The One Poppy Field In Arizona That Looks Like A Scene From The Wizard Of Oz In The Spring
There are several places to see spring wildflowers in Arizona, but few (if any) compare to Estrella Mountain Regional Park. One particular hiking trail in the park looks like a scene from The Wizard of Oz this time of year. It’s the Grand Canyon State’s very own Yellow Brick Road, and you’ll want to walk down it time and time again.
Estrella Mountain Regional Park - particularly the Rainbow Valley Trail - transforms into a wildflower wonderland every spring, and it's one of the most jaw-dropping sights you'll ever have the pleasure to behold.
The Rainbow Mountain Trail connects to several other trails in the park, including the Baseline Trail and Toothaker Trail, so you can essentially forge your own path and customize your adventure. Most of the trails are easy to moderate in difficulty and range from about 2.5 to 5 miles long.
Even when the flowers aren't in bloom, the views here are simply unparalleled. The rugged desert landscape, with its towering mountains and iconic Saguaros, encompasses everything there is to love about Arizona.
Poppies begin to dot the hillsides as early as February, and by the time spring is officially underway, the blooms are out in full force. You'll feel like you've stepped into a scene from The Wizard of Oz as you frolic through the sea of yellow.
Spend some time soaking up the scenery (and taking lots of pictures) before you continue along the trail. Views like these only come around once a year, so enjoy them while they last!
You definitely won't be clicking your heels three times to go home when you walk down Arizona's very own Yellow Brick Road. Instead, you'll want to ditch the ruby slippers altogether and never leave.
Have you ever hiked the Rainbow Valley Trail? Where else can you see amazing spring wildflowers in Arizona? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for a nearby kid-friendly waterfall hike the whole family can enjoy.
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Address: Estrella Mountain Regional Park, 14805 W Vineyard Ave, Goodyear, AZ 85338, USA
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Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
