Summit Stone Mountain x3/(Yoga at sunset?)

Now that the days are longer, we have time to summit Stone Mountain three times in a row just in time for a sunset stretch. I enjoy doing a crude form of yoga near the top just before the sun sets. For years those flexible yoga teachers tried to teach me the correct postures, followed by the invariable pulled muscles, so I do my own yoga now thank you very much. If there's any yoga experts out there who want to join in, please know you're very welcome, and any advice is always appreciated, regardless of my lack of flexibility.

We can start out at a moderate pace, and with no stops, to the top the first time. Then I go down slow and easy, because I enjoy going down slow and easy. Then we can pick up the pace a little on the second summit, and go down slow and easy. On the third summit I plan on pushing myself. No worries if we go at different paces on the up or the down, nobody is getting lost. However, if you can't get up to the top in less than 20 minutes, this may not be the trip for you. Some of us, depending on the weight we carry, run up the steep part of the mountain, and get up there in less than 17 minutes. We catch our breath on the way down, and do it again, three times.

We'll be able to relax after the 3rd summit, and stretch, do some yoga, or whatever you want to do as the sun sets, including race back to the cars. I'll be going down slow and easy. It'll be dark, and I don't use a light, because I like exercising my pupils while enjoying the night evening listening to the call of the night jar's. If you don't know the mountain, or feel uncomfortable walking in the dark, I recommend bringing a head lamp so your hands are free.

No pressure, but this is a 3x700'+ (2100'+ elevation gain) climb, and sometimes steep, so good foot wear, good attitude and good fitness level is mandatory. If you feel this is too tough, just sign up for an easier hike, or do your own, and work your way up gradually.

Plan B if it's raining, will be to walk around the mountain at a brisk pace, but I'll re-rate the hike to a D3 if that's the case.

We will meet near the start of the walk-up trail behind the large parking lot beside Confederate Hall. The hike will start promptly at 6:30 pm so plan to arrive early. There is an $10 parking fee to enter the park; however, free public parking is available in Stone Mountain Village. See directions below.

Directions: To the main entrance- From I-285 take U.S. Hwy 78 East (Snellville/Athens) exit. Travel about 7 miles and take Exit 8, the Stone Mountain Park Main Entrance. After entering the main entrance, proceed straight ahead. The road will fork at about 1 mile – stay to the right. Continue to follow the road for another mile. Confederate Hall will be on your left. The parking lot will be immediately after. We’ll meet behind Confederate Hall near the walk up trail.

Additional directions and maps can be found at:
http://stonemountainpark.com/default.aspx

I will email all event participants about the status of the hike in case there is a chance of severe weather.