Journey to Santa Cruz

A couple of friends and I did a ride to Santa Cruz for Thanksgiving. This has been a semi-annual tradition for my friends for a while, and one that I have recently been able to share.

The day started cold, but we got a treat as we climbed up to Skyline, where it was pleasantly warm and sunny.

We stopped in Felton for lunch and then did the bonus climb up Felton-Empire Grade.

After enjoying some of my pumpkin pie, we descended to Santa Cruz, managing to avoid the deer on the side of the road.

I had time to see the Rodin sculpture garden at Stanford
More interesting sculptures
Memorial church in the morning light
Keith volunteered to carry Lyresa’s seat pack up Highway 9. He still was faster to the top, despite the added weight.
Continuing my tradition of pie and whisky at the top of Felton-Empire Grade
The clock in Santa Cruz
I walked to the pier before dinner and saw the lights of the boardwalk
The lighthouse at sunset
The moon through some palm trees

Posted: November 27, 2025 by

Category: Cycling