Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Last Chance (maybe)

Just speculating, but this weekend may be the last chance to see prime Mariposa Lilies, at least in the Bay Area. I’ve been seeing lots of them since getting back from Yosemite. The Mariposa Lilies that bloom around the Bay Area are much more colorful than the ones that I’ve seen in the Sierras. Even the white ones have brilliant color fading like air brush work inside in yellow and purple. There are also yellow and rose colored Mariposas to be found, and those types I have never seen in the Sierra. There are about 50 species all together. Last Saturday we were hiking at Sunol and there were many white Mariposas along the eastern end of the Maguire Peaks loop. The Saturday before that I even saw some yellow Mariposas blooming at Wilder Ranch. There were nice displays at Coe a few weeks ago too. If the sun comes out this weekend, that could make a fine opportunity to see one of the Bay Areas best seasonal specialties. It won’t be long before they start to fade out and go back to the earth. For me they are far more pleasing than any form of cultivation. Good places to see Mariposa Lilies; Henry Coe, Sunol, Ohlone Trail, Sierra Azul, Almaden Quicksilver, Rancho San Antonio, and many other places with grassy hills, open space, and sunshine. Oh, and if you haven't done so already, please stop over at the California State Parks Foundation and help them stop the park closures. Anyone can at least write a letter. Believe it will help!

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