I was looking at the trail maps for next month and trying to figure out the best route that gives us good views without being too aggressive for the group. The main loop is about eight miles but there is a cutoff that shaves off two miles if people are feeling tired. I think we should start early, like 7 AM, to avoid the afternoon heat and give us plenty of time for breaks. The parking lot fills up fast on weekends so we need to carpool or arrive before 8. I also want to check if any sections are still closed from the storm damage last month. A few people mentioned they want to bring their dogs so I need to confirm which trails allow them. The waterfall overlook is supposed to be spectacular this time of year with the fall colors starting. I am thinking we pack sandwiches and eat at the summit if the weather cooperates. I need to send out a final plan by next Tuesday so everyone can gear up and prepare. Let me know if you think the longer route is doable or if we should keep it mellow.

I finally got around to calling someone to come look at the fireplace before we fire it up this season. The chimney has not been cleaned in at least two years and I noticed some cracks in the mortar last spring that I want to make sure are not serious. The guy I hired said he can do a full inspection and clean for a reasonable price but his schedule is booked out a couple of weeks. I am hoping we get a clear diagnosis because I worry about using it if the flue is compromised at all. We also want to make sure the damper seals properly when closed so we are not losing heat up the chimney all winter. I am going to pick up a new screen and maybe some fireproof gloves before the first real cold snap. The kids are excited about having fires on the weekends and I want everything to be safe. I remember last year the smoke detector near the living room kept chirping whenever we had a fire going so I might relocate it this time around. Hopefully the inspection goes smoothly and we can start using it by mid-November at the latest.