North End Hikes and Walks with Dogs

"Book of the Month - “Lily and the Octopus” by Steven Rowley

A national bestseller combining the emotional depth of The Art of Racing in the Rain with the magical spirit of The Life of Pi, “Lily and the Octopus is the dog book you must read this summer” (The Washington Post).

Lily and the Octopus is a heartwarming and heartbreaking story about the bond between a man and his dog, with a sprinkle of magical realism.

When you sit down with Lily and the Octopus, you will be taken on an unforgettable ride.
The magic of this novel is in the read, and we don’t want to spoil it by giving away too many details.

We will meet for Coffee at 9:30 am to discuss the book and then go for a walk at 10:30 am.
I am going to keep it simple by keeping the meeting place the same each month. (Cafe Ladro in Edmonds, and walking the Pine Ridge Park Trail System or Yost Park trails).

I am scheduling these for the last Sunday of the month. If this day and time doesn't work for you and you like this idea, please let me know and I can adjust.
Book selections may be dog related, but not necessarily. They may be novels or true-life adventures. They may be set locally, or in foreign countries. If you have a suggestion, let me know.
I will try to select books that are readily available in paperback or at the library (no long waitlists)
Book Discussion will be casual. Do not be intimated into thinking this will be deep, intellectual literary discussion. We will keep it light and welcome all opinions and feeling.
You are welcome to just join us for the walk at 10:30 am if you don't want to discuss the book.

If we meet outside (there are chairs and it is covered, but not heated) the dogs can be with us, or leave them in the car if we go inside the coffee shop.

Our days are getting long, so we will be varying our Tuesday walks. Check in each week to see where we will be meeting.
Also, in case of inclement weather, check this site to verify if this is still happening or has been cancelled. i tend to wait until late afternoon to decide as the weather often changes.

We start promptly at 7pm. if you are running a little late, you should be able to catch up as dogs are taking care of their business the first 5-10 minutes.

Starting at Sherwood Elemenary, lets wander the streets of Woodway to Deer Creek Park, and maybe do the Farm Loop (dogwood Lane]

Plan on 2-3 miles, and about an hour to an hour and a half walking tme.

As always, dogs on leash, scoop the poop.
No children under 12 years of age.

Summer walks and hikes are starting earlier to beat the heat and the crowds. At this time of year, remember sun screen, water for yourself and dogs, as well, bug spray is a good idea. Never plan to leave your dog in the car while you run errands before/after or stop for lunch. .Please keep your RSVP up to date - even if you are on the waiting list.
Please remember to be kind and respectful to all members of this group as well as other people and dogs you meet along the way. Do not allow your dog go up to other dogs or people without permission from those people and dog owners. Be mindful of your dog’s whereabouts and manage accordingly for the safety and comfort of all.

Distance: 3-4 miles RT
Elev. Gain : 800 ft
Path Type: dirt
Parking: small parking lot, or use street/qfc lot
Permits/Passes: none
Dogs: allowed on leash, poop must be scooped.

Carkeek Park is located in northwest Seattle, between 3rd Ave NW and Puget Sound. The park includes all of Piper's Creek (sometimes written without the apostrophe) plus the adjoining side hills and some side streams, plus a beach area. Park trails can be accessed from several points, and there is an access road that leads to a parking area near the beach. Park entrance is free, and official hours are daily, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The hike described here includes the entire length of Piper's Creek, plus a number of trails on the north and south ridges above the creek. For a shorter or easier hike, a glance at the trails map will suggest other possibilities.

Begin your hike at the Eddie McAbee Entrance on NW 100th Place, near 6th Ave NW. There's a signboard at the trailhead with a park map and often, paper copies of a trail map available for the taking. Trail maps also can be downloaded.

Trailhead parking lot is small, but there is generally street parking available, or the lot by QFC.