The only sensible time to take a hike in Redding, California, during the dreadfully hot days of summer (triple digit temperatures are the norm this week) is before, at and just after sunrise.
Here’s what you’ll see (think tranquil urban and rural sights), and not see (think people or cars), between 5:15 to 7:45 a.m. on a Sunday morning.
The little-known, oasis-like park at the offices of the Shasta County Superior Court .
The empty parking lot at the YMCA before it opens at 10 a.m. on Sunday.
A freight train entering Redding on an iconic railroad trestle built in 1939.
The early morning peopleless Diestelhorst Bridge built in 1915.
The peopleless trailhead on the Sacramento River trail early on a Sunday morning in July.
The sun first hitting the Sacramento River.
A mother duck and her ducklings on a morning outing in the Sacramento River.
An empty bench waiting for you on the Sacramento River Trail.
The sun also rising over the Sacramento River in Redding, CA.
The Idiot sees his first human of the day cycling downhill (as he goes up) on the Buenaventura Trail at 7 a.m.
Entrance to a new housing development with views of the Sacramento River above the Sacramento River Trail in Redding, CA.
It wasn’t just the heat that led to the closure of this supermarket in Redding, CA. It is one of many empty buildings in town.
A sidewalk path towards downtown Redding.
Passing the dog park just over five hours before the beginning of a dog day afternoon.
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