CENTRAL VALLEY | WEEKEND GETAWAYS

Time to hit Fresno County's Blossom Trail

Take a fragrant drive, trail run or bike ride during the Central Valley's bloom time.

By Amy Hubbard, Los Angeles Times Staff Writers
05:17 PM PST, February 15, 2008

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Do you know the difference between various fruit and nut tree blossoms? Almonds, apples and plums have white petals; apricots are pink; and peaches and nectarines can run pink to red.

You can check them out firsthand at the Blossom Trail in Fresno County that runs between February and April when trees sprout colorful and fragrant petals. The blooms haven't yet popped, but they should be ready for showtime in early spring.

Blossom Trail: The 62-mile self-guided driving trail, open from February to April, shows off groves, orchards, vineyards and wildflowers. Here are some Blossom Trail events coming up this spring.

Blossom Days Festival: To celebrate, the tiny town of Sanger will hold its Blossom Days festival, now in its 20th year, with a car show, food booths, live entertainment, arts and crafts and kids' activities. The event runs 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 1 at 7th and N streets. Free admission to the festival.

11th annual Blossom 10K Trail Run: The run, with races for nearly all levels of competitors, is held on the same day. You can register online or in person at 6:45 a.m. at the Bank of America parking lot at 7th and O streets. Race registration is $20.

Info for both events: (559) 875-4575 or www.driveblossomtrail.com.

Annual Kings River Blossom Bike Ride: Smell the blossoms on a 10-mile ride for beginners and families with children, and a 45-mile or 100K route for more advanced cyclists. The rides start in the town of Reedley. Rides cost about $25 per person. Click here to register or for more information.

Sixth Annual Orange Harvest Festival in Orange Cove: This small-town fest features entertainment, food and craft booths and more. Call (559) 616-5179 for more info or click here.