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Sunday I had the opportunity to get outside for a bit when there was a break in the clouds so I ventured up to Dave Moore Nature Area.  It is a beautiful trail that gently winds it way through the woodland and along the river.  I’ve been waiting for these wonderful little flowers called Fairy Lanterns and they’ve finally began to bloom.  You could walk by them and barely notice if you are not paying attention.  Not your conventional flower that draws you in with bold color and unusual design, the beauty of these flowers is hidden beneath three pedals.  When you look inside, you will find some unusual design that makes for some interesting photos.

Directions:
From Eastbound Interstate 80 – Take the Highway 49 exit heading south at the town of Auburn. Continue along Hwy 49 through the towns of Cool and Pilot Hill, approximately a 14 mile drive. The entrance will be 3 miles south of Pilot Hill on the right at the cobblestone wall.

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The hillsides of the Jackson area are ablaze with flowers right now. As you drive a few miles south of Jackson on Hwy 49, first you’ll see the bright colors of Poppies blanketing the hills. From there, I just explored around on a few side roads finding the following: Poppies, Lupines, Blue dicks, Popcorn Flowers, Fiddlenecks, Baby Blue Eyes and many more I don’t know off the top of my head. The most spectacular views are atop the hillsides so be prepared for some steep hikes (if that is your thing) or you can just admire from below. Well worth taking a day and enjoying a piece of California’s beauty.

If you’re looking for a gentley winding trail to spend a piece of your day, you should check out Dave Moore Nature Area.  It is a beautiful little trail that wanders its way along the river and through the forest.  Right now, the area is blooming with Buttercups, Baby Blue-eyes, Fivespots, Poppies and other wildflowers.

Directions:
From Eastbound Interstate 80 – Take the Highway 49 exit heading south at the town of Auburn. Continue along Hwy 49 through the towns of Cool and Pilot Hill, approximately a 14 mile drive. The entrance will be 3 miles south of Pilot Hill on the right at the cobblestone wall.

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What a beautiful day!   As I made my way down the windy gravel road, it took me to a field of sweet smelling flowers in bloom.  I looked down at the temperature gage….sixty eight degrees, a light breeze flowing through the valley and the tunes of songbirds all around.  What more could you ask for!

If you haven’t made it to Bear Valley Road, you’re missing out on something truly special.  I remember the first time I traveled that old country road, wondering where I was and why people thought this place was so beautiful.  Then you make your way around the last bend and find yourself in this beautiful valley that seems to have been lost by the world…except for the cows wondering around.  I never seen such fields of flowers.

So far this year, things are a little slow for the area.  Still a spectacular bloom but nothing what I’ve seen for the area in past years.  As you venture down the gravel road, the first large area of flowers you will encounter is filled with Adobe Lilies.  Continue on and you will hit a few large areas of Cream Cups.  Red Maids are sprinkled around the area as well.  You can find Owl’s Clover and California Poppies if you poke around.  I’m hoping that it is just early in the season (you never really know mother nature’s schedule) and there is much more to come.  Cross your fingers!

Directions:
To get to Bear Valley Road, take Highway 5 to the town of Williams.  Travel 11 miles west of Williams on Highway 20.  Turn right (north) on Bear Valley Road and follow it into a little piece of paradise.  This is an old windy gravel road…be careful not to miss the turn.  I drove right by it many of times

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