Route 4 Drive...or Coop's Day Off

Getting his morning sunshine nap

Coop's tootsies were hurting today so we decided to drive out Route 4.  We've driven it a few times.  It is one of those routes that is 'closed in winter'...28% grades and sharp curves for portions.  

Not much to report other than we had our lunch by Alpine Lake.  
 

Odd pine cones

Watched the boats and kayaks.  Lots of other people were out and about on the water... surprised since it was a regular work day and this area doesn't seem to attract anyone but locals.  Of course the water level was low... always seems to be the case in California.

Scary chairs on lift

We did discover a ski resort... Bear Valley.  Nothing happening on the mountain and ancient looking chair lifts... Bridger Bowl type.  No sides, no padding, no safety bar... no thank you.  On the other side of the mountain we started to see some really dry terrain... green trees, but totally dry grassland.  

The temperature actually hit 100 degrees as we headed down the valley.  There is a wildfire in the area and we're not quite sure how they are avoiding the whole area blowing up into flames. 

It was nice to start the climb back up to cooler temperatures.  At least it is green at 9000 feet.   The clouds started to look ominous not too far from camp so we decided to head to South Tahoe for burger night at Izzy's Burger Spa... it seems to have become a tradition when we're in the area.  Bonsai burgers and a shared basket of frings... about perfect.  Caught up on the weather and news of the day... looks like we have the better weather right where we are so rather than pack up tomorrow looks like we're staying put for a while longer.  

Tomorrow the local weather is calling for increase in chance of rain though so it may be a rest day.  We have yet to sit in camp... knitting may be sort of fun.

Tonight's sunset was spectacular with all the clouds and rain in the area... take the good with the bad.