Today’s Thursday Picture was taken on the Priest Rock Trail in the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. I like this shot of the sun as it is filtered by this large oak. Ironically, it was taken in one of the few spots on this trail that has some shade.
The Priest Rock Trail is a challenging hike from the trailhead near Lexington Reservoir up past the Limekiln Trail junction. As I was stopping for a water break, a mountain biker passed me…pushing his bike up the hill. This particular section of trail was in the sun for 2 miles with very little shade. The mountain biker just said to me, “Welcome to the Grinder.”
I eventually turned around and took the Limekiln Trail on the way down. My modified loop was 6.1 miles with over 1,200 feet of total elevation gain. I know that it is no Mission Peak hike…but, the Grinder could go on the list of hikes that would help you train for Half Dome. If you want to take on the Grinder, I suggest you try it in the Fall or Spring. This is a tough summer hike.
So, where are you hiking this weekend?
If you’re looking for me, I’m over the hill.