It was Andy and DavidR's backyard that we rode in today.  On a simply gorgeous December Sunday in Southern California, 9 RCYers met in Oak Park for a ride that started up the Hidden Meadow Trail.  The morning started off cool but quickly warmed up, the air was clear and crisp, the views outstanding.

Some pictures of riders coming down the Hidden Meadow Trail:

Andy

David

Rod

New RCYer Sam leading Jamshyd and Matthew

The Appleman shouting for joy

Pete at the bottom of Hidden Meadow on the Lang Ranch side

We then rode the street over to the Albertson Fireroad where we began the long climb to the top.

Group munching apples at the top of Albertson: Matthew, Matt, Pete, Sam, Andy, Jamshyd, Rod, and David

Matt proudly showing off his new color-coordinated Weyless bike!

Next we headed into the China Flats area where we climbed up to Simi Peak.   It was a personal best for me today.....I made the climb non-stop up to the top of Simi Peak for the first time.  This old man still has a few tricks up his bike tights.

Andy takes a picture of the group on the top of Simi Peak

with the clear, crisp views behind. We could see all the way to the Pacific Ocean!

Descending from Simi Peak, we next headed towards the top of Dead Cow.

Rod climbing thru the filtered sun towards Dead Cow

Although I thought we were going to go down Dead Cow, Andy and others had alternate ideas.....let's go down Suicide Trail.  For those who've never done Suicide, the name says it all.  Lots of very technical sections which only insane young fearless riders can clear.  This author did a lot of walking in order to ride another day.

Here is Rod proudly posing after clearing the cliff behind .... NOT ;-)

Near the bottom of Suicide we took another trail that connected with the bottom section of Dead Cow Trail which we took down to the street.  Then most of us enjoyed a cup of coffee at the Bean Scene where we yented awhile before heading for our respective abodes.

We covered about 14 miles with somewhere around 2500 feet of climbing.   Rod should post the details plus a topo map where you will be able to peruse our route.

Have a great Christmas week.  I'll be posting several rides for the upcoming long weekend that some will be having.  Stay tuned.

Respectfully submitted,

Robco Baggins

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The GPS turned off after a few miles, ? loose wire.  But here are some pictures taken with my new cell phone, not quite as sharp as Robs, but it beats carrying an extra camera.  I hope I did not break any hearts regarding no topo maps :). (I am not sure if anyone looks at them any way).