A JOURNEY TO ANTELOPE VALLEY CALIFORNIA POPPY RESERVE

Ah, springtime! With its vibrant colors and rejuvenating scents inviting us to shed layers and soak in the sun. The longer days and milder temperatures encourage outdoor activities and moments of reflection. And if you live in Los Angeles area – that also mean fields of poppies and wildflowers owning the scene on the rolling hills of the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve. Trust me, it’s well worth the two-hour drive from LA. But hey, before you hit the road, let me fill you in.

While poppies in the reserve burst into bloom every spring, the peak display is influenced by a mix of elements: sun, clouds, heat, rain, and yes, even wind. Usually, it bloom time kicks off in early April, but it could happen anywhere from mid-March to early May. For the latest updates, keep tabs on the reserve’s Facebook page or dial up the Poppy Reserve Wildflower Hotline at 661-724-1180

• your phone with a camera (or both phone and camera) to snap those stunning views
• sunscreen for the desert heat
• plenty of water to stay hydrated
• comfy shoes for the 8-miles of trails

The Reserve is 15 miles west of Lancaster, at 15101 Lancaster Road. If you’re coming from Highway 14: Take the Avenue I exit and head west for 15 miles. Avenue I eventually merges into Lancaster Road. For those on I-5: Travel east on Hwy 138, then turn right onto 170th Street West. At the end of 170th Street West, take a left onto Lancaster Road and continue for two miles.

Arrive early to beat the traffic and avoid waiting in line to enter the parking lot

Parking is $10

Be ready for windy conditions.

Dogs are not allowed and cannot be left alone in cars. Vehicles can quickly reach fatal temperatures!

Drones are not allowed in the airspace above the reserve

Beware of rattlesnakes! Mojave green rattlesnakes are not aggressive and won’t attack unless startled or threatened. If you come across one on a trail, give it space, and it’ll likely move away on its own.

Do NOT pick the wildflowers and remember to leave no trace behind

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