Afternoon Hike Land of Medicine Buddha

This will be a beautiful loop around the Buddhist retreat center. The address is 5800 Prescott Road, Soquel, CA 95073.

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As parking is limited near the monastery, we will carpool. If you aren't going to be a carpool driver please park on the street nearby as we don't have permission to park in the church parking lot. I'll be by the parking lot, in the back, on the Main Street side of the lot. If you have difficulty finding us, give me a call. My cell phone number is (831) 588-7243.

Distance: a little over 6 miles

Elevation gain: approximately 900 feet.

Time: about 3 hours

Trail conditions: Some narrow trails bordered by poison oak.

What to bring: Water, snack, tick repellent, hiking sticks if you use them, a camera if you like to take pictures; the Enchanted Forest is lovely. As it's cooler down by the water I would wear layers. Currently the weather forecast is clear but this could change. Rain will cancel. Also, I hear the wasps are still around, if you have bee allergies come prepared.

The terrain is steep and rugged in some places with almost no direct sun. The hike is strenuous and not a good hike for beginners. After the first mile or so there is a fairly long uphill stretch to the rim of Nisene Marks. We will take a break at the top. There is one short area where the trail is narrow with a steep drop off and it can be slippery. Please consider this if you have balance or coordination issues.

This is an "at risk" activity. By joining us on this hike you agree to hold the organizers, assistant organizers, and other members harmless. You are responsible for your own safety on the hike.