When the desert turns gold.

Wildflower season in Borrego Springs runs from late February through early April, with peak bloom usually in the second or third week of March. A "superbloom" — when the desert floor turns gold, purple, and white from horizon to horizon — happens roughly once every seven to ten years and requires the right pattern of winter rain.

Henderson Canyon Road. The easiest wildflower drive in the valley. Park anywhere and walk.

Coyote Canyon. The trail through Lower Willows runs along a perennial creek and is consistently one of the best displays.

The alluvial fans. The sloping bajadas north of Borrego Springs Road catch the most rain runoff. Sand verbena and desert sunflowers carpet here first.

1. Watch winter rainfall reports in December and January.
2. Call the Anza-Borrego Foundation wildflower hotline in mid-February.
3. Book accommodation as soon as the forecast looks promising — March weekends sell out a year in advance during good years.
4. Plan to be on the ground by sunrise. Wildflowers, the soft light, and an empty desert are a single experience.