Summer Hikes and Fellowship
Summer Hikes for All Ages: Building Belonging One Step at a Time
Good news! Once again this summer, we are excited to offer low-key hikes designed for all ages and abilities. These hikes will be organized and led by members of the Good Shepherd community approximately once each month, beginning in June. While these hikes are gentle and not strenuous, they mostly take place on natural trails which may present challenges for individuals with mobility issues or very young children. If you have any concerns about the suitability of a trail, please reach out to the designated hike leader for guidance. Meeting times and locations will be announced ahead of each hike, and carpooling options will be available to help transportation needs. Participants are also welcome to meet the group directly at the trailhead, but it is important to contact the leader beforehand so they can expect you.
Saturday, June 20 at Tolmie State Park. Please note that this is a date change from the original June 13 date. Lorna Sheveland and Pastor Brenda will be leading the hike. Participants should meet at Lorna’s home located at 5620 Waldron Dr. NE in Jubilee at 9:30 am or at the trailhead at 9:45 am. For any questions about this hike, you can contact Lorna at 916-747-6612.
Saturday, July 11 at Woodard Bay Conservation Area with Pastor Carol and Jane Ann as leaders. Meeting will be at the main parking area at 3 pm, but since the parking area is limited, carpooling is encouraged. Alternatively, participants can meet at the church for carpooling at 2:30 pm. Hikers can choose between the .8 mile Whitman Road Trail or the 1.3 mile Loop Train Trail, both of which are relatively flat. Please note that the Overlook Trail on the Chehalis Western Trail is closed for the summer to protect nesting herons. To contact the hike leaders for this outing, call 612-770-9648.
Saturday, August 15 at Millersylvania State Park, a casual summer stroll of about 3 miles through the magnificent trees. Meet at 9:00 am at the Good Shepherd parking lot to carpool (apprx. 30-minute drive south from the church). Or meet at the trailhead parking lot (located on the far side of the park near the Deep Lake boat launch.) We’ll plan to start the hike at 10 am. NOTE: Each car will need a Discover Pass. Water, hiking poles, cell phone are all great items to bring with you. You may also want to bring your lunch and maybe even a swimsuit to enjoy the beach after our walk together. Questions? Ask hike leader, Susan Berry at 206-482-2441 or susanjberry@comcast.net.
Saturday, September 12 at Capitol Lake. Di MacQuarrie will be leading the hike with her sister Barb Dorcy assisting. Di's contact information is cell phone 360-951-0352 to text/call or email her at diana.macquarrie@comcast.net. Meet at the Marathon Park trailhead at 10 am (1011 Deschutes Parkway SW, Olympia). Parking in the lot is free but limited, but there is also free parking along street. Please let Di know if you are planning to hike or arrive early so she knows not to leave anybody behind. There is no time listed for carpooling from the church, but if carpooling is needed, please contact Di to set it up. The distance is 1.6 miles on a mix of sidewalk and ADA accessible gravel. The hike is basically on flat level ground and is dog & family friendly. There are water fountains and restrooms available at the trailhead as well as picnic tables if wish to should bring a snack and enjoy conversation after the hike. Benches are scattered along the trail if hikers need a break during the hike.
We look forward to building a sense of community and belonging one step at a time through these enjoyable summer hikes. Come join us to enjoy nature, fellowship, and light exercise suitable for all ages!
