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Prepare to be dazzled, because each spring Monterey County is simply ablaze with breathtakingly beautiful wildflowers. So make sure that you take some time on your next Salinas break to stop and smell the flowers.
 
Here are the five beautiful places to seek out Monterey Country’s wildflowers this spring...
 

1. Fort Ord National Monument

Sky lupine, California poppies and wild daffodils are among the wildflowers that thrive within the coastal gem of Fort Ord National Monument. With more than 80 miles of trails, the area is a hiking and biking paradise that showcases some gorgeous paths through vast rolling hills and oak groves with some stunning vistas of Monterey Bay.
 

2. Pinnacles National Park

Lose yourself in a virtual riot of wildflowers at Pinnacles National Park until May. From Johnny-jump-ups to shooting stars, the park boast 100 species of wildflowers. For a challenging hike with some truly stunning eye candy, take a trip on the High Peaks Loop.
 

3. Garrapata State Park

California poppies, Monterey Indian paintbrush and monkey flowers sprinkle the ground at Garrapata State Park during spring and early summer. If you make your way along the western coastal trail and follow the stairs down to Doud Creek, you’ll be immersed in a veritable canyon of lilies.
 

4. Pacific Grove Coastline

From the beginning of April to late May, the coastline in Pacific Grove becomes known as the “magic purple carpet”, as ice plants blanket the area. Take an exceptionally pretty stroll or bike ride along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail.
 

5. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

You’ll find vivid displays of California poppies, Douglas irises and wild lilacs at Point Lobos State Reserve each spring, and there are more than a dozen trails to enjoy.
 
After a heady day of soaking up the scents of the wildflowers, a stylish room at the Laurel Inn & Conference Center in Salinas is the perfect place to lay your head. Featuring high headboards, granite top dressers, desks with rolling chairs and night stands, the property’s King Rooms really are a cut above the rest.