The arrival of spring heralds the opening of the Blossom Trail, as the peach, apricot and almond trees bloom throughout the Valley. Hundreds of patrons ride their bicycles or motorbikes on the square route from Sanger to Reedley, absorbing the beauty of Fresno’s agriculture.

The 62-mile trail highlights the flowers, green hills and other natural attractions for which the region is famous. As the largest agricultural producer in the United States, according to the Fresno Regional Foundation’s Web site, the path showcases the many fields and orchards of Fresno County.

Bikers often stop at the picnic areas and eat at the Blossom Trail Cafe, Fermin’s Steakhouse, Uncle Harry’s Bagels and Valentino’s Pizzeria while cycling on the trail.

Steve Ocheltree, a regular visitor of the trail, said he admires the freedom and countryside the path offers.

“I enjoy the feeling of freedom when I’m out in the country; it feels good to be around the fields, country and quiet,” Ocheltree said. “I usually bike in a group, and it’s beautiful out there.”

Going onto the trail for the first time this year, Jenn Boudreau, ’10, said she enjoyed the scenic view.

“Out in the country, there isn’t as much traffic, and in the spring it’s really gorgeous, especially with everything blooming,” Boudreau said. “And it doesn’t smell like carbon monoxide; and behind it, there is just this mountain view.”

A cyclist from Fresno, Mike Nimon, 55, biked the trail during the first week of March. He said the Blossom Trail prepares him for races and tours later in the year.

“It gets cyclists ready for bigger rides,” Nimon said. “It’s one of the earlier trips of the year for cycling and it gets my legs in shape for when I climb the Grand Canyon.”

Though the trail often displays beautiful views, many students on campus have not yet gone and experienced the trail. Sophomore Elise Porter said she loves the wild and the untouched scenery available, but the cycling aspect does not appeal to her.

“I play tennis and I ride my bike around my neighborhood,” Porter said. “If we had a biking team, I would cycle. But I’ve never had the opportunity to, and it’s always been a side thing.”

Along the trail lies Wonder Valley, which displays a small basin with homes surrounded by the countryside.

“I like going on the foothills, climbing and going through the fruit blossoms, especially at this time of the year when it’s the prettiest,” Nimon said. “Wonder Valley is incredible and really pretty.”

The Blossom Trail also boasts a range of small wildlife, including squirrels and many birds, such as cranes. Many of the fruit tree blossoms include almonds, plums, apricots, peaches, nectarines, apples and citrus.

“I usually like to go during March when all the colors are at their peak,” Ocheltree said. “It’s beautiful out there; it gives people a feeling of what a beautiful valley we live in.”

For more information on the Blossom Trail, visit the March 21, 2007, article, Beauty blooms along Blossom Trail.