Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/1134535
18 WAC Magazine | wac.net living fit summer hikes By Darrick Meneken, Content Director Reach for the mountaintops—and one very nice beach—during this summer's hike series led by Health & Fitness Manager Maureen Eggers. Join fellow WAC members on the trail for outdoor workouts that reward with epic views and plenty of bun-busting climbs. Hikes cost $75 per person and include round-trip transportation from the WAC Clubhouse as well as an après-hike outdoor "happy hour." See you on the trail! Head for the hills Find new heights with WAC group hikes u Photo caption L A R A G W A LT N E Y Trail register Round-trip mileage shown. Descriptions summarized from Washington Trails Association reports. Hike series for WAC members and guests 18 and older. July 6 • Mount Pilchuck • 5.4 miles Reaching the 5,300-foot Pilchuck summit should be on every Pacific Northwest hiker's bucket list. Topped by a historic fire lookout and offering panoramic views from Mount Baker to Mount Rainier, Pilchuck is a classic trek that will test your lungs and legs. Its summit might just be the best place you'll ever snap a selfie. WTA description: wac.net/pilchuck July 20 • Ira Spring • 6.5 miles Pack your swimsuit for Mason Lake, the small but deep alpine tarn that marks the end of this steep trek. Avid Washington state hikers will know that this trail is named not for a small source of freshwater but rather for Ira Spring the man, the late author and photographer of many local hiking guides. WTA description: wac.net/ira-spring August 3 • Ebey's Landing • 5.6 miles Located midway up Whidbey Island, Ebey's Landing looks west up the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The combination of water and mountain views will stop you in your tracks. Don't worry, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy the walk. Other than steep switchbacks down to the beach, this hike is pretty much a scenic stroll. Includes beach walking. WTA description: wac.net/ebeys-landing August 17 • Annette Lake • 7.5 miles This mountain-ringed lake is the turnaround point for an out-and-back hike that climbs 1,800 feet. Wildflowers along the way are best earlier in the season, but waterfalls and views of Granite and Humpback mountains will satiate your visual desires. The lake itself offers a perfect place to cool off and enjoy the surrounding peaks. WTA description: wac.net/annette-lake August 31 • Mailbox Peak • 9.4 miles There's a good reason this hike caps off the series. In fact, there are 4,000 good reasons. That's how many vertical feet you'll ascend on your way to epic views and a famous mailbox that's all but guaranteed to have nothing addressed to you inside. The vistas are your reward. Oh yeah, and 4,000 feet of downhill to get home. WTA description: wac.net/mailbox-peak