Follow the Flowers to Higher Elevations

Leaders: Paul Larson, Ted Caragozian, Hank Barber, Mary Ekelund

Fee: Member $20; Non-Member $25

Meet at Ranchita Store; all vehicles OK

Join four experienced naturalists for an unforgettable day of hiking among the flowers in the high country between Ranchita and Warner Springs. Enjoy cooler weather and see flowers that simply are not found on the desert floor. Walk through meadows filled with flowers (likely possibilities are California Poppy, Owl Clover, Arizona Lupine, and Goldfields), get up-close and personal with Baby Blue Eyes, and perhaps be greeted by the majestic Mojave Yucca along the way. We’ll lunch next to a beautiful creek under the shade of Oak and Sycamore trees (maybe see some wild turkeys) and get a great view of legendary Eagle Rock.

This is a day-long adventure on the Pacific Crest Trail—total wandering: 8.6 easy to moderate miles. You’ll need hiking boots, lunch, ample water and a hat. And don’t forget your camera and binoculars!

If you can take only one hike this spring, this is it!