Missions San Juan Capistrano / San Luis Rey

November 1, 2012

El Toro, CA

Today was forecast to be a nice Southern California day.  So the plan was to take an easy ride south to Mission San Juan Capistrano then 50 miles further south to Mission San Luis Rey de Francia located not too far from Camp Pendleton’s back gate.

A few things have changed at Mission San Juan Capistrano since the last time I was there.  First off, there was ongoing street construction in front of the Mission on Ortega.  This prevented me from positioning Sophia in a good spot for an outside photo.  Second, it appears that a local businessman has taken over the Mission business.  Remodeling is planned and entry fees are $8….the most expensive of any mission.  Needless to say, I didn’t go into the grounds. 

At the temporary pay booth Snoopy got a photo with the attendant and the passport got stamped.

 

Then me and Sophia had to settle for a cross corner photo with the Mission in the background.  This was the best that could be done under the circumstances.

The ride south to Mission San Luis Rey is a gorgeous ride along the coast.  There is a vista point along the way and I stopped briefly to admire the Pacific and breathe its pure ocean air.

Things were better at San Luis Rey.  No traffic, open parking lot.  And a fun time for Snoopy. 

There were four ladies in the Gift Shop and they all wanted to be photographed with the Snoop.  .Marie, Maureen, Cornelia and Kay with Snoopy 

Then Snoop got to meet Penny, Cornelia’s little puppy.

Outside Sophia and me posed in the spot taken by the Passport photo.

I have now completed the SCMA’s California Missions Tour.

In fact, I have now completed all 5 of the SCMA’s Major Events in 2013.

USA Four Corners

Three Flags Classic

15 Best USA Rides

California Adventure

California Missions Tour

Ahhh, such a good feeling of accomplishment.

C ya mañana,

J Gonzo

Twitter: @GonzoCrossUSA

Email: GonzoCrossUSA@gmail.com

Cell: 949-433-0761