Hiking the Best of the Wissahickon May 9

You’re warmly invited to join us for an excellent outdoor adventure Saturday 5/9/09 at 11 AM sharp (rain or shine). Rich Menges, our hike leader, has been exploring trails in the Wissahickon Valley for years, and is offering us his favorite 4-5 mile loop (2 to 2 ½ hours) through a wide variety of terrain. The hike is a great combination of aerobic hiking up hills (50%) and level/downhill areas (50%) with wonderful vistas, deep woods, a meadow, etc. You’ll never believe you’re in the middle of the city! Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes recommended.

2 Added Options: For those who want a less challenging outing, the initial trail takes us down to Forbidden Drive along the Wissahickon Creek-- a great place to hang out or stroll on a flat paved-gravel surface.

Also, we can all meet after the hike at the Valley Green Inn right in the middle of the park for lunch or snacks and conversation. Tentative gathering time: 1:15 pm. A bathroom is available there. (This is a short distance from the initial trail head.)

Meet at 11 AM sharp at Andorra area of Philadelphia (carpooling encouraged). Proceed eastbound on Summit Avenue from Henry Avenue. Take Summit across 2 stop signs and come to a sharp left bend in the road. At that point (straight ahead) is the trail head which has parking for maybe 2 cars. If there’s no space for you there, proceed along left bend and go up 1 block and turn right into residential neighborhood. Plenty of parking space there, and walk back. Questions: Call or email Rich at 215-843-0302 or rmengo@verizon.net. Cell phone (day of hike only please 610-308-1764.)