How to Hike Antelope Valley California

The California Poppy is the state flower of California and nowhere is there a greater abundance of poppies than in Antelope Valley. The Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve boasts 8 miles of trails, including a paved section for wheelchair access, that meander through the wildflower fields. In good years, the best time to visit is mid-March through mid-May.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Sunscreen

1. Call ahead to the Reserve to find out the best time to visit for that particular year. Each year the weather variables change the exact timing of peak bloom. Officials at the Reserve can help you hit the fields at the right time.
2. Travel from Lancaster on Highway 14, take the Avenue I exit, turn west on Avenue I. Drive 14 miles to the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve entrance and park near the visitors center.
3. Take one of the several loop trips. The best ones for poppy watching are the North and South Poppy Loops, a combined 2-mile loop that starts from the west side of the visitors center.
4. Be sure to take the cutoff trail that leads to the Tehachapi Vista Point, where you can view the entire Reserve. The cutoff is accessible from either leg of the 2-mile North and South Loop.

Tips & Warnings

• No dogs, horses or mountain bikes are allowed on the Reserve trails.
• A $5 day use fee is charged for each vehicle.
• Begin calling the Reserve in late February to find out the best time for blooms. The phone numbers are [phone] or [phone].