The weather has finally calmed enough to be able to get back to  my regularly scheduled program. Spring  sessions are happening, but before I share those, I wanted to fill you in on this hike we did today, because if you want to check it out, the best time to go is now .  You have certainly seen a number of photos of the Southern California super bloom, and maybe you've even heard that access to some of those areas has been cut off due to overuse. We are fortunate to have our own super bloom this year on accessible lands. The North Table Mountain, situated in Oroville, is the result of a basalt lava overflow of many moons past. The landscape is uniquely fascinating, and in the wet months, fills with a number of streams and waterfalls. Every year, there are many blooms to be found, but this year is truly sensational: a kaleidoscope of  purple, blue, yellow,  white, pink,  orange, and so much green. It's fairly easy to get there, and the trails themselves are easy to navigate, having been worn down by the many who traversed them before. However, there are several, so be sure to pick the right one! 

Park in the lot or on the side of the road on Cherokee Lane, and you will see a row of portable restrooms. Go through to cow gate (yes, I said cow gate - you will see cows) and veer left. The trails are muddy, and there's a lot of creek crossing, so wear proper footwear! Follow the first stream to a fork in the trail. Here, you will make a choice: continue straight to Hollow Falls, a lovely but smaller waterfall which lies a short walk from the parking area. This path will take you through some of the best arrays of wildflowers.

There's more to see down this direction, but we opted to go back to the right fork and head to Ravine Falls, followed by Phantom Falls nest. There's some sketchy fence crossing, but it's all legal. If you're super adventurous, you can go down to the base of the falls, but we didn't make it that far. We went on the weekend, so it was quite crowded, but once the trail split, the crowds thinned quite a bit. I have no idea exactly how long the hike is. We milled about for three hours at a comfortable pace, but we misdirected many times. In the end, we did about six miles, but I'm pretty sure it's no more than two miles to get to Phantom Falls, the more famous of the bunch 

If you do make it out here, a couple of tips:

- You need to purchase and print a lands use pass for each hiker over 16. There was no one to check on this, but I'm a rule follower, so: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Licensing/Lands-Pass/FAQ

- There are no facilities other than a porta potty, so bring snacks and plenty of water. 

- There is no shade, so sunblock is a must. 

- Wear proper hiking boots; the trails are muddy and there's plenty of creek crossing required. 

- Mind the cow patties, and the cows. They seem a friendly lot, but safety first. 

- The waterfalls disappear in the dry season, so if you want to go, go soon!