May 1
Today I am hiking with seven other individuals with a destination of Bassi Falls. This trail is located just above Union Valley reservoir.
The beginning of the trail is well shaded The earth is moist from recent rain and snow melt however we have not seen any snow at this level.
We come to a Vista of Bassi creek, which is flowing very well today, the Falls should be amazing
We cross multiple small streams that all add a touch of beauty to the trail
Soon we round the corner and take a short side trail that gives us a view of the first large set of rapids and cascades
A very short distance later we come to the side of the river directly at the Cascade previously pictured. I have hiked here a number of times, but do not believe if I have ever seen the water flowing at this level.
As we hike, we are passing large numbers of Greenleaf Manzanita in bloom. The small white flowers will develop red buds that resemble apples thus the name manzanita Spanish for little apple.
As I walk through this shaded area, the ground is moist and there is a very prevalent aroma from the redwoods surrounding us. It’s one of those senses that I can try to describe, but without doing it justice. It is very earthy with the woodsy undertone and very prevalent.
As we come out of the more heavily wooded area, we arrive to a section that has some exposed granite and it’s more wide open. Up above us is a very attractive granite mountain whose top is bare of most vegetation
The trail opens up to a great view of Bassi Falls.
We head towards it and soon arrive at the base. After a couple of minutes taking in its power and scenery we continued on around a small knob and uphill, eventually coming to a large granite opening that leads us to the top of the falls.
We stopped to have lunch right at the edge of the upper drop off. The sheer amount of dust water and it’s force as it passes us is astounding
Large boulders that have been carried onto the flat granite slab are always impressive to me when I see them sitting in the open.
We arrive back at the trailhead, but need to walk another half mile to the main road. The dirt road to the parking area is currently closed.
Today we did just about 6 1/2 miles. The weather was beautiful and the scenery was outstanding.
