Spring finally hit! Memorial day was a great day to have a little cruise. Unfortunately, due to some weak map software (thanks Delorme), the course was a little, well, difficult. We happened upon our share of "Not A Through Road" signs.

So, with maps in hand, we met up at the Blossom Hill Park N Ride. Matt (Roush2960), Steve (2001 S3 #92), Jesse, Brian (TRY2PAZ), Eric (BULLITT208), and myself were amped because the weather in the area had finally looked like spring.

We left our meeting place after a quick discussion of where we were to go, and where Jesse would be able to eat. Our trip out of town was pretty uneventful, and there was even a little smackdown going on. We hit the Almaden hills and the drive was looking beautiful.

The route called for a turn up a road that I had never been on, but my map assured me that it would be a nice 10 mile trip up the mountain to Summit road. Upon making the right hand turn onto the road, something worried me.

Me on 2-way radio: "Does that sign we just passed worry anyone??"
Someone replies: "Do you mean that 'Not A Through Road' sign?"
Me: "Yea, that one. No problem, the map shows it going through"

About two miles up the road was our first stop for the day. Brian's brother Scott ran up to check the road. He asked if anyone had 4-wheel drive. Six cars making 10-point U-turns must have been quite the site.

No problem, I had a backup plan. We bust out to Watsonville Road and up 152 to the top of the hill. We stop at the top, and I ask a lady selling fruit if we could hit the road I was originally aiming for - Summit Road. She says "Sure - just drive through the park". Ok. Drive through the park. Damn. There is that sign again.

Stop number three. Six cars doing 10-point U-turns. Back on the road.

We decide to cut our losses and grab some lunch. Nobody clowned on me too much, and after lunch, we start to head home on one of my favorite roads in the Bay Area - Hiway 9 from Santa Cruz to Saratoga. Redwoods, winding roads, and turnouts for the slow pokes. Bitchin road.

But, it was a holiday weekend. I have never seen so much traffic on this road. Still, it is a beautiful drive. The final stop was not because of a road sign, but because of my weak bladder in my progressing years. After the final stretch of Hiway 9, we cruise through Los Gatos just to look cool, pass the Ferrari dealer, and say our good byes. Turned out to be a cool cruise after all.

Thanks to those that came. No matter what the driving is like, you are all cool dudes to hang out with.

ð kev

Updated with six new pics taken by Steve (2001 S3 #92)