This week’s Hospital Rock Loop hike begins with a complication. Jones Gap State Park has implemented a reserved parking procedure for Fridays through Sundays. I have reserved for us the last 4 remaining parking spaces for Friday. This means that Friday’s hikers will need to have received their COVID vaccination and feel comfortable carpooling. Additionally, there is a $6 per person entry fee to the park.

What this means for us is that I need to know by late tomorrow if you plan to do Friday’s hike, so we can make sure everyone is accommodated. We will meet at 8 a.m. at the Cedar Mountain Community Center parking area for a 9 a.m. hike start. If you plan to hike, but will be going a direction other than 276, please let me know in your response.

So, Friday’s hike is Hospital Rock Loop. Carpooling required. $6 admission. Meeting at Cedar Mountain at 8 a.m. Please RSVP.

Mostly cloudy skies. High 63F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.

On another note, Vince has posted on the website a few photos of recent Hoofer hikes. Take a peek.

Craig and I have spent considerable time discussing whether a COVID-19 vaccination is required to hike with the Wednesday Striders.  We have decided that the answer is yes.  Starting on the May 19 hike all Wednesday Striders will be required to be fully vaccinated.  This policy will apply to not just carpooling but hiking with the group as well.  Car-pooling allows us the option of featuring some of our popular shuttle hikes.

The reason for this policy is obvious.  It is to protect you and your fellow hikers. Thank you for your understanding and your respect of our hiker family.