Spring Wildflower Hike Series Announced In SMC

REDWOOD CITY, CA — Spring has sprung at Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve, a prime spot for native California wildflowers, where The Friends of Edgewood offer free, guided spring wildflower hikes weekly through the end of May.

Edgewood is the only designated Natural Preserve within the San Mateo County Parks system and is celebrated for its exceptional biodiversity. Visitors can expect to see a shifting tapestry of blooms as the season progresses: March brings out the flowers of the oak woodland, April showcases the vibrant serpentine grasslands, and May introduces the late spring hillside flowers, according to Barrie Moore FoE president.

The guided hikes are offered every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Participants can choose between starting locations at the Bill and Jean Lane Education Center or the Clarkia Trailhead. Hikes are scheduled for 9 a.m. or 2 p.m. These typically cover about three miles and last around three hours, providing ample time for hikers to observe and learn about the diverse flowers and wildlife along the route.

FoE's team of expert wildflower docents leads the excursions, helping visitors identify dozens of blooming species while sharing valuable insights into Edgewood’s ecology, Moore said. The docents also highlight some of the rare, threatened, or endangered species that are actively being protected and restored within the preserve.

These longer wildflower hikes are recommended for adults and older children interested in a detailed look at the park’s flora and fauna. For families with younger children, FoE also offers shorter, kid-friendly hikes on select Saturdays and Sundays at 10 a.m.

While the hikes are free, advanced registration is mandatory and can be completed at https://friendsofedgewood.eventbrite.com.

New hike dates are typically posted two weeks in advance, so prospective hikers are encouraged to check the site regularly or follow Friends of Edgewood on Eventbrite for notification of newly added sessions.