Don’t step on the flowers! 4 things to know before you check out California’s superbloom
The superbloom is in full swing across California.
Every few years, thousands of visitors travel around the state to view the breathtaking explosion of wildflowers. From bright orange poppies to purple-blue lupines and yellow mustard flowers, it feels like the entire Golden State gets covered in spring blooms.
Unfortunately, wildflower season can also bring out bad behavior.
During the previous superbloom in 2019, visitors trampled native flowers on their quest for the perfect picture. Others got stuck on muddy back-country roads, lined busy highways and trespassed on private property.
Before you go out and frolic among the wildflower-covered hills, there are a few things you should know. Here are four tips for enjoying the superbloom responsibly.
Don’t step on or pick the flowers
This is probably the single most important rule to remember to follow: Don’t step on the flowers.
Trampling wildflowers in your quest for a great profile pic or the perfect TikTok video will not ingratiate you to your fellow superbloom visitors. Stay on the dirt paths or trails wherever possible so that you are not destroying the fragile blooms or their seeds.
In that same vein, avoid picking the flowers. Try to leave them in the same condition for everyone who comes after you.
Be respectful of private property
Although there are plenty of great viewing spots that are open to the public, such as Carrizo Plain National Monument, visitors may be tempted to head onto private property to check less crowded blooms.
Though many property owners allow people onto their land during the superbloom to take in the unique event, others are more hesitant.
A general rule of thumb is to be on the lookout for signs denoting private property and respect any signage indicating whether you can or cannot be in the area.
If there is a fence or wall, do not climb it, and do not park on or block private roads. Be respectful of residents and landowners.
Watch where you park
Figuring out where to park can be a huge issue during the superbloom.
Don’t park on the road or in a location that might block others from passing through safely. That can increase traffic and make it difficult for emergency vehicles to travel the route when they need to.
You’ll also want to be on the lookout for especially muddy roads or dry grass along the shoulder, as both present their own challenges.
Because of this winter’s extreme rainfall, many backroads around the state are either covered in water or a thick layer of mud that could easily trap a vehicle if the driver is unaware.
Folks should also avoid parking on top of dry grass because doing so could spark a wildfire.
Be prepared
Most of the best wildflower viewing spots are in highly remote locations without cellphone service, gas stations or restaurants — so you’ll want to plan ahead to make sure you have everything you need before heading out.
Fully gas up your car ahead of time, and make sure to check your tire pressure. Take a map in case cell service and GPS are not available, and check beforehand whether the roads you intend to take are open.
Don’t forget to pack water, food, sunscreen and anything else you might need to be in a remote area for several hours.
If you plan on using your phone or camera to take pictures and video, you might want to bring portable chargers for your electronic devices.
Have another tip you’d recommend for people going to see the superbloom? Send them to Tribune reporter Kaytlyn Leslie at kleslie@thetribunenews.com.
This story was originally published April 11, 2023 at 2:34 PM.
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