EXPERIENCE THE MAGNIFICENT WILDFLOWER SEASON IN SLO CAL
Witness the breathtaking beauty of wildflowers in SLO CAL as winter rains give way to stunning pastel fields and vibrant green hillscapes. From March to June, the landscape comes alive with a vivid display of colors.
From March to June, the landscape comes alive with a vivid display of colors. While a superbloom, where flowers germinate in abundance, may not occur every spring, SLO CAL guarantees stunning landscapes and vast wildflower fields as far as the eye can see. So, pack a picnic, capture the perfect viral photo responsibly, and indulge in the beauty of these popping SLO CAL wildflower meadows and viewing sites.
Shell Creek Road and Bitterwater Road in Santa Margarita
Embark on a scenic drive east along Highway 58 past Santa Margarita and turn left on Shell Creek Road. Here, you’ll be greeted by a tapestry of blooming flowers, from delicate Baby Blue Eyes and golden-yellow Goldfields to white-tipped Tidy Tips. Take your time to admire the vibrant colors. You can either drive through or find a safe spot to park and get up close to this awe-inspiring display. Continue a bit further east on Highway 58 until you reach Bitterwater Road, where you’ll be treated to miles of California poppies in shades of orange, lupines in various hues of blue, and golden Fiddlenecks.
SLO CAL’s Carrizo Plain National Monument
If you’re up for more adventure, head past Shell Creek Road and Bitterwater Road to reach SLO CAL’s Carrizo Plain National Monument. These natural arid fields, framed by the green hues of the San Andreas Fault mountain range, are known for their potential to transform into superblooms during spring. However, even if you miss the superbloom, there is still much to explore in this remote part of SLO CAL. Soda Lake offers mesmerizing white salt formations as the water evaporates, and the Goodwin Education Center provides outdoor exhibits that delve into Native American heritage and the unique geology of the San Andreas Fault. Access the monument via the north entrance on Soda Lake Road off State Route 58 or the south entrance on Soda Lake Road off State Route 33/166. Remember to fill up your gas tank beforehand, as there are no services within the monument.
Montaña de Oro State Park
For a wildflower experience closer to town, visit Montaña de Oro State Park. Hike the scenic Point Buchon Trail to witness stunning purple hues or venture up Valencia Peak, adorned with vibrant California poppies. The coastal bluffs and natural landscapes offer a complex tapestry of colors during spring. Choose sunny days for the best experience, but be prepared for chilly temperatures. Bring binoculars, and if you’re feeling adventurous, consider exploring the park’s trails on a mountain bike or horseback.
Highway 1 Scenes
Drive west on Highway 1 towards Morro Bay, where you’ll encounter hillsides covered in yellow and green. Take a break and explore the Elfin Forest Trail before continuing along the coastline. You can hike to the water from Harmony Headlands State Park. On your return trip, consider taking Highway 46 and make a stop at the Green Valley Viewing Point. This picturesque spot offers breathtaking views of green hills rather than wildflowers.
Less Wild
Cal Poly’s Arboretum, San Luis Obispo
If you prefer a different kind of botanical experience, visit Cal Poly’s Leaning Pines Arboretum in San Luis Obispo. This unique arboretum showcases tree species from five Mediterranean climate regions around the world, including South Africa, Australia, and Chile. While you may not find an abundance of blooming flowers here, you can still appreciate the cacti and succulents. Before you leave, don’t
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