Our Guidelines and Instructions:
Scheduled for Fridays, year-round, the Moderate Group is one option under the Ashland Hiking Group. It is for those who need or desire a lightly paced, shorter hike than is customary in the other AHG options. These hikes feature an easy pace for 4-6 miles (occasionally 7) and typically under 800’ elevation gain. Winter snowshoeing distances and elevation gains will be less.
We take a leisurely lunch break to socialize and sometimes share a short poem or other form of inspiration (voluntary but welcomed). On the trail, we stay together for safety and enjoyment. If a hiker wants to stop short of the destination, at least one fellow hiker will join. We recommend a hiking pole or two, and sturdy hiking boots. When driving a distance, we may have a voluntary post-hike experience in the area or on our return drive. Bring lunch, plenty of liquids, sunscreen, hat, and basic first aid items. Seasonal items include bug repellent, raincoat, winter attire and snowshoes.
Leave the Rite Aid parking lot on Ashland Street at 8:30 AM (unless informed otherwise for a given hike). Plan a full day, unless the hike location is close to Ashland. Carpooling is by personal choice, arranged at Rite Aid parking. All hikers must sign a liability waiver, provided by the hike leader, before their first hike with an Ashland Hiking Group, which covers liability for any of the AHG hike options.
While the Covid 19 Pandemic is with us, hikers must be fully vaccinated and bring masks for use when close to others or indoors, and while driving together in an enclosed vehicle.
Leaders: Elisabeth Zinser, 541.646.6109 and Kay Simmons, 202-870-3404.
July 14: Grouse Gap on the PCT: Depart Rite Aid Parking at 8:00 AM.
TH: Go south on I-5 and take Mt. Ashland exit 6 to drive a short distance to turn right on Mt. Ashland Ski Road. Two TH options: (1) Park near MP #7 where the PCT crosses (parking pull out is on right). Or, (2) Drive on up to Mt. Ashland beyond Lodge and drive down a forest service road on the left to park at another PCT crossing. EDT: 30 minutes. Description: Option 1 from MP7: Hike south on the PCT to Grouse Gap (crossing the FS road where option 2 hikers begin). Option 2 from FS Road: Hike south on PCT to Grouse Gap. Both groups meet up at the Shelter. We’ll likely see lots of flowers in bloom, especially in the meadow areas. We’ll have lunch at a view in shade. Return the same way for original starting locations. Distance 7 miles RT with 870’ gain for option 1 group and 3 miles RT for option 2 group with about 500’ gain. RT driving mileage: 30-35 miles.
Note: OLLI Open House in afternoon of 7/28; plan to return by 2 pm so members can attend 3-4 pm.