On a tip from friends, my husband and I visited the Crystal Springs Reservoir, located across the bay in San Mateo County. We've driven by the reservoir multiple times on our way to Filoli Gardens (even picnicked in the car overlooking the lake), but this was our first time to visit. Plus, someone was having a birthday that deserved to be celebrated!
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Crystal Springs Reservoir
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Sawyer Camp Trail
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We weren't alone – the paved, flat trail is a lure for hikers of all ages and stages in life. We saw folks in strollers and wheelchairs, runners and bikers, slow and fast walkers, crutches and canes, and a few who just wanted to find a bench in the shade and enjoy the view. Most folks wore masks, and found a way to keep distance while enjoying a variety of activities – all grateful to be outside and moving!
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Lake access is prevented to protect the water supply
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View of the lake through the oaks
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Shady culvert for tributary creek
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We had fine San Francisco Bay Area weather – mid-seventies with a marine breeze through the valley. In a bend in the road we found lichen growing in the oak trees (it must be the perfect microclimate for them). We spent some time goofing off.
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Abundant lichen
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Goofing off by the lake
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The dam is over a hundred years old, but was recently
refurbished and expanded. A small monument celebrates the centennial of the dam, and its engineer (Hermann Schussler, 1842 - 1919).
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Monument to Crystal Springs Dam
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"If you seek his monument ..."
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Crystal Springs dam water level
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We didn't make it to the Jepson Laurel tree or the Pulgas Water Temple (future outings), but we loved getting out of the house, exploring new territory, and seeing new sights. We headed for home and the rest of the birthday celebration with pizza, chocolate cake, and a DVD. I recommend the Sawyer Camp Trail as an accessible and family friendly trail!
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San Mateo Bridge with a view to the East Bay hills
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