Hikes, meditation, competitions at Jack London State Historic Park

Even though the House of Happy Walls is closed for remodeling until the fall, there are still plenty of things to do at Jack London State Historic Park, starting with free fitness hikes on the first Saturday of the month and three artistic challenges that run until Sept. 1.

Hiking

On Saturday, July 7, start the weekend off with an invigorating “Free Saturday Fitness Hike” with like-minded hikers. Basic route is a 1.5 miles roundtrip to the lake and back, or extend on for another 4.5 miles roundtrip on the Upper Fallen Bridge Tail. This moderate hike starts at 9 a.m. from the Ranch parking lot; hike is free but parking fee may be required.

The following Saturday, July 14, join a 4.5-mile “Hike to the Ancient Redwood” and back, through mixed evergreen and redwood forest. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water and hiking poles (if desired) for this moderately-paced hike. Save the Redwoods League is offering free entry to the park with their pass; register at savetheredwoods.org. Start time is 10 a.m. from the Ranch parking lot.

The same day, July 14, settle into yourself with “Yoga Under the Ancient Redwood,” in the company of practitioner Dawn Justice. By integrating body, breath, movement and meditative awareness, as well as time spent in nature, she strives to promote an understanding of the interdependency of these aspects in personal health and well-being. Moderate hike to the Ancient Redwood of 4.5 miles and back begins at 9 a.m., with conclusion about 1 p.m. Admission of $15 includes parking fee.

On Sunday, July 15, hikers are invited to explore “A Mindful Walk” with Jeff Falconer, who will share his decades of meditative practice on the trails of Jack London. Start with a moderate hike to the lake, then continue on if you wish another three miles. Cost is $15 per person, including parking fee.

Visit jacksondonpark.com for details on all these hikes, or call 938-5216.

Competitions

There are also three “Inspired by Jack London” competitions currently running at Jack London. One is a new this year painting competition, with judging by Dennis Ziemienski. Deadline is Sept. 1; first place is a $1,000 prize, second place gets $250, and third $100. Seven “honorable mention” winners get a Jack London Park Pass worth $49. The winning top ten paintings will be displayed at the awards ceremony, and the first-place image of artwork will be posted on the Jack London State Historic Park website.

An “Inspired by the Land” photography competition is currently under way, with judging by Ray Mabry. Deadline is again Sept. 1; cost is $25 per entry and multiple entries by a single photographer are allowed. Cash prizes for the first three winners of $1,000, $250 and $100 will be awarded, and winning entries posted on the website.

Then there’s the “Inspired by Charmian Kittridge London” writing competition, currently underway until Sept. 1. Adults 18 and older are invited to enter with original short fiction, as described on the park website at jacklondonpark.com/charmian-writers-contest-2018.html. Judges are Iris Jamahl Dunkle and Clarice Stasz. Entries are $35 each ($25 for Park member), and prizes will be given for the first three winners of $1,000, $250 and $100.

For more information on these competitions, contact Deborah Large at dlarge@jacklondonpark.com.