Today Sharon K. was feeling a little under the weather, so Claudia W., Cecilia M., Shirley A. and I ventured out on our own to hike at Mt. Diablo State Park. We started out the day by hiking the Fire Interpretive Trail which is a short loop close to the summit. It was a clear day so we were rewarded with astounding views of the bay area and beyond. The self-guided tour pamphet we picked up at the start of the trail described geology and vegetation such as chaparral plants, chamise and yerba santa. We all thought it is a great short hike to take out-of-town visitors on, but beware of the poison oak which lines much of the path.
We then piled back in the car and drove down the mountain to start the next trail out from Curry Point. The trail is a one way in and out path along Knobcone Point Road which is mostly level with a few brief climbs and not much shade. We saw some wildflowers along the way which Cecilia recognized as mariposa and sticky monkey. We missed Balancing Rock on the way in because we were gabbing so much but was sure to see it as we hiked back out. It is a formation comprised of a huge boulder perched on a smaller rock.
In total we hiked a little over 4 miles. Thank you Ms. Claudia for driving “slowly” up the twisty road to the summit. I appreciate it and so does my stomach. 
Claudia was our photographer today and we look forward to seeing her photos. Hope you’re feeling better today Sharon.
Happy Trails,
Cathy
