Most years the wild native blueberry bushes burst into fruit July through August serving up their bounty to the delight of animals & nature lovers. If this year proves typical, we should have ample fruits of nature to fortify body & spirit as we trek to the ridge up the powerline trail, navigate the Devil's Backbone (AKA Rattlesnake Rocks), and descend along Friends Trail looping back to the Niles Cabin.

HIKE: This hike will be reasonably challenging over rocky screens & uneven terrain with an elevation change of approximately 600'. The distance is approximately 3 miles, with significant ascents in sections.

PREPARATIONS: Please bring your own water, snacks/lunch, & equipment. Trekking poles are useful along the rocky upper ridge trail. Hats & sunscreen are recommended. Consider using bug repellent to ensure that you are not on the menu of some of the less desirable winged wildlife or crawling cousins! Boots & long pants tucked into socks can be helpful to avoid bites & injury.

SAFETY: The hike will be rescheduled if heavy rain or thunderstorms are predicted.

ACCESSIBILITY: All of our hikes offer opportunities to shorten the distance and time. Most offer alternate rendezvous points, where we can arrange to meet individuals or groups seeking a less challenging excursion. Please let us know if you have particular needs or interests, we will be happy to try to recommend and arrange variations and the information will help improve accommodation on future hikes.

DONATIONS are appreciated. Suggested levels are $10/person or $25/families.