The annual wildflower walk and kite flying event at Lewis Hill Preserve, near Porterville, will take place from 1-4 p.m. on Sunday, February 24 this year. Fletcher Linton of the National Forest Service will once again lead the mildly strenuous hike up the hill while explaining about the area's unique geographical elements as well as helping identify the local flowers.
Usually about this time of year we can expect to see the rare striped adobe lily, which is thought to appear in only six places around southern Tulare County. We'll mark the spots they appear this year and take tons of photos, too. We're hoping the rains of recent weeks will make for a lot of flowers this month.
The event costs $10 for members, $15 for nonmembers, $5 for students, and free for anyone 12 or under. The preserve is located just north of Porterville. From Highway 190 in Porterville, exit at Plano, one-and-a-half miles east of Highway 65. Drive north four miles to the crest of the first hill. From the north, take Highway 65 to Avenue 196 at Strathmore, and head east to Lynch/Road 256. Turn right (south) and follow the road until you reach the preserve. Park along the road near the entrance. Carpooling is encouraged.
This preserve is not open to the public on any other day but this one, so please don't come at other times and most definitely do not disturb the neighbors. Wear boots, a hat and long pants and be prepared to climb a somewhat steep hill. Bring a kite and snacks, but no dogs at this event, please.
