When the dam opened in 1979, popular student spots like the Booty's and Crockett Gardens lay at the bottom of the human-made lake. Today, students use the San Gabriel in much different ways. Instead of using ropes to swing out across the river, some students use them to scale nearby rocks. We also go to Blue Hole and the Pickett Trail for bouldering. While students still enjoy swimming and catching some sun at places like Blue Hole, the San Gabriel River does not draw students the way it once did.
Students still look for outlets to relieve the stresses of college life.
Gone, too, are the days when students didn't leave campus on weekends. As for dating, a walk in the park may be nice, but movies, restaurants, and Sixth Street in Austin seem to be more popular choices now. As the San Gabriel has changed, so has the world around it. But, even as more highways are built and cities continue to grow, the river will always be the distinguishing mark of this picturesque country of picturesque people. The adventurous spirit of Southwestern students will forever be drawn to the old San Gabriel.