Please be in good enough shape to move along at a moderate (+/-2.5 mph) steady pace and comfortable with elevation changes.
Distance: +/- 5.6 miles total
The hike: A lollipop loop near Occidental. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, with 900 ft. of elevation gain. From the trailhead the hike begins by descending down an old logging road which eventually meets up with the trail that continues down to Willow Creek. Lots of Redwoods along the way! There is a rest area with some simple benches near the creek. From here we follow the creek trail for a short distance before re-connecting with the logging road/Hunters Camp trail and ascend back up to the trailhead. Note...the second half is a steady climb back up to the trailhead. This is a popular trail for hiking, mountain biking, and running.
Parking: is limited; Carpool if you can.
Where to meet: 19100 Coleman Valley Road at the gate at the trailhead.
Please be on time. We’ll start promptly at the start time listed. Give yourself a little extra time to arrive and get situated so that you’re part of the opening circle as this is an essential part of our time together.
No restroom available
What to bring: Snack, water, hat, good hiking shoes, a joyful spirit and laughter. Please dress appropriately for the weather that day. Layers of clothing are always advisable.
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Reminders:
Mindful hikes are intended to be a way to connect more fully with ourselves, each other and with the land. There will be two periods of silent walking throughout the hike to allow the senses to be fully alive and felt. There will also be time during the hike to visit and connect with each other. These times of talking and connecting are an invitation to bring mindfulness to the present moment. It's a time to put away the cell phone and cameras to disengage from technology to be fully present with each other, our senses and the land we are inhabiting.
If you're on the waitlist for the hike and want to attend please message Vickie a few days before the scheduled hike. Most hikes have people drop off at the last minute and it's possible there is an opening.
Dāna
In the spirit of the Buddhist tradition mindful hikes are offered as a dāna based event. Rick Hansen says “generosity is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of ‘self’ and ripples out into the world to touch many people.” The dāna practice is heart centered and in the spirit of generosity. Venmo or cash is graciously accepted. Venmo account is: @vickieix8; last four digits 4714 of my phone # if asked.
No-Show Policy: Please cancel at least 24 hours before the start of the hike. Be mindful that there may be a waitlist. If your plans change and you're not coming, opening up a spot 4-5 days before the hike it's more likely someone will be able to attend than if you cancel at the last minute. You're considered a no-show if you cancel at the last minute. Members with 2 no-shows will be removed from the group.
