Every end of winter, California’s Central Valley sees almond blossoms in full bloom, and I’ll share what you should know about visiting these orchards in Bakersfield, Fresno (Fresno Blossom Trail), and Modesto (Modesto Almond Blossom Cruise). The almond blossoms are a beautiful spot to add on your road trip from Northern to Southern California (or vice versa), or can be a great day trip on its own. Have fun finding these beautiful spots and enjoy taking all the photos!
Where are the almond blossoms in Bakersfield?
You may see people telling you that the almond blossoms are located throughout most of Bakersfield, and it’s true! As you drive along the I-5 highway to reach the city, you will see almond trees blossoming on both sides of the highway and it’s gorgeous! You can pull your car over to the side (please find a safe place to do so) and snap some quick photos. There are also plenty of orchards and scattered trees within the city, and you can find spots to safely pull over onto a roadside to see them.
You can watch my Instagram reel here to see my experience of Bakersfield’s almond blossoms or view my Instagram photos here.
7th Standard Street
The 7th Standard Street is a long “street” running through the northwest section of Bakersfield, California. You can pull over along any portion of this street to see the almond blossoms, but be aware that it is more of a freeway than a street so be careful. Please remain close to the sidewalk and don’t venture too far into the orchards. As I exited I-5 and turned onto 7th Standard St, I immediately saw the flowers along this street. So, you do not need to drive all the way into central Bakersfield if you don’t want to.
This is roughly a 2 hour drive from Los Angeles and a 3.5 hour drive from the Bay Area.
Where should I go in Fresno?
The City of Fresno has a “Fresno Blossom Trail”, and you can check their website for their map as well as updates on the blossoms and any blossom festival events. Driving along the trail will take you to all the good stops. There are also signs along the road to guide you, but I would recommend dropping location pins into your mobile, navigation app so the app can help direct you while driving.
In Fresno, you should visit during the morning or evening if possible. The trees are unable to block any afternoon heat and harsh lighting, which may make your experience less enjoyable.
This is roughly a 3 hour drive from the Bay Area and a 3.5 hour drive from Los Angeles.
Where are the almond blossoms in Modesto?
The City of Modesto has an “Almond Blossom Cruise” to help you plan your visit! You can view the city’s website here for more information on locations and if the flowers are in bloom. You can also download their map here to help you navigate the area.
As of 2026, the Rodin Farms and the Robert Ferry Gourmet may be the only two farms currently allowing visitors to enter their orchards.
This is roughly a 2 hour drive from the Bay Area and a 5 hour drive from Los Angeles.
When should I plan my visit?
Almond blossoms hit their peak bloom around late February, start to wilt around early March, and will be gone by mid March. At this time of writing, you should visit them right now!
The actual bloom date changes yearly, depending on the weather. Your best bets on determining if the flowers are currently in bloom are to 1. either check it out yourself, 2. follow each city’s website to see their updates (usually updated weekly), or 3. look out for creators like myself whom post date-stamped photos and videos.
Other important details:
Free to visit
All of these orchards are free to visit! Just be aware that they are private properties. Read more below.
In Modesto specifically, the two farms allow visitors to roam their property. You can choose to support them by shopping at their farmers’ stands.
Respect private property
These almond orchards are all private property! Be respectful and do not trespass. Stay only on the edge or outskirts of the area. You can view and take photos of the almond blossoms with no issues from the roadside or by wandering only a few feet in. If you happen to see the owners when you visit, you can ask for permission to enter. Again, you do not need to wander far in to enjoy the blossoms or get nice photos. Remain respectful.
Please also follow the “leave no trace” (of you being there) mindset in order to respect the farmers’ almond orchards. We don’t want to damage their crops and make them feel the need to block off access!
Weather & attire
Bakersfield and the Central Valley are definitely baking! It is generally hot in these cities (possibly high 60s Fahrenheit), even though almond blossom season is in the winter. Bring sunscreen and prepare for warm, sunny afternoons.
As for your attire, be prepared for your shoes to get dirty. Even though you’re only staying on the side of the road, the dirt will likely still cling onto your shoes.
Save the bees
Naturally, there are a lot of bees around to pollinate the flowers. Please do not disturb them. Also if you don’t disturb them, they won’t disturb you.
Pesticides
The farmers spray their orchards with pesticides, which may be harmful. I suggest keeping your photoshoot short! (You won’t need that much time anyway).
My outfits & gear
If you’re interested in any of my outfits, I always have them linked on my LTK Shop. If you’re interested in my camera or other equipment, I have them on my Amazon storefront for you!
I hope you enjoy seeing the almond blossoms if you go or that you’ll add this to your bucket list for when you visit California’s Central Valley during the end of winter!
vaniabeann 