Cronan Ranch Trails
This is a great location for early spring wildflower spotting. You can also enjoy green grass, oak woodland, and gentle riverfront trails along this 12-mile network near Coloma.
Timing: April – May.
Pleasant Valley
At the northeast corner of Pleasant Valley Road and Newtown Road is a meadow that turns into a large, yellow blanket of wildflowers for a few weeks every spring.
Timing: April – May
Monroe Ridge
This approximately three-mile loop around Marshall Gold State Discovery Park boasts amazing wildflowers and passes near historic monuments and the South Fork of the American River.
Timing: April – May
Mt. Murphy
If you’re willing to work to see amazing California poppies, Mt. Murphy, in Coloma, is worth the sweat. Climb up Mt. Murphy Road to Dutch Creek Falls trailhead, where you’ll see multiple waterfalls and beautiful wildflowers.
Timing: April – May
Red Shack Trail
Located a few miles south of Coloma, this approximately two-mile roundtrip trail provides views of beautiful poppies blanketing the hillside above you.
Timing: April – May
Fallen Leaf Lake
Wildflowers bloom all around Fallen Leaf Lake but head to the northeast side to explore lupine-filled meadows that also boast majestic views of Mt. Tallac.
Timing: May – July
Lyons Creek Trail
For later season wildflower viewing, Lyons Creek and the neighboring Desolation Wilderness offer miles of trail opportunities for alpine flowers like lupine, Indian paintbrush, mules ears, and more.
Timing: May – July
Discover other spring activities in El Dorado County.
Photos: Reverie Retreat
