During the 22-mile ride down Monterey Road from downtown San Jose to Morgan Hill, I stop at the tackle shop for drinks.
During the 22-mile ride down Monterey Road from downtown San Jose to Morgan Hill, I stop at the tackle shop for drinks in the old Coyote area and notice an old ice-dispensing machine.
Date: October 20, 2006, 21h43
During the 22-mile ride down Monterey Road from downtown San Jose to Morgan Hill, I stop at the tackle shop for drinks in the old Coyote area and notice an old ice-dispensing machine.
Dunne Avenue winds its way to Henry Coe State Park some 2500 feet above the town of Morgan Hill.
Dunne Avenue winds its way some 2500 feet higher up in the mountains toward Henry Coe State Park over 10 miles after leaving the suburb town of Morgan Hill.
Date: October 30, 2006, 21h01
Dunne Avenue winds its way some 2500 feet higher up in the mountains toward Henry Coe State Park over 10 miles after leaving the suburb town of Morgan Hill.
On the way up the hills Dunne Avenue passes Anderson Lake and continues onward and upward. Looking down to Anderson Lake.
On the way up the hills Dunne Avenue passes Anderson Lake and continues onward and upward. Looking down to Anderson Lake.
Date: November 08, 2006, 21h15
On the way up the hills Dunne Avenue passes Anderson Lake and continues onward and upward. Looking down to Anderson Lake.
Looking down toward Morgan Hill on a different angle from this same area.
Looking down toward Morgan Hill on a different angle from this same area.
Date: October 27, 2006, 21h59
Looking down toward Morgan Hill on a different angle from this same area.
An upper valley along Dunne Avenue getting close to Henry Coe State Park.
An upper valley along Dunne Avenue getting close to Henry Coe State Park, whose entrance is more or less on top of the hills visible here.
Date: October 30, 2006, 21h02
An upper valley along Dunne Avenue getting close to Henry Coe State Park, whose entrance is more or less on top of the hills visible here.
Baby raccoons in the trash cans at Henry Coe State Park headquarters.
Baby raccoons in the trash cans at Henry Coe State Park headquarters.
Date: October 27, 2006, 22h05
Baby raccoons in the trash cans at Henry Coe State Park headquarters.
After signing in for backpacking sites at Henry Coe State Park headquarters, I head down to the hidden Yerba Buena campsite.
After signing in for backpacking sites at Henry Coe State Park headquarters, I head down to the hidden Yerba Buena campsite a third of a mile behind headquarters down a hill and several switchbacks. Unfortunately, the trail has grown in a lot with grasse
Date: October 27, 2006, 22h56
After signing in for backpacking sites at Henry Coe State Park headquarters, I head down to the hidden Yerba Buena campsite a third of a mile behind headquarters down a hill and several switchbacks. Unfortunately, the trail has grown in a lot with grasses since the last time I used this campsite a couple of years ago and I'm having a lot of difficulty following the trail.
I've completely lost the trail to Yerba Buena campsite because grasses have taken over.
I've completely lost the trail to Yerba Buena campsite because grasses have taken over. But I know I'm really close because I remember how it was the last time I was here. The bike just rolled over a couple of times as I cut steeply across non-trail are
Date: November 01, 2006, 22h32
I've completely lost the trail to Yerba Buena campsite because grasses have taken over. But I know I'm really close because I remember how it was the last time I was here. The bike tumbled down a couple of times as I cut steeply across non-trail areas trying to rejoin the trail.
I finally make it to the Yerba Buena campsite with its picnic tables hidden in the shade of many big old oak trees.
I finally make it to the Yerba Buena campsite with its picnic tables hidden in the shade of many big old oak trees. Beautiful setting. Even though one can hear the sounds of people in the car campground up above, those folks have no idea that anyone is d
Date: October 30, 2006, 21h02
I finally make it to the Yerba Buena campsite with its picnic tables hidden in the shade of many big old oak trees. Beautiful setting. Even though one can hear the sounds of people in the car campground up above, those folks have no idea that anyone is down here below them. This is an ideal spot for folks seeking real solitude but not willing to go far to find it. The fact that the trail to this isolated campsite has grown in so much over a few years is a sign to me that hardly anyone ever comes down here.
Tent is set up at the Yerba Buena campsite, home for the night.
Tent is set up at the Yerba Buena campsite, home for the night.
Date: October 27, 2006, 22h58
Tent is set up at the Yerba Buena campsite, home for the night.
Up on top of the world on Manzanita Point Road
After leaving the visitor centre at the entrance to Henry Coe State Park around 2600 feet and passing through the entrance gate to "the backcountry," I ride down Manzanita Point Road along the ridge top.
Date: November 08, 2006, 21h19
The next morning, I climb up out of the hidden Yerba Buena campsite to the Henry Coe State Park visitor centre above at about 2600 feet. From there, I pass through the entrance gate to "the backcountry" and ride down Manzanita Point Road along the ridge top. Today's destination is a bit beyond the ridge in the background. There will be a steep descent into and out of the gulley between here and there, and a crossing of Coyote Creek, which has mostly dried up at this time of year (September 2, 2006)
Poverty Flat Road forks off to the left from Manzanita Point Road
Poverty Flat Road forks off to the left and then it's down, down about 1200 feet in 2 miles. As you go down, you realize that it will be tough coming back up this road on the way back in a few days.
Date: October 30, 2006, 21h06
Poverty Flat Road forks off to the left and then it's down, down about 1200 feet in 2 miles. You know that it will be tough coming back up this road once you start going down!
Switchback on Poverty Flat Road on the way down
Many switchbacks all the way down Poverty Flat Road. How will you make it back up from the bottom?
Date: September 14, 2006, 20h27
Many switchbacks all the way down Poverty Flat Road. How will you make it back up from the bottom?
Descending Poverty Flat Road
Some nice shady areas along Poverty Flat road on the way down. You will like this shade later when you come back up in the heat of the day.
Date: September 14, 2006, 20h27
Some nice shady areas along Poverty Flat road on the way down. You will like this shade later when you come back up in the heat of the day.
Crash location while descending Poverty Flat Road
I slipped in the dust on the road here and crashed. I rolled off the bike, made a big dust cloud and got dirty, but not injured.
Date: October 30, 2006, 21h07
I slipped in the dust on the road here at this steep switchback and crashed. I rolled off the bike and got really dirty, but not injured. A big dust cloud lingers.
Poverty Flat Road crosses Coyote Creek
At the bottom of Poverty Flat Road, the road crosses Coyote Creek, which is mostly dry at this time of year. But I take note of the small pool of semi-stagnant water here in case I have to filter some of it to drink later during my trip on the way back o
Date: September 14, 2006, 20h29
At the bottom of Poverty Flat Road, around 1200 ft, the road crosses Coyote Creek, which is mostly dry at this time of year. I take note of the small pool of semi-stagnant water here in case I have to filter some of it to drink later during my trip on the way back out of the park.
The road through Poverty Flat alongside Coyote Creek
The flat road through Poverty Flat is really dusty, up to six inches thick with powder right now... This flat stretch only lasts about 1/2 mile before it rises out of the gulley again.
Date: September 14, 2006, 20h31
The flat road through Poverty Flat is really dusty, up to six inches thick with powder right now... This flat stretch only lasts about 1/2 mile before it rises out of the gulley again There are five campsites along this part of the road. I have camped here before but won't be doing so today. Today's destination is Mississippi Lake.
Poverty Flat Road rises steeply out of Poverty Flat
Poverty Flat Road rises steeply out of Poverty Flat at 1200 feet to reach about 1600 feet along the side of Jackass Mountain. I drag the 10-ton bike up most of this because it's too steep to ride.
Date: September 14, 2006, 20h51
Poverty Flat Road rises steeply out of Poverty Flat at 1200 feet to reach about 1600 feet along the side of Jackass Mountain. I drag the 10-ton bike up most of this because it's too steep to ride.
Poverty Flat Road rolls up and down along Jackass Mountain
Poverty Flat Road rolls up and down, sometimes steeply, on the side of Jackass Mountain at around 1600 feet.
Date: September 14, 2006, 20h52
Poverty Flat Road rolls up and down, sometimes steeply, on the side of Jackass Mountain at around 1600 feet.
Junction of Poverty Flat Rd and Mahoney Meadows Road
At the junction of Mahoney Meadows Road, I turn right to descend the short and fast hill back down to Coyote Creek again.
Date: October 30, 2006, 21h08
At the junction of Mahoney Meadows Road, I turn right to descend the short and fast hill back down to Coyote Creek.
Mahoney Meadows Road drops down to Coyote Creek
Mahoney Meadows Road drops down to Coyote Creek, not yet visible in the gulch ahead. Today's destination, Mississipi Lake, is up over the hills in the distance.
Date: September 14, 2006, 20h53
Mahoney Meadows Road drops down to Coyote Creek, not yet visible in the gulch ahead. Today's destination, Mississipi Lake, is up over the hills in the distance.
Los Cruzeros
Mahoney Meadows Road crosses dry Coyote Creek at a spot called Los Cruzeros. Three campsites, vacant right now, perhaps due to the lack of water here at this time of year, are off to my right.
Date: August 15, 2008, 22h40
Mahoney Meadows Road crosses dry Coyote Creek at a spot called Los Cruzeros. Three campsites, vacant right now, perhaps due to the lack of water here at this time of year, are off to my right.
Los Cruzeros squirrel
A photogenic squirrel perches on a rock, watching me as I walk around Los Cruzeros to check out the scenery. I'm surprised that he doesn't seem disturbed by my presence at all. Maybe the hot, dry weather is encouraging him to stay still...
Date: August 15, 2008, 22h39
A photogenic squirrel perches on a rock, watching me as I walk around Los Cruzeros to check out the scenery. I'm surprised that he doesn't seem disturbed by my presence at all. Maybe the hot, dry weather is encouraging him to stay still unless absolutely necessary.
Dry Coyote Creek at Los Cruzeros
Coyote Creek through Los Cruzeros is completely dry this Labour Day weekend. Old algal growths in the creek bed are dried up and bleached by the hot sun.
Date: August 15, 2008, 22h37
Coyote Creek through Los Cruzeros is completely dry this Labour Day weekend. Old algal growths in the creek bed are dried up and bleached by the hot sun.
Willow Ridge Trail rises out of Los Cruzeros
I stare up at the narrow Willow Ridge Trail which climbs out of the valley here and is my route today over the mountains
Date: August 15, 2008, 22h37
I stare up at the narrow Willow Ridge Trail which climbs out of the valley here and is my route today over the mountains.
Heading up out of Los Cruzeros along the Willow Ridge Trail.
Heading up the lower part of the Willow Ridge Trail, looking back down to Los Cruzeros
Date: August 15, 2008, 22h36
Heading up the lower part of the Willow Ridge Trail, looking back down to Los Cruzeros. The Mahoney Meadows Road that I just rode down is visible in the background descending down to the dry Coyote Creek bed. Beginning the hardest work of the day... Almost none of this trail is ridable uphill on a 10-ton bike.
Poison oak woods on Willow Ridge Trail
Willow Ridge Trail passes through a woodsy area for half a mile or so, and there's no breeze in here, just heat. Beautiful scenery, but tough with a bike. A few downed trees provide obstacles to get the bike past, while encroaching poison oak all along
Date: September 14, 2006, 22h12
Willow Ridge Trail passes through a woodsy area for half a mile or so, and there's no breeze in here, just heat. Beautiful scenery, but tough with a bike. A few downed trees provide obstacles to get the bike past, while encroaching poison oak all along this narrow section brush up against my saddlebags (a hiker could easily avoid it though).
Willow Ridge Trail rises out of the poison oak forest to a more meadowy area.
Willow Ridge Trail slowly snakes upward out of the woods to a more open area where the sun is hotter, but there's a bit of a nice, refreshing breeze here.
Date: September 14, 2006, 22h14
Willow Ridge Trail slowly snakes upward out of the woods to a more open area where the sun is hotter, but there's a bit of a nice, refreshing breeze here.
Break time on the lower-middle section of Willow Ridge Trail!
Nice place for a break.
Date: September 14, 2006, 22h26
Nice place for a break.
One of many steep sections on Willow Ridge Trail
It's pretty steep here; I'm already tired from dragging the bike just this far, and I've got a lot more of this ahead of me still.
Date: September 14, 2006, 22h27
It's pretty steep here; I'm already tired from dragging the bike just this far, and I've got a lot more of this ahead of me still.
A rare flat stretch along Willlow Ridge Trail
Ah, a brief, short, flat section along the trail where I could get on the bike again and ride a tenth of a mile or so.
Date: September 14, 2006, 22h44
Ah, a brief, short, flat section along the trail where I could get on the bike again and ride a tenth of a mile or so.
Looking back down another steep part of the trail.
Yes, this trail is steep in places ...
Date: September 14, 2006, 22h45
Yes, this trail is steep in places ...
Big manzanita along the trail.
I had a lot of problems at this point and had to drag the 10-ton bike across the trail and back, creating my own switchbacks which aren't part of the trail.
Date: November 08, 2006, 21h25
I had a lot of problems at this point and had to drag the 10-ton bike across the trail and back, creating my own switchbacks which aren't part of the trail. I'm hot and tired, and the temperature must be around 90 degrees. I'm going through lots and lots of water.
Approaching Willow Spring
Getting close to Willow Spring!
Date: September 14, 2006, 23h00
Getting close to Willow Spring!
Willow Spring itself
I made it, finally, to Willow Spring. I'm almost out of water, so I stop here to filter some of the spring water that is piped into the bin here. The end of my water purifier picks up some green slimy stuff from the water, but I wipe it off and ignore i
Date: September 14, 2006, 23h01
I made it, finally, to Willow Spring. I'm almost out of water, so I stop here to filter some of the spring water that is piped into the bin here. The end of my water purifier picks up some green slimy stuff from the water, but I wipe it off and ignore it.
Top of the Willow Ridge Trail, where it meets Willow Ridge Road, also called "roller coaster ridge"
Wow, I've finally reached the top of Willow Ridge Trail. It seemed like this moment would never come as I dragged my bike so slowly up the trail's 1.6 miles. Seems like it shouldn't have taken me all afternoon to get here!
Date: September 14, 2006, 23h06
Wow, I've finally reached the top of Willow Ridge Trail. It seemed like this moment would never come as I dragged my bike so slowly up the trail's 1.6 miles. Seems like it shouldn't have taken me all afternoon to get up here!
Up on the ridge finally on Willow Springs Road.
Up on the ridge finally on Willow Springs Road.
Date: September 15, 2006, 22h08
Up on the ridge finally on Willow Springs Road. I haven't passed the high point yet, but it feels like I have after having conquered the steep and narrow Willow Springs Trail.
Sunset approaching along Willow Ridge Road, getting higher.
Sunset approaching along Willow Ridge Road as I head toward Mississippi Lake, still a few miles away.
Date: September 15, 2006, 22h09
Sunset approaching along Willow Ridge Road as I head toward Mississippi Lake, still several miles away.
Up on top of it all on Willow Ridge Road.
Up on top of it all on Willow Ridge Road.
Date: September 15, 2006, 22h14
Up on top of it all on Willow Ridge Road. I'm up around 2500 feet. The Silicon Valley suburb of Morgan Hill is far off in the distance some 2500 feet below the cloud layer that is somewhat visible filling in the space between the distant hilltops, looking like haze.
Willow Ridge Road, lots of steep ups and downs as it rides on the ridge top. I have to drag the bike up some of the steep hills
Willow Ridge Road, lots of steep ups and downs as it rides on the ridge top. I have to drag the bike up some of the steep hills, but sometimes I can get enough speed going down the hills to propel me to the top, or most of the way, of the next lump.
Date: September 15, 2006, 22h16
Willow Ridge Road, lots of steep ups and downs as it rides on the ridge top. I have to drag the bike up some of the steep hills, but sometimes I can get enough speed going down one hill to propel me to the top of the next one, or most of the way at least.
My last decent photo along Willow Ridge Road before it gets dark.
My last decent photo along Willow Ridge Road before it gets dark. I ride the last two miles into Mississippi Lake with my bright headlight turned on.
Date: September 15, 2006, 22h13
My last decent photo along Willow Ridge Road before it gets dark. I ride the last two miles into Mississippi Lake with my bright headlight turned on.
Morning at Mississippi Lake with a bit of shade thanks to the ramada.
Morning at Mississippi Lake with a bit of shade thanks to the ramada. It must be in the high 80s already, so any shade really helps!
Date: November 08, 2006, 21h29
Morning at Mississippi Lake with a bit of shade thanks to the ramada. It must be in the high 80s already, so any shade really helps! There's no one to be seen anywhere, except me. On a hot weekend like this, most people flock to the cooler parks on the other side of Silicon Valley, which is fine for those of us looking for solitude.
Mississippi Lake itself behind the tent.
Mississippi Lake itself behind the tent. The water here, even after being filtered, tastes like grass and algae, unless it's chilled. I had hoped to venture onward today to the Mustang Flat area, but I'm exhausted from yesterday's trek to get here and n
Date: September 18, 2006, 20h11
Mississippi Lake itself behind the tent. The water here, even after being filtered, tastes like grass and algae, unless it's chilled. I had hoped to venture onward today to the Mustang Flat area, but I'm exhausted from yesterday's trek to get here and not ready for another long bike ride today. Instead, I decide it's time for a short ride to Bear Spring a mile away to fill up with some better-tasting water.
Bear Spring Road heads northward away from Mississippi Lake.
Bear Spring Road heads up a dry (at this time of year) creek at the north end of Mississippi Lake.
Date: September 18, 2006, 20h12
Bear Spring Road heads up a dry (at this time of year) creek at the north end of Mississippi Lake.
Bear Spring Road meanders through the grassland along the dry creek.
Bear Spring Road meanders through the grassland along the dry creek.
Date: September 18, 2006, 20h26
Bear Spring Road meanders through the grassland along the dry creek.
The tub at Bear Spring is full of nice cool water.
The tub at Bear Spring is full of nice cool water.
Date: September 18, 2006, 20h26
The tub at Bear Spring is full of nice cool water.
I go for a walk up one of the rocky hills by Bear Spring.
I go for a walk up one of the rocky hills by Bear Spring.
Date: September 18, 2006, 20h45
I go for a walk up one of the rocky hills by Bear Spring.
Pumping water from Bear Spring.
Pumping water from Bear Spring.
Date: September 18, 2006, 20h45
Pumping water from Bear Spring.
Standing in a patch of stachys albens (?)
Standing in a patch of stachys albens (?) growing in the now-dry creekbed. This looks and smells like the same stachys plants that I have growing along my driveway, but mine are much, much lower to the ground.
Date: September 18, 2006, 20h46
Standing in a patch of stachys albens (?) growing in the now-dry creekbed. This looks and smells like the same stachys plants that I have growing along my driveway, but mine are much, much lower to the ground.
These stachys (?) plants fill the entire creek bed.
These stachys (?) plants fill the entire creek bed.
Date: September 18, 2006, 20h46
These stachys (?) plants fill the entire creek bed.
Close-up of the stachys plants and their blossom stacks.
Close-up of the plants and their blossom stacks.
Date: September 18, 2006, 20h46
Close-up of the plants and their blossom stacks.
Big pine cones litter the trail near Bear Spring.
Big pine cones litter the trail near Bear Spring.
Date: September 18, 2006, 21h09
Big pine cones litter the trail near Bear Spring.
Sometimes, the "road" rises above the dry creek briefly and then rolls back down to meet it again.
Heading back to Mississippi Lake with my water bottles full. Sometimes, the "road" rises above the dry creek briefly and then rolls back down to meet it again.
Date: September 18, 2006, 21h10
Heading back to Mississippi Lake with my water bottles full. Sometimes, the "road" rises above the dry creek briefly and then rolls back down to meet it again.
Riding along Bear Spring Road back toward Mississippi Lake.
Riding along Bear Spring Road back toward Mississippi Lake.
Date: September 18, 2006, 21h10
Riding along Bear Spring Road back toward Mississippi Lake.
One last hummingbird-attracting bloom remains on this thistle, which I believe is the California native red thistle.
One last hummingbird-attracting bloom remains on this thistle, which I believe is the California native red thistle.
Date: September 18, 2006, 21h11
One last hummingbird-attracting bloom remains on this thistle, which I believe is the native red thistle.
Bear Spring Road (it's a trail, really) crosses the dry creek several times.
Bear Spring Road (it's a trail, really) crosses the dry creek several times.
Date: September 18, 2006, 21h11
Bear Spring Road (it's a trail, really) crosses the dry creek several times.
After spending a couple of hours back at my tent by the lake and having lunch, I leave for
After spending a couple of hours back at my tent by the lake and having lunch, I leave for a couple of hours on a ride toward Board Spring, a few miles south of Mississippi Lake. It is a hot day and I'm surprised at how much water I've drank.
Date: September 18, 2006, 21h31
After spending a couple of hours back at my tent by the lake and having lunch and relaxing, I leave for a couple of hours on a ride toward Board Spring, a few miles south of Mississippi Lake. It is a hot day and I'm surprised at how much water I've drank already. I keep drinking and drinking, even though the water is quite warm and not refreshing... The road on the west side of the lake is quite shady in places south of the ramada camp site.
The dam crossing the south end of Mississippi Lake.
The dam crossing the south end of Mississippi Lake.
Date: September 18, 2006, 21h31
The dam crossing the south end of Mississippi Lake.
View north up Mississippi Lake from the dam at the lake's south end.
View north up the lake; my campsite with the ramada is about a mile away at the other end of the lake to your left. All those grasses growing in the lake presumably create the grassy taste of the lake water.
Date: September 18, 2006, 21h31
View north up the lake; my campsite with the ramada is about a mile away at the other end of the lake to your left. All those grasses growing in the lake presumably create the grassy taste of the lake water.
The road rises up away from the lake toward County Line Road and Board Spring.
The road rises up away from the lake toward County Line Road and Board Spring.
Date: September 18, 2006, 21h32
The road rises up away from the lake toward County Line Road and Board Spring.
Elderly chamise bush along County Line Road.
Elderly chamise bush along County Line Road.
Date: September 19, 2006, 22h30
Elderly chamise bush along County Line Road.
Bike standing on the edge of County Line Road at the trailhead of the Hartman Trail (closed to bikes), which descends down into
Bike standing on the edge of County Line Road at the trailhead of the Hartman Trail (closed to bikes), which descends down into the Orestimba Valley. Would make a great hike.
Date: September 19, 2006, 22h30
Bike standing on the edge of County Line Road at the trailhead of the Hartman Trail (closed to bikes), which descends down into the Orestimba Valley. Would make a great hike.
I walk down the Hartman Trail a few hundred feet and look back up toward County Line Road.
I walk down the Hartman Trail a few hundred feet and look back up toward County Line Road.
Date: September 19, 2006, 22h31
I walk down the Hartman Trail a few hundred feet and look back up toward County Line Road.
County Line Road is picturesque as it winds through chaparral and oak woodlands with amazing views off to the east (left) toward
County Line Road is picturesque as it winds through chaparral and oak woodlands with amazing views off to the east (left) toward the Orestimba Valley.
Date: September 19, 2006, 22h31
County Line Road is picturesque as it winds through chaparral and oak woodlands with amazing views off to the east (left) toward the Orestimba Valley. I had originally considered heading all the way down to that valley today before deciding that I need a "day off."
Board Spring Road veers off County Line Road on a slight downhill along the edge of the mountain.
Board Spring Road veers off County Line Road on a slight downhill along the edge of the mountain.
Date: November 08, 2006, 21h34
Board Spring Road veers off County Line Road into the brush in the middle of the photo on a slight downhill along the edge of the mountain.
The short (1/3-mile-long) road to Board Spring narrows.
The short (1/3-mile-long) road to Board Spring narrows and is fairly grown in with grasses and sagebrush in places.
Date: September 19, 2006, 22h51
The short (1/3-mile-long) road to Board Spring narrows and is fairly grown in with grasses and sagebrush in places.
At the end of the road is Board Spring and I'm ready to start pumping!
At the end of the road is the spring and I'm ready to start pumping!
Date: September 19, 2006, 22h52
At the end of the road is the spring and I'm ready to start pumping!
Pumping water at Board Spring.
Pumping water at Board Spring.
Date: September 19, 2006, 22h52
Pumping water at Board Spring.
Enjoying the view from Board Spring out across the Orestimba Valley.
Enjoying the view from Board Spring out across the Orestimba Valley.
Date: September 19, 2006, 22h52
Enjoying the view from Board Spring out across the Orestimba Valley.
On the way back to my campsite at Mississippi Lake, I stop to take photos along County Line Road on the ridge top
On the way back to my campsite at Mississippi Lake, I stop to take photos along County Line Road on the ridge top.
Date: September 27, 2006, 22h11
On the way back to my campsite at Mississippi Lake, I stop to take photos along County Line Road on the ridge top.
Back at my Mississippi Lake campsite under the ramada and old oak trees for the evening.
Back at my Mississippi Lake campsite under the ramada and old oak trees for the evening.
Date: September 27, 2006, 22h11
Back at my Mississippi Lake campsite under the ramada and old oak trees for the evening.
Moonlight (almost a full moon) at Mississippi Lake.
Moonlight (almost a full moon) at Mississippi Lake.
Date: September 27, 2006, 22h12
Moonlight (almost a full moon) at Mississippi Lake.
Packing up in the morning to leave Mississippi Lake.
Packing up in the morning to leave Mississippi Lake. Packing up is not my favourite job!
Date: September 27, 2006, 22h12
Packing up in the morning to leave Mississippi Lake. Packing up is not my favourite job!
Leaving Mississippi Lake on the old road.
Leaving Mississippi Lake on the old road.
Date: September 27, 2006, 22h14
Leaving Mississippi Lake on the old road.
A slow and mostly gentle climb up from Mississippi Lake to County Line Road, which rides along the ridge.
A slow and mostly gentle climb up from Mississippi Lake to County Line Road, which rides along the ridge.
Date: September 28, 2006, 21h57
A slow and mostly gentle climb up from Mississippi Lake to County Line Road, which rides along the ridge.
After a mile or so, I've made it up to ridge on County Line Rd, with great views looking back down to Mississippi Lake
After a mile or so, I've made it up to ridge on County Line Rd, with great views looking back down to Mississippi Lake for a while. The ramada is hidden in the oak trees, but the nearby outhouse is visible to the centre-right.
Date: September 28, 2006, 22h42
I've made it up to ridge on County Line Rd, with great views looking back down to Mississippi lake for a while. The ramada is hidden in the oak trees, but the nearby outhouse is visible to the centre-right. The road visible in the distance on the hill to the right is Willow Ridge Road (aka "roller coaster ridge"), which is the route that I took to get to Mississippi Lake two nights ago.
County Line Road climbs slowly as the ridge rises.
County Line Road climbs slowly as the ridge rises.
Date: September 28, 2006, 21h59
County Line Road climbs slowly as the ridge rises.
Some amazing views from County Line Road across the Orestimba Wilderness and the ridgetops beyond.
Some amazing views from County Line Road across the Orestimba Wilderness and the ridgetops beyond.
Date: September 28, 2006, 21h59
Some amazing views from County Line Road across the Orestimba Wilderness and the ridgetops beyond.
County Line Road slowly rises along the ridge.
County Line Road slowly rises along the ridge.
Date: September 28, 2006, 22h23
County Line Road slowly rises along the ridge.
Heading toward the top of Bear Mountain, County Line Road passes through oaks and chamise chapparal.
Heading toward the top of Bear Mountain, County Line Road passes through oaks and chamise chapparal. A steep drop-off into the valley 1000 feet below awaits anyone who veers off the right side of the road. I passed an oncoming maintenance vehicle along
Date: September 28, 2006, 22h24
Heading toward the top of Bear Mountain, County Line Road passes through oaks and chamise chapparal. A steep drop-off into the valley 1000 feet below awaits anyone who veers off the right side of the road. I passed an oncoming maintenance vehicle along this stretch of the road and this was the only close contact I had with another human being during my three nights out in the Henry Coe backcountry. (While at Mississippi Lake, I once also saw two people in the distance further down alongside the lake.)
The views from County Line Road across Orestimba Valley are quite impressive along the upper parts of County Line Road.
The views from County Line Road across Orestimba Valley are quite impressive along the upper parts of County Line Road. Just don't slip off the side of the road, or nobody will find you for a long time!
Date: November 08, 2006, 21h37
The views from County Line Road across Orestimba Valley are quite impressive along the upper parts of County Line Road. Just don't slip off the side of the road, or nobody will find you for a long time!
An old gate on County Line Road before the final rise where County Line Road veers westward and becomes Bear Mountain Road.
An old gate on County Line Road before the final rise where County Line Road veers westward and becomes Bear Mountain Road.
Date: September 28, 2006, 22h25
An old gate on County Line Road before the final rise whre County Line Road veers westward and becomes Bear Mountain Road.
County Line Road rolls up and down along the ridge as it rises to reach the summit of Bear Mountain Road.
County Line Road rolls up and down along the ridge as it rises to reach the summit of Bear Mountain Road.
Date: September 28, 2006, 22h35
County Line Road rolls up and down along the ridge as it rises to reach the summit of Bear Mountain Road.
One final big hill at the top of County Line Road, which is easier for me to drag my bike up, rather than try to ride it.
One final big hill at the top of County Line Road, which is easier for me to drag my bike up, rather than try to ride it.
Date: September 28, 2006, 22h36
One final big hill at the top of County Line Road, which is easier for me to drag my bike up, rather than try to ride it.
At the top of Bear Mountain Road.
At the top of Bear Mountain Road. The road drops a big 1250 feet in just over three miles, with several steep uphills on the way down, so the downhills can be steep!
Date: October 03, 2006, 22h46
At the top of Bear Mountain Road. The road drops a big 1250 feet in just over three miles, with several steep uphills on the way down, so the downhills can be steep!
Bear Mountain Road drops off toward the valley below me.
Bear Mountain Road drops off toward the valley below me.
Date: October 03, 2006, 22h46
Bear Mountain Road drops off toward the valley below me.
With much downhill to come, I look back up at the distance I've already dropped down.
With much downhill to come, I look back up at the distance I've already dropped down.
Date: October 03, 2006, 22h46
With much downhill to come, I look back up at the distance I've already dropped down.
At the junction of the Bear Creek Trail: Bear Mountain Road heads downhill to
At the junction of the Bear Creek Trail, that trail heads off to the left (straight), while Bear Mountain Road heads downhill to my right.
Date: November 08, 2006, 21h39
At the junction of the Bear Creek Trail, that trail heads off to the left (straight), while Bear Mountain Road heads downhill to my right.
Bear Mountain Road drops off steeply several times on the way down.
Bear Mountain Road drops off steeply several times on the way down.
Date: October 13, 2006, 20h45
Bear Mountain Road drops off steeply several times on the way down.
There are many uphills on the way down.
There are many uphills on the way down. These can be fun if you get a lot of speed going and see how far up the hill you can go with your momentum gained from riding down.
Date: October 13, 2006, 20h46
There are many uphills on the way down. These can be fun if you get a lot of speed going and see how far up the hill you can go with your momentum gained from riding down.
Another drop-off on Bear Mountain Road.
Another drop-off on Bear Mountain Road.
Date: October 13, 2006, 20h46
Another drop-off on Bear Mountain Road.
More rolling ups and downs on the way down.
More rolling ups and downs on the way down.
Date: October 08, 2006, 23h12
More rolling ups and downs on the way down.
Looking back up one of the short steep hills that I just came down on Bear Mountain Road.
Looking back up one of the short steep hills that I just came down on Bear Mountain Road.
Date: October 08, 2006, 23h12
Looking back up one of the short steep hills that I just came down on Bear Mountain Road.
More ups on the way down.
More ups on the way down.
Date: October 08, 2006, 23h13
More ups on the way down.
The bottom of the road in the canyon at Coyote Creek becomes visible.
The bottom of the road in the canyon at Coyote Creek becomes visible.
Date: October 08, 2006, 23h13
The bottom of the road in the canyon at Coyote Creek becomes visible.
Getting closer to Coyote Creek at the bottom of Bear Mountain Road.
Getting closer to Coyote Creek at the bottom of Bear Mountain Road.
Date: October 08, 2006, 23h13
Getting closer to Coyote Creek at the bottom of Bear Mountain Road.
One steep final hill on Bear Mountain Road to the canyon bottom at Coyote Creek. This segment is steep and I'm glad I'm coming
One steep final hill on Bear Mountain Road to the canyon bottom at Coyote Creek. This segment is steep and I'm glad I'm coming down rather than attempting to go up it!
Date: October 08, 2006, 23h14
One steep final hill on Bear Mountain Road to the canyon bottom at Coyote Creek. This segment is steep and I'm glad I'm coming down rather than attempting to go up it!
The bottom of Bear Mountain Road crosses Coyote Creek, which is dry at this time of year.
The bottom of Bear Mountain Road crosses Coyote Creek, which is dry at this time of year. The gravel area crossing the road would be hidden by flowing water during the wetter months.
Date: October 12, 2006, 21h34
The bottom of Bear Mountain Road crosses Coyote Creek, which is dry at this time of year. The gravel area that you see crossing the road would be hidden by flowing water during the wetter months.
The road crosses Coyote Creek several times; here is another crossing.
The road crosses Coyote Creek several times; here is another crossing.
Date: October 12, 2006, 21h33
The road crosses Coyote Creek several times; here is another crossing.
As I approach my destination down here in the canyon, Arnold Horse Camp, I pass by a small area where the Creek has not complete
As I approach my destination down here in the canyon, Arnold Horse Camp, I pass by a small area where the Creek has not completely dried up yet.
Date: October 12, 2006, 21h32
As I approach my destination down here in the canyon, Arnold Horse Camp, I pass by a small area where the Creek has not completely dried up yet. There's not much water left, but I take a note of it in case I have a problem with the water at Arnold Horse Camp and have to backtrack to this location to purify some water. It looks bad, but at the same time last year I drank from similar residual pools of water along here (filtered of course) and the water tasted quite good (to my surprise)!
Another dry crossing of Coyote Creek as I approach Arnold Horse Camp.
Another dry crossing of Coyote Creek as I approach Arnold Horse Camp.
Date: October 12, 2006, 21h29
Another dry crossing of Coyote Creek as I approach Arnold Horse Camp.
Arnold Horse Camp, my destination for the day, is hidden in the trees at the centre-right, up the road from the dry Coyote Creek
Arnold Horse Camp, my destination for the day, is hidden in the trees at the centre-right, up the road from the dry Coyote Creek.
Date: October 12, 2006, 21h54
Arnold Horse Camp, my destination for the day, is hidden in the trees at the centre-right, up the road from the dry Coyote Creek through the grass.
Walking the bike up the short road to Arnold Horse Camp.
Walking the bike up the short road to Arnold Horse Camp.
Date: October 13, 2006, 20h39
Walking the bike up the short road to Arnold Horse Camp.
Approaching the cabin at Arnold Horse Camp.
Approaching the cabin at Arnold Horse Camp.
Date: October 13, 2006, 20h21
Approaching the cabin at Arnold Horse Camp.
The cabin at Arnold Horse Camp sits in the shelter of a big tin roof
A view of the Arnold Horse Camp cabin hiding in the shade of the big tin roof built above it. A big oak tree grows up through the tin roof shelter.
Date: October 13, 2006, 20h15
A view of the Arnold Horse Camp cabin hiding in the shade of the big tin roof built above it. A big oak tree grows up through the tin roof shelter.
Inside the old cabin at Arnold Horse Camp is a bedroom equipped with a mattress, and probably hantavirus from the mouse dropping
Inside the old cabin at Arnold Horse Camp is a bedroom equipped with a mattress.
Date: October 12, 2006, 21h56
Inside the old cabin at Arnold Horse Camp is a bedroom equipped with a mattress. For a moment, it's tempting to think of sleeping there, but with mouse droppings everywhere inside (think hantavirus), it's best to get out of the cabin and stay out.
Living room in the cabin at Arnold Horse Camp
Living room in the cabin at Arnold Horse Camp
Date: October 13, 2006, 20h13
Living room in the cabin at Arnold Horse Camp
Decomposed scarf and water bottle decorate the living room wall.
An old decomposed scarf (at least I think that's what it is) and plastic water bottle are hanging on the living room wall.
Date: October 13, 2006, 20h14
An old decomposed scarf (at least I think that's what it is) and plastic water bottle are hanging on the living room wall.
The kitchen at the cabin at Arnold Horse Camp
Not much remains of the old kitchen; the counters and appliances have been removed.
Date: October 13, 2006, 20h14
Not much remains of the old kitchen; the counters and appliances have been removed.
Just a drip of water from the water spigot.
The water spigot from the spring hardly gives any water.
Date: October 20, 2006, 19h12
The water spigot from the spring hardly gives any water.
Nice cool water is piped from the spring into this big Rubbermaid tub. Two creaky chairs invite visitors, sort of.
Nice cool water is piped from the spring into this big Rubbermaid tub. Two creaky chairs invite visitors, sort of.
Date: October 13, 2006, 20h13
Nice cool water is piped from the spring into this big Rubbermaid tub. Two creaky chairs invite visitors, sort of.
Toads living in the spring water at Arnold Horse Camp.
I quickly check out the spring water that collects in a large tub and see that a family of small toads is living in the water there.
Date: October 30, 2006, 21h22
I quickly check out the spring water that collects in a large tub and see that a family of small toads is living in the water there. I plunge the end of my water purifier in anyway and pull out some clean water to fill my water bottles. Despite the toads and their habits, the water tastes great once filtered, unlike grassy-tasting Mississippi Lake.
My tent is set up, home is ready for the night!
My tent is set up, home is ready for the night!
Date: October 13, 2006, 20h38
My tent is set up, home is ready for the night!
Starting a short hike down the Narrows Trail
But it only took me a few hours to get here and the sun won't be going down for another two hours. I'll take advantage of the time to do a short hike down the Narrows Trail in the dry creekbed.
Date: October 13, 2006, 20h43
But it only took me a few hours to get here and the sun won't be going down for another two hours. I'll take advantage of the time to do a short hike down the Narrows Trail in the dry creekbed.
The Narrows Trail runs along the dry Coyote Creek.
The Narrows Trail runs along the dry Coyote Creek, and is probably rather muddy and sometimes underwater during the wet winter months.
Date: August 15, 2008, 22h35
The Narrows Trail runs along the dry Coyote Creek, and is probably rather muddy and sometimes underwater during the wet winter months. I'm going to follow the trail almost a mile down to the Los Cruzeros crossing of Coyote Creek, where I crossed a few days ago on the way up to Mississippi Lake.
The dry creek bed of Coyote Creek can be tiring to walk on after a while with all its small rocks
The dry creek bed of Coyote Creek can be tiring to walk on after a while with all its small rocks, but sometimes it's easier to follow than the trail.
Date: October 13, 2006, 21h12
The dry creek bed of Coyote Creek can be tiring to walk on after a while with all its small rocks, but sometimes it's easier to follow than the trail.
A small pool of water remains from last year's wet season.
A small pool of water remains from last year's wet season.
Date: October 13, 2006, 21h12
A small pool of water remains from last year's wet season.
Animal bones along the creekbed.
Animal bones along the creekbed.
Date: October 13, 2006, 21h10
Animal bones along the creekbed.
The trail follows the creek, but sometimes rises up the bordering hills a bit.
The trail follows the creek, but sometimes rises up the bordering hills a bit.
Date: October 13, 2006, 21h10
The trail follows the creek, but sometimes rises up the bordering hills a bit.
A big grass tuft (muhlenbergia, I think) sits in the dry creek bed.
A big grass tuft (muhlenbergia, I think) sits in the dry creek bed, waiting for the fall rains that will begin in earnest in a month or two.
Date: October 13, 2006, 21h09
I a big grass tuft (muhlenbergia, I think) sits in the dry creek bed, waiting for the fall rains that will begin in earnest in a month or two.
Old oaks along the dry Coyote Creek, some 1200 feet above San Jose and Silicon Valley
After almost a mile, I reach Los Cruzeros and turn back toward Arnold Horse Camp. The sun is descending slowly and I probably won't get to see any of the glorious sunset from down here in the canyon (even though I'm still some 1200 feet above San Jose).
Date: August 15, 2008, 22h35
After almost a mile, I reach Los Cruzeros and turn back toward Arnold Horse Camp. The sun is descending slowly and I probably won't get to see any of the glorious sunset from down here in the canyon (even though I'm still some 1200 feet above San Jose and Silicon Valley).
Old corral fence and tarweed
On the way back, I pass by the remains of another old corral and its fence. Much tarweed (the yellow flowers) growing around here; at least I think that's what it is.
Date: November 08, 2006, 21h46
On the way back, I pass by the remains of another old corral and its fence. Much tarweed (the yellow flowers) growing around here; at least I think that's what it is.
A trail of thousands of ants stretches across the Narrows Trail
The faint dark line that crosses the footpath and heads into the grass is a dense trail of thousands of ants, all going somewhere, apparently carrying something. I wonder how many years these ants have been following this trail.
Date: October 13, 2006, 22h01
The faint dark line that crosses the footpath and heads into the grass is a dense trail of thousands of ants, all going somewhere, apparently carrying something. I wonder how many years these ants have been following this trail.
More tarweed (?)
More tarweed (if that's what it is) along the trail. It smells great, almost a lemony evergreen smell, similar to wooly blue curls (trichostema lanatum). Unfortunately, the plant leaves lots of tiny sticky burs that attach themselves to socks and legs!
Date: November 08, 2006, 21h47
More tarweed (if that's what it is) along the trail. It smells great, almost a lemony evergreen smell, similar to woolly blue curls (trichostema lanatum). Unfortunately, the plant leaves lots of tiny sticky burs that attach themselves to socks and legs by the dozens, if not hundreds. I'll probably discard all the socks I've worn during this camping trip.
Red bugs
I don't know what this plant is or what these neato red bugs are.
Date: October 13, 2006, 21h59
I don't know what this plant is or what these neato red bugs are.
Madia elegans growing along the Narrows Trail
Madia elegans growing along the trail as I get closer to Arnold Horse Camp. These give off a delicious pineapple-like scent. I've planted this California native annual in my garden and it gets much bigger than this in a garden setting where it gets a bi
Date: October 13, 2006, 21h57
Madia elegans growing along the trail as I get closer to Arnold Horse Camp. These give off a delicious pineapple-like scent. I've planted this California native annual in my garden and it gets much bigger than this in a garden setting where it gets a bit more summer water than it does here.
Back at Arnold Horse Camp, I guzzle lots more water.
Back at Arnold Horse Camp, I guzzle lots more water. I'm still feeling a bit dehydrated even though I've been drinking water all day. It has been another hot day and it probably reached 90 degrees. With cooler parks available on the other side of Silic
Date: October 13, 2006, 22h40
Back at Arnold Horse Camp, I guzzle lots more water. I'm still feeling a bit dehydrated even though I've been drinking water all day. It has been another hot day and it probably reached 90 degrees. With cooler parks available on the other side of Silicon Valley, this probably explains why there's almost never anyone out here in Henry Coe State Park's backcountry on a Labour Day weekend. I'm taking advantage of the opportunity for solitude and really enjoying it.
Time to prepare yet another add-boiling-water-to-bag camper's meal.
Now it's time to prepare yet another add-boiling-water-to-bag camper's meal. In a primitive camping situation like this, it's always nice to have a table and not have to put everything on the ground!
Date: October 13, 2006, 22h40
Now it's time to prepare yet another add-boiling-water-to-bag camper's meal. In a primitive camping situation like this, it's always nice to have a table and not have to put everything on the ground!
I sat on that old kitchen chair next to the spring tub and several toads jumped out of the cracks in the worn-out upholstery!
I sat on that old kitchen chair next to the spring tub and several toads jumped out of the cracks in the worn-out upholstery. The toads are living inside the chair! I wonder how many generations of toads have been born and grown up there...
Date: October 13, 2006, 22h39
I sat on that old kitchen chair next to the spring tub and several toads jumped out of the cracks in the worn-out upholstery. The toads are living inside the chair! I wonder how many generations of toads have been born and grown up there...
Morning near Arnold Horse camp. Last night at about 23h, I moved the tent and everything.
Morning near Arnold Horse camp. Last night at about 23h, I moved the tent and everything from up here at the horse camp down into the creek bed below due to all the noise from mice, rats, squirrels, or who knows what running constantly across the tin roof
Date: November 08, 2006, 21h50
Morning near Arnold Horse camp. Last night at about 23h, I moved the tent and everything from up here at the horse camp down into the creek bed below due to all the noise from mice, rats, squirrels, or who knows what running constantly across the tin roof above the structure. The nearly constant noise began as soon as the sun went down and for a while I thought I might be able to fall asleep despite it.
The tent in the canyon down by dry Coyote Creek.
The tent down by dry Coyote Creek. I had been really looking forward to sleeping late in the shade up at the horse camp, but instead I wake up being cooked in the tent from the hot morning sun!
Date: October 20, 2006, 19h45
The tent down by dry Coyote Creek. I had been really looking forward to sleeping late in the shade up at the horse camp, but instead I wake up being cooked in the tent from the hot morning sun!
The tent dismantled, everything packed up and ready to mount on the bike for the return ride to downtown San Jose today.
The tent dismantled, everything packed up and ready to mount on the bike for the return ride to downtown San Jose today.
Date: October 20, 2006, 19h45
The tent dismantled, everything packed up and ready to mount on the bike for the return ride to downtown San Jose today.
I walk the bike up the creek canyon to the bottom of Blue Ridge Road, where I begin the first climb of the day.
I walk the bike up the creek canyon to the bottom of Blue Ridge Road, where I begin the first climb of the day.
Date: October 20, 2006, 20h06
I walk the bike up the creek canyon to the bottom of Blue Ridge Road, where I begin the first climb of the day.
Rising slowly up Blue Ridge Road and looking back down toward the Coyote Creek canyon where I started a while ago.
Rising slowly up Blue Ridge Road and looking back down toward the Coyote Creek canyon where I started a while ago. A lot of this road is too steep for me to ride with the loaded-down bike, so I drag the bike and take many water breaks under the oak tree
Date: October 20, 2006, 20h13
Rising slowly up Blue Ridge Road and looking back down toward the Coyote Creek canyon where I started a while ago. A lot of this road is too steep for me to ride with the loaded-down bike, so I drag the bike and take many water breaks under the oak trees along the way.
I finally make it up to the little plateau around 1800 feet (Arnold Horse Camp sits down below in the canyon at anout 1250 feet)
I finally make it up to the little plateau around 1800 feet (Arnold Horse Camp sits down below in the canyon at anout 1250 feet). Classic Henry Coe Park brilliant colours for this time of year: golden yellow, sky blue and some dark green.
Date: October 20, 2006, 20h14
I finally make it up to the little plateau around 1800 feet (Arnold Horse Camp sits down below in the canyon at anout 1250 feet). Classic Henry Coe Park brilliant colours for this time of year: golden yellow, sky blue and some dark green.
I turn on Poverty Flat Rd and begin heading out of the park the same way I came in.
I turn on Poverty Flat Rd and begin heading out of the park the same way I came in. The demanding part of the trek will come a bit later. For now, the road drops a couple hundred feet and enters the forested area to the centre-right.
Date: October 20, 2006, 20h36
I turn on Poverty Flat Rd and begin heading out of the park the same way I came in. The demanding part of the trek will come a bit later. For now, the road drops a couple hundred feet and enters the forested area to the centre-right.
Entering the forested area, still above the canyon.
Entering the forested area, still above the canyon.
Date: October 20, 2006, 20h37
Entering the forested area, still above the canyon.
Some scenic drop-offs alongside the road into the canyon below.
Some scenic drop-offs alongside the road into the canyon below--don't ride too close to the edge!
Date: October 20, 2006, 20h37
Some scenic drop-offs alongside the road into the canyon below--don't ride too close to the edge!
Snake track across the road near the junction of Jackass Trail.
Snake track across the road near the junction of Jackass Trail.
Date: October 20, 2006, 20h37
Snake track across the road near the junction of Jackass Trail.
I tackle the tough trek up Poverty Flat Road toward park headquarters.
After dipping down into the Coyote Creek canyon for the last time, I tackle the tough trek up Poverty Flat Road toward park headquarters. This switchback was fun to come down a few days ago, but not so easy to get back up.
Date: October 20, 2006, 20h52
After dipping down into the Coyote Creek canyon for the last time, I cross Poverty Flat and tackle the tough trek up Poverty Flat Road toward park headquarters. This switchback was fun to come down a few days ago, but not so easy to get back up.
This hill on Poverty Flat Road always kills me when I climb it.
This hill on Poverty Flat Road always kills me when I climb it. It feels steeper than it looks and I can only travel a few feet at a time, holding the bike tightly to keep it from slipping back at each pause.
Date: October 20, 2006, 20h50
This hill on Poverty Flat Road always kills me when I climb it. It feels steeper than it looks and I can only travel a few feet at a time, holding the bike tightly to keep it from slipping back at each pause.
Whew, the worst is over as I reach the upper stretches of Poverty Flat Road, which aren't quite as steep.
Whew, the worst is over as I reach the upper stretches of Poverty Flat Road, which aren't quite as steep.
Date: October 20, 2006, 20h51
Whew, the worst is over as I reach the upper stretches of Poverty Flat Road, which aren't quite as steep.
After finally reaching Henry Coe Park's visitor centre at about 2600 feet, I take a long break and fill up on water.
After finally reaching Henry Coe Park's visitor centre at about 2600 feet, I take a long break and fill up on water before beginning the long descent back down to Silicon Valley near sea level.
Date: October 20, 2006, 21h08
After finally reaching Henry Coe Park's visitor centre at about 2600 feet, I take a long break and fill up on water before beginning the long descent back down to Silicon Valley near sea level.
The downhill on Dunne Avenue begins.
The downhill on Dunne Avenue begins.
Date: October 20, 2006, 21h09
The downhill on Dunne Avenue begins.
Dunne Avenue winds its way slowly downward.
Dunne Avenue winds its way slowly downward.
Date: October 20, 2006, 21h09
Dunne Avenue winds its way slowly downward.
Some amazing views of the Anderson Lake area on the way down.
Some amazing views of the Anderson Lake area on the way down.
Date: October 20, 2006, 21h12
Some amazing views of the Anderson Lake area on the way down.
Heading down the lower stretches of Dunne Avenue into the Silicon Valley town of Morgan Hill.
Heading down the lower stretches of Dunne Avenue into the Silicon Valley town of Morgan Hill.
Date: October 20, 2006, 21h11
Heading down the lower stretches of Dunne Avenue into the Silicon Valley town of Morgan Hill.
Orchards along Monterey Road near Morgan Hill
Orchards along Monterey Road near Morgan Hill make the 22-mile ride from Morgan Hill to downtown San Jose more pleasant, even though the road is often quite busy, noisy and fast.
Date: October 20, 2006, 21h32
Orchards along Monterey Road near Morgan Hill make the 22-mile ride from Morgan Hill to downtown San Jose more pleasant, even though the road is often quite busy, noisy and fast.
The old 15-mile stop restaurant, presumably 15 miles outside of downtown San Jose.
The old 15-mile stop restaurant, presumably 15 miles outside of downtown San Jose.
Date: October 20, 2006, 21h32
The old 15-mile stop restaurant, presumably 15 miles outside of downtown San Jose.
Approaching the recently built Bailey Road overpass across Monterey Road in the suburban sprawl of south San Jose
Approaching the recently built Bailey Road overpass across Monterey Road. Another ugly testimony to San Jose's commitment to suburban sprawl.
Date: October 20, 2006, 21h33
Approaching the recently built Bailey Road overpass across Monterey Road. Another ugly testimony to San Jose's commitment to suburban sprawl.
Entering San Jose's suburban sprawl along Monterey Road for real now, passing by a street called Grandwell Way.
Entering San Jose's suburban sprawl along Monterey Road for real now, passing by a street called Grandwell Way.
Date: October 20, 2006, 21h33
Entering San Jose's suburban sprawl along Monterey Road for real now, passing by a street called Grandwell Way.
Monterey Road passes under the Blossom Hill Road underpass.
Monterey Road passes under the Blossom Hill Road underpass. Just another 9-10 miles to home in downtown San Jose! Not most people's idea of a nice bike ride, but the bike lanes do make the ride more enjoyable along such a busy artery.
Date: October 20, 2006, 21h38
Monterey Road passes under the Blossom Hill Road underpass. Just another 9-10 miles to home in downtown San Jose! Not most people's idea of a nice bike ride, but the bike lanes do make the ride more enjoyable along such a busy artery.
