The wildflowers are blooming so it’s time to lace up your boots and head out to enjoy the hunt. I love to hike, so I’m often asked where the good wildflower spots are. Below is my pick of favorite places — some nearby, and a few within about an hour’s drive of Berkeley.
Notes: I’ve referred to flowers by their common names so if you love the Latin, look for the many online resources for that. Check out the online trail maps to plan your routes and find out about any trail closures. You can usually search for websites that will tell you what’s blooming in each park, and even where certain flowers are located. A friend recommended the app called Seek by iNaturalist to do on-the-spot IDs of plants and flowers. Another popular one is “Picture This.” Remember to dress appropriately, bring water, hats, and take only pictures. Picking the flowers, stepping on plants off the trail, or otherwise disturbing them is not OK!
If your favorite spot for seeing wildflowers isn’t listed below, let us know about it in the comments.
Nearby (listed from easiest walk to most challenging hike)
1. Redwood Regional Park Serpentine Prairie, Oakland
Over the past 15 years, the large serpentine meadow area in this Oakland spot has been successfully restored. Right now, in season, you might see rare species of clarkia and a variety of native prairie grasses thriving alongside lots of colorful wildflowers. Take an easy walk around the meadow or venture further into Redwood Regional Park for a longer hike. Fun fact: Serpentine is the California State Rock and this is a great place to see the unusual green-ish rock and the plants that love it…