Yeah I looked into the trail conditions for the upcoming hike and they are actually quite good right now. The recent weather has cleared up most of the muddy sections so we should not have any issues with footing. I also checked with the ranger station about the camping permits and they said we can just pick them up at the trailhead as long as we arrive before 4pm. For gear I think we will need at least two liters of water each because there is not much shade on the upper portions of the trail. The forecast is calling for mild temperatures so layers would be a good idea. I found a nice spot about halfway up that would work well for a rest and some lunch. The total distance is around six miles so it should take us about four hours with breaks. Let me know if you want to adjust the start time or if you have any other questions about the route.

I also wanted to mention that the parking area at the trailhead can hold about fifteen cars so we should be fine arriving together. There is a small restroom facility near the lot and a water pump that is usually working during the season. I will bring a first aid kit and a small repair kit for any gear issues. If you have a portable stove feel free to bring it along for some hot tea at the lunch spot. I will pack some snacks and extra layers for anyone who might need them. Please let me know if you have any dietary preferences so I can plan accordingly. Looking forward to it.

The tomatoes are doing really well this season especially the cherry variety I planted along the south fence. I think the extra compost I mixed in back in April made a big difference because the soil stayed moist longer during the hot spells. The basil I put next to them also seems to benefit from the same soil conditions. I noticed a few aphids on the pepper plants but a quick spray with the soap solution handled that within a couple of days. For the squash I would recommend giving them more space than you think they need because they really spread out once they get going. I made the mistake of planting them too close together last year and they ended up crowding each other out. The cucumbers are climbing up the trellis nicely and I should be able to start picking them in about two weeks. I will save some seeds from the best performers for next season.

I also tried a new variety of zucchini this year that is supposed to be more resistant to powdery mildew. So far the leaves look clean and the plants are very productive. I have been watering early in the morning to reduce evaporation and keep the foliage dry. The soil temperature has been consistent which helps with fruit set. If you want some seedlings for your own garden I can easily start a few extras. Let me know if you would like to try them. I am also planning to build a couple of raised beds this fall for next spring so I will have more room to experiment with different crops.