From Salmon Falls to Cronan Ranch

A break in the weather leads Geno and I to the foothills east of Folsom Lake for an out-n-back 10-mile hike along the Salmon Falls Trail to Cronan Ranch Regional Park. Beginning at the Salmon Falls Bridge, the spectacular trail winds through an undulating terrain of oaks and pines above a river gorge (the lower South Fork of American River) ending along the water's edge within the Cronan Ranch Regional Park. After 10 miles, my body and feet were feeling the physical exertion. Much thanks to the efforts of the American River Conservancy and the Bureau of Land Management for another great winter hike!

Christmas Memories

Discovery Park in Winter

During a recent 6-mile city walkabout to stretch our restless legs between successions of winter storms, we paused to survey the flooding at the Discovery Park, entrance to the American River Parkway near downtown. The high flows can be seen along the river banks near downtown just below the confluence of our two mighty rivers. This isn't the high-water mark for the river, but it getting there.

Lights of Christmas

The true Lights of Christmas burn within our hearts and minds. Peace and Happiness to All.

White-Crowned Sparrows

The ever fleeting and elusive White-Crowned Sparrow roams the neighborhoods in winter hiding inconspicuously within our plants and scrubs with its faint high pitched chirp. I always feel privileged when I am fortunate enough to witness this bird in song. Capturing pictures of them can be a test of one's patience and lucky stars.

Consumnes River Preserve

Late December afternoon at the Consumnes River Preserve with the Canon EF 100-400mm lense. Click on the picture below to view a slideshow. When you are done or just wish to quit, click the "X" on the upper right corner of your window.

Winter Visitors

This year, I'm seeing a higher number of Snowy Egrets and an occasional Great Blue along the local drainage canals which crisscross the neighborhood. With a borrowed Canon EF 100-400mm lense, below are pictures of some winter visitors. Click on the picture to view a slideshow. When you are done or just wish to quit, click the "X" on the upper right corner of your window.