The Fierce Beauty of Wildflower Season By Roger Naylor
To visit the Verde Valley in springtime is to witness hillsides streaked with color and canyons ablaze in haughty hues. Desert wildflowers may be dainty of blossom but they erupt with a profound sense of purpose. Elbowing aside cactus and stone, defying drought and bug, wildflowers infuse an already breathtaking landscape with an added dimension of vibrancy. It is a show not to be missed.
Here are some local hot spots for wildflower viewing.
The park boasts hundreds of flowering plant species, not to mention stunning views of Cathedral Rock. Interconnected trails trace stream banks and climb red rock ridges. Look for blooms dangling like dainty chandeliers from pointleaf manzanita.
Yucca stalks unfurl waxy white blossoms alongside the slender elegance of scarlet-tipped ocotillo. Scan the slopes for a raucous medley of paintbrush, penstemon, desert marigold, Goodding’s verbena, puccoon, Perky Sue and hedgehog cactus.
Guided nature walks are conducted daily at 10:00 a.m. For information, call (928) 282-6907 or visit azstateparks.com.
A riot of globemallow and desert marigold first catches the eye, but the entire park dazzles in spring. Contrary to its name, the red barberry displays yellow blossoms. Flowers of the desert willow beckon hummingbirds like trumpet-shaped saloons where it’s always Happy Hour. Rocky slopes are drenched with dogweed, locoweed, groundsel, blackfoot daisies, desert hyacinths and poppies.
Hike the Lime Kiln Trail to experience one of Dead Horse’s genuine treasures, a population of endangered Arizona cliffrose, permeating the limestone terraces with heady perfume.
Yet lavish displays aren’t confined to parks or national forests. Part of wildflower magic lies in the joy of discovery. Radiant blooms infiltrate every nook and cranny of the region. Lupines grow along roadsides, poppies decorate vacant lots and fleabane squeezes between sidewalk cracks.
Before the season wilts in summer heat, go see for yourself.
Popular Wildflower Trails
Wilson Canyon Trailhead: Midgely Bridge parking area 1.4 miles north of Sedona, along Hwy 89A.
Description: A meandering stroll along a scenic canyon bottom.
Trailhead: Call O’ the Canyon parking area, 9.5 miles north of Sedona along Hwy. 89A. Description: The premier Sedona hike, a streamside ramble through a narrow, high-walled canyon. Wildflowers: Cardinal flowers, white evening primrose, wild geranium, pearly everlasting, common monkey flower and golden-beard penstemon.
