Washington Weekends

This is a rain or shine event.
Note: We may do a winter route that is shorter (~ 2 hours) due to rain and mud, hiking on paved trails and roads instead of muddy and sometimes slippery steps.

We will hike the loop plus the North and South beach for a total of about 5 miles with several opportunities to cut short. Picture is for a general idea of the route only. We actually make extra mileage at and around the beach. If you can't make it at 7.30 am at the meeting point, you may try to look for us around 8.15 at the light house, or 8.45 am at the Magnolia bluff, or 9ish am at the south parking lot. Note that we do not check messages while hiking.

All levels welcome from power walkers to beginners. No one left behind.
https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/discovery-park-loop-trail. Observe seals and birds including a pair of bald eagles.

After the hike, we will head to Serendipity cafe in Magnolia to grab a cafe and brunch before heading out to Ballard farmer's market.

Access: for those of you without a car, bus #33 from downtown Seattle terminates at the north parking lot. First arrival is 7:09.

Important: You and you alone are responsible for your own safety. Please know your abilities before signing up.

RSVP ETIQUETTE: please edit your RSVP if you are unable to come. I will wait a few minutes to account for late arrivals. Be courteous to others.

Hello and Namaste from your host "Yogi"

Silence is not weakness. Silence is power under control.

When you stop reacting, explaining, and trying to be understood by everyone, you begin to hear yourself more clearly. Silence gives you space to think, observe, and choose your response instead of being controlled by emotion.

The deepest power of silence is this: you don’t need to prove your strength when you have already found it within yourself.
Hiking in nature is a rewarding activity that benefits both physical and mental health. Walking through forests, mountains, and scenic trails provides fresh air, exercise, and an opportunity to escape the stress of daily life. Nature also creates the perfect environment for meditation and walking meditation, allowing you to focus on your breathing, movements, and surroundings. Forest bathing, the practice of immersing oneself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest, promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and improves overall well-being. The peace and silence found in natural settings help clear the mind, encourage self-reflection, and foster a deeper appreciation for the environment.

Beyond its personal benefits, hiking also strengthens social connections. Spending time outdoors with family, friends, or hiking groups encourages meaningful conversations, teamwork, and shared experiences that build lasting relationships. Reaching destinations together and enjoying the beauty of nature creates unforgettable memories while promoting cooperation and a sense of community. By combining physical activity, mindfulness, inner peace, and socialization, hiking offers a holistic experience that supports a healthier body, a calmer mind, and stronger relationships, making it an excellent way to improve overall quality of life.

Bridle Trails is one of my favorite states park which is quite for the most part being so close to the big civilization. We will be walking Coyote Loop which is little less than 4 miles in a moderately slow pace in silence. Let's meet at the Bridle Trails State Parks Parking lot sharp 8am!