LAKE NATOMA LOOP 8X March 18, 2006

After days of intermittent rain, I enjoyed riding the light rail train out to Folsom, CA, again, for this light hike. Getting there in late morning, I chose to get a light breakfast, with fine coffee, at a cafe along the historic street. The food was good, although a smaller portion for the price, but I got a good refill on my coffee. I enjoy a good, hearty, restaurant breakfast on my hikes and climbs, something I used to do, frequently, when I had like-minded hiking or climbing partners.

On the move at about Noon, I expected little different, today. There were plenty of birds on the river rocks, flying about. I saw many turkey vultures, further along. Some new stands of poppies appeared along the bike trail, and I knew, soon, more wildflowers would be blooming.

I checked some restrooms, and the first ones were locked. At the State Park, they were open, with flush facilities. I didn't really need to go, but it was nice to know, for possible hiker companions, somewhere ahead.

At the cliffs, the fallen rocks were removed from the trail, and the poison oak sprouted red. There were tiny flowers, but the main blooms haven't occurred yet.

Climbing the cone shaped hill at about the 25.5 mile mark, I snapped photos of the line of clouds over the Sierra. They were still getting snow, as the sun shone brightly overhead, here. We used to go backcountry skiing, even in major storms. March snow is usually light, and of short duration. It looks dim for any resurrection of backcountry skiing, or ski mountaineering, as snowshoers have taken over, akin to boarders dominating resorts, now. The inglorious end to the best mountain sport, ever, I think!

There are lots of tame geese along the bike trail. I managed to snap more photos of some unconcerned birds. You can get nice close-up photos with a zoom lens, but just don't bother or harass them.

Many friendly faces were enjoying the bright sun. Lots of riders zooming along on bikes. It was nice to get back to the Parkway.

I rounded the loop, and headed back upstream, on the side, sandy trails. They are mostly dried out, already, and the hiking was fine. Good drainage and firm footing seems to be a mark of the trail builders.

Many miners' lettuce were poking up tiny white flowers. Brodiaea, vetch, and another purple flower made for nice viewing. Red maids and other tiny flowers were appearing. The grass was so green, and the waters so turquoise. I noted plenty of squirrels, and am now waiting for the time when I can get back to the parks in the mountains, and the high peaks.

Thinking to get a fine meal when back to Folsom, I arrived as a train pulled into the station, about 3:52 p.m. There is a new deli open nearby, but that will suffice when I have more time. I drank some water out of the faucet, and boarded the train.

With another 11 miles hiked, I had spent about $11 for my breakfast and round trip rides. I wore three layers at most, using a shell jacket, light vest, and polyester top, then lightweight bottoms under my pants. My low cut boots began to cause some hot spots, but nothing to prevent me from hiking again. I snapped some 50 images.

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