By: Denise Godbout-Avant
Mid-March through mid-May are the best months of the year to go on wildflower walks in the valley and foothills. There are several hikes within an hour or two drive from the Modesto area. Some years produce abundant wildflowers, while other years are less showy, but you will always see some wildflowers in these locations.
Knights Ferry Recreation Area – Known for its now-closed covered bridge, the main trail is an easy walk with little elevation along the Stanislaus River. Located east of Oakdale, off highway 108/120. There is a parking fee. https://knightsferry.com/recreation/
Red Hills Area of Critical Environmental Concern – Known for its unusual serpentine soils and plants, there are 17 miles of various loop trails to choose from which can have an elevation gain/loss of 500 feet. Located east of Oakdale and Knights Ferry, off highway 108/120, off Green Springs/LaGrange Rd./159, near Chinese Camp. Trail map: https://www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/documents/files/media-center-public-room-california-red-hills-acec.pdf
Old Westside Railroad Grade Trail – A mostly flat trail located along an old logging narrow-line railroad, overlooking the Clavey River Canyon with a total distance is 9 miles out and back. Located in Tuolumne City. near Black Oak Casino. https://www.tuolumne.org/upper-watershed-hikes/westside
Del Puerto Canyon –The canyon is home to a wide diversity of wildlife and plants, including rare and endangered species. From Patterson, head east on Sperry Rd. crossing Interstate 5, where the road becomes Del Puerto Canyon Rd. There are various spots along the winding canyon road where you can stop to take short walks. Frank Raines Regional Park has a moderately easy out-and-back two-mile trail with elevation gain of about 650 feet; 17802 Del Puerto Canyon Rd., Patterson.
Always wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, a hat, layered clothing, sunscreen, bring snack food and plenty of water. And take photos!
For more information see May 2025 Sprout article: https://ucanr.edu/blog/stanislaus-sprout/article/wonderful-wildflower-walks
Denise Godbout-Avant has been a UC Master Gardener in Stanislaus County with UC Cooperative Extension since 2020
