Last Tuesday I met up with a cousin for a hike. We chose a place about half way between us—Jack London State Historic Park. Its only about an hour from here but I had never been there. What a great day! It had been foggy in the valley for days—that thick drippy fog that lasts all day. We found the sun!

There are 29 miles of trails in the park and we kept checking the map as we ran into intersections. This trail is part of the 400 mile trail system designated Bay Area Ridge Trail. That makes me think I have a lot more exploring to do in my own backyard.

The mist is a sign that there is still a lot of moisture in the air and on the ground.

We were impressed with the size and color of these leaves.

There are several ecosystems here—including grassy meadows, oak woodland, redwoods, and streams.

The fog was still there in places but here we were above it.

There are seeds sprouting in this dry thistle. I’ve never seen that but maybe it’s because I’m usually hiking in the spring, before seeds are even formed, and summer when it is dry and nothing is going to sprout.

It reminded me of a chia pet or a container of sprouts.

I didn’t take my usual number of photos and I didn’t get one of Carol and me. I slipped in one place and twisted my already injured knee. So I was paying such close attention to footing and getting back when we needed to that my photo mojo was left behind.

But this was a great place for a hike and a great time with my cousin whom I hadn’t seen in years. I definitely want to do it again!