Evening Hike: Candlewood Hill with sunset mid-hike 'potluck' picnic

Join us for a aerobic hike up Candlewood hill in Fahnestock State Park. The hike will include both woods roads and hiking trails, and we will include both Candlewood hill and hopefully also the neighboring hill to the south (with a view of Oscawana lake). Route subject to alteration depending on the conditions.

We will have a potluck sunset picnic at the top, so our decent (a short rocky section, followed by a short trail back to Sunken mine road) will be during dusk so you might want to bring a flashlight!

Distance: ~5-6 miles

Terrain: Varied, with some rocky sections and a pretty steep climb up Candlewood hill. We will leave the top after the sun sets, so bring a flashlight. The tricky part coming down will be the short but rocky section near the top and the trail back to Sunken mine road, then it will be plain sailing as we return to the cars via this dirt road!

Pace: Moderate; we will be keeping a swift pace especially due to limited daylight hours (beginners I suggest you skip this one as I don't want you to get left behind)

Sunset picnic: We will stop on the top of Candlewood hill for a picnic and watch the sunset; Please bring 'finger foods' to share.

Friendly, well behaved dogs are welcome, but should be on a leash or full control of the owner and not pester people when there is food!

We need all the daylight hours we can get on this hike, so please allow time to park/sign in prior to the start time, as we will be leaving promptly. Prior to RSVP'ing please make sure you understand the group's guidelines for http://hiking.meetup.com/370/pages/RSVP_and_attendance

What to bring and wear: Bring water, sun block, bug repellent, and anything else you need to enjoy the hike. Hilking boots are suggested with all the leaves and rocks. You should also bring a flashlight and first aid kit.

Meeting point: We will be starting our hike from the barrier (a couple of hundred yards north of N Shore Road) at the southern end of Sunken Mine Road. Sunken Mine road is a dirt road, so you should plan to approach it from the southern end (they tend to grade it once a year or so, but it can get rough, so coming from the north you risk getting a flat tire!). Parking is limited, so carpool if possible and make sure you don't block access to residences and pull off the road as far as possible. GPS: 41.412351,-73.845763

Meetup suggested donation: There is a $1 suggested donation for the hike this helps cover the cost of the dues meetup charges organizers for using the site. You can ignore the "unpaid" indication next to your name (before and after the event), I will be collecting the donations as always at the event.

Cancellation notices: We will be monitoring the weather prior to the hike and if conditions worsen the hike is subject to cancellation. Please make sure to check your email/site prior to leaving for the hike, cancellation notices will be sent prior to 4.30 pm if required.

Liability Waiver: This is a social group of like minded individuals that enjoy hiking, it is not organized by a professional hiker. Hiking or outdoor activities have inherent risks. Your participation in our hikes or other events could be dangerous and can result in serious injury, medical emergency, even death. By signing up for this event, you agree to participate completely at your own risk and to take full responsibility for your own safety and well being, including those of your guests.