In the beginning there were 6, then there were 5, then there were 6, finally there were 5.  Our numbers changed but our enthusiasm remained constant as we pedaled around Fryman and Franklin Canyons--an enclave of mountain biking trails in the midst of suburban civilization.  Andy, Brian D., Tal, Mario, Dean, and I started by going up the usual street route to the single track trail that brings you into the Tree People area via a network of trails and fireroad.  We then proceeded to the fire station on Coldwater Canyon where Tal had to leave us in order to attend to fatherly duties with his newborn baby.  Thus with our number now at 5, we headed into Franklin Canyon with its assortment of short trails and the eventual climb up the Hastain Trail Fireroad.

Dean, Brian, Andy, and Mario at a sharp switchback on a lush singletrack trail

As we looked over the surrounding hillsides from the top of the Hastain FR, we realized that our old route of going thru the new upscale housing construction area was most likely still blocked by cold war type fencing.  We figured we would head back down the fireroad when Mario pointed out a narrow hiking trail that came up to the lookout point.  Mario said let's go for it!  So being the sheep we are, we followed Mario.  Now don't get me wrong, there was a fair amount of riding, but we also had to hike-a-bike a bunch, especially the last 20 feet which was a virtual 90º drop.....we had to gingerly climb down a cliff, handing our bikes down.  But we made it down to the fireroad and back out to Franklin Canyon.  It was as we climbed out of Franklin that we ran into Uzy who was out on his own ride.  He joined up with us and we were back to 6.

When we got back to the Tree People, however, we had to bid adieu to Mario who had to head for home and so our number was back to 5 for our final ride section---the Betty B. Dearing Trail.  This is the payoff on this ride.  It is a fun, challenging singletrack with lots of beautiful lush growth (including abundant poison oak), descents and climbs, smooth sections and technical spots.  Some photos on the trail:

Brian on Betty B. Dearing

Uzy, who leaves for 3 months in Israel next week, enjoys the trail

Andy trying to stretch to even greater heights?!#!

Those of you who have done this ride before know about the rope swing along the trail.  Well, there was a new one today in a slightly different location and Brian just had to try it out....

While Brian was swinging, Dean was teaching.....

Dean teaching Rob to count (and other esoteric symbols)

We made it safely down the rest of the trail and back to the cars.   We rode about 16.5 miles with about 2500 feet of climbing. 

Have a good week.

Robco Baggins