Stairs Trails 2 or 3 Peaks & Eats. Fast Close-in 12.5-15 Miler + Optional Lunch

I'm working up to a 20 miler within Gene's Wildwood Thru Hike and figure whatever we don't do in miles here can be made up by some elevation gain :-)

START: Wallace Park under the covered area by restrooms adjacent to the off leash dog park at the corner of NW 25th and NW Raleigh.

DEPARTING: 11:05 am

END: Return to Wallace Park.

DISTANCE: Approximate 12.5-15 mile options and we can also make some further adjustments based on participant interest. This route entails climbing Pittock (900ft) via Kings Heights stairs to Cumberland Trail and also Council Crest (1100ft.) From there we can return and head back over Pittock for 3 peaks and a known 12.5 miles; we can head into Nob Hill via the Japanese Gardens; or push on down the Marquam Trail into Goose Hollow or Park Blocks and work back via streets. Choices! Choices! Yayyyyy!!!

DURATION: Approximate miles divided by three hours plus optional lunch. Plan for the day :=)

PACE: Quick conditioning 3mph pace and some stair stepping. I will drag it down some on third peak!

WIMP OUT ALERT: My hikes are rain or shine unless it's cats and dogs.

Your wonderful YES RSVP agrees to the following:

• This hike is not a walk in the park. You should be fit enough to sustain a 3 mph average, open to pushing it a bit more and yet be willing to go less if another member is found to be a bit behind as we are a club and a community - and be ready to call this fitness and foodie trek that seeks to incorporates stairs, dirt trails, steep hills, juicy miles, and noshing OH YEAH!

• Fitness levels vary greatly and easy and difficult are purely relative terms. If you don't know your average mph over miles and variable terrain, message me and we'll talk on ideas on how to get you started here.

• Please dress appropriately and be prepared for changing weather conditions: cold, wet, and/or shine. In mid 40 degree temps it's hot and sweaty going up (the fun part when you can peel off an outer layer) and cool coming down (the really fun part when you can put the outer layer back on.) Do not wear jeans or cotton, do dress in layers, wear suitable shoes for traction in mud, and carry water. Don't forget hats, gloves, and trekking poles are nice.

• I volunteer in this endeavor to simply share exercise, social activity, and the enjoyment of the outdoors with others similarly inclined. I am not a professional or qualified outdoor guide or trail expert in any way. Joining me indicates that you are 100% responsible for your own choices, well being, and happiness.

Note that Wildwood and Marquam Trail treks cross Cornell, busy Burnside, as well as other traffic areas.