Day Hike - Mount Ellinor

TBA the week prior to the hike. 

This will be an evening hike with sunset anticipated around 8:20 pm so we will probably need to leave the trailhead around 4/4:30pm.

Please read carefully as this is not your "traditional" hike.

Reflective Hikes were created in response to those wishing to experience a more intentional connection to spirituality in nature. Reflective Hikes are created to be safe, inclusive events with no religious affiliation.

On a Reflective Hike, participants are invited to enjoy the outdoor experience in addition to pausing to listen, absorb, and reflect. Everyone is always welcome, and those who do not wish to participate in reflective moments are only asked to be respectful of those who do.

We will leave the trailhead with the goal of reaching the summit in time for sunset. Along the way, we will stop in places that will not impact the trail, being mindful of other hikers and leaving no trace. The nature of the group will determine how social or quiet we are--this isn't church and you are not expected to be silent, hold hands, or chant and sing. The point is to be part of something you love (hiking) with a little guidance to inspire thought and reflection as we go. The only request is that when we pause for a moment to reflect, you are quiet enough to allow everyone to hear the invitation and instructions before continuing on.

This Reflective Hike will draw elements from Shinrin-Yoku and the Examen. Shinrin-yoku is Japanese for "Forest Bathing" and is a practice of engaging all of the senses to take in the forest atmosphere. The Examen is a reflective prayer practice that examines each day with gratitude before looking towards tomorrow.

Hopefully, we will get to share a beautiful sunset and have a snack together before returning to the trailhead. Sorry, this trip does not come with a sunset-quality-guarantee.