BEAR VALLEY >> The calendar says winter but the recent weather doesn’t agree, as evidenced by the greenery that has sprouted throughout Lake County and northern California, including along Bear Valley Road near the border between Lake and Colusa counties.
In March through May, Bear Valley is one of the best places in northern California for viewing wildflowers. Right now, the plants have sprouted and the blooms shouldn’t be far behind. This year’s crop of wildflowers, including the State Flower, the golden poppy, could come early and last longer than usual, thanks to the above-average rainfall in December and January followed by about two weeks of warm, dry conditions.
Bear Valley Road runs alongside or near Bear Creek, a tributary of Cache Creek, for about 10 miles and is currently at a low flow. The mostly packed-dirt single-lane road is well-maintained by the county and is an easy drive for most cars, pickups and SUVs. It may not be passable during or right after rain storms due to mud and rock slides.
There are a few large ranches along the road and it’s not uncommon for drivers to have to stop for cattle on or crossing the road. There is also an abundance of squirrels and other small mammals along with many species of water fowl and small reptiles, including water snakes in Bear and other nearby creeks.
The road winds through forested areas before leveling out through the wide expanse of Bear Valley and then gently climbing through brush and tree-covered hills into Leesville and Lodoga to the north or east to Williams. But a great deal of the scenery and wildlife is found between Highway 20 and Wilbur Springs, a six-mile drive one way.
Along the way are frequent turnouts where people can park and walk, take photos or just enjoy the sounds and sights of the valley. Unfortunately, hiking is not allowed. However, more than 16,000 acres are owned by the non-profit American Land Conservancy and is open to the public. It is accessible from an entry off Bear Valley Road and is marked with a sign that reads, “Wildflower Access.”Just pay attention to posted no trespassing signs.
Birds in the area include bald eagles, great blue herons, pileated woodpeckers, belted kingfishers, gold finches, bluebirds, and a variety of hawks including red tails, northern harriers, and American kestrals, according to the California Travel Insider website.
