Rare Superbloom Covers Carrizo Plain National Monument in Wildflowers
The wet weather this year has created optimal conditions for wildflowers, resulting in a “superbloom” that can be seen from space.
Carrizo Plain National Monument is located in Santa Margarita, Calif., a two to three hour drive from Los Angeles. The large expanse of open grasslands is surrounded by mountain ranges and punctuated by Soda Lake, a natural alkali wetland.
A superbloom is a rare event, happening every ten years or so in California. It results from a particular combination of weather. In the prior year, it has to be dry enough to prevent invasive weeds from becoming established, followed by enough rainfall to go deep enough into the soil to reach dormant seeds, but not so much that young seedlings get washed away.
These unique conditions result in a landscape that looks like it has been painted in vibrant shades of yellow, orange and purple.
There is one main unpaved road through the National Monument about 50 miles long. Fuel up and bring snacks and water before entering, as there are no services inside. Use caution if venturing off the main road and go with a four wheel drive and/or lifted vehicle if able, especially during the rainy season.
