Ebbett's Pass Fall Trip 2011

   Joan, Paul, and I made our yearly fall trip over our beloved Ebbett's Pass toward the end of October.  We were afraid we were too late to see really good colors, but we were rewarded with some beautiful sights.  Here we are on the pass.  We spotted some orange and had to investigate.  As you can see, much of the pass is filled with rock.

    We followed our usual itinerary.  We arrived at the hot springs in Markleeville right after it opened.  The pool is fed constantly with a steady temperature of about 104 degrees.  A fresh water pool is maintained as well, so Joan and I moved back and forth between the two.  After being fully relaxed by the water and surrounding mountains, we had lunch in Markleeville.  I had a delicious patty melt, a decadent treat I rarely allow myself.   As a matter of fact, I hadn't had one since I had one there three years ago.  Delicious!!!
   Then, we added an additional couple of spots.  We drove through Hope Valley, where we found the best colors along the river.

    Here is an extra picture without the color.  This is what the area looks like most of the year - lots on pines and many outcroppings of rock.  I love Ebbett's Pass!!!