10-25 Mitchell Canyon

After two missed Wednesdays (smoke from Wine Country fires followed by wind and closed open space) we didn't care if the forecast was for HOT, we needed to get out on the trail. Eleven of us walked from the Mitchell Canyon parking area toward the upper end of the canyon and back. Lunch was at the picnic table under the monster oak 2 miles in. This was a quintessential California fall day! pleasant in the shade, hot in the sun, lots of birds, long shadows and wonderful colors.

https://www.flickr.com/gp/momcat_ksw/2w67k3
(warning...lots of grape leaf pictures)

10-18 No Hike

Red Fire Warnings. Closed parks and open space. Wind. Heat. No Hike

10-11 No Hike

This has been quite a week in northern CA. The terrible wildfires in the wine country have sent incredible smoke into the entire Bay Area. Warnings are constant to avoid outdoor activity. Public lands have been closed as a response to the high fire danger.

The picture was taken from my yard midday on Wednesday. The hills behind the school are barely visible and they are only a half mile away.

10-4 San Pablo Reservoir

This was a pleasant excursion for 13 Wednesday Walkers. We started at Kennedy Grove and picked up the Bay Area Ridge trail segment at the north end of the parking area. Most of us wandered thru the eucalyptus forest, crossed San Pablo Creek on adequate rocks and finally emerged to cross the entrance road just below the dam. From the crossing to the top of the dam was the only real "up". Once we were at lake level it was easy walking on the old paved road, in and out of the shade. We ate lunch on the deck at the marina and wandered back. It was a beautiful fall day for a 3.4 mile amble.

https://www.flickr.com/gp/momcat_ksw/77H54H