Visit Madera during California Blossom Trail Season for picturesque views, dreamy photo-ops, and much more!

If you’ve ever driven through the Central Valley, you know that the landscape is dotted with fruit and nut trees. For a few weeks, from mid-February through March, those trees burst into bloom, transforming the Valley into a cotton candy-colored wonderland. During this time, people from all over the state visit the Central Valley to experience the California Blossom Trail.

What is the California Blossom Trail

The California Blossom Trail is a collection of Central Valley backroads and byways that wind their way through some of California’s most beautiful fruit and nut orchards. The Fresno County Blossom Trail is arguably the state’s most famous, but we’re particularly partial to the Madera Trail. If you’re not familiar with the area, be sure to download a trail map (courtesy of our friends at CA GROWN). Feeling adventurous? Hit the backroads and blaze your own trail while the whole Central Valley puts on quite a show!

While you’re in the area, be sure to swing by San Joaquin Wine Co. – you’ll find plenty of beautiful blooms along the way! We’re one of the most easily accessible wineries in Fresno and Madera Counties, just a few minutes off the 99.

How long does it take to drive the Blossom Trail?

If you’re following the Fresno County Blossom Trail, allow at least 2-3 hours as you make your way toward the verdant Sierra Nevada Foothills. The Madera Blossom Trail is much shorter, with equally gorgeous views and one added bonus – you can either start (or end) your trip at San Joaquin Wine Co.!

Make a day (or a weekend) of it: Where to stop, sip and explore near Madera

There’s so much to do – and see – in California’s Central Valley! Whether you choose the lengthier Fresno County Blossom and Citrus Trails, or the shorter Madera Trail, you’ll want to set aside time to explore some of our favorite farmstands, restaurants, and attractions along the way.

Go wine tasting at San Joaquin Wine Co.

If you’re visiting Central California during Blossom Trail Season, be sure to stop into our Madera winery. We’re just a few minutes off the 99 and only a half hour from the 41. Swing by and try one of our new True Temptation wine spritzers or sip on a glass of our award-winning Pomegranate Sangria. Our tasting room also offers non-alcoholic options for kids and anyone who might be abstaining – like designated drivers!

Our tasting room is open Wednesday through Friday, from 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, Saturday from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm and Sunday from 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm.

Grab a bite at the Vineyard

For over 40 years, The Vineyard has partnered with local farmers to serve some of the Central Valley’s most iconic fare. Locals know to order the Raisin Growers Sandwich  – it’s a cult favorite around these parts – but the lasagna and lamb shank are equally beloved.  

The Vineyard is open Tuesday through Friday from 11:30 am for lunch and dinner. Saturday they open for dinner at 4:00 pm, and closed on Sunday and Mondays.

Excite your taste buds at Thai Basil

Fans of authentic Thai food will fall in love with Thai Basil. If it’s your first time ordering Thai food, play it safe and try the Pad Thai. If you’re craving spicier fare, ask for the Green Curry or Tom Yum Soup. 

Thai Basil is open Wednesday to Sunday from 11:00 am – 8:00 pm, closed on Monday and Tuesday.

Binge on BBQ at Sugar Pine Smokehouse

Sugar Pine Smokehouse, at the Madera Municipal Golf Course, is one of our favorite Central Valley BBQ joints. Indulge in the Lumberjack Burger, a beast of a burger piled high with bacon, pulled pork, cheese and more. Then, hit the greens for a quick round of golf- or at least enjoy the views!

Sugar Pine Smokehouse is open daily from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Explore the Madera Wine Trail

While you’re cruising down the Madera Blossom Trail, why not stop in and say hello to some of our friends along the Madera Wine Trail! Our neighbors at Quady Winery are famous for their dessert wines, but they also make a fantastic vermouth. Ficklin Vineyards, Birdstone Winery and Toca Madera are a few more of our favorite stops along the Madera Wine Trail!

Travel back in time at the Fossil Discovery Center

Have you ever wondered what the Central Valley looked like thousands – and even millions – of years ago? Take a trip back in time at the Fossil Discovery Center. Visitors can explore the “Pleistocene Pond”, a meticulously recreated replica of what the landscape would have looked like a million years ago, view artifacts from the Yokut Indigenous peoples and even dig for fossils!

Wander through the wildflowers at Pincushion Peak

As early as mid-February, you’ll start to notice wildflowers speckling the foothills with bold bursts of color. One of the Central Valley’s best places to see wildflowers is Pincushion Peak, a local hiking trail. The final ascent is steep, but you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views, including a picturesque view overlooking the colorful hills and nearby Millerton Lake. Other popular trails where hikers will find delightful displays of wildflowers include the Big Table Mountain Trail and even Fresno’s Woodward Park Trails! 

Yosemite’s Firefall: Watch the sun set a waterfall ablaze

Yosemite National Park is a short, one and a half hour drive from Madera. The valley floor is stunning year-round but if you time your visit just right, you can combine your Blossom Trail adventure with another incredible natural phenomenon – Firefall. From mid to late February, just before sunset, Horsetail Fall takes on a gorgeous fiery orange glow for a few short – but magical – minutes. 

Ambitious explorers can easily hit the Blossom Trail and Firefall in one day. Head out early and explore the Blossom Trail as the sun rises over the eastern hills. Then, make your way up Highway 41 along the Madera Wine Trail as you head towards Yosemite National Park’s Southern Gate. Be sure to stop at Dorval Estate and Idle Hour Winery along the way! 

You’ll need to arrive at Horsetail Fall a few hours early to snag a spot to watch Firefall. Consider packing a picnic blanket, some snacks and a bottle of wine to sip on while you wait for the sun to set. Our California Wonders Red Blend would be a fitting choice! 

Note: Reservations are required to enter the park on select February weekends.

Explore the California Blossom Trail with CA GROWN

Our friends at CA GROWN share everything you need to know about visiting the California Blossom Trail and where to stop along the way!

Your 3-Day Fresno to Yosemite Itinerary

We told you – there’s a lot to see in the Central Valley! If you’re ready to make it a weekend, our friends at Salt and Wind Travel have plenty of inspo for you. Check out their 3-day Fresno to Yosemite itinerary!

Article by Hilary Rance, Images by Hilary Rance and James Collier