Saddleback in Winter

After glorious summer beach days, now is the winter of disc brakes...or something like that.  It's not winter yet, but the late fall weather seems perfect for riding Saddleback.  This is the time of year - after the summer heat, before the first winter deluge - that the trails and conditions in the Santa Ana mountains seem perfect.  Crisp weather, glorious views, the largest open space in Orange County:  What more could you want?

I intend to be up there every week, weather permitting, until spring.  Last week was the first entree.  I rode up Holy Jim with Josh, Richard and Dan, then descended W. Horsethief.  It was my first time down Horsethief in several years, and what a beautiful descent - fun switchbacks, great views of the Yeager Mesa, perfect conditions.  If you haven't ridden it recently, get out there. 

Speaking of Yeager Mesa, I believe there might be a trip there in the near future.  After a couple light rains, Yeager should be in optimal condition.  Of course that means, for a mere mortal like myself, I will be able to ride most of the trail.  And I'd like to ride Coldwater this year.  So many trails, a whole winter's worth I think.