Ride to the epicenter (almost)

Learning how to manage my 3 hours and 20 minutes of freedom while Alexander is at school has been tricky, but I seem to have managed in the last few days. Today, I drove to Aptos and rode my bike through the Forest of Nisene Marks (we went here last year, see http://ardbeg.blogspot.com/2005/04/into-forest.html ). I decided to ride to the epicenter of the 1989 earthquake that in 15 seconds wiped out half of Santa Cruz downtown, and wreaked havoc all over the Bay Area.

It was a beautiful day, warm in the sunlight and cool in the shade. The trail runs above a creek for several miles. I got within 0.6 miles of the epicenter and had to dismount. Bikes were not allowed on this part of the trail a sign said. But where exactly was the trail? I searched and searched, but couldn’t find it. I tried to make my own way, but fell down the steep slope, catching myself just before I plunged into the icy waters.

Eventually I gave up and had to ride back. My trip culminated in a trip to the “Britannia Arms” conveniently situated at the trail head (did I plan this or what), where I was rejuvenated by steak and kidney pie, chips and a pint of bass. Definitely 3 hours and 20 minutes well spent.