This is an exploratory hike to try something new. Everyone will start on the waitlist; intentionally keeping the group size small. If you meet all of these criteria: hiked with me in the last 6 months, are in good enough shape to move along at a moderate (+/-2.5 mph) steady pace, have no 'no-shows', have shown up for hikes that you sign up for, and the group isn't full, you'll be 'going'. It's going to be fun.
The hike/trails:
7.5 miles round trip
This is an out and back following the Goodspeed Trail, which becomes Nattkamper Trail after 2.1 miles as it crosses into Hood Mountain Regional Park. After 1.2 miles, we'll turn left and hike for 0.2 miles to reach Gunsight Rock, which offers stunning views of Sonoma Valley.
Strenuous. 2000 feet elevation gain.
Where to meet:
Goodspeed trailhead at the lower parking lot; before you enter the park on the left side of the road
3499 Adobe Canyon Road (approximate location)
38°26'33.6"N 122°31'50.7"W
Parking: $10 or state parks pass; if you don't have a parks pass allow plenty of time to drive to the park entrance for a pass and back to the parking area
Restroom facilities: Near the entrance of the park; no restroom facilities at the trailhead meet up site
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.
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 disengage from technology to be fully present with each other, our senses and the land we are inhabiting.
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.
