The Trail Companion

Spring 2000

Theme: San Francisco Bay Area Wildflowers

A Few More Wildflower Tips

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Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve

Indian warrior

Photo by Geoffrey Skinner

Although Jasper Ridge is well known for its serpentine grassland, the Preserve is also a fantastic place for Indian warrior (Pedicularis densiflora), giant trillium, leatherwood and leopard lilies (Lilium pardalinum).
The season for most of these have flowers has largely passed but you might want to keep the Preserve in mind for next year. Particular trails of interest include:

Trail 12 (Mapache Trail):: February through March is the time to see one of the best displays of giant trillium in the area. Spectacular patches can be found all along the way, with the best located near the meadow at the end of the trail. Also look for leatherwood near the two wooden bridges. Rerouting this trail out of the rising waters of Corte Madera Creek was a major Trail Center project, 1995-1997, with more work in fall 1999.
Trail 2 (Long Creek Trail):: Look for a big patch of leopard lilies blooming on the banks of San Francisquito Creek in late June and July - the best I've seen anywhere in the area. You'll find them near the junction of Trails 1, 2 and 5.

Getting there: Jasper Ridge is open only to docent-led tours, which can be arranged by calling (650) 327-2277. The entrance to the Preserve is located on Sandhill Rd., two miles west of I-280.

Distance/Elevation change: various.

Best time for flowers: February through late May.

On the Web: Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve site

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A Few More Wildflower Tips: Los Trancos Open Space Preserve; Butano State Park; Stevens Creek County Park

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Wildflower and Plant Guides - Web and Electronic Resources

The Trail Companion

Spring 2000

Theme: San Francisco Bay Area Wildflowers

A Few More Wildflower Tips

Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve

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