A little bit about our selected route.  The missions were originally connected by a footpath  along which the Padres walked or rode horseback.  This path was dubbed El Camino Real. (The royal road).  The missions were approximately a day's ride apart approximately 15-35 miles.  El Camino Real (ECR) still exists, as highway 101.  In 1906, the route was commemorated  a series of bells placed along the trail.  These were designed and cast by Mrs. A.S.C. Forbes, known as the first woman American bell maker.  Although many of the original bells are gone, CalTrans has been replacing them - using bells made by the same firm.  (http://www.californiabell.com/).

 Cathy and I fly into SFO  June 20th, rent a car - and will visit California Bell Company, before heading up to Sonoma to start the biking portion of the trip.  We hope to meet the with the  owner of California Bell and learn more about the current status of the putting the ring back on the ECR!  Go to their website to read more about the history and see some wonderful historic photos.