Our primary goal on this hike was to follow Nomlaki Trail (AKA Thomes Gorge Trail), Mendocino National Forest, to Thomes Creek. The other two or three times we hiked this trail, we’d either run out of time or energy (or both!) and turned around before descending down to the water.
This time, we gave ourselves plenty of time and began the hike where the trail intersects Road 23N35 (AKA Mud Flat Road), shortening the roundtrip distance by 4 miles. It still took us all day because the number of early bloomers took us by surprise! We had expected to see precious little in bloom; but in fact, we counted 27 blooming species! Already! And of course we had to stop to inspect each one.
We are pleased to report that we did indeed make it all the way down to the creek, which was roiling after recent storms, and, more importantly, back up again! The ~1.5-mile section of trail that leads down to the creek is steep and steeper, and sometimes not obvious or overgrown in places, but it was always easy to relocate.
For directions to this trail, please see the article, Thomes Gorge Trail, May 9, 2021. Do note, however, that you will need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to get up Mud Flat Road if you choose to go that way. It is mostly a good dirt road and only two miles to the trail, but in a few places it is seriously rutted.
Whichever way you go, wildflower lovers will think they have gone to heaven. This is a spectacular botanical area, home to several rare plants, and should be getting really into the swing of things come mid to late March. Just don’t leave it too late in the season as this trail can be extremely hot (please read the above article as well as Thomes Gorge Trail, June 19, 2022, and be prepared!).
Here’s a little preview of some of the beauties we saw already blooming, in the middle of winter! All photos by Don Burk. Enjoy! ~Laurie & Don Burk
