Advice on hiking Carizzo Plain this month looking for uncommon plants

Nature Talk
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Hi All,

Carizzo Plain has been on my list for a long time to go in search of observing uncommon plants. I’d like to head out there mid-March this year. Any advice on hikes, routes, or areas to check out, especially given that large areas were burned in the Madre fire?

I was considering hiking in from Hwy 166, as I am familiar with that area, but maybe I’d be better off sticking to the Soda Lake area outside the burn zone?

Or, maybe going into the burn zone would be a good way to document plants coming up after the fire?

Would love to hear what others think, especially if you know the area.

Thanks!

-LJ

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The California Native Plants Facebook page has had many posts recently from that area, and has some good pointers on where the most flowers are. You can also call the Visitor Center for updates on road conditions and the best areas to see: https://www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/california/carrizo-plain-national-monument

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My experience has been that hiking through burned areas of California several months after a fire is well worth it. There will be lots of interesting plants coming up.

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