Call him "Taps" from now on.
David and Madison arrived shortly thereafter. We took the obligatory "proof of life" photo at the trailhead.
It started out very chilly, maybe 40 degrees. We casually ambled along the wide road that leads to the dam at Pyramid Lake. Next to the road flows Piru Creek.
We had met a couple fishermen at the trailhead. They road e-bikes to various pools along the river, hunting for trout.
Eventually we departed the paved road and turned left onto a dirt road, the route to Slide Mountain.
This good road climbed steadily, and our range of scenery expanded. Across the canyon Interstate 5 coursed along the upper slopes. And Pyramid Lake came into view up the canyon, behind the dam.
The clear road turned into an overgrown road with a decent singletrack path. We switchbacked a few times, then hit the ridge, where we took a break.
During our break Shurovi and Tim caught up with us. This made Cecelia very happy.
We stood at the ridge and looked across the range at Cobblestone and other peaks of the Los Padres. The trail took us sneakily toward the summit. The lookout isn't visible until shortly before reaching the top.
Being the only group there, we settled in and occupied all the choice spots around the tower. We took another group photo.
David pointed out nearby Dome Mountain which he climbed awhile back. Then he had to take off, so we said our farewells.
After the party started, Missy arrived bearing gifts.
She gave Cecelia a beanie, a ribbon and a glass.
It was becoming quite the party. I made hot chocolate and hot apple cider for everyone, while Cecelia warmed up tomato soup.
Jeff cooked delicious grilled cheese sandwiches for everyone.
The selection of toppings this time included the standard pesto and dried tomatoes, along with regular or hot cheese, and grilled artichokes. I've lost track of all the options now, the menu grows and improves with each hike.
Cecelia wanted pumpkin pie for dessert, so I served pie with whipped cream. For her gift I gave Cecelia a photo album covering the hikes we've done for her birthdays. Then I went on a self-tour of the Lookout.
I climbed the steps and circled the walkway, peeking through the windows.
Inside there is a stove and one bed, which is all I would need for a cozy night. The views of course are spectacular and unobstructed.
Cecelia signed the register and I placed a couple stickers. Represent!
After filling our bellies and declaring the summit properly cheesed, we packed up and descended the way we came.
