Rubio Right-of-Way to Rubio Creekbed via new section of Altadena Crest Trail, July 5th, 2004. Sameer, Amany and Bev took a pickaxe, de-thatcher and a tree saw, down the trail this morning and made some nice clear passages through the brush that is growing quite fast right now. Every here and there, poison oak is trying to take advantage of overgrown brush that is invading the path, so we are hoping to keep most of the trail clear in advance. The poison oak is only near the path in two small spots, and close to the ground. Further down, we hacked, chopped, pounded, stomped and scraped away at rock and dirt along the section of worst washout. Where before there was a section without much of a path to place a boot, just a gully fall; now there is continuous, solid trail all the way to the creek bed. I would say that this trail is definitely ready for almost any hiker! The reward for our maintenance work was that moment I am lately coming to rely on - the relaxation at the bottom of Rubio creek, under the oaks and other very large shade trees. A pleasant breeze refreshed us as we relished the quiet and lazily discussed the mysteries of the universe, before heading back out for home. The rest of my day has been more delightful because I got my needed dose of Saturday morning Rubio immersion, and good company! :) BTW: It would be great if a few equestrians could check out this trail on foot, and give us their assessment and recommendations. Sameer is offering to lead hikes any Saturday morning and I will be leading Sunday morning hikes for a while. Also, if anyone wants to go on a weekday, let us know! And suggest a better time, if the 8 am start doesn't suit you. hikes at Altadena Trails .org