we looked at three different trails for saturday and the ranger said the loop around pine ridge is in the best condition right now so i think that is the one we should go with. the elevation gain is about 800 feet spread over 2.5 miles so it should be manageable for everyone in the group. i checked the weather forecast and it looks clear with temps in the low 70s which is perfect for being out there. we should plan to start by 7am to get the good parking spot near the trailhead gate. i will bring the first aid kit and extra water just in case. the trail has a few stream crossings but the water levels are low this time of year so that should not be an issue. make sure everyone wears sturdy shoes because there are some rocky sections near the summit. we can stop at the clearing about halfway up for a break and some pictures. the wildflowers are supposed to be really good right now according to the nature center website. let me know if you think we should also bring snacks for the group or if everyone wants to handle that on their own.

the parking pass is ten dollars for the day and we can split it between the car. i already have a cooler packed with drinks and sandwiches so nobody needs to worry about lunch. the trailhead has restrooms and a small map board so we can take a picture of the route before we start. cell service is spotty once you get past the first mile so download the map on your phone ahead of time just in case. sunset is around 7:45 so we should be back down by 5pm at the latest with plenty of daylight to spare. let me know if you want to meet at my place or at the trailhead directly.