September 6, 2013
Sivel’s Orchard
Total distance: 3 miles
Today I joined a group of senior citizens as they walked their dogs down a secluded back road in the Sierra National Forest.
Three friends and I (two of whom belong to the Sierra Hiking Seniors Group) met early in the morning and carpooled to the group’s meeting site, a grocery store parking lot. After quick introductions, we drove to the hiking destination: Sivel’s Orchard—a 100-year old abandoned apple orchard. It was my first time hiking with this group (some of whom brought their dogs) and I rather enjoyed myself.
The rambunctious dogs bound forward when we headed out on the dusty trail. With pricked ears they came running back to their master’s call knowing that a treat was in store.
The walk through the shaded forest was pleasant, and I enjoyed meeting and talking with several women, all who love hiking.
But the highlight of the morning was walking through the sunlit orchard where apples, pears and plums grew.
Many people picked bags full of the little green apples. I took a few as well, enough to make a big bowl of applesauce.
Afterwards, the spent dogs sprawled in the dirt as the coordinators of the hike treated us to snacks and drinks.
I hope to continue participating in the Friday Hikes with this energetic group of elders and their dogs.
Hiking Yosemite and Beyond 
Now that looks like a hike I might be able to survive. How nice that you are making new friends and finding new trails.
Dad
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This was a very easy hike. You COULD do this one. Now that I know where the orchard is, maybe I’ll return yearly to pick apples.
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It looks like a lovely trail–and homemade apple sauce sounds wonderful.
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I still haven’t made the applesauce or the apple cookies (recipe from your blog). I have enough apples to make both though.
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