Soon the BBVTC will be back on the trails.
There was no May Trail Crew workday due to the continuing shelter in place order that has been extended until the end of May 2020. Some activities ARE starting to reopen so we'll have to see how those go in regards to Big Basin. Other than not carpooling to trailheads, we shouldn't have much difficulty dealing with any restrictions that may be around once the park reopens. As far as what we've been missing, well not seeing everyone who comes out for Trail Crew workdays is the BIG one, but we're also missing out on a lot of trail brushing along with the opportunity to fight the ticks on Last Chance Trail!
The recent warm weather also means rattlesnakes are becoming more active on the higher ridges and it reminded me of a workday lunch stop we made many years ago. If I recall correctly, it was at Ocean View Summit on Middle Ridge and we just plopped down to eat and enjoy the view. After breaking out my sandwich I glanced to the side and saw a baby rattlesnake. And then another baby rattlesnake. And another. It turned out we were trying to eat in the midst of a rattlesnake nest area and though we never saw a big snake we quickly relocated.
Baby Rattlesnake JAN-2010
Hope everyone is doing well, staying optimistic and getting outside for walks or hikes wherever you can. If you're looking for something to pass the 'too much spare time' and want to enjoy the outdoors without being outside, check out Jeff's photo website (byjcbphoto.com) and Flickr page (https://www.flickr.com/photos/byjcb/). Lots of bird photos (of course!), but also other fauna, flora and landscapes, that will make you want to charge out the door and enjoy nature.
I'm looking forward to getting back on the Big Basin trails, so perhaps for the June 13th workday?? We'll keep you updated on whatever we hear. It's taken a lot of very dedicated people to get the Trail Crew through its first 50 years and this dedication will help us get restarted once again. Thanks in advance to everyone for all they do for the Trail Crew and Big Basin.
Stay healthy and we're looking forward to seeing you soon!
Mike
photos by Jeff