In Northern California, winter showers bring spring wildflowers.
But they don't last long, so get outside and frolic through the blooms from the Peninsula to Point Reyes.
Windy Hill Open Space Preserve
There are lots of trails to follow down around Windy Hill, but the one you don't want to miss is the Anniversary Trail. Get up early to drive into the hills and park in the main lot, which opens 30 minutes before sunrise. This will leave you with enough time to make your way to the peak through the wildflower-scattered trails and watch the sunrise over the Bay.
Insider tip: After your hike, get some much-deserved breakfast at Alice's Restaurant, a Skyline classic.
// Windy Hill Open Space Preserve (Portola Valley), openspace.org
Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve
(Courtesy of @aliceswoodside)
Feel like picking up the pace? Head to Russian Ridge down on the Peninsula for some trail running, where slightly less than four miles of trails will take you through forests and wildflowers and lead you to some spectacular views. There's only about 500 feet of elevation gain over the course of your run, so depending on your fitness level, it should only take you about an hour.
Insider tip: Hungry after your run? Of course you are. Make a beeline for Alpine Inn in Portola Valley and order a beer, burgers, and fries.
// Skyline Blvd. and Page Mill/Alpine Rd. (Redwood City), openspace.org
Sunol Wilderness Regional Preserve
For some of the Bay Area's best wildflowers, head to Sunol in the south East Bay. Park at the Visitor's Center and pick up a trail map, which will lead you to the Canyon View Trail and a four mile roundtrip hike with spectacular views of oak-lined canyons and dramatic waterfalls. Make it a day hike or grab a permit and camp overnight.
// 1895 Geary Rd. (Sunol), ebparks.org
Abbott's Lagoon
(Courtesy of @tuppyceramics)
On your hike to Abbott's Lagoon, you'll experience the best Point Reyes has to offer—beaches, headlands, marshes, tons of wildflowers, and stunning views of the Pacific. Come on a weekday to avoid the crowds, and take it slowly along the easy, 2.8 mile out-and-back trail to the beach.
Insider tip: If it's a nice day, pick up picnic supplies in Point Reyes Station and take a mid-hike break on the beach.
// Pierce Point Rd. (Inverness), nps.gov
Point Reyes National Seashore
Drive over the Golden Gate Bridge and head north to Point Reyes to stroll along the 1.8 mile out-and-back Chimney Rock Trail. Expect lots of other hikers along the path, so plan to get there early—and don't forget to bring your camera for shots of the goldenfields, blue-eyed grass, and mule ear sunflowers.
Insider tip: If you're lucky, you may be able to spot migrating grey whales and sunbathing elephant seals. Bring a pair of binoculars.
// Chimney Rock Rd. (Inverness), nps.gov/pore
