Cowiche Canyon Preserve — Sunday, Apr. 27, 2025

Phlox, phlox, and more phlox! Wildflowers are at their peak. There are a variety of trails to choose from at the preserve. Most people strolled along the wide trail that follows the river. We went up to the ridge along the Lone Peak trail and made a nice five mile loop with the Radio Flyer trail. We only saw three other hikers and a few bicyclists. The sage smelled lovely. We enjoyed the views of the farm houses and orchards on the neighboring hillside. Adams was also visible through the haze. The only downside for me was the lack of balsam root. There are a few scattered plants on the river trail, but not the flood of them you can find on other trails. It was a small price to pay to have the trail to ourselves while we delighted in all the other spring wildflower varieties.

Lots of parking available at the west side parking lot. There’s an unattended porta potty, so you need your own TP. No pass is needed.