Bike Ride to San Clemente and Back

On Memorial Day, this past Monday, we got up early to do a long bike ride on the 38 year old Schwinns.  We started in nearby Oceanside and planned to see if we could ride a bike route through the Camp Pendleton Marine Base, and continue up the coast before returning.  The weather was ideal, and we were pleased to be given access onto the base, which is sometimes closed during periods of heightened security.

There was practically no traffic on the 16 miles of base road, probably due to the holiday.  The road is not open to publicly driven cars. Tank crossing  signs were a novelty to us!

Another tank crossing.

To be allowed on the Marine base, you have to wear helmets. Luckily, Gail had some classics stashed in the garage.  We were being passed all day long by the Spandex, carbon fiber bike set, but I think we had more fun and as much exercise!

I must say I'm getting pretty good at the one handed portrait shot!

After a few miles, the road cuts under I-5 and then follows the ocean.  We stopped at a helipad, and walked over to the cliff where there was a desrted beach below.

There was an arch over the ravine leading to the beach.

Eventually, we left the marine base and followed the 6 mile road that makes up San Onofre State Beach.  We were awed by this tent trailer called "Chalet".  We may be checking this out further.

We made it to San Clemente by noon.  We were eager to be home in time for our BBQ, so we turned around and headed the 20 miles back down the coast.

 

One last picture to prove we made it.

We stopped at the trail leading down to the world class Trestles surf break in the distance.  It took years, but a six lane toll ride was finally prevented from being built across the marsh and native habitat you see in this picture, thanks in large part to the Surfrider Foundation



We always crack up when we see the twin domes of the San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant.  The plant has been off-line for months due to cracked cooling tubes which are only two years old.  I hope it says off- line!

After the 40 mile ride, we had a lovely soak in our elegant pool ($24 from Target).  Paco came out for a little sun and a splash.

Then, it was time for preparing the holiday BBQ of skewered veggies and turkey thighs. What a full and satisfying day!