Soggy hike set for Friday at Jack London State Park

A hike in Jack London State Historic Park originally set for October that was rained out is returning this Friday, Jan. 13 – if the rains don't cancel it again.

But hike leader Laura Blatt is not only optimistic that the weather will cooperate by week's end, but enthusiastic about what hikers will see on the 7.5-mile hike. 'Great views and, due to the recent rain, new mini-waterfalls' appeared on a recent reconnaissance hike, she said, though she warned that several minor creek crossings and a muddy trail mean hikers should be prepared with their best waterproof boots. 'Also, bring poles if you have them,' she advises.

The route winds through madrone and oak forest to Jack's Lake followed by a steady uphill climb to the Cowan and Hayfields trails. A lunch stop is planned at a picnic area in a redwood grove. The moderate hike includes an elevation gain of about 1,200 feet and should take about four hours, including the lunch stop.

Hikers meet at the upper parking lot (to the right just beyond the kiosk) at 9:45 a.m. for a prompt 10 a.m. departure. There is no charge but the usual $10 park entrance fee ($5 walk or bicycle in) will be required. The hike is sponsored by Valley of the Moon Natural History Association, Jack London Partners and California State Parks.

Also at Jack London Park this weekend, a photography workshop, 'The Art of Seeing and Working with Weather,' will be held on Saturday, Jan. 14, but it is already fully booked. The four-hour workshop led by John Ricca and Richard Valenti will offer suggestions on how to use the elements of weather – rain, fog, mist, clouds and sun – to improve your photography.

Information on all Jack London State Historic Park events are available on their website at jacklondonpark.com.