Fresno Blossom Trail

California is so rich in its natural beauty. I think it has the best climate in the US with pleasant winters and comfortable summers. As soon as Day light saving starts, the days start becoming longer and the sunlight peeks through my window till around 7.30.. I know its time to check out places to visit on weekends.We love taking family time offs away from the bustle and bustle of daily work, laundry, cooking, etc etc..There are so many places for day trips ranging from 1 hour to 4 hrs or weekend getaways for relaxation or just plain sightseeing. Now that's California and I just love it here.

Apple Blossoms

Our recent day trip was to Fresno located in Central California's San Joaquin valley. This trip was on hold for more than a year. After waiting patiently for 365 days or more, we decided to drive here one Saturday morning on a crisp, cool spring morning. From San Jose it is about a 3 hour drive that passes through the famous town of Gilroy known for its famous Gilroy Garlic Festival, over the scenic San Luis Reservoir and Los Banos, 152 E to 99 S. It was a beautiful sight to see red, orange and yellow wild flowers growing along the median and over the side walls of the freeway.. a reminder that Spring is in the air! It had rained the previous day and the weather was just perfect. The surrounding mountains were snow clad and was a pretty sight to see as we neared them.

Plum Blossom

 It was a bit surprising that not many people in the bay area are aware of this place. Now that you do, do save a date sometime in February/March 2012 for a date with the blossoms, the constant hum of bees, the citrus aroma and some lovely lasting photographic memories.

 

 The Fresno Blossom Trail is a self guided trail. The trail map is available for download and print here. The official start is at Simonian Farms. You will see Almond, Peach, Apple blossom, Nectarine, Plum, Apricot and Citrus blossoms. Simultaneously, if you are interested in Wild flowers do visit this website for more information. They too have a wildflower trail.

BEST TIME TO GO:

Apricot blossom

From the few websites that I have read, it is  recommended to visit the trail between the last week of February and the mid of March depending on the weather. Regular updates about when the blossoms are in bloom, is available on the Fresno County Office Tourism website. The latest updates are available around the end of February on Twitter. The website includes a detailed explanation recognizing the blossoms. The view is breath taking. Look for signs like the one below to help you stay on track. There are chances where you may miss the trail and go on another side road like we did!

My thoughts about this place:

1. ) You can make a day trip to Fresno. Pack a lunch, some juice and some snacks for the way, sunhat, sunscreen and water and you are good to go.

2.) It will take you around 4-5 hours, if you wish to complete the entire trail with stopping at every scenic spot for pics.You are in control of how much you want to see and for how long.

3.) Do check the weather for the day before packing up. A cloudy day is a Photographer's best friend. Take pictures either early morning or late afternoon. Don't forget your tripod. You will encounter lots of photographers on the trails.

4.) Sign up on Twitter to get the latest news.

Wild flowers growing in abundance along the road.