Thanks for asking about the garden plans. I think we should go ahead with raised beds this season since the soil in the back corner has never drained well after heavy rain. We can build three beds each about four feet by eight feet using untreated cedar which should last several years without chemicals leaching into the vegetables. For the layout I suggest running them north to south so all plants get even sunlight throughout the day. Tomatoes and peppers will go in the warmest bed nearest the stone wall and we can put leafy greens in the shadier spot closer to the maple tree. I have a good source for compost if you want me to order a truckload and we can split it. Let me know what you think about the dimensions and whether you want to start building next weekend or wait until the following Saturday when the weather looks more settled.

I looked into the hiking trail you asked about near the reservoir and the loop is about five miles with moderate elevation gain maybe six hundred feet total. The path is well marked with blue blazes but there is one section where you cross a small stream that could be slippery after rain so waterproof boots would be smart. We could start from the parking lot on the east side and go clockwise which saves the steeper climb for the second half when your legs are warmed up. There is a nice overlook about halfway with a bench where we can stop for lunch if the weather is clear. I checked the park website and dogs are allowed on leash so you can bring yours. If we leave by seven on Saturday we should have the trail mostly to ourselves before the crowds show up. Let me know if that time works for you or if you prefer Sunday instead.