Had the day off today since I am working Saturday (and also got my second COVID vaccine yesterday). Felt good and headed to the Rhus Ridge Trailhead. It had been over 20 years since I had been here, so had to recall the drive up. I used to run the trails here from Rancho San Antonio as well as from Hidden Villa. Forgot how much I enjoyed the varied trails … well — maybe “enjoyed” was not the right term for the steep hills. But the trees, animals, and views brought back some memories. The first mile up from Rhus Ridge was as unforgiving as I recalled, but quickly rewarded with views of stately Los Altos homes. Next was Duveneck Windmill pasture which I used to run as a turnaround loop from Rancho’s Chamise Trail. The rest was Black Mountain Trail which initially gave a short respite from the uphill before starting its steady climb up as it passed a couple trails from Hidden Villa (which was said to be closed). The uphill got steep at the power pole (you’ll know when you get there). I went by Quarry Trail, which also links back to Rancho San Antonio. It is named for the Kaiser Cement Quarry located to the west of Rancho (which is off limits … but sorta accessible and completely a mess to run … apparently 25 years ago). However, I may consider doing a loop from Rancho to include Quarry and Chamise Trails. I passed a couple hikers on the way up as well as a couple runners coming down. We all marveled at the wonderful weather. I was rewarded with great views of the Bay Area from the peak (which is not more than a slight rise along Montebello Road which runs along the ridge.

I got plenty of pics along the way … nice reward for a day off work.