Desto-Greetings from Antelope Valley, California
Less than two hours from downtown Los Angeles, in Antelope Valley’s Poppy Reserve, if you hurry, you might still be able (just) to get your Dorothy on, although, not really. As tempting as it might be to do so, you aren’t actually allowed to romp into the wildflower meadow ala that iconic scene from The Wizard of Oz. (No doubt you will remember when Dorothy and Toto ran pall mall into the poppy field.) You can’t do that. You MUST stay on the trails! And, even if you think that rule doesn’t really apply to you, so why not sneak a nifty photo of precious YOU in the middle of infinite fields of glorious poppies? – think twice, because according to the park ranger, the incidence of snake bite to those with the very same sneaky ambitions is a DAILY occurrence. Some days, multiple snake bite victims. Notably, the ONLY actual wildlife we saw WAS a rattle snake (and some monster big ravens gliding overhead in the thermals). So, I recommend that you satisfy your inner Tin Man with a lengthy hike up the trail (stay on it) to the crest and be rewarded with a majestic view down onto glorious hillocks blanketed with poppies. The best scene of its kind west of …let’s just say, (if it doesn’t make you weary)… Kansas. But, you had better act with some haste. The wildflower season only lasts another week or so (if that). I also advise, if you can, go during the week. Weekends are crowded and traffic is gnarly and there’s only one small parking lot. The poppies won’t open if it’s cold or windy, so check conditions. And, bring H2O. Lots. And a ten spot for the parking. Leave your Toto at home/no dogs allowed. Get up to date info at www.parks.ca.gov