Once spring has sprung, we suggest checking out Arizona poppies. During the season, these cheerful wildflowers are set to put on a spectacular show in the Grand Canyon State. Don’t fret if you’re unsure of where to go. To make it easy for you, we’ve put together a road trip leading to eight of the best places for Arizona poppies during the spring. Read on to learn more about this adventure to scenic fields in Arizona.

Google Maps
Before heading on this epic road trip, check out this map leading to poppy fields in Arizona to learn a bit about what you're going to explore.

1. Estrella Mountain Regional Park

Estrella Mountain Regional Park Playground, 14805 W Vineyard Ave, Goodyear, AZ 85338, USA
Facebook/Estrella Mountain Regional Park
This season is proving to be one of the most fruitful Estrella Mountain Regional Park has seen in quite some time. Rainbow Valley Trail, a 3.8-mile loop suitable for all skill levels, is the best place to spot Arizona poppies. You'll find the trail on the west end of the parking lot.

2. White Tank Mountain Regional Park

White Tank Mountain Regional Park, 20304 West White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell, AZ 85355, USA
Facebook/White Tank Mountain Regional Park
With a whopping 40 miles of trails, this popular park boasts plenty of opportunities to see springtime blooms. Vibrant orange poppies abound on Goat Camp, South, and Waddell Trails, as do brittlebush, chicory, and several other flowers in these fields in Arizona.

3. Cave Creek Regional Park

Cave Creek Regional Park, 37019 N Lava Ln, Cave Creek, AZ 85331, USA
Facebook/Cave Creek Regional Park
Wildflower season peaks slightly later at Cave Creek, so there's still plenty of time to experience the enchantment. Clocking in at 5.9 miles, the easy Go John Trail is your best bet. Not an inch of terrain is without these breathtaking orange blossoms.

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4. McDowell Sonoran Conservancy

McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Saguaro Loop Trail, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, USA
Facebook/McDowell Sonoran Conservancy
Over 200 miles of trails wind through this expansive natural area, providing endless poppy sightings all season long. With so many hikes, you could visit every day and get a different view! Lost Dog Wash Trail, Gateway Trail Loop, and Marcus Landslide Trail offer the most striking scenes of Arizona poppies.

5. South Mountain Park Preserve

South Mountain Park and Preserve, 10919 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042, USA
AllTrails/Jenny Young
Arizonans rush to South Mountain Park every spring, as it promises awe-inspiring wildflower vistas following winters with heavy precipitation. This year falls into that category, and the turnout has been spectacular thus far. The Bajada and Ranger Trails never disappoint, featuring vibrant poppies and an impressive array of other wildflowers as well.

6. Usery Mountain Regional Park

Usery Mountain Regional Park, 3939 N Usery Pass Rd, Mesa, AZ 85207, USA
AllTrails/Shannon Clark
Whether you're looking to take a relaxing stroll amongst fields in Arizona or test your body's limits, Usery Mountain has the perfect trail for every fitness goal. No matter what path you choose, rest assured there'll be plenty of blooms along the way. Try Merkle Trail for an easier option, or take on Pass Mountain Loop if you want to break a sweat. Both trails are lined with thousands of poppies throughout the entire route!

7. Picacho Peak

Picacho Peak, Arizona 85141, USA
Flickr/rwshea
One of the most famous wildflower destinations, Picacho Peak has trails ranging in length from 0.2 to 3.1 miles. A sea of poppies extends endlessly into the distance, offering mesmerizing views everywhere you look. Follow the Calloway Trail to a scenic overlook for an unparalleled hiking experience.

8. Peridot Mesa

Flickr/squeaks2569
We've saved the best for last: Peridot Mesa. This incredible place is like a scene from Wizard of Oz (or perhaps even more beautiful)! The best times to visit are in the morning or early afternoon, as the blooms begin closing up in the later afternoon and evening.

Have you had a chance to check out any of these vibrant Arizona poppies? If so, which ones were your favorite?

If this is your first time visiting these fields in Arizona, we suggest referencing our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List before setting out on this memorable outing. We also recommend checking out our article about this hike in Prescott, Arizona if you’re looking for more outdoor adventures. If you prefer to visit a charming small town, you might enjoy exploring the town of Douglas, Arizona.

 

 

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More to Explore

Arizona Poppies

Marla S. | February 28, 2024

What are some of the best things to do in Arizona in the spring?

In addition to going on a road trip to see poppies, here are some of the best things to do in Arizona in the spring:

  • Take a hike or plan a picnic with your family at one of the 31 state parks in Arizona.
  • Spend the day exploring the Grand Canyon State by going on a hike to explore some stunning natural landscapes.
  • Enjoy breathing the fresh spring air while checking out a small town like Douglas, Arizona.
  • Soak in some history when you spend time in Prescott, Arizona during the spring season.

 

What are some of the best road trips in Arizona?

Along with visiting poppy fields throughout the state, the following list highlights some of the best road trips in Arizona:

  • Arizona Route 66 Road Trip: Although this trip entails over five hours of driving time, plan to spend at least an overnight stop to visit some of the quaint towns along this historic road.
  • Arizona Hidden Gems Road Trip: During this scenic adventure, you'll get to explore Martinez Lake, Gila Bend, Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, and more.
  • Arizona Fall Foliage Road Trip:  We think your jaw will drop when you take this five-hour journey to eight vibrant locations in Arizona in autumn.
  • Family-Friendly Arizona Road Trip: Regardless of your age, this unique excursion will take you to some memorable dinosaur-themed spots in the Grand Canyon State.

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