Spring hasn’t officially sprung just yet, but fields of wildflowers are already blooming across Arizona. We can’t imagine a more promising sign as to how the season will unfold this year. One particularly lovely spot on the San Carlos Indian Reservation is particularly vibrant. Known as Peridot Mesa, this poppy reserve is putting on quite a spectacular show – and it hasn’t even peaked yet!
Named after the August birthstone that abounds in this sacred landscape, Peridot Mesa boasts a different gem for all to see during springtime. Endless fields of orange and yellow poppies bloom from late February to early April, setting the desert ablaze with color.
Photo Courtesy of Emery El Habiby (via Arizona Nature Lovers / Facebook)
Visiting in the late morning or early afternoon is your best bet, as the flowers will have had ample time to fully blossom.
Photo Courtesy of Emery El Habiby (via Arizona Nature Lovers / Facebook)
They typically close back up around two hours before sunset.
Photo Courtesy of Emery El Habiby (via Arizona Nature Lovers / Facebook)
Given how early in the season it is, these views are incredibly promising. We can expect the coverage to nearly double at its peak!
Flickr / Alan Stark
Although poppies are the main wildflower at Peridot Mesa, you’ll also see lupine, globemallow, and several other blooms scattered about. It’s truly an unforgettable sight that spring in Arizona simply wouldn’t be complete without.
Photo Courtesy of Emery El Habiby (via Arizona Nature Lovers / Facebook)
Come May, the Saguaro cactus flowers will also begin to bloom. These open up later in the day, so visit in afternoon or early evening for the best view.
mdesigner125 / Getty Images
Photo Courtesy of Emery El Habiby (via Arizona Nature Lovers / Facebook)
Flickr / Alan Stark
mdesigner125 / Getty Images
Have you ever seen this gorgeous poppy field firsthand? Where else in Arizona do wildflowers abound during springtime? Let us know the best spots and share your photos in the comments below or on the Arizona Nature Lovers Facebook group!
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