Yeah the raised bed setup worked out really well. I used cedar boards because they resist rot naturally. The bed needs to be at least 12 inches deep for root crops like carrots and potatoes. I placed mine in the south side of the yard where it gets full sun. For the soil mix I combined compost peat moss and vermiculite in equal parts. The drainage is good but it holds enough moisture for the plants. I set up a drip irrigation system with a timer which saves a lot of effort. The tomatoes were abundant last season and I am planning to add another bed for peppers and herbs. Starting seeds indoors about six weeks before the last frost gives the plants a head start. I use a grow light setup in the basement and the seedlings turn out strong. Hardening them off gradually over a week makes the transplanting successful. A layer of straw mulch keeps the weeds manageable and the soil temperature stable.

That trail you asked about is really scenic. I hiked it last October and the views from the top were worth every step. The drive to the trailhead takes about 45 minutes from the main highway so factor that into your planning. I started early at 7am and reached the summit around 11am with a few rest stops. The elevation gain is roughly 2000 feet over 4 miles so it is a solid workout. Bring plenty of water and some trail mix for energy. The path is well marked but having a GPS app on your phone adds peace of mind. There is a fire lookout tower at the summit that offers a panoramic view. I spent about an hour up there eating lunch and taking photos. The hike down took around 2 hours and my legs felt it the next day. Late September is ideal for catching the fall colors. Sturdy boots are recommended because the trail has rocky sections. There is a creek about halfway where you can filter water if needed.