Texas Wildflowers in 2012

"Field of Dreams-Ennis, Texas"

Last year Texas was in the middle of one of its worst droughts in history. Rains during the fall and winter changed that and the countryside has become green again. This spring has been a banner year for wildflowers. The top photo is from an area about 25 miles south of Dallas. Ennis has an annual Bluebonnet Festival and this field is located along one of the roads that is part of its Bluebonnet Trail. I noticed today that they are encouraging people on their web site to "Hurry, Hurry! There are still blooms that are up for great viewing." The bluebonnets peaked about a week or 10 days ago. The Festival is not until April 21&22. That is normally when the flowers peak but the warm winter has caused the bloom to run 2 to 3 weeks early this year. I have driven through the area twice and it is as good as I have ever seen it.

"Trail at Enchanted Rock"

I also spent several days photographing in the Texas Hill Country. My favorite area is around Llano. I especially like to do some hiking on the trails at Inks Lake State Park and Enchanted Rock State Park. Over the years I have learned the trails which have the best flowers. Photographing this way is much more rewarding than stopping along the roadsides and taking pictures. 

"Enchanted Rock and Bluebonnets"

Bluebonnets at Lake Buchanan"

Inks Lake has never let me down when it has been a good year for wildflowers. So many fields in other areas seem to be good one year and not so good the next. The areas of the best flowers at Inks Lake State Park have been very consistent from year to year. The mixture of granite rock, cactus, and wildflowers can't be beat. I also have a favorite area which contains mostly Indian Paintbrush. The two photos below were taken there.

"Group of Paintbrush at Inks Lake State Park"

"Paintbrush and Rocks-Inks Lake State Park"

This last image was taken right near the sign to Inks Lake State Park. It is almost like a menu of what is ahead of you during your trip through the park.

"Wildflower Mix-Inks lake State Park"