The Alpine Poppy Garden is a well-known spot to visit gorgeous orange flowers in late Spring. The flowers look beautiful, especially with the mountains as a backdrop. There are lovely paths and benches throughout the field.
The Alpine Poppy Garden has become so popular that it is now being managed by the city of Alpine. They are trying to maintain this beautiful area, so that it can last for many years. So in order to enjoy your excursion while also taking care of the poppies, here are the best tips and tricks for visiting.
1. There is a little hike.
You should know that there is a bit of a hike. It’s not too difficult, but it is out in the open, so plan accordingly with sunscreen, hats, water, etc. The city has kindly added small flags to mark the way to the poppy field, so it makes the trail easy to follow.
2. Park at Lambert Park South Trailhead.
There is a dirt parking area at Lambert Park. This link shows you where to park: Alpine Poppies Parking. If this lot is full, there is a church right by the turn for the parking area, so you can park at the church and walk up. This adds a little distance to your hike. Some people try to park in a neighborhood near the field for a shorter route, but it is private property and considered trespassing, so please avoid that area. Use the parking area that Alpine City recommends.
3. Stay on the paths.
The city has created nice paths to walk through and enjoy the poppies. There are plenty of great spots for photos right on the path. Do not climb over ropes or fences to get in the poppy field. Just stay on the path to avoid trampling any of the poppies.
4. Don’t pick the poppies.
In fact, try not to touch them at all. Picking the poppies does more harm than good. We want the flowers to continue to grow and spread, and others to enjoy them, so please don’t pick any flowers. Since the poppy field has become so popular, taking just one flower makes a difference.
5. Go in the morning.
Many people want to visit in the evening because of the lighting, but the garden is a lot more crowded then. We prefer to go in the morning. The poppies are still beautiful and the crowds smaller. If you do choose to go in the evening, take lots of patience because there will be plenty of people to enjoy the poppies with. Weekdays are also better than weekends.
6. Last Week of May and First Week of June
The poppies only bloom for about two weeks, and it always seems to fall the last week of May and first week of June. It can shift a little bit based on the weather, but this is generally the best time to see the flowers. Mark your calendar early. Alpine City has already announced for 2025 that the field will be opened on May 21st until about June 9th depending on the poppy blooms.
7. Dogs are allowed with a few rules.
You can bring your dogs to the poppy fields, but they must be on leash or carried. Alpine City does not want any dogs loose to run into the field of flowers. Please keep your dog close to you if you choose to bring it. And clean up after your pet, too.
8. No bikes or horses in the poppies.
Lambert Park is an open space with lots of trails for hiking, biking, and horse riding. You can use your bike or horse on other trails around Lambert Park, but they are not allowed inside the poppy fields.
9. Go early in the bloom.
If it gets really hot, the poppies wither quickly. So we highly recommend going as early as you can. If you put off your adventure until the second week of June, you might miss the flowers. Plan to visit as soon as you hear the flowers are blooming. You can always check our Instagram for updated information.
10. Take Pictures and Enjoy!
This is a great spot to take fun pictures. The flowers really are beautiful, and you will find so many picturesque spots inside the poppy garden to take a photo. We love being out in nature and enjoying these gorgeous flowers, even when there are tons of people! It is such a fun place.
If we take care of the Alpine Poppy Garden, we will be able to enjoy it for years to come. Remember to stay on the paths and don’t take anything from the garden except pictures. Enjoy the amazing blooms!
