A splash of spring

The first day of spring may be just days away, but the season's wildflowers at California's largest state park—Anza-Borrego Desert State Park—are already here to say hello! Every spring, this barren desert floor undergoes a dramatic makeover. Flowers like heliotrope, brittlebush and desert dandelion burst into a riot of bloom, creating a spectacle of colour. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, this park has a lot to offer—from the mountains of the Peninsular Ranges and cactus-studded hills to slot canyons, badlands and natural palm oases. In addition, as a designated International Dark Sky Park, it is an exceptional spot for stargazing. Beyond its natural wonders, the park, spanning over 600,000 acres (242,811 hectares), is also home to a rich cultural and historical legacy, such as ancient pictographs, or rock paintings.
© Stephen Matera/Tandem Stills + Motion