Bullard's Bar 5/20/2009

Of the fourteen hikers, 10 are stiff and hobbling but have bragging rights today: 10 swift miles of relatively easy hiking along the reservoir. The trail was mildly up and down with a view of the light green water through the trees. Only an occasional wildflower (Pinedrops and Bleeding Heart), salamander, large slug, or large tree interrupted the monotony so conversation was ripe during the single file march. Stopping was made impossible due to the mosquito terrorists which tracked us all along the trail. A breeze routed them as we sat eating lunch near the water with a view of the dam with moored boats. As we savored the air and water, a water buffalo snag came swimming towards us at quite a clip. We thought it might be fun to hang on to hitch a ride back to the boat ramp where we started. But, alas, at the last minute it veered away and we sour graped that perhaps it was really a trojan, buffalo there to spy on us. (Photos by Clarence)

I found out the hard way just how lovely it is to have our two retired nurses, Akiko and Selma, with us. Their gentle and knowledgeable attention to my skinned knee (yes, I looked at the view and tripped) was much appreciated. Clarence says that Stan found himself with a tick when he got home so don't for get to check...better late than never.

Present were: Clarence, Jo, Stan, Akiko, Selma, Grace, Tiana, Cyndi, John and Elly (10 miles) and Laurie, Barbara G., Karen, and Maureen turned and hiked up a hill to a picnic place about halfway to our lunch spot, giving them about a 5-6 mile hike.

John says that Bullard's Bar used to be a beautiful swimming area where he was taken as a camper in the late fifties. The dam was completed in 1969 for both irrigation and flood control. It is one of the 50 highest in the world.

We talked about hiking to Lake Valley Reservoir (known as Long Valley Reservoir by some) next week. It's at exit 160 just west of where 20 meets 80. Stan suggested Lake Valley near Yuba gap. Clarence things it might be a little early for there, but it is an open area and it is probably clear (It burned a few years ago). Also from Clarence: Hidden falls in Auburn. .. An easy "park like" hike. 6+ miles. Any other suggestions?

Rumor has it that we are hosting a potluck for the group. Let's do it as a late lunch - mosquitoes will find us at dinner time and our place is impossible to find in the dark. We need your input on the best day for most people. My feeling is a Sunday at around 1 or 2 PM. Right now, with our blooming irises and still-green meadow, would be best but I'm sure it is too soon to clear calendars for most of us. So June? Any Sunday would be okay. What would you like?