Thursday, March 23, 2017

Diamond Valley Lake in Hemet for Beautiful Views and Blooms

If you are looking for an alternative to Anza Borrego, try Diamond Valley Lake in Hemet for gorgeous blooms. I saw my friend Nina's photos and knew I had to go. It took us an hour and 10 minutes to get there leaving from Oceanside. Will go faster on way home.

Be sure to bypass the large visitor center and museum and head up the hill to the marina. Also be sure to check hours before you head out and make sure it's not a Monday or Tuesday because they are closed. Parking is $9 and tickets to walk the trail are $2 each. Be sure to have sunscreen, water and sturdy shoes if you do the 2 mile circle. Path is rough, uneven and steep in places. I was shocked how many dressed up people were on the trail for photo opps.

Flowers on the trail included: California Poppy, Arroyo Lupine, California Goldfields, Brittlebush, Chia, Canterbury Bells, Caterpillar Phacelia, Owl's Clover, Baby Blue Eyes, Blue Dicks, Rancher's Fiddleneck, Bush Monkey Flower, Indian Paintbrush, Tidy Tips and Red Maids.