Join Kathy Biever to explore the Ballard Locks and keep your eyes open for Frankie Feetsplinter, the Troll.

Frankie Feetsplinter is Thomas Dambo’s sixth and final installation as part of “Northwest Trolls: The Way of the Bird King.” 

 Distance: 4.2 miles 

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: 125 ft. 

Bring: snacks, lunch, water, rain gear

More detailed information will be sent to those who sign-up

RSVP to Kathy by noon on Monday, April 1, 2024

Leader Kathy Biever

Leader: Glen Strachan

Join Glen Strachan for this hike through forested trails adjacent to a retirement community and as such made for easier walking. This is a 5 mile loop walk with 350 feet of elevation gain crossing several streets on good trails.

The west side borders Redmond Watershed Preserve and has a view towards the Preserve.

Optional lunch or cup of cheer will be enjoyed at the end of the hike at the Village of Redmond Ridge.

Distance: 5 miles 

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: 350 ft. 

Parking Pass: None

Bring: snacks, lunch (option to buy lunch), water, rain gear

More detailed information will be sent to those who sign up

RSVP to Glen by noon on Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Leader: Glen Strachan

Leader: Kathy Biever

Join Kathy Biever to explore Lower Queen Anne, the Seattle Waterfront and Belltown.   

Distance: 3.9 miles 

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: 135 ft. 

Bring: snacks, lunch, water, rain gear

More detailed information will be sent to those who sign up

RSVP to Kathy by noon on Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Leader Kathy Biever

Join Steve Johnson and Ann Vess at their home for an afternoon of fun reminiscing with Ian Murdoch, a former CAI-PNW member from Australia.

This is a great chance to reconnect with Ian, share stories and enjoy snacks. Snacks will be provided however if you would like to bring your favorite snack, please do!

Date:   February 27, 2024

Time:   1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Place:  Steve Johnson & Ann Vess’s Home

More details will be emailed once you have signed up with Ann.

RSVP to Ann by noon on February 23, 2024

Leader: Ann Vess

Join Cam Bradley & Derek Brown for this Lincoln Park adventure!

We will walk the interior loop trail through the towering old-growth maples, madronas, cedars and Douglas Firs. We’ll also explore the beach loop hike along the Puget Sound, hoping to find “Bruun Idun,” a fanciful, 16' tall troll sculpture made of pallet wood along the way.

Distance: 3.5 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Pace: Easy

Elevation Gain: 250 ft.

Bring: snacks, lunch, water, rain gear

More detailed information will be sent to those who sign-up

RSVP to Cam by noon on Saturday, February 10, 2024

Cam Bradley: camalot31@gmail.com

Join Vincenzo Lalli for this easily accessible, snowshoe trip that takes participants through a forest of snow-covered trees and interesting creeks in the Commonwealth Basin. The trip distance and pace will be adjusted in consideration of the weather and group conditions for the day.

Where: Snowshoeing into the Commonwealth Basin (Snoqualmie Pass)

https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/commonwealth-basin-snowshoe

Required pieces of equipment:

Snowshoes (MSR style preferred) /Poles/Microspikes and appropriate clothing for winter conditions. For those who do not have snowshoes and poles...no problem REI has you covered! You can rent them online or in the store for $24 a day.

Weather: View weather forecast

View avalanche forecast

Availability: 6 people

More information about this trip and the logistics will be sent to the participants closer to the trip date. This trip is contingent on weather and driving conditions and may be canceled or rescheduled if dangerous driving and weather conditions exist.

Distance: 3-5 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Pace: Easy/moderate

Elevation gain: 500-900 ft.

Bring: snacks, lunch, water, 10 essentials, and dress in layers

Limit: 6 participants

RSVP: Vincenzo Lalli by January 24, 2024

Email: lallivince@gmail.com

Join Cam Bradley for a “troll stroll” in Issaquah on Wednesday, January 10. It’s an easy, woodsy hike with a surprise along the trail. 3.5 miles maximum (shorter or longer options available)

Nearly no elevation gain

Heavy rain, snowfall or extreme cold weather will cancel with a message the morning of the hike.

10:00 AM start time

Fun, indoor lunch options near trailhead.

Let Cam know your participation by Monday, January 8 for more details.

Italian Heritage Family Dinner

After a great deal of exploring where we (CAI-PNW) might enjoy a traditional Italian Dinner it has been decided to join Casa Italiana in Burien on October 29th for dinner at their location. It is critical that we 'quickly' identify how many are planning on attending. I will need to know the number of people by the October 20th, 2023. DEADLINE!

I have provided information on the dinner but am asking that you not make reservations online. (we need to communicate with Casa Italiana after we determine the number of CAI-PNW members attending) We will deal with the payment of the $20.00 plus tip for the dinner later.

Please email me if you are planning on attending via email, celstad@gmail.com, before October 20th.

We can work on carpooling after we lock in the reservations.

Sorry for the short notice but this should be a great experience enjoying a traditional Sunday Italian Dinner.

Join us for an Italian Heritage Family Dinner! Enjoy ravioli, baked ziti, meatballs, pork roast, Italian salad, rolls, and dessert. No host bar; wine available for purchase.

Adults $20.00

Kids 12 and under $7.00

Leader: Ida Callahan

Join Ida Callahan for this short, moderately steep hike that will take you through a rocky, moss covered forest to an incredible view of nearby peaks. This is a short and sweet hike with a big payoff view on a clear day!

Finely crafted rock steps, switchbacks, and turnpikes are a testament to the work of WTA volunteers who created a trail that resists the heavy rainfall of the area. 0.75 miles into the trail there is a bench resting point, with a view of small waterfalls formed by the creek that tumbles down the side of the ridge.

On clear days, Baring Mountain stands to the east, and Philadelphia Mountain is directly across the valley. Just to the west of Philadelphia are Mount Index and Bridal Veil Falls.

Take in the view and appreciate the efforts of the Friends of Heybrook Ridge.  

Mileage: 2.6 miles roundtrip

Elevation gain: 850’

No pass required to park

Bring: snacks, lunch, water, rain gear, trekking poles

RSVP to Ida by noon on October 9, 2023

Ida Callahan - ida.callahan@gmail.com

Volunteer Needed

Leader: Joanie Pryor

This hike will take us through a beautifully wooded area managed primarily as a nature preserve with a focus on protecting its wide variety of habitats, including ponds, and other wetlands. The trails run through second-growth forest of Douglas firs, cedars, cottonwoods, and maples some of which are covered with moss and which are surrounded by sword ferns and other typical northwest undergrowth.

We will be navigating a 4.5-mile loop starting from the parking lot taking the Trillium Trail, some connecting trails, and returning on the Siler’s Mill Trail. Some of the trails in the Preserve are multi-use including foot traffic, bicycles, and horses. I have done my best to choose a route that is minimally used by bicycles, however, some of the connecters are used by all three types of enthusiasts.

In the interest of protecting the quality of these habitats, the preserve has enacted the following rules: No pets, No alcohol, No fires or smoking, No firearms.

Bring: snacks, lunch, water, rain gear

Hike in review:

Length is 4.5 miles

Elevation gain is 400 feet

Highest point is 580 feet

The only restrooms are at the trailhead parking lot.

There are no pass or fee requirements.

WTA reviews this hike as Easy/Moderate

Parking lot address is 21760 NE Novelty Hill Road, Redmond, WA 98053

We will meet at the parking lot at 9 a.m.

RSVP to Joanie Pryor by September 11, 2023

The Italians are coming. Prepare yourselves.

Do you love a good summer potluck and barbecue as well as an opportunity to connect with friends?  If so, you do not want to miss out on the fun!

Let’s make it a culinary delight with all homemade foods.

Clarence will be barbecuing impossible burgers, brats and Italian sausages

Hosts:             Toni Williams & Clarence Elstad

Date:               Saturday, July 22, 2023

Time:               4:30PM – 7:00PM

RSVP:              Please RSVP by July 13, 2023

Kendra Wanzenried

 Food:              Once you have RSVP’d, a food sign-up sheet will be emailed to you

Let’s join Washington Trails Association (WTA) to help maintain the Trails that we all enjoy! The goal: Be safe! Have fun! Get some work done!

The details:

Time: The work party starts at 8:30 AM and ends at 3:30 PM. There will be a short orientation at the trailhead.

Clothing: Wear a sturdy pair of boots (no tennis shoes), long pants and work gloves. It’s recommended to wear a long-sleeve shirt and eye protection such as glasses, sunglasses or safety glasses.

Bring rain gear including a pack cover (a large trash bag works fine), additional warm clothing, water lunch, beverages and snacks

WTA will provide a WTA hard hat and the tools you need

Breaks: There are two breaks … a morning candy break (candy provided by WTA) and a midday lunch break. You may take additional breaks as needed.

Bathroom: If no toilet at trailhead, crews relieve themselves in the surrounding environment according to leave no trace guidelines. Bring toilet paper & hand sanitizer

Parking: Please plan to carpool. WTA will provide all volunteers with a day pass.

Safety: WTA’s skilled crew leaders are first aid and CPR certified and have undergone leadership training to ensure a safe and fun day on the trail.

Weather: Yes, WTA works in rain or shine! An email or phone call will be made the night before if the work party needs to be cancelled.

Tools:  WTA provides all the tools you will need. Please bring work gloves. More specific details will be sent once you have RSVP’d.

RSVP to Kendra by noon on May 15, 2023

Join Gerlinde Gruber on this beautiful trail leading upstream deep into the quiet forest with river views and occasional mountains peeking through the trees. 

The Middle Fork Trail crosses an arched beam cable-hung bridge just below the confluence of the Middle Fork Snoqualmie and Taylor Rivers. The trail weaves in and out of the forest, passing under overhanging cliffs and offering views across the river of jagged Garfield Mountain.

Wildflowers along the trail make it magical with the lush green moss.

At approximately three miles descend to the creek crossing. At this point, there are two choices: enjoy lunch here before heading back. Or continue on, crossing the river (use trekking poles as there is not a bridge however it’s very doable to cross) for approximately 1.5 miles to the Falls and enjoy lunch here before heading back.

Once you have registered, more specific information will be emailed.

Parking:                      Northwest Pass required

Mileage:                      Approximately 3 miles to the River crossing

                                    Approximately 4.5 miles to the Falls

Elevation gain:           Approximately 250 feet to the River crossing

                                   Approximately 350 feet to the Falls

 Bring: snacks, lunch, water, rain gear

RSVP to Gerlinde by noon on Monday, June 12 2023

Heilman Valley Hike, Deception Pass State Park

Join Bart Pestarino to hike the last part of the park in which we have not yet had an excursion. Parking at the Bowman Bay lot (Discover Pass required) between The Civilian Conservation Corps Interpretive Center and the dock. The forested route heads around Bowman Bay up the hill along Pass Lake Loop, then North to the abandoned homestead site on Ginnett Hill with a log cabin and a small copper mine. Along the 6 mile route, a shorter 4 mile loop option is available. Bring a pair of water shoes and a towel to enjoy Rosario Beach!

Map on Page 2:
https://www.parks.wa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/852/Deception-Pass-State-Park-PDF?bidId=

Contact Bart by Wednesday, June 7th to RSVP.

2nd Annual Cooks' Potluck
Saturday June 10, 2023 — 12:30pm start

This event is not affiliated with any organized group.
Deception Pass State Park (South of Anacortes before the Deception Pass Bridge)

You are invited to a cooks' potluck at Deception Pass State Park (South of Anacortes before the Deception Pass Bridge). Parking at the Bowman Bay lot (Discover Pass required) between The Civilian Conservation Corps Interpretive Center and the dock. All participants bring a nice dish. Each participant will introduce their dish at the start of the potluck.

The potluck rules: Only home-cooked dishes or dishes purchased at a specialty store (bakery, pastry shop, charcuterie shop, butcher, cheese shop). No food purchased from a grocery store, consumer packaged goods, pre-fabricated foods (No Whole Foods, PCC, Trader Joe's, etc.). The 1st Annual Cooks' Potluck was a great success, participants brought thoughtful well-prepared dishes, and a good time was had by all.

RSVP required by Wednesday, June 7th
Leader: Bart Pestarino

Join Cam Bradley on this pleasant hike through a forested grove of 250 year old trees. The Trail is conveniently located between Bellevue and Kirkland and is a dedicated horse park, so expect to encounter horseback riders during the hike. 

The walk is a 3-3.5 mile loop on easy, mostly level trails in the Bridle Trails State Park. Hopefully we will have a little horse entertainment while enjoying our lunch.

A Discovery Pass is required — however there is parking outside the park on the street.

Once you RSVP, Cam will provide more detailed information.

Mileage: 3 - 3.5 mile loop

Elevation gain: approximately 200 feet

Bring: snacks, lunch, water, rain gear

RSVP to Cam by noon on Friday, April 7, 2023

Join Steve Johnson to explore the area around Columbia City, south of Seattle.

The walk is a 3.5 mile loop; starting at Columbia City winding through Genessee Park, Stan Sayres Memorial Park & Boat Launch along Lake Washington and back to Columbia City.

Genesee Park and Playfield is located in the Mount Baker neighborhood. Stan S. Sayres Memorial Park (also known as "Sayres Pits" because of its association with Seattle's annual Seafair Hydroplane Races) is located a mile south of the Interstate 90 Bridge on Lake Washington. 

Let’s take advantage of Seattle’s light rail! Plan to meet Steve at the Northgate Light Rail Station and catch the train to Columbia City. Or catch the light rail closer to your home. We will meet at Columbia City PCC which is 1.5 blocks east of the Columbia City Light Rail Station.

Depending on our timeframe, we can stop at Both Ways Café before catching the light rail back home.

Once you have registered with Steve, meeting time and specific light rail details will be emailed to you.

Mileage: 3.5 mile loop

Elevation gain: Approximately 300’

Bring: snacks, lunch, water, rain gear or purchase lunch at Columbia City PCC

RSVP to Steve by noon on Wednesday, March 22, 2023

Yes, we’re changing things up a bit and having a hike on a Sunday!

Join Clarence Elstad for this easy to moderate 4 - 6 mile mostly easy hike (distance depends on how much you want to do.) Hike the trails at Rosario Beach as well as Bowman Bay and see if the CCC Museum is open for viewing.

Rosario beach in Deception Pass State Park is a small cove on the southwest corner of Fidalgo Island. You may spot bald eagles atop the trees, or an occasional orca or a porpoise in the Rosario Strait. Low tides offer a chance to check out tide pools. The short easy loop trail around Rosario head bluff offers sweeping views of the bay, straights and the two bridges that go south to the State Park and campgrounds. (Fidalgo Island to Canoe Island to Whidbey Island)  

We can stop for early dinner at the Conway Tavern in Conway after the hike for those inclined….Oysters galore!

Once you RSVP, more specific details will be sent.

Bring: binoculars, snacks, lunch, water, rain gear

RSVP to Clarence by noon on March 2, 2023

You are invited to join us for our CAI-PNW Annual General Assembly meeting scheduled for Saturday, March 4 beginning at 1:00pm.  It will be held at Spiro's Pizza and Pasta meeting room.  

The address is:

18411 Aurora Avenue North

Shoreline, WA 98133

We hope that our local members will attend.  CAI-PNW will provide a variety of pizzas including a vegetarian option and soft drinks.  If you have dietary restrictions please include that with your RSVP.

Attending the Annual Meeting is the perfect time to renew your membership for 2023. Please let us know if you can attend our Annual Meeting.  RSVP to Toni Williams at hikernw@yahoo.com or you may respond to this CAI-PNW email site.  We would appreciate your reply by Wednesday, March 1.

Hope to see you there!

Toni Williams, President

Leaders: Cam Bradley & Derek Brown

Join Cam Bradley and Derek Brown to explore Lord Hill Regional Park near Monroe, WA.

There are hundreds of possible adventures at Lord Hill. The park grounds cover 1,300 acres of wilderness forest. Small ponds and wetlands are located within the park site. Be sure to bring your binoculars to observe the wildlife that live in these woods!

We will start with the Pipeline to Lookout Loop (4 miles, 495' elevation gain) and if there's interest, we can add some distance on the return from the lookout. For more information go to:

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/pipeline-trail-to-lookout-loop?p=-1

Mileage: 4 miles roundtrip

Elevation gain: 495’ gain

Bring: snacks, lunch, water, rain gear

RSVP to Cam by noon on Saturday, February 4, 2023

Lace up your boots and enjoy the Fall leaves! We will hike through a diverse century-old second-growth forest to the largest undeveloped stretch of shoreline on Lake Washington.  

The Trail has heavily forested hillsides, ravines, and lakeshore. It is truly a Pacific Northwest gem! Enjoy the park’s historic grounds and structures.

The former Catholic Seminary building was built during the Great Depression. It was recently redeveloped as a lodge and conference center, complete with restaurant and spa. You may want to tour the lodge after the hike.

Mileage:                     3+ miles

Elevation gain:           450 feet

Rating:                        Easy to Moderate

Parking:                      Discover Pass is required

Bring: snacks, lunch, water, trekking poles, rain gear

RSVP to Kendra Wanzenried by noon on November 6, 2022