Spring is arguably the most beautiful time of year in Napa Valley. With the buds breaking on the vines, wildflowers blooming along the roadways, and winery gardens coming in full force, it’s a fantastic time to get out and find those epic photo spots. With the heavy rains we received this winter, will we see a superbloom this spring?

Here are some local favorites from our team of Napa Valley insiders:

Bud Break

Early spring means time for bud break – when the vines awaken from their dormant season and new green growth appears. This is the first stage of the vine cycle that eventually leads to grapes every fall. You'll find bud break in every vineyard throughout the valley usually in late-February to late-March, depending on the weather conditions. The next stage of the growing season usually starts in May when flowering begins – pollination and fertilization eventually results in a cluster of grapes.

Tulips

As you drive along Highway 29 in Oakville you will see the Nickel & Nickel's beautiful tulips, lupines, and daffodils set against their white picket fence. It's a welcome sight every spring in the valley.

More Tulips

Traveling east on Rutherford Road, there is a large tulip patch on the right side of the road by the river stream. Please be a respectful photographer and do not cut or trample the tulips.

Fruit Trees

Also along Rutherford Road, be sure to visit Frog's Leap Winery during the spring months. The fruit trees lining the long driveway are bursting with bright pink blossoms, and wildflowers dot the vineyards.

Poppies

You'll see California poppies throughout Napa Valley in mid- to late-springtime. Don't miss a drive along Silverado Trail for these brilliant blooms. Take a hike in Moore Creek Park to find the superbloom of poppies each year. You will also find poppies and other wildflowers planted in many winery gardens, and grown in the vineyards to attract beneficial insects.

Sheep

In the spring the flowers and cover crops (what grows between the vineyard rows to keep the soil rich) are in full bloom. Sheep graze through the vineyards as a sustainable farming practice to clean things up before the growing season. If you're lucky you can spot sheep at wineries like Artesa Vineyard and Winery, Burgess Cellars, Faust, Trefethen Family Vineyards, Crocker & Starr Winery, Rudd Estate, and Cliff Lede Vineyards.

Hiking trails

If you're looking for photo ops while getting your steps in, Westwood Hills Park and Alston Park are a must. Westwood Hills blooms after the winter rains, and if you go first thing in the morning or right before dawn, the light will be perfect for a good Instagram shot. Alston Park is an easier walk, you might not even break a sweat, but you get a view of the town and plenty of friendly dogs to borrow for a playful picture.

Mustard Blooms

And, of course, miles and miles of mustard flowers, as far as the eye can see. From January through March, the valley comes alive in a bright carpet of mustard flowers – it's truly spectacular! Learn more Mustard Season in Napa Valley and find a map of the usual photo opportunities.