LAKE NATOMA LOOP 7X March 7, 2006

Gambling on the day's weather, I witnessed magnificent skies over my 7X Loop. It had rained most of the morning, but the forecast said it would be clearing.

Leaving home in time to catch the light rail, again, I came to Historic Folsom at 1:25 p.m. It did look like rain, but I had my good gear, and an umbrella in my pack. It wasn't windy. I know many points where I can bail from the outdoor hike, too, and get some shelter. I snapped many photos of the sky, which was the most dramatic I have seen, here, lately.

The shoulder of the trail had water and mud. With so few cyclists out, I thought to use the pavement more. But, as my hiking desires dictate, I often reverted back to using the gravel side trail.

The cliffs past the State Park had released large rocks to fall on the bike trail. I kept alert for any sounds of a rockslide. The recent rains must have changed everything. I didn't feel in any danger, but others may have chosen to avoid their exercise, today.

A few walkers enjoyed this dry period of the afternoon, but then very light rain fell, later. I didn't even bother to don my parka hood over my cap, and just shielded my camera from the moisture, with my case, as I shot pictures.

Near Nimbus Dam, flowers were beginning to bloom. I wonder if they are planted.

I worry about the traffic zooming by on the Hazel Avenue Bridge. When I rode bikes, decades ago, I sometimes was the target of thrown objects and yelled screams of hate. Just the territory.

Friendlier people passed by on my completion of this loop. The clearing afternoon brought out exercisers, running along the trail. I enjoyed snapping more photos of the late afternoon light, and the beautiful oaks along the lake. How supposed enviros can hate all of this!

The air was so clear, and the foothills were lit up by low sun. I had spotted a small rainbow on the horizon. Seeing I would not get to the station right as the train arrived, again, I thought of some drink to get. Some nearby businesses were closed. So, I drank from the station's public faucet, and quenched my thirst for free.

Boarding the light rail train at 5:30 p.m., we riders were treated to the sight of a good drenching as we zoomed along. No great sunset occurred, and I came home to finish a great afternoon.

The usual 11 miles, I added to a bit, by my side trip to the top of the cone shaped hill. I thought I might see some low snow on the hills, as the snow level was down to foothill towns. Nothing much.

I am really liking this easy walk within service by local mass transit. The added 25 cents for a transfer induces me to refrain from another loop, or one way walk, along the Parkway, elsewhere. I miss going to Bridge Street and Fair Oaks Bluffs, but even small amounts add up in my total costs.

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