As February approaches, it’s time for the almond orchards to blossom. In these months, driving through the flower fields and the fruit farms are wheelchair-friendly activities that keep our minds fresh and rejuvenated. Even though people are getting vaccinated and COVID cases have gone down significantly we still have to take all the necessary precautions for all our activities so that we protect others as well as ourselves.

Modesto is famous for its almond blossoms. From late February through mid-March, the almond orchards in and around Modesto put on a spectacular show with brilliant pink and white blooms.   

The best way to see the display is a self-guided driving tour to the heart of the local almond country. Very close to downtown Modesto, miles of orchards create a horizon of white and pink bloom.

During the road trip to Modesto, you will get to see a breathtaking plethora of blossoms that line freeways 132 and 99. Check out the flatlands along the roads on the west side of Highway 99, you will see almond trees abloom on all sides. With a gust of wind, it appears as snow falls from the layer of white petals dropping from the trees and covering the ground. You can pull over on the side and enjoy the scenery. The color also changes with the angle of the sun’s rays.

You can take Nhart road from 132 and make a square through Beckwith road, Ndokota road, and Maze blvd. Firms on Nhart road have the best blooms. If you make the entire loop you will cover about 120 miles from downtown and back. You can go up to an elevation in the foothills. The view is spectacular as you go up.

After the trip, you can spend your time in Modesto downtown for a quick bite.

Wheelchair accessibility ♿️

All the firms with almond blooms are wheelchair accessible. My favorites are the ones in Nhart road. Don’t miss the chance to take the picture of the beautiful arch created by the trees.  Look for the inner roads where you can enjoy the fields by driving around. There isn’t any accessible parking but you can park on the roadside for a quick picture. Be careful with the wheelchair as the grounds might be a little bumpy.