Poppy Reserve

It seems like I have to go to the nether regions of Los Angeles County to see expansive fields of greenery. Remember the Corn Maze in October, and my roadtrip to Mission Hills? This time I was seeking acres of orangery in the form of poppies, and it required a ride to Lancaster.

The Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is the place to be right now. The poppies are glorious! You can see the orange washes of color on the hills as you're driving out, and the Reserve has seven miles of trails to hike around and through the flowers. Note that the poppies are tempermental, meaning no one can predict how long they'll stick around this season. When they're gone, they're gone until next year. Or, even worse, until another good season.

And, a quick step up to my soapbox: just pay the $8 per car to enter the Reserve. Yes, you can pull over on the side of the road and take your poppy pictures, but our parks in California are on the verge of collapse. Paying the fee provides operating dollars for rangers and other staff, as well as demonstrates that the public wants and needs the open space. Support a California park today with your dollars. The Poppy Reserve is a great choice for a visit as the blooms will disappear in the next few weeks. Don't miss them!

Click here to go to the Poppy Reserve's Web site.