By Debbie Arrington
Mother Nature put the hold on Daffodil Hill.
Too much rain and wind delayed the opening of Amador County's top tourist attraction, which was set to start its 71st season last Friday.
Instead, Daffodil Hill will try to open this Friday, say its owners. Again, that's tentative, weather permitting.
Once it opens, the famous McLaughlin Ranch in Volcano will welcome visitors seven days a week, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., on non-rainy days. For safety reasons, the garden is closed during wet weather due to slippery paths.
A magnet for flower lovers of all ages, Daffodil Hill features about a half million blooms in more than 300 varieties squeezed into six acres. The Ryan family, descendants of the original owners dating back to the 1800s, add thousands of bulbs each fall.
The display usually continues into mid-April, although extreme heat or cold can shut down this unique flower show early.
Located at about 2,400 feet elevation, the ranch also had to contend with the threat of snow this week. March snow has delayed or shortened Daffodil Hill's season four times in the last eight years.
Admission and parking are free, but donations are welcome. No pets are allowed.
About a 90-minute drive from Sacramento, Daffodil Hill is at 18310 Rams Horn Grade, in Volcano. Call (209) 296-7048 for daily updates. For directions and more, click here and follow the links to Daffodil Hill under "Historic Attractions."
Call The Bee's Debbie Arrington, (916) 321-1075.
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