Sequoia National Park: A Bloom Watcher’s Wildflower (short) Guide
By Del Albright

Spring and early summer in Sequoia National Park bring more than just warm sunshine and towering trees. They welcome a colorful cast of wildflowers, from forest floors to roadside pullouts, rewarding those who take the time to look closely. Whether you’re a photographer, a Jeep adventurer, or a day hiker cruising the Generals Highway, these blooms are worth stopping for (safely, of course).

Recently, I had the wonderful opportunity to explore the Park as part of the Spring Conference of the Outdoor Writers Association of California, hosted by Visit Visalia, based out of Wyndham Visalia.  During the spring at nearly every stop along the road where you can park safely, there are flowers to see. The Internet is sketchy in places, so be sure to bring your flower cheat sheet! Sherrie Bakke, Executive Director of Visit Visalia took us on a whirlwind, amazing tour of some of the key highlights of Sequoia National Park.  The wildflowers were spectacular.

What to Look For: Common Wildflowers Seen from the Road

These are some of the most commonly seen wildflowers during peak bloom (April to July, depending on elevation):

• Oneleaf Onion (Allium unifolium) — Clusters of lavender-pink star-shaped flowers on tall stalks. Often seen in sunny meadows or slopes.

• Violet Draperia (Draperia systyla) — A delicate, violet-to-white flower with fuzzy leaves, found in shaded, forested areas.

• Maiden Blue-eyed Mary (Collinsia parviflora) — Dainty blue and white blooms carpeting forest soil in shady, moist spots.

• Whiteflower Currant (Ribes indecorum) — Shrubby plant with pale pink to white flower clusters, usually along dry slopes and lower elevations.
• Western Wallflower (Erysimum capitatum) — Bright yellow flowers on tall stems, common on open hillsides.
• Mountain Pride (Penstemon newberryi) — Magenta-colored blooms that favor rocky outcrops.
• Wavy-leaf Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja applegatei) — Bright red-orange brushes rising from dense green foliage.

• Snowplant (Sarcodes sanguinea) – A striking red, parasitic plant that thrives under conifers in mid- to high-elevation forests.
• Sierra Gooseberry (Ribes roezlii) — A spiny shrub with tiny blossoms and future edible berries.
• Green-leaf Manzanita (Arctostaphylos patula) — Smooth-stemmed shrub with urn-shaped pinkish-white flowers.

• California dogwood, cornus nutallii, also known as Pacific dogwood were peaking with their huge white sepal blooms in front of one of the denser groves
• Mountain Whitethorn (Ceanothus cordulatus) — A dense, blooming shrub with white to pale blue flowers.
• Crimson Columbine (Aquilegia formosa) — Graceful red and yellow nodding flowers often found near stream banks.

Take Only Photos, Leave Only Footprints

It might be tempting to pick a flower or two for the road, but collecting any natural objects in Sequoia National Park is illegal. These blooms are part of an ecosystem that supports birds, bees, butterflies, and your fellow nature lovers. Bring your camera, take plenty of pictures, and leave the wildflowers for the next visitor to enjoy.

⛰ When and Where to Spot Wildflowers

Bloom season varies by elevation:

• March to May: Lower elevations like Ash Mountain and Hospital Rock start showing color.
• May to June: Mid-elevation zones like Halstead Meadow come alive.
• June to July: High elevation meadows near Crescent Meadow peak with color.

Scenic Spots for Wildflower Viewing

While driving through the park, consider stopping at these locations known for their wildflower displays:

• Halstead Meadow – Located along the Generals Highway, this meadow is a hotspot for wildflowers and offers picnic areas.

• Crescent Meadow – Accessible via the Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow Road, this area is often referred to as the “Gem of the Sierra” and is surrounded by lush vegetation and wildflowers.

• Big Trees Trail – An easy, accessible loop trail around Round Meadow, providing opportunities to see wildflowers and giant sequoias.

Safety and Stewardship Reminders

• Park only in designated areas. Don’t block traffic when stopping to view or photograph wildflowers.
• Stay on trails and avoid trampling delicate vegetation.
• Obey all signs and follow National Park Service guidelines.
• Don’t leave food out or visible in your car – there are bears!

Sequoia National Park is more than just trees – it’s a wildflower sanctuary. Let’s protect it by enjoying the blooms responsibly, driving safely, and leaving nothing but tire tracks and footprints.

See you on the bloom trail!

delalbright.com