The Golden Poppy, known for its stunning golden hue, grows wild throughout California, so it’s no wonder it has been named California’s State Flower. You can often see them blooming on hillsides or open fields. 

Spring is the optimum time for the poppies to bloom, so we wanted to share a few great places in the Bay Area where you can catch a peek of the gorgeous Golden Poppy:

• Mount Tamalpais - Often a favorite spot for hikers, Mount Tam provides a great location to enjoy the poppies. Both the Yolanda Trail and Phoenix Lake Loop trail will lead you past the poppies.

• Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve - Located on the northeast side of Marin County in Novato, Mount Burdell is the county’s largest open space preserve and is home to a variety of trees, wildlife and the Golden Poppy.

• Mount Diablo State Park - Head over to Danville in the East Bay and go for a hike at Mount Diablo. 

Should your travels take you to any of these local spots, please be sure to follow any posted rules and do not pick the poppies. Leave them in their place so that everyone can enjoy them.