San Juan Bautista

I headed south with my chief biking buddy for a non-cycling adventure. Destination: San Juan Bautista.

We took an unplanned detour out Salinas Road and San Juan Grade, having missed the turn for the trailhead we sought for the Juan Bautista De Anza National Historic Trail. My buddy insisted (correctly, it turns out) that we had biked up that road. I had no memory of it, probably because I had been so unnerved by that day's stretch along Crazy Horse Canyon Road. One thing is certain: the road is in no better shape now than it was in 2015.

The trail was popular with local hikers and runners—likely more so now in the cooler weather than the heat of summer, given the lack of tree cover. The hills were golden and the sky was clear.

There were many Gray Buckeyes fluttering about, no doubt searching for some nectar. Very few plants are blooming this late in the season, but there were a couple of fuller's teasels hanging on—and the butterflies found them.

After hiking a little over four miles, we headed into town. We meandered along the main street, but of course no trip here would be complete without a visit to the historic mission. I'll always think of my friend Steve here, who made sure I didn't miss the plaque for El Camino Real back in 2007 when I visited for the first time on a club ride.

New adventures mix with the old, not to be forgotten.