Experience the vibrant beauty of spring in NorCal with my comprehensive guide to the region's top attractions and activities. From coastal wonders to inland adventures, my curated list of things to do in Northern California in spring has something for everyone, whether you're a Southern California resident from Los Angeles or San Diego seeking a scenic weekend escape or a NorCal local exploring your own backyard. Join me as we uncover the best of spring in this picturesque slice of the American West.
Flower Blooms In Northern California
Spring brings vibrant blooms to Sonoma Valley Regional Park and Lassen Volcanic National Park. Sonoma boasts California poppies and lupines in a diverse landscape, perfect for a leisurely walk or hike. Lassen's volcanic backdrop hosts wildflowers like lupines and paintbrushes along enchanting trails. Explore the floral beauty of NorCal this season.
1. Sonoma Valley Regional Park
Location: Glen Ellen, CA
Popularity: Hidden gem.
Price: $7/parking
Sonoma Valley Regional Park, nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, is beautiful year-round, but spring is an especially stunning time of year to visit.
Sonoma Valley Regional Park is a prime spot to witness the vibrant beauty of spring flowers and should be on every flower lover's bucket list. The park's diverse landscapes, from oak woodlands to grassy meadows, burst into a heavenly display with California poppies, lupines, and other native blooms.
Trails wind through the park, providing a perfect opportunity for a stroll or an invigorating hike amidst the stunning floral scenery. For a delightful encounter with the beauty of Northern California's spring, Sonoma Valley Regional Park is an ideal destination.
2. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Location: East Mineral, CA
Popularity: Popular.
Price: $10-$30/per vehicle
If you're someone who often misses out on the beautiful springtime flower blooms in early spring, then you're in luck! Allow me to introduce you to Lassen Volcanic National Park - a stunning and one-of-a-kind destination located in northeastern California. The park is renowned for its geothermal features, which include hot springs, mud pots, and steam vents, set against breathtaking mountain landscapes.
While you may not immediately associate Lassen with wildflowers, the area surrounding Lassen Peak comes alive during the late spring and early summer months with an abundance of vibrant wildflowers like lupines, paintbrushes, and penstemons.
If you're planning a trip to Lassen Volcanic National Park during the spring or early summer, you're in for a treat because the park has some of the best trails for spotting wildflowers. Popular trails for wildflower viewing include Bumpass Hell Trail, Lassen Peak Trail, Kings Creek Falls Trail, Ridge Lakes Trail, and Manzanita Lake Trail.
Botanical Gardens In Northern California
Discover NorCal's best botanical gardens, from Mendocino Coast to UC Berkeley and San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. Nature awaits in each unique destination - the perfect seasonal getaway!
3. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
Location: Fort Bragg, CA
Popularity: Popular.
Price: $0-$20/per person
In spring, the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens are a must-visit destination for flower enthusiasts and nature lovers. The gardens, which span 47 acres between Highway One (Pacific Coast Highway) and the Pacific Ocean, boast a stunning array of blooming flowers, with rhododendrons stealing the show.
What's more, the gardens offer incredible panoramic views of the ocean, making for a truly sensory-rich experience. With canyons, wetlands, coastal bluffs, and a closed-cone pine forest, this coastal haven has something for everyone seeking Northern California spring activities.
While in the area, consider exploring Glass Beach near Fort Bragg. Named for its history as a garbage dumping site, it now boasts an abundance of sea glass. Although finding unique pieces may require careful searching, there's still plenty of glass to admire. Please avoid collecting glass stones to ensure everyone, including future generations, can appreciate its beauty.
4. University of California Botanical Garden
Location: Berkeley, CA
Popularity: Popular.
Price: $0-$18/per person
Nestled in the Strawberry Canyon on the University of California, Berkeley campus, the University of California Botanical Garden sprawls across an expansive 34 acres amidst the picturesque Berkeley Hills. And what's more? It is located within the city limits of Oakland, offering you breathtaking vistas of the San Francisco Bay.
Spring transforms the garden into a vibrant spectacle of colors and fragrances, inviting visitors to stroll along winding paths. In addition to the cherry blossoms, magnolias, and rhododendrons, visitors can also enjoy blooming camellias, dogwoods, and azaleas. The garden's Mediterranean section bursts with poppies, irises, and lavender, while the South African section features stunning proteas and ericas.
As you wander through the garden, you can also hear the soothing sound of water trickling from the many fountains and streams. The garden's Japanese pond is particularly beautiful in the spring, surrounded by blooming cherry trees. Whether you're a lover of plants or seeking a tranquil respite from city life, the University of California Botanical Garden is a fantastic option for fun things to do in Northern California in spring.
5. San Francisco Botanical Garden
Location: San Francisco, CA
Popularity: Very popular.
Price: Discover Golden Gate Park with the three-day Gardens of Golden Gate Park Pass, offering unlimited access to the Conservatory of Flowers, Japanese Tea Garden, and SF Botanical Garden for $9–$28. For a more personalized visit, individual tickets for the SF Botanical Garden range from $0-$13.
Have you spent a day exploring quintessential San Francisco attractions, from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz to meandering through the vibrant storefronts of Chinatown? Are you looking for a little fresh air and a reprieve from the hustle and bustle? Consider checking out the San Francisco Botanical Garden!
Spring at the San Francisco Botanical Garden in Golden Gate Park is like stepping into a flower wonderland. The 55-acre oasis comes to life with vibrant colors and sweet fragrances. The Rhododendron Dell and Magnolia Collection steal the show, making it a perfect spot for a day trip.
You'll find yourself surrounded by diverse plant collections representing different corners of the world. The garden hosts fun events and workshops, adding an extra layer to your visit. This place is a springtime gem in the city that you have to visit if you're in the San Francisco Bay Area.
-- Another attraction worth mentioning is Muir Woods National Monument, just 11.5 miles from the Golden Gate Bridge.
Parks To Visit In Northern California This Spring
Experience the essence of spring by exploring the enchanting Russian Gulch State Park and the majestic Redwood National and State Parks. With coastal charm and towering redwoods, these parks promise a vibrant display of wildflowers and scenic beauty that epitomize the essence of the season.
6. Russian Gulch State Park
Location: Mendocino, CA
Popularity: Lesser-known state park.
Price: $8/per vehicle
Russian Gulch State Park (regularly compared to Point Lobos on the Big Sur Coast), located on the stunning Mendocino Coast in Northern California, is a natural haven with a variety of features to explore. In springtime, the park comes alive with vibrant wildflowers, adding color to the coastal landscapes. The park offers a network of trails that lead through lush forests, along dramatic coastal cliffs, and to secluded beaches.
One of the notable attractions is the Russian Gulch Waterfall, a picturesque 36-foot waterfall surrounded by ferns and moss-covered rocks. Spring brings increased water flow, enhancing the waterfall's beauty. The park is also home to the Russian Gulch Bridge, an iconic arched bridge that spans a deep coastal canyon.
Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking trails, biking, kayaking, and bird-watching amidst the diverse flora and fauna. With mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, spring is an ideal time to visit Russian Gulch State Park for a refreshing and scenic outdoor experience along the Mendocino Coast.
7. Redwood National and State Parks
Location: Along the coastline of Northern California.
Popularity: Very popular.
Price: Free. You do not need an entrance pass to enter Redwood National and State Parks.
Explore the wonders of Redwood National and State Parks, an expansive protected area renowned for its towering coast redwood trees, some of the tallest on Earth. Spring unveils a wonderland of blooming wildflowers amidst the mild temperatures, offering a captivating experience. Wander through the iconic redwood forests, marveling at their colossal trunks and the ethereal canopy they create, filtering sunlight onto the forest floor. Trillium, rhododendrons, and other native flowers adorn the landscape, painting a picturesque scene.
Embark on hikes along the network of trails, catering to all skill levels, to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of redwood groves, fern-filled canyons, and pristine coastal areas. Popular trails like the Tall Trees Grove and Coastal Trail beckon exploration.
For more floral adventures nearby, venture to Eureka, where attractions like Sequoia Park Zoo and Sequoia Park await amidst ancient old-growth redwoods. Enjoy a scenic ferry boat ride across Humboldt Bay or explore the Humboldt Botanical Garden for another delightful springtime experience. Don't miss The Avenue of the Giants, a scenic highway through Humboldt Redwoods State Park, making it the perfect Northern California spring getaway!
Spring Hikes In Northern California
Explore NorCal's spring flowers with top hikes. Mount Diablo State Park's Mitchell Canyon Eagle Peak Loop, Mary Bowerman Trail, North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve's Phantom Falls Trail, and Point Reyes National Seashore's Chimney Rock Trail offer vibrant wildflowers and stunning landscapes. Lace-up for a refreshing spring adventure in the diverse natural wonders of NorCal.
8. Mount Diablo State Park's Mitchell Canyon Eagle Peak Loop and Mary Bowerman Trail
Location: Walnut Creek, CA
Popularity: Very popular.
Price: Up to $10/per vehicle
Mount Diablo State Park in Northern California is renowned for its captivating views and, come spring, transforms into a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers.
The Mitchell Canyon Eagle Peak Loop is a top trail for wildflower enthusiasts, offering encounters with poppies, lupines, and California buttercups. Another popular option is the Mary Bowerman Trail, leading to the summit for panoramic views and additional wildflower sightings. Expect a burst of colors across hillsides and meadows during late winter and early spring.
The park's diverse ecosystems, coupled with an extensive network of trails, make it a picturesque destination for nature lovers seeking wildflower displays, breathtaking vistas, and outdoor activities.
9. North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve's Phantom Falls Trail
Location: Oroville, CA
Popularity: A very popular destination during the spring season.
Price: A CDFW Lands Pass ($5.40) must be carried by each visitor who is 16 years of age or older.
If you're planning a road trip and looking for cheap things to do in Northern California in spring, you might want to consider adding North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve to your itinerary. This beautiful reserve is just an hour and a half from Sacramento and is renowned for its distinctive geology, waterfalls, and vibrant wildflowers.
The basalt mesa, shaped by ancient lava flows, hosts an array of plant species, creating a haven for wildflower fans. The most popular trail for wildflower experiences is the Phantom Falls Trail, offering a moderately challenging hike with panoramic views, seasonal waterfalls, and an abundance of blooming wildflowers in spring. Expect a kaleidoscope of colors from late February to early May, with California poppies, lupines, owl's clover, and more.
10. Point Reyes National Seashore's Chimney Rock Trail
Location: Inverness, CA
Popularity: Very popular.
Price: Free.
Chimney Rock Trail in Point Reyes National Seashore, near Inverness, California, offers a captivating coastal hike with stunning ocean views. As spring rolls in, the trail gets a burst of color with wildflowers like lupines and California poppies popping up along the coastal bluffs.
This 1.8-mile round-trip trail is moderately easy and leads to the iconic Chimney Rock viewpoint, providing panoramic vistas of Drakes Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Spring also offers prime wildlife viewing, with opportunities to spot seabirds, raptors, and migrating gray whales. Remember to check trail conditions and arrive early to enjoy the picturesque views of this popular coastal trail. If you're looking for free things to do in Northern California in spring, Point Reyes will not disappoint!
Spring Picnic Spots In Northern California
Indulge in the best spring picnics at Laird Family Estate in Napa Valley and Kiva Beach near Lake Tahoe. These picturesque spots promise a delightful blend of nature and serenity for a picture-perfect outdoor experience.
11. Laird Family Estate
Location: Napa, CA
Popularity: Hidden gem.
Price: Prices vary for wine-tasting options - please visit Laird Family Estate's website.
Are you looking for the perfect spot for a laid-back picnic? It's one of the most romantic things to do in Northern California in spring! Look no further than the Laird Family Estate in Napa Valley wine country - one of the charming wineries. With stunning views of the vineyards and a relaxed vibe, it's the ideal place to unwind with a picnic basket and a bottle of Laird Family Estate wine. Choose from a diverse selection, including cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay, and settle in on the patios or lawn for a leisurely afternoon.
Whether you bring your own goodies or grab a bottle and blanket from the winery, Laird Family Estate promises a memorable and relaxed picnic experience amidst the beauty of spring.
12. Kiva Beach
Location: South Lake Tahoe, CA
Popularity: Hidden gem - though the beach can be busier in the summer months.
Price: Free.
If you're looking for family things to do in Northern California in spring, consider visiting Kiva Beach. This serene and picturesque destination, situated in South Lake Tahoe, offers sandy shores along the southern shore of Lake Tahoe, surrounded by tall pine trees and stunning lake views. It's the perfect spot for a spring picnic, where you can relax and enjoy a peaceful escape while soaking in the scenery.
The beach's proximity to the Tallac Historic Site adds to its appeal, as it's just a short drive away. The Tallac Historic Site, known for its historic estates and gardens, offers a fascinating glimpse into Lake Tahoe's early 20th-century history. This makes it convenient for visitors to combine a visit to the historic site with a delightful picnic at Kiva Beach, creating a well-rounded and enjoyable day outing.
In summary, Kiva Beach's tranquil setting, beautiful lake views, and close proximity to the Tallac Historic Site make it a perfect spot for a spring picnic and a convenient destination for those exploring the historical aspects of the area.
Have you been to any of these spots? Which are your favorites? I’d love to hear your thoughts! If you're gearing up for a road trip to explore these destinations and seeking a cozy place to stay overnight, be sure to explore these delightful vacation rentals!
Are you looking for more places to check out this spring? You're likely familiar with America's iconic Pacific Coast Highway, a renowned stretch that begins in Southern California near Dana Point in Orange County and winds its way to near Leggett in Mendocino County.
Along the journey, you traverse iconic destinations such as Big Sur, Carmel by the Sea, and the boardwalk in Santa Cruz, treating yourself to breathtaking views of Monterey Bay and beyond. But Few People Know There’s An African Animal Preserve Hidden Along The Pacific Coast Highway In Northern California!
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/northern-california/hidden-mystical-wonder-norcal/
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