HOW DOES ONE PROPERLY OBSERVE A WILDFLOWER... out in nature? Does one sit very quietly alongside it, or stretch out beneath it, if it is very tall, or peer down a hillside or up a glen in the general direction of the blossom? All are capital ideas, but one of the most charming ways is to eye the petal-fabulous wonder among other wildflower fans. You could gather a bunch of buffs together, to go strolling in the nearest wildflower-laden valley, or you could find a charming ride, one that operates on clean electricity, to cart you all to the place that the wildflowers are, fingers crossed, blooming. If this sounds like an equally capital idea to you, consider making a stop in Suisun City part of your springtime plans. That is, indeed, the home of the Western Railway Museum, which does, indeed, operate springtime scenic train rides on its historic choo-choos.
THE SCENIC LIMITED... will chugga down the tracks, in search of wildflowers, sunshine, and gentle adventure, every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday in April. It's running three times each of those days, as 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2 p.m., which reveals that none of the outings are too time-consuming. Rather, you'll have a relaxing hour to look out the window while keeping an eye out for lupine, poppies, and goldfield. And if you book a First Class seat in the Parlor Observation car? Cookies and lemonade will be served. The first train ride for the season is on April 4, a Wednesday, so line up your locomotive-loving pals now, and those who dig wildflower searches, for an easygoing amble, along the rails, through a typically bloomy part of the Golden State. Details? Chugga-chugga over here. One sweet extra to keep in mind? Your train ticket also means you can visit the museum, and all of its vintage train displays and sights.
