For those too busy to read the report in its entirety, first I provide the Executive Summary:  On, up, down, up up up, down down, up up up up, down down down down down, up up up up, down, up, down, off.

For those lacking anything else to do, a more detailed report follows.

A Magnificent Seven gathered early this morning for a frolic at Sycamore.  We were Joe, Rod, David, David, Jamsyhd, Matthew and Mitch.  It was chilly but not cold, and the Sun was only threatening an appearance, so we bundled up and headed for the canyon, expecting the usual temperature change as we traversed over and down the Black Bitch.

Seeking some warming climb, we angled off the main canyon floor at the "Y" leading to the water tower, and took the single track to the top.  The trail was in excellent shape despite the recent rains, and the vegetation was thick and green.  Few in this group were tall enough to see over the high grass when not in saddle.  We headed down the backside to the bottom of Guadalsaca where Jamshyd the Botanist pointed out all the posion oak.  Well, maybe not all, but certainly a great deal of it. 

Up Guadalsca we went, mastering the 700 plus foot elevation gain.  I have been down this trail (with my usual trepidation) many times, but until today had never chanced the ascent.  While long and in places technical the trail is not steep, and each of us conquered the obstacle with smiles and without incident.  We then continued climbing past the top of Hell Hill and toward Overlook.  We thought about doing multiple wind sprints up Hell Hill, but didn’t want to have so much fun in such a small group to the exclusion of the rest of you.  Maybe next time.

Just beyond the Hell Hill summit Matthew broke out his traditional treasure trove of apples.  While munching them down the 11,264th meeting of the RCY Debate Club commenced.  It was peaceable, as among us seven there were only nine opinions about where to go from "apple junction", but shockingly a leader emerged with a compelling argument.  Under Jamyshd's theory it would be a shame not to experience the descent of the Wood Canyon single track, so off we went for what was a truly exhilirating plummet back to the canyon floor.  Like water seeking its natural level, it didn’t take long for Joe and I to migrate to the back of the pack as the group cascaded down the serene hillside.

The canyon below was surprisingly dry despite the recent rains.  We encountered previously several significant water crossings between the water tower and the bottom of Guadalsaca, but in he main canyon the water flow was light and we did not have to put on pontoons to cross back and forth.   After a quick regathering we assaulted the Black Bitch whom we mocked early on the descent, and she exacted her usual late ride revenge.  At three quarters of a mile and 405 feet of direct elevation gain she presents a steady 10% grade, a little wearing after more than two hours of peddling.  At the top however we were treated to the endearing vision of a young family using George's Bench to strap a toddler and a infant into a bicycle-pulled trailer and complimentary stroller.  Those who knew him remarked that George would have enjoyed that vision. 

Nineteen Manly Mountain Miles and 2400 feet of total elevation gain on a glorious morning, with spectacular friends and without the burdens we each carried all the prior week.  It doesn't get any better than that.

Be well all.

MG