Big River Logging Road

We enjoyed an almost full moon this morning on our way to the run/walk.  John took it's picture.

It was really cold this morning.  I mean, it was REALLY COLD.  Not so much the temperature, it was 35.  But with the wind chill, it was so un-California-like.  We still had a nice turnout though and again, it was hard for everyone to hold back until the 8:00 start time.   At Big River this morning were: Janet (a late entry here, my apologies), Craig, Greg, Ginny, Terry, Bob, John, Nancy B., Rick, Orah, Steve, Bob J., Nancy T., Rod, Nancy and Tom (16).

John also took this other photo of  Big River, thank you!

Since Van Damme didn't work out last week, we'll give it another try next Sunday.  There are a few trees across the trail but they are all fairly easy to get over or under.

NEXT SUNDAY, JAN. 6TH  @ 8:00 A.M.:  VAN DAMME STATE PARK, see "Our Routes" above.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:15 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:15 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Van Damme State Park

 

Merry Christmas everybody!  Thank you, John, for taking this photo last week for the blog.

An extra star on the attendance report  this morning  for:  Ginny, Terry, Bob, John, Melissa I., Nancy and Tom (7).  They were the only brave ones to venture out this morning.  It was about 48 degrees and for the first time in my life, I could see why they say, "the rain was coming down in sheets".  You could really see the heavy bands of rain in the downpour, as they swept out of the sky, and across the highway and  parking lot.  The extremely strong  gusts kept it coming down at a 45 degree angle.
  
Full disclosure:  The seven of us didn't actually run, but we would have, had it not been for the gale winds.  We felt it just too unsafe in the forest, a forest full of sick trees.  So, it was unanimous, we all voted to head home for breakfast and a warm fire.
 
I came home to a power outage which was all fine, since I had a generator and the cable (internet access) was still in tact.  Half way thru writing this blog, the cable died and I lost the internet.  It's a little later now, the cable is back, I've rewritten the blog  and I find out from John that he didn't go straight home but instead went to the MacKerricher Haul Road and ran both with and against 50 mph winds!  Is that what is called obsessive-compulsive disorder?  Next Sunday, we'll go to one of our favorite runs, one for which we needn't worry so much about falling trees.

NEXT SUNDAY, DEC. 30TH @ 8:00 A.M.: BIG RIVER LOGGING ROAD, see "Our Routes" above.

__._,_.___

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:15 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:15 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Caspar Logging Road

 First of all, thanks to John L., for the Christmas/New Years wish to the right.

It was raining as we left home this morning and just a light drizzle when we arrived at our Caspar Logging Road starting point.  It was also a cool 45 degrees.  I didn't think many would show but was pleasantly surprised.  But, because we walk and run at different paces, and I have been known to get things confused, I don't know if I can separate out, those that walked or those that came for breakfast, so I hope that your name isn't omitted from our honor roll.   The walk and run actually were actually  pretty nice, as the drizzle let up, and we turned around at or near the top of the hill.  Of course, it's always fun going downhill!

 
Gay and Mark had another really nice Potluck Breakfast and Cookie Exchange.    They have the most beautiful home!  Thank you Gay and Mark! No, we didn't eat like cows but John just sent me this photo from this morning so I'm trying to get it in somewhere after the first posting.

Present this morning were:  Gay, Mark, Cheryl, Neil, Nancy B., Rick, John, Ginny, Terry, Suzanne, Henry,  Dorothy, Fran, Bob J., Kathleen, Craig, Toni, Orah, Steve, Nancy T., Roger, Joe, Nancy and Tom (24).


NEXT SUNDAY, DEC. 23RD @ 8:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, see "Our Routes" above.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:15 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:15 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Hare Creek

Thank you, John, for the picture of the Swithenbank's orchard and our starting point this morning.

 This morning, we ran and walked at Hare Creek, on JSF Road 400.  It was a very  cold 40 degrees but there was no wind and the skies were clear, therefore not too bad.  I guess that "Snow", that normally nice little dog, took pity on me and tried to warm my leg, yes, he peed on me!!  You are forgiven, Snow. People have accused me of being a skinny "stick person", so I guess that I deserved it!

I think that it was Gay and Mark, that invited first timer, Greg, thank you!  Besides those three, also present were:  Suzanne, Henry, Tonita, Dorothy, Fran, Melissa I., Joe, Kathleen, Craig, Cheryl, Neil, Ginny, Terry, John, Nancy T., Roger,  Sabine, Sean and Tom (22). It seems like there were more and if I forgot you, I apologize.

You don't want to miss next week.  Gay and Mark have offered to host our Annual Potluck Breakfast and Cookie Exchange.  It will immediately follow our run/walk.  They have a wonderful home and make everyone feel so welcomed and comfortable. Gay has said that she will likely do the waffle bar again.  For everyone else, bring any breakfast-like dish that you like.  For the cookie exchange, we have another "rule", that is that you must exchange the cookies that you bring, for an amount almost equal, of other's cookies.  Please, no left overs left behind.  Of course, bringing cookies is optional, if you're like me and can't stop eating them when you get home.  Mark is bringing directions to their home, to the walk/run next week, or just follow someone that has been there before.

NEXT SUNDAY, DEC. 16TH  @ 8:00 A.M.: CASPAR LOGGING ROAD, see "Our Routes" above.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.  From Dec. 18th until the end of January, 7:15 a.m.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach. From Dec. 20th until the end of January, 7:15 a.m.

MacKerricher Haul Road

It turned out to be a beautiful day for a walk.  A nice 53°, little wind and no rain.  I'm not sure if it was just a 'lazy' morning, or because everyone knew Tom was not here they felt they could skip today, but we only had 4½ people and 2 dogs to enjoy the morning.  Present at the start were John, Craig, Roger and Nancy T. plus Abby and Scout.  The "½" was Sarah, who had a delayed start (looking for her cat) - but being a fast runner caught up and passed us.  Sarah has been on a few previous Fog Dodger runs when visiting, but has now moved here permanently, so we should be seeing more of her now.

For all of you that missed the morning, here's some photos from John and Roger.

Craig, Nancy and Roger went to Cafe One for a nice breakfast.

NEXT SUNDAY, DATE @ 8:00 A.M.: HARE CREEK, JACKSON STATE FOREST ROAD 400 - see our routes above
EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.
EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Caspar Logging Road

  John was not here this morning but I think he'd like to see a photo he took from Caspar about 7 years ago.  I suppose that this morning's sunrise would have been about like this, if you lived in a little ways from the ocean??  For us Fog Dodgers, it was almost a summer-like morning, with a heavy overcast that kept it a warm 54 degrees.  It was nice for walking or running.

We needed a run or walk, or at least I did, and the extra few pounds I'm carrying seemed really heavy on this steady uphill Caspar Logging Road.   Coming back down seemed really easy though, more mass, gravity, inertia or whatever.  I hope that those not with us today are having a great Thanksgiving weekend.

Present this morning:  Kathleen, Craig, Nancy B., Cindy, Jim, Gay, Mark, Toni, Ginny, Terry, Nancy T., Roger, Caspar the Friendly Ghost (who was that lady??), Fran, Nancy and Tom (15).  Eight of us had a very good breakfast at David's Restaurant.


NEXT SUNDAY, DECEMBER  2 @ 8:00 A.M.: MACKERRICHER HAUL ROAD, see "Our Routes" above.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Bin-2-Bin-2-Bin

Yes, today was about the Food Bank.  Thanks for the photo, John.  On the past two Thanksgivings, we did this Bin-2-Bin-2-Bin Run/Walk and it was felt that by doing it on the Sunday before Thanksgiving, we might get a better turnout than by having it on Thanksgiving.  A good idea but a few showers this morning likely suppressed interest for this year.  We did however, double the number of participants from previous years and as always, we had fun!  Besides the shower at 7:30 this morning, it was 45 degrees with a fair breeze blowing, probably keeping some Fog Dodgers at home.  By walking and running, we  benefitted our own health and The Food Bank benefitted,  as at each store we made it to, we dropped food items into the Food Bank's barrels for Thanksgiving.

Thanks to Bob J., for inviting Sarah, welcome to the Fog Dodgers.  Also present today, Bob J. and Bob C., John, Ginny, Terry, Nancy B., Rick, Nancy and Tom (10).

NEXT SUNDAY, NOV. 25TH @ 8:00 A.M.:  CASPAR LOGGING ROAD, see
"Our Routes" above.  It's the fourth Sunday of the month and there should be a breakfast at the Caspar Community Center.  Today, seven of us had a nice breakfast at David's.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Russian Gulch State Park

Thank you, John, for the Russian Gulch photo.  It was taken two days ago.

Thanks to all of our veterans on this day.  We had a nice run and walk at Russian Gulch State Park.  It was a brisk 41 degrees with partly cloudy skies.  There are several new names over the past month, names not yet in my memory.  Forgive me if I've left you off or misspelled a name.  Present today:  Tonita (Toni), Gordon, Craig, Ralph (??), Joe, Charlene, Nancy B., Rick, Ginny, Terry, Cheryl, Bob J., John, Bob C., Jennifer, Orah, Steve, Fran, Suzanne, Henry, Kathy, Steve, Nancy and Tom (24).


NEXT SUNDAY, NOV. 18TH @ 8:00 A.M.:  HARVEST MARKET, 3rd Annual BIN-2-BIN-2-BIN RUN/WALK.  Previously, we did this on Thanksgiving Day.  We hope for a bigger turnout by having it in our regular Sunday slot instead of a Thursday holiday.  This benefits our local Food Bank and is a fun change from our normal.  We start just the same, 8:00 a.m., go into Harvest Market and buy any two items that would be good for the Food Bank (soup, beans, spaghetti, turkey, etc.) and drop the items in the Food Bank's barrel located by the registers. These items need not cost much or can be a large donation, it's up to you.  If you're all donated out this year, that is fine.    Then, run or walk to Safeway and repeat the food purchase/drop.  Walkers turn around at this point and return to Harvest, another food purchase and drop and you are finished.  The runners go on to Purity Market, purchase and drop off, back to Safeway, purchase and drop, and finally, back to Harvest for last purchase and drop off.  For the walkers, that makes 3 store visits and food drops and for the runners that is 5 store visits and food drops.  Save your receipts if you claim donations on your tax forms.  The store employees got a kick out of our doing this before and I'm sure the Food Bank is appreciative.  We'll have breakfast at David's Restaurant, there in the Boatyard Center, for those that want to, when we're finished.  Time-wise, it all takes just a little less than our normal 1 hour walk/run.


EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Big River Logging Road

 John took this photo from Jack Peters Creek looking north this morning and the photo below of Mendocino's Presbyterian  Church .  Thank you, John!

It was 51 degrees with a pretty stiff breeze coming down Big River.  Hard to hold everyone back when it's cold like that.  That said, it was nice once you got just a little ways up the road.  It is sunny and unbelievably nice for a November day.


I hope that I have everyone's name here.  Why else would anyone get up so early on a Sunday morning, if it's not to see their name on the internet?  It really is a great bunch of people and it is nice to see each one of you.  Today,  back for the first Sunday in many moons, Cheryl, a very long time member of the Fog Dodgers and regular Tuesday runner.  For first timers, there were:  Lindsay (sp.?), Gary, Kathleen, and Pete, thanks to all of you for joining us.  Also present:  Bob, Craig, Suzanne, Henry, Toni, Joe, Jennifer, Ginny, Terry, Joel, John, Kathy, Steve D., Shari, Peter, Orah, Steve G., Nancy B., Rick, Fran, Suzi, Cindy, Jim,  Nancy and Tom (30).


NEXT SUNDAY, Nov. 11th, @ 8:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, see "Our Routes" above.

SAVE SUNDAY, NOV. 18TH, so that you can come to our BIN TO BIN TO BIN RUN/WALK.  It is a fun way to donate a few cans of food or whatever to the local Food Bank for Thanksgiving.  More on it next week.  

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Navarro Ridge Road

I think that most of us were impressed with this morning's sunrise.  I know that we started commenting about  it as soon as we headed out our driveway, and then several more times as we headed down the coast and east up the ridge.  John, as usual, was out a little earlier than the rest of us, always in search of "the perfect picture".   Thank you, John, for the two photos in this morning's blog, both taken on Navarro Ridge.

Both photos show the morning well, mostly sunny with a thin ground fog and 51 degrees.  Present this morning:  Nancy B., Rick, Toni, Joe, Charlene, Ron, Fran, Suzanne, Henry, Tanya, Ginny, Terry, John, Kathy, Steve, Nancy and Tom (17).  I think most stayed for the Grange Pancake Breakfast.

Nancy and I kind of miss the "quaintness" and good basic breakfasts but have moved on to plant based foods and are enjoying the Vegan Burritos at David's Restaurant.  This morning, we were joined by Kathy and Steve and it was great!

NEXT SUNDAY, NOV. 4TH, @ 8:00 A.M. PST!!: BIG RIVER LOGGING ROAD, see "Our Routes" above.  After the hills of Navarro Ridge, a couple of  us wanted a more "level" course next week.
  
EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Ten Mile River Logging Road

Seaside Beach, thanks to John L.

It was a beautiful morning, .........................but very cold at 39 degrees and starting into a headwind didn't really help.  On mornings like this, everyone wants to jump the gun a bit.  We ran and walked the Ten Mile River Logging Road.  John's picture above, taken at Seaside Beach, which is about a mile north of our starting point, captures the morning very well.  Seaside Creek, just like Ten Mile River, is closed at the mouth, awaiting enough rain to swell the lagoon and  breach the sand bar keeping it from the ocean.  The water level in Ten Mile River  is about as high as it ever gets and it made for pretty views along today's route.

It was nice to see Hector back again, thanks Orah and Steve.  It was also good to see Sabine and Sean again, their second visit.  Also present today:  Toni, Joe, Ginny, Terry, Joel, John, Neil, Shari, Peter, Nancy T., Roger,  Nancy and Tom (18).


NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 28TH @ 8:00 A.M.: NAVARRO RIDGE ROAD, see "Our Routes" above.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Russian Gulch State Park

Though John was at Lake Shasta this morning, hopefully winning the Trout Derby, I was able to find a photo he took just over eight years ago.  It is pretty close to how it was this morning.  It was a warm (54) degree morning with a clearing light fog at our beginning and sunny when we finished.  It was a very nice morning for a run or a walk.  Thanks for the photo, John.

Present today:  Neil, Fran, Orah, Steve, Shari, Peter, Ginny, Terry, Rod, Bob, Henry, Toni, Joe, Kathy, Steve, Nancy and Tom (17).

NEXT SUNDAY, DATE @ 8:00 A.M.: TEN MILE RIVER LOGGING ROAD, see "Our Routes" above.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Van Damme State Park, Fern Canyon

John was busy this morning taking photos before our run/walk.  I'll include a couple here now and save a couple for another day.  This one of the two kids in a deep discussion is just too cute.  It was taken by John on an earlier date while at Caspar Fest.  It will be going on display at the Ukiah Library and the Corners Gallery in Ukiah.  I got to see it on display at the County Fair.  It may well be a Classic.  The other, a sunrise shining on the fog bank offshore of Van Damme is just too pretty!  Thank you, John.  By the way, John won First Place in his (our's) age division at yesterday's Noyo River Run!  Nancy R. did also!  In the Race Walking Divisions, both Jan and Marc won First Place!

Welcome, Bob J., first time today and a new resident of Mendocino!  Thanks to Nancy B. for sending Bob our way.  I was involved in meeting Bob and not sure if all of the other faces present this morning caught my eye, forgive me if I missed you.  Also present:  Suzi, Elaine, Cindy, Jim, Orah, Steve, John, Tanya, Ginny, Terry, Kathy, Steve D., Toni, Joe, Charlene, Nancy and Tom (18).

State Parks has done a terrific job of weed whacking and trail clearing at Russian Gulch's Fern Canyon.  You can again walk or run side by side without worry of stinging nettles!  Therefore,

NEXT SUNDAY, Oct. 14th  @ 8:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, see "Our Routes" above.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Hare Creek, JSF Rd. 450

It was a bit nippy this morning, 44 degrees but otherwise beautiful.  We ran and walked Jackson State Forest Road 450, which runs parallel to and above Hare Creek.  If you were a mushroomer and got off the main road, scouring the woods, you would discover the above waterwheel, long ago abandoned.  Thanks, John, for the photo.

There are a half dozen little sandy areas in the road, but I think they are better when they are sandy than they are when they are muddy.  It is a nice road for running and walking.

Thanks also to Henry, for bringing his sister, Tonita, and to Craig, for bringing his friend, Ralph.  Also present: Suzanne, Tom T., Ginny, Terry, Rick B., Nancy T., Roger, Cheryl, Neil, Jan, Marc, Charlene, Tanya, Joel, Joe, Shari, Peter, Nancy and Tom (23).

Hard to believe, we haven't been to Van Damme State Park since June 10th.  Maybe because it isn't "dog friendly"??  Well, you can still walk your dog, just not in Fern Canyon.  Try walking the entire campground, including the upper meadow.  Your dog will love it!  So,

NEXT SUNDAY, Oct. 7th @ 8:00 A.M.:  Van Damme State Park, see "Our Routes" above.
 
EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Big River Road

Thanks, John, for the pretty picture off the Mendocino Headlands.

At 51 degrees, with just some thin high clouds and a light breeze, it was a perfect morning along Big River. We had a first timer today, Craig, welcome! Also present were: Gay, Mark, Toni, Joe, Elaine, Charlene, Ron, Bob, Ginny, Terry, John, Nancy T., Roger, Nancy B., Rick, Shari, Peter, Nancy and Tom (20).

NEXT SUNDAY, Sept. 30th @ 8:00 A.M.: Jackson State Forest Road 450 (See "Our Routes" above). This is the south side of Hare Creek, out Simpson Lane.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

MacKerricher Haul Road

A long time Fort Bragg favorite, Jenny's Giant Burger

 
And the skeleton of a regular visitor to the coast. Thanks to John for the photos.

This morning was damp and foggy and 48 degrees, so Mendocino! Nevertheless, we had a nice turnout of happy people, including a visitor from Dallas, Ed. Thanks to Suzanne and Henry for bringing their long time friend and co-worker. Also present: Nancy B., Rick, Jan, Marc, Nancy T., Roger, Toni, Terry, Ginny, Joe, Charlene, Ron, John, Nancy and Tom (18).

 Big River, it's been State Park's property for 10 years now and Ron LeValley asked to have this notice included in today's blog. It's one of our favorite venues.

 Big River Celebration
 It was ten years ago when the Mendocino Land Trust purchased Big River and gave it to California State Parks. It was a great community effort and one that we are all proud of. So, we at the Land Trust (where I am a board member) have decided to celebrate the anniversary! If you are going to be around on September 22, join us! Details below. Mark you calendars and put on your dancing shoes! The 10th anniversary of the Big River Acquisition is coming up and the Mendocino Land Trust wants to invite you to join the party. The “Big Rolling.. 10 years on” celebration fundraiser will take place on Saturday, September 22 at the Caspar Community Center from 1pm – 5pm. Enjoy the music of local favorites Steven Bates and Gwyneth and Monko while sipping on local beer or wine (available at the bar). A delicious range of appetizers will also be available and are included in the ticket cost. Tickets are $30 with all proceeds going towards the continuing restoration efforts of the Big River Watershed. Tickets are available at Harvest Market in the Boatyard shopping Centre, Tangents and The Chamber of Commerce in Fort Bragg, and Out of This World in Mendocino in Mendocino. For more information please call 707-962-0470.

NEXT SUNDAY, Sept. 23 @ 8:00 A.M.: Big River Road. See "Our Routes" above.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Caspar Logging Road

It was an absolutely perfect morning for a run, perhaps just a bit chilly at the start for a walk.  It was 43 degrees with calm, blue skies.  Welcome to Joe, a first time Sunday Fog Dodger walk but long time member of the Landlopers hiking group.  Also present this morning were:  Suzanne, Henry, Gay, Mark, Toni, Nancy T., Roger, Ginny, Terry, Bob, Shari, Peter, Tom T., Marc, Fran, Nancy and Tom (18).

 John was "down south" this weekend, marrying off his son.  Congratulations!  I'll use one of his photos taken 13 months ago at the Caspar Duck Pond, to make the blog look better.

I didn't take too large of a poll but I did ask and there  were three votes for a "level" walk for next Sunday.  Hopefully, we will have weather next Sunday just like today, because we will meet at MacKerricher State Park.

NEXT SUNDAY, 9/16/12 @ 8:00 A.M.: MACKERRICHER HAUL ROAD, see"Our Routes" above.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Hare Creek, Rd. 400

This morning was beautiful and perfect for running and walking. It was clear, calm and 48 degrees, as we began our way down Gravel Pit Road. Thank you, John, for the two photos taken this morning.

It was really great to have six new or almost new people with us this morning: Lynn, Catherine, Dominique, Steve, Scott and Savannah. I hope I got those right, or close?? Anyway, it made for a nice large group today, with all these others present: Joel, Pat, Leon, Ginny, Terry, John, Jan, Marc, Suzanne, Henry, Fran, Nancy B., Rick, Nancy T., Roger, Charlene, Ron, Bob, Neil, Nancy and Tom (27). Hope I didn't miss anyone, again!

NEXT SUNDAY, Sept. 9th @ 8:00 A.M.: Caspar Logging Road. See "Our Routes" above. This is also Jackson State Forest Road 500.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

NAVARRO RIDGE ROAD

A nice change in the weather greeted us this morning. We have been having  cold and very damp fog along the coast lately, so much so that I even had to light the wood stove yesterday. Of course, that made it too warm last night for sleeping, even with my bedside window wide open. But this morning was beautiful! It was 53 degrees, calm and cloudy and the humidity seemed very low, perfect for our run and walk.
Thanks, John for the pictures. First one, a barn (click on the picture, there is a barn) on Navarro Ridge and the second, a view of Albion Bay from the Hwy. 1 Bridge.

Two new persons again this week, Suzanne and Henry, welcome! Also present were: John L., Charlene, Ron, Fran, Gay, Mark, Ginny, Terry, Tanya, Nancy B., Rick, Nancy T., Roger,  Nancy and Tom (17).

NEXT SUNDAY, Sept. 2nd @ 8:00 A.M.: HARE CREEK, JSF ROAD 400 (Gravel Pit Road start) See "Our Routes" above. This road is a fairly steep downhill at the start and yes, uphill at the finish. It is a State Forest Road, scenic and dog friendly.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Big River Logging Road

This morning, we met at Big River. I would say that it was a very successful run/walk, meaning that nobody fell down! It was 51 degrees, calm and overcast at our start and it was really nice to meet two new runners, and Fort Bragg residents, Ginny and Terry. Also present: Nancy T., Roger, John L., Bob, Nancy B., Rick, Jan, Marc, Toni, Gay, Mark, Cindy, Jim, Charlene, Ron, Neil, Steve, Fran (showed up at the Health Club, sorry), Shari, Peter, Nancy and Tom (24). Thank you, John, for the beautiful flower photos. I hear that the dahlias are about at their prime at the Botanical Gardens and we're going there today.

 Kira has been doing such a good job at David's Restaurant, and it has become so popular, there's was a wait to get in the door. Neverless, 10 of us went there, persevered, and had a great breakfast.

We have not gone to Navarro Ridge Road since April. It was mentioned today and I think it's time to go again. It's only a few miles further so I hope that does not deter some of you. It does have one of our favorite Pancake Breakfast and some beautiful countryside and canyon vistas.

NEXT SUNDAY, Aug. 26th @ 8:00 A.M.: Navarro Ridge Road. See "Our Routes" above.
EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

But wait!!!

Just found out, we cannot use the A&W Haul Road yet. This is due to legal actions between The City of Fort Bragg and Hawthorne or Campbell Timber taken just this week. To take the easy way out of this, I'm electing to redo Big River Logging Road again, and this time I'm not going to fall down!

NEXT SUNDAY, Feb. 19th @ 8:00 A.M.: Big River Logging Road. See "Our Routes" above.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Big River

Where's the Bacon John?

It's amazing what some people will do to get out of writing a blog. Here's me thinking that Tom would be back at the helm today. For those that weren't there, once again, Tom hurled himself at the path and gained himself a dislocated finger and five stiches in his chin. I'm glad to report that he's doing fine and nearly made it to breakfast (apparently Tom and Nancy just missed us at David's). I'm told Tom, that eating bacon really helps with balance!

Today was a bit more characteristic of our summer weather than what we've been experiencing this year - foggy and a cool 50°. However, by the end of the walk it was warming up and the fog lifting and by the time those who went to breakfast were finished - it was clear blue skies. We had a nice turnout today, with a guest - another Brit, Graham from New Jersey, who turned out to be a great runner. Why another Brit? Well of course there's me, but also we had Sean and Sabine with us, two more Brits who are fortunate enough to be spending a year in Fort Bragg. Our complete line up today was Bob, John, Charlene, Toni, Pat, Leon, Tom, Nancy, Rick, Nancy B, Sean, Sabine, Graham, Roger and Nancy T. As usual, thanks John for the photos.

Next week we're going to return to the A/W Haul Road. This has been off our regular walks for some time since a gate was put in place. However, we've been assured by Marie Jones, Fort Bragg's Community Development Director that there is a prescribed easement along this road and we are legally allowed to walk it. In fact, they are required to add a pedestrian, bike and equestrian access gate next to the existing motor vehicular gate. Until the new pedestrian gate is in place, we can access the haul road via a path to the west of the health club - a few hundred yards to the east of the Police station. There's ample parking, so we can meet in there.

NEXT SUNDAY, August 19th @ 8:00 A.M.: The A/W Haul road. See comments above. Meet in the Redwood Health Club car park. See our routes (map has been updated).

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.
EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Ten Mile River

 Strange morning.  It was warm (60°), foggy but bright, almost a light drizzle, no wind and humid.  I guess the extra journey to Ten Mile might have detered some of the group as we only had 9 this morning.  They were Neil, Nancy B, Rick, Toni, Larry, Joel John, Roger and Nancy T.  It was great to see Rick back out on the trail.

 With only one response to my question last week about resuming the A&W/Georgia Pacific Logging Road, I was all set to take this as a yes.  However, I didn't select this route for next week, as during this morning's walk I was persuaded that I probably shouldn't take this British cavalier approach!  Oh well, Tom will hopefully be back next week and take on the stress of these momentous decisions.

Once again, thanks to John for these photos he took this morning. Four of us had a great breakfast at David's, where the food and the service have got to be consistently top notch - thanks Kira.


NEXT SUNDAY, DATE @ 8:00 A.M.:BIG RIVER ROAD (a.k.a. The Ron Jahelka Ttrail)
EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.
EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

MacKerricher Haul Road

Another beautiful Mendocino Coast morning.  What a summer.  On our frequent visits before we moved to Fort Bragg, the locals would always tell us that the wonderful weather we always seemed to find was "unusual".  Living here has confirmed my suspicions, that this was just a rumor perpetuated by locals to keep too many people from moving here!  Fortunately we chose to ignore them - and glad we did.

Thanks to John for these photos, taken this morning, that show in spite of all this great weather, the wild flowers are doing well.
Back to today.  It was a around 54° when we started and close to 60° when we got back to the car park. Enjoying today's run/walk were John L, Nancy B, Neil, Toni, Ron, Charlene, Bob, Joel, Elaine, Mark, Gay, Rick S, Megan, Pat, Leon Nancy T and Roger.  Seven of us had a very pleasant breakfast at David's.

 One of our pleasant walks used to be A&W/Georgia Pacific Road (see our routes).  Some time ago, a gate was placed across the entrance.  However, many of us still take this road, by using the paths either side of the Fitness Center, on Cypress, just east of the Police station.  I'm curious as to how you feel about doing this as a group walk?  You can email me at fogdodgers.1@thornburns.com with your thoughts.

NEXT SUNDAY, DATE @ 8:00 A.M.: We'll do Ten Mile this week as the blackberries are ripening fast and this is a great place for those that want to pick some.
EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.
EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Caspar Logging Road

 With Tom and Nancy away having a wonderful time in Disneyland (said with tones of envy), I pulled the short straw for writing this weeks blog.  Sorry it's a bit late - just not up to the same standard as Tom.

However, it was once again a beautiful morning here on the coast.  The sky was clear blue and the temperature was 54° when we started and 58° at the finish. Tom, I'm not sure if you felt a seismic event at 8:00 this morning, but I'm afraid everyone was enjoying their conversations so much, it was hard to get everyone moving, so we were at least 30 seconds late starting!  However, it was great to see so many visitors joining us today.  As always, I have to give the disclaimer that I'm terrible with names, so I apologize first, if I missed you.  As far as I can remember, there was, John L. (and again, thanks John for this lovely photo taken in Caspar), Fran, Don, Charlene, Neil, Tom T, Mark, Gay, Joel, Peter, Susan, Kathy, John, Bob, John R. Nancy T and Roger.

Joel suggested that we go to Jug Handle state park.  Sounds like a good idea, but as it's not on our "list" I'm going to defer to next week when maybe we can have a quick discussion.  So, in the meantime, I'll choose MacKerricher Haul road, as we've not done that in a while.

This Week's Description Here
NEXT SUNDAY, DATE @ 8:00 A.M.: MacKerricherHaul Road - see our routes above.
EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.
EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Russian Gulch State Park

It was bright and sunny when we left Fort Bragg this morning but things turned greyer as we went up the Point Cabrillo grade. It was 52 degrees this morning, good for walking and running.

 Thanks, John for this photo of the lighthouse.

Thank you Mark and Gay for bringing daughter,Sara and grandchildren Kyra and Josh. Also present this morning: Charlene, Shari, Peter, Nancy B., Cheryl, Neil, Megan, Bob, John, Nancy and Tom (16).

After the run/walk, 6 Fog Dodgers did a mini work party, clearing the trails, thanks to all.

NEXT SUNDAY, Jan. 22nd @ 8:00 A.M.: Caspar Logging Road (see "Our Routes" above). I'm picking this one because it is "dog friendly", whereas today's was not. Next Sunday, "I'm going to Disneyland!". Actually I'll miss the next 3 Sundays and I hope that our other moderators won't fight over writing the blog, there's 3 of them and 3 Sundays, should work out perfectly!

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

JSF Rd. 450, Hare Creek

It was again, perfect, this morning. We ran and walked Jackson State Forest Road 450. It was sunny and 51 degrees, the air was calm. Present were: Cheryl, Neil, Tanya, Megan, Fran, Gay, Mark, Tom T., Toni, Larry, Joel, Bob, Nancy T., Roger, Nancy B., Shari, Peter, Nancy and Tom (19). Oh, and Charlene, not there this morning but deserving an honorable mention, since I left her out the past two weeks.

Turkeys by John L.

NEXT SUNDAY, July 15th @ 8:00 A.M.: Russian Gulch State Park. See "Our Routes" above.

We, the Fog Dodgers, under the direction of Nancy and myself, have received permission to do minor trail maintenance at the local State Parks. Next Sunday, we will prune some nettles and blackberries and also clean out some of the clogged drainage ditches along the first couple of miles of the Russian Gulch Fern Canyon Trail. You are welcome to bring along a pair of snips, loppers, shovel or hoe, and do a little work during the walk, or returning immediately after the walk. I think that I will bring my little truck and transport any tools to the trail head. I will try to get a few vehicle passes for those wishing to drive to the trail head.  The work should only take between 1 and 2 hours.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Hare Creek, JSF Road 400

At Hare Creek this morning, it was a "warm" 60 degrees and very, very humid. The air seemed thick enough to add weight to our shoulders. Luckily, we had a visiting runner, Kathleen (I hope that is right), and the conversation kept our (Nancy and mine) minds off of the heavy air. For walking, I'd guess it was about perfect.

 John took a couple of interesting pictures of the morning, one of the bridge and the other on S. Harbor Drive, on the way to the run. Thank you, John.

Though the road, Jackson State Forest Road 400, was as rocky and treacherous as ever, I was pleased to receive several comments saying what a nice road it is. Maybe we'll go back to doing this one more often. Also present this morning: Joel, John, Bob, Laurie, Tom T., Neil, Toni, Larry, Shari, Peter, Nancy and Tom (13).

NEXT SUNDAY, July 8th @ 8:00 A.M.: Hare Creek, the other side this time, Jackson State Forest Road 450, out Simpson Lane. See "Our Routes" above.
 
EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Big River Logging Road

All the way from England, we had two nice guests this morning. Thanks, Nancy and Roger for bringing Sabine and Sean. Neil also brought his brother, Gene. We were all greeted by an absolutely beautiful morning. It was 50 degrees at our start and considerably warmer at the finish. That's warm enough to bring out the mosquitoes, first time this year. Also present were:  Charlene, Dorothy, Fran, Orah, Steve, Shari, Peter, Suzi, Toni, Larry, Bob, John, Nancy and Tom (20). Thank you, John for a couple of nice Big River photos, taken this morning.

NEXT SUNDAY, July 1st @ 8:00 A.M.: Hare Creek, Jackson State Forest Road 400 (Gravel Pit Road). See "Our Routes" above.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.
EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Ten Mile River Logging Road

Just after saying that last week was our warmest morning of the year, this week was even warmer. I was driving my VWOT (vehicle w/o thermometer) so I don't know exactly but would guess that it was at least 60 at our 8:00 a.m. start. It was really very pleasant at Ten Mile River this Sunday. Only three runners (John, Nancy and Tom) and it was too warm for us but plenty of happy walkers: Charlene, Fran, Neil, Nancy B., Rick, Gay, Mark, Toni, Larry, Nancy T., Roger, Shari and Peter (16).

NEXT SUNDAY, June 25th @ 8:00 A.M.: Big River Logging Road, see "Our Routes" above and bring your mosquito repellant.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.

Van Damme State Park

A photo of MacKerricher from last week and one from this morning at the Spring Ranch, thank you John L. It was hot this morning! Well, relatively anyway. 58 degrees at our start, was the "warmest" so far this year. We were at Van Damme State Park and Fern Canyon was Spring-like and beautiful. Besides warm, it was sunny and there was just a slight breeze. We had a nice turnout today: Shari, Peter, Nancy B., Rick, Toni, Larry, Suzi, Charlene, Orah, Steve, Bob, John, Cheryl, Neil, Jennifer, Johnny, Rod, Nancy and Tom (19).

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 17TH @ 8:00 A.M.: TEN MILE RIVER LOGGING ROAD, see "Our Routes" above. Gas prices have come down a few cents and so I'm hoping you'll drive all the way up to Ten Mile, it's a very nice run, walk or bike ride.

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: RUSSIAN GULCH STATE PARK, beginning on Point Cabrillo Drive, 1/10 of a mile north of its south end.

EVERY THURSDAY @ 7:00 A.M.: VAN DAMME STATE PARK, beginning at the beach.