San Pablo Reservoir, Orinda, California

“The trail is better than those at Rush Ranch”, said Lori Grey. Lori is Outings and Adventure Coordinator for BORP (Bay Area Outreach and Recreation Program) and was commenting on the smooth ride provided by our recent event at a new venue, the Lower Lake Trail east of the San Pablo Reservoir on East Bay Municipal Utility District watershed in Orinda. Special permission was granted for Access Adventure to drive on this fire road as it is not open to the public. It is truly a “Picture Book Trail”, winding along a creek through a small forest of bay,oak, pine and eucalyptus trees with long distance views of the reservoir. In past years the Fazels had often admired the trail from afar, John as a trail to run on, Mary Lou and her barn partner, Bobbie Landers for riding their horses. Bobbie’s barn on Bear Creek Road provided parking for our vehicles, and sufficient space to unload the trolley and hitch the team. The volunteers and a wagon full of riders then drove to the entrance to the pasture which would serve as a staging area for participants from BORP and other friends. Access Adventure therapeutic driving student, Judy Smith, Michael Muir and Randie Boardman were designated drivers. Jack and Jake seemed to enjoy the cool breezes coming from the retreating fog over the East Bay hills. Bobbie and Mary Lou entertained on the drive providing the history of the area and stories of their adventures on EBMUD trails (always under the watchful eyes of the EBRP police). Photo credits: John Fazel