Fred Russ State Forest Park Entry Fee/Pass:

Check out this 5.1-mile loop trail near Marcellus, Michigan. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 -2 hrs to complete and add on a few photo breaks. This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are March through December. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

Should be great weather in November... there are additional smaller trails we can add if we choose to. Weather dependant! DURING snowstorm, noooo... Right After Snowstorm, QUITE possibly.

BRING vittles in case it is nice enough to hang out for vittles... OR we can try to locate nearby dining. No clue what Marcellus has to offer!!

HOUSEKEEPING NOTES:

1. welcome to all the NEWBIES & Regulars!! I provide lotsa info, but always feel free to ask questions in the comments, I will reply as soon as possible, and usually, someone else is wondering the same thing
2. again, limited spaces are available for EASE of connection and gathering all my chicks together! -- Please RSVP YES!!! asap, but also change it to no ASAP--- if you find another wonderful opportunity supersedes this one!! Life is Good!!
3. fair warning: We start the hike fairly promptly, arrival time is 10:00am and we head out by 10:03am, unless we see someone parking that looks Meetup'ishy
4. If you want to bring a Guest, GREAT !!!!!-- if they are comfy, ask them to join Meetup Free, and join THIS group, and then reserve their hiking slot -- it is nice to see the faces and names on meetup prior to the hike!! BUT OPTIONAL!!
5. DURATION: As a group, it could take a little longer to allow for photo/water/ halfway up the dune breaks etc... all good.
6. HIking-People friendly, fluffy pets allowed! Please comment if you are bringing one though, just in case there is someone who is allergic.
7. Cellphone reception may not be great, so plan accordingly for messaging, maps, etc...
8. BRING: You know the drill! ===good shoes, water/electrolytes, snacks, optional hiking poles, hat/sunglasses/spf, camera, packed lunch, possibly bug spray AND Optional really cute comfy outfit!! fitbit/cp app/hiking-friendly-dog/cats, skittles to share etc...
9. carpool if possible, for the EARTH & limited parking space & moola savings

alltrails link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/michigan/big-tree-and-west-loops

As always, MY first time HIKING this route-- so we will be relying on apps/map and good ol' common sense. Some hiking distances (or equitable fitness stuff) experience is a good thing - YOU KNOW YOU BEST!!

FUTURE: I am simplifying my meetups to ONE 3-5 experience each month, on a weekend day. It is my true love, and so much easier to gather energy and time for it! PLEASE JOIN ME!!

As always Kindness RULES: arrive ready to enJOY in JOY with eagerness to meet new people and see lovely things in your heart! WE will absorb all the great nature energy, and meet and chat and get to know lovely, good people and possibly a friendly pet or two.