I know this is short notice but this is what I hope will be the first in a series of wussy hikes with dogs. While I do not own a dog, I enjoy hanging out with them and their owners. I don't usually work on Fridays so I'm going to start exploring local short, not very steep (less than 5 miles and 500 ft elevation gain) trails, within about 30 min of Olympia on Fridays. Most of these trails are dog-friendly and little kid-friendly. If you are in good shape, you are welcome to come and hike at your own pace even though I will lag far behind you. If you are in not-so-great shape, you're also welcome to come and you'll be in good company. ;-)

For the first hike I chose one I'm familiar with. McLane is just over one mile on the outer loop and about 50 ft elevation change, but it is beautiful any time of the year. To get there: Exit Black Lake Blvd from 101, going south (away from town). It turns into 62nd St and dead ends into a T-intersection with Delphi Rd. Turn right on Delphi and you'll see the signs for McLane on the left in about 0.5 miles. Park in the lower parking lot and look for me next to my white Ford Escape Hybrid with the bumper stickers.