley State Poppy Reserve, Los Angeles County (661/724-1180)

Just 15 miles west of Lancaster, visitors will be amazed by 1,700-acres of California poppies and wildflowers.  April, May and June are generally the best months; travelers are advised to confirm the flowering.

Topanga State Park, Los Angeles County (818/768-3533)

Located in the Santa Monica Mountains, this park abounds in widlflower blossoms. Canyon sunflowers, poppies, sage, lilies, Chinese houses and foxglove blooms come out early and can last well into the summer.  A good starting place is the four-mile Musch Ranch Trail.

Joshua Tree National Monument, Riverside County  (760/367-5500)

Wildflowers begin to blossom in Pinto Basin.  Beavertail, chollo and pincushion cacti bloom from late April until June.  Evening primroses, desert dandelions, lupines, goldfields, desert stars, Mojave asters and various other wildflowers also dot this desert landscape. Starting near the Cottonwood Visitor Center, the four-mile Lost Palms Oasis Trail offers one of the better walks. 

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, San Diego County  (760/767-5311)

In February and March, the desert terrain is brightened by red, pink, yellow and orange cacti flowers.  Borrego Palm Canyon Trail (three palm-studded miles round-trip to Palm Canyon oasis) is a popular place to see cactus blossoms this time of year.  More than 600 species of wildflowers are on view, including fireweed, desert lavender, white forget-me-nots, indigo bush and California fuchsias.

Torrey Pines State Reserve, San Diego County (858/755-2063)

This oceanfront terrain is covered with sand verbena, brittlebush, sun cups, wild snapdragons, California poppies, monkey flowers, shooting stars, phacelia, rockroses, golden yarrow and blue delphiniums.  A well-labeled native garden center outside the adobe visitor center provides a more formal viewing experience. 

WILDFLOWER FESTIVALS & EVENTS

April: Orange Cove Blossom Festival, Orange Cove (559/626-5179)

Parade, vendors, and pageant to crown the Orange Blossom Queen.



April: Theodore Payne Native Garden Tour, Los Angeles (818/768-1802)

Thirty-nine Los Angeles-area home landscapes are showcased on the self-guided tour. At least 50% of the plants in each garden are California natives, and some of the region’s most creative homeowners and garden designers will be represented.

April: California Poppy Festival, Lancaster (661/723-6075)

The California Poppy Festival kicks off spring in the Antelope Valley with a glorious array of celebrated performers, unrivaled events, and mouth-watering delicacies designed to delight, enchant, and amuse people of all ages.

Although they aren't wildflowers, the earliest blossom frenzy of the season is along the Fresno County Blossom Trail.  Off Highway 99 just east of Fresno, a 67-mile-long flowering fantasy showcases the nut and stone fruit orchards of Fresno County.  In February, pale pink almond blossoms are some of the first performers in this floral extravaganza.  The breathtaking spectacle continues with the blooming of apricots, plums, peaches, nectarines and apples.  The final curtain call is April through May when citrus blossoms perfume the air.  For more information, contact:  Fresno County Office of Tourism, 2220 Tulare Street, 8th Floor, Fresno, CA 93721; 559/262-4271.

More Wildflower Resources: BeachCalifornia.com, Plumas County, California State Parks, National Forests, Wildflower Hotline, California Wildflower Hotsheet,  California Academy of Sciences, Nature Alley Wildflower Express, and BLM.

Barbara L. Steinberg is a member of:

There’s so much more to remember. The ebb and flow of the Pacific tides, the gentle cooing of a mourning dove, and a small circle of forget-me-nots…who could forget Mendocino?

For more information, visit: www.GoMendo.com or www.MendocinoFun.com and Slide Show

Mendocino County Crab & Wine Days – January

Mendocino Coast Whale Festivals - March

Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Festival - May

Mendocino Film Festival – June

Annual Mendocino Coast Home & Garden Tour - June

Annual Summer Arts & Craft Fair, Mendocino - July

Mendocino Coast Music Festival - July

Pure Mendocino Celebration, Premier Organic Food &  Wine Festival - August

Winesong!, Mendocino Coast Botanical Garden, Fort Bragg – September

Mendocino Wine & Mushroom Festival - November





 Barbara L. Steinberg is a member of:

                  

To help plan a visit to Good Natured Fairfield, call the Fairfield Tourism Association at (707) 399-2445 or visit www.Fairfield4Fun.com



          Barbara L. Steinberg is a member of: