Last month, ECPF introduced a new way to connect with the beauty of Eagle Creek – through nature-connected mindfulness hikes – and the first two outings have proven to be popular! The hikes promote healthy activity and aim to reduce stress. The mindfulness hikes are free and open to the public; since hikes are limited to just 20 people, pre-registration is required.
Mindfulness hikes are guided by trained guides and include exercises followed by periods of silence and some group reflection. You can expect the hike to last about an hour and to be under one mile. The experience is designed to promote relaxation and nature connection while helping you develop strategies to include nature-connected mindfulness in everyday life. Families are welcome, however, please bring children who will enjoy engaging in a slow and mindful experience.
Hikes are offered on two trails in Eagle Creek: one starting at the Peace Learning Center parking lot and the other at the Bear parking lot. The trail starting at Peace Learning Center is labeled as a medium to moderate hike due to stairs, some inclines and exposed roots. The trail located at the Bear is labeled as easy, with a flat smooth surface. We hope to offer hikes on the paved accessible trail by the Crest next year when the West Side Trail is open to the public.
Mindfulness hiking dates and times are:
- Sat Jun 11, 9a;
- Sun Jun 26, 1p;
- Sat Jul 9, 9a;
- Sun Jul 24, 1p;
- Sat Aug 13, 2p;
- Sun Aug 28, 9a;
- Sat Sep 10, 9a;
- Sun Sep 18, 1p
Register for our mindfulness hikes here: https://ECPF.formstack.com/forms/guided_nature_connection_hike_at_eagle_creek_