So Cal. had a record breaking week of rainfall for October. But Nature had pity on us and gave us Sat. and Sun. with some sun and cool air for outdoor adventure. We took advantage of it, of course! Saturday we drove 1 1/2 hrs to the SART..Santa Ana River Trail off Hwy.38, I believe, this side of Big Bear. My only camera was a cell phone so lighting was a problem to capture some good shots. The trail head is easily visible and parking was ample. (Don't forget your Wilderness Pass!) We hiked in about 4 miles, planning a 2 hour hike, tops. It was a gorgeous cool day and we were so greatful to feel the sun and see the clouds below not above! The trail was this perfect rolling hike among the giant trees overlooking the valley below. Mtn bikers have access as well so a few passed by. There were more than a couple spots on the trail that required careful steps or the slide down would be a long one. We saw some bike skid marks and a few shoe prints that showed a rider had made a very close call that morning!
Sunday we got on our mtn bikes back home and headed into ALISO WOODS from the Canyon Vista park entrance. I must rate the ride yesterday as perhaps the most BEAUTIFUL ride yet in Aliso. The after-rain conditions made for a perfect, tacky trail ride, sumptuous fresh air deep within the fire trail and a vibration all around as thought the park was bursting with freshness after it's rain bath. A big tree had fallen on the main trail. It was fun to have to slip through the branches and make our way around it. Other riders appeared and also did a double take to see this giant tree fallen across the trail. We took a spin through Coyote Run and then took a ride to the bottom of Meadows, then down the paved park road to the far end where the park posts it's END OF TRAIL sign at the water treatment plant. I couldn't resist the photo op with the TP~~
On our way back we spotted a BOBCAT! My first time seeing a whole one! I'd seen a tail slip through the brush a few years back. I was surprised at the small size. I took a picture of it but I realize there's no way to see it in the photo. He blended in so well and was very still, waiting for us to take off. He wasn't in the least bit worried we were near, more like, impatient for us to move along so he could proceed with his own Sun. morning plans. We waited up the road a bit, waiting to see if he'd reappear and cross the road again. Sure enough, 2 minutes later he nonchalantly strolled out and down the road, crossing over to a large bush covering, but not before he rolled over on his side to scratch an itch.
Two gorgeous adventures in one weekend...how lucky...and how needed it was!!!
