Buttermilk Bend, South Yuba River

The wildflowers are starting to bloom along the Buttermilk Bend trail by Bridgeport, South Yuba River. The 2 1/2 mile walk along the South Yuba River is a great way to experience the beauty and magic of the river.  Bring your camera and look for a variety of California wildflowers including Golden Poppies, Purple Lupine, White Daisy’s, Western Buttercup, Larkspur and Shooting Stars.  The Western Redbud are just starting to bloom, while the poppies are out, but not quite covering the hillside. Please remember there’s now a $5 parking fee at Bridgeport, but there’s a credit card kiosk.  This is one of my favorite family friendly activities as the hike is appropriate for all ages.  Click here for the self guided trees and shrubs brochure or here for a wildflowers directory.  For the State Park map, check out the digital version online.  If you’re looking to add a longer loop to your hike, check out the Point Defiance Loop.

The California State Park encourages folks, “To be sure to look for the newly posted signs along the trail for information on our native plants. Please stay on the path and don’t pick the wildflowers instead, leave them for others to enjoy. Also, the Poison Oak is starting to grow, and can be hard to spot without its distinctive leaves.  Enjoy the fresh air and sunshine, but please remember to bring a mask in your pocket for passing others on narrow sections of the trail.”

If you go, feel free to tag Visit Nevada City on Instagram so I can share your photos.  It’s always great to see people out enjoying our trails.

© 2021 InnSide Nevada City, Photos © by Erin Thiem