2 free hikes at Jack London State Historic Park set for California State Parks Week

As part of California State Parks Week, Jack London State Historic Park is offering guided hikes that explore the park’s majestic redwoods and the benefits of mindful walking.

The second annual California State Parks Week takes place June 14 to 18, inviting Californians from across the state to celebrate and experience the parks and learn about the diversity, natural and cultural history and opportunities available within the state park system.

California State Parks Week will be presented jointly by California State Parks, Save the Redwoods League, Parks California and California State Parks Foundation.

With support from California State Parks Week, community members can register for the hikes with no additional fee. Participants pay only the regular $10 per vehicle entry fee (up to nine passengers).

A Redwood Hike

Wednesday, June 14, 10 a.m. to noon

Take a moderate guided hike to the ancient redwood (also affectionately known as the Grandmother Tree), estimated to be 2,000 years old. On the way, look for Jack London Lake and spring native wildflowers during a morning of exercise and inspiration.

Much of this four-mile round-trip hike is on rocky, uneven ground, with some elevation. Hikers are advised to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.

As part of California State Parks Week, the hike is included free with the $10 per vehicle entry fee.

A Mindful Walk

Thursday, June 15, 10 a.m. to noon

Walking meditation — the everyday activity of walking, combined with an awareness of one’s breath, body in motion and surroundings — can quickly reward the mindful walker with a deep calm and increased sense of belonging in the natural world. This easy discipline offers a valuable enhancement to the long-established benefits of walking as exercise.

Explore this activity on a relaxed loop around Jack’s Beauty Ranch. Then, if desired, take the practice deeper with a moderate four-mile hike on the trails of Jack London State Historic Park. Guide Jeff Falconer will begin the journey with a brief overview of walking meditation, followed by a short standing meditation to ground and center the group before embarking.

Much of this walk is on uneven ground, so participants should wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.

As part of California State Parks Week, the walk is included free with the $10 per vehicle entry fee.

For reservations and more information on the hikes, visit jacklondonpark.com.