While Terrie had fun in a kayak class on Lake Ralphine, I brought the bike, figuring on getting a six- or seven mile ride.
I realized I had to fill three hours, though, so I tried to time my ride to get me back down to the parking lot around 4:00.
Annadel on a weekend is an exercise in patience and politeness, as it attempts to deliver on its multi-use promise - horsefolk, hikers, and bikers all try to share the trail without conflict. Cyclist have the "wrong-of-way"; I pull over for everyone whether I'm going up or downhill - hell, I'm in no hurry, I'm here to enjoy one of the few places I can ride on interesting single-track; on the uphills I can catch my breath; on the downhills I can look at the scenery. I say hi to everyone, and (unlike pretty much anywhere else in my life) attempt to generate at least a short conversation. On a steep section of Rough Go, I help one couple discover that they're going exactly the opposite direction they need to go if they want to see Lake Ilsanjo, and then I'm somewhat grateful to have them ahead of me: I stop for a breather and some water whenever I start to catch up with them again.
Wildflowers are generally waning around the area now, but Annadel still put on a show, especially with the lupines, buttercups, poppies, unknown white flowers - I took a few pictures (stay tuned).
I rode up the Canyon trail to Rough Go, Rough Go to Live Oak, around Lake Ilsanjo, and back down Canyon. 12.7 miles - odometer reads 1937.7. I hope to hit 2000 by Friday 4/26. (Made it on Tuesday 04/23. -s)
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