Summer Solstice Ritual

• As with Christina’s previous equinox/solstice hikes, the tone will be more contemplative than our usual playful hikes. At the tea break, we will co-create a community altar and speak our gratitudes to Mother Earth, Father Sun, and nature.

  • Consent is key: You can come and are not required to participate in any of these activities. You are also not required to believe in any particular tradition. You can always say “Pass” to anything. Like a buffet, partake in what feels good and leave the rest!

  • Please read everything before coming, so we can stay organized and on time.

Hike Schedule: 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm

• The main entry gates close at 8 pm. Park curfew starts at 10 pm. Plan to leave the park before 10 pm.

• 6:15 Start to gather!

• 6:30 Opening circle, introductions, shared deep breaths and guided stretches to get into our bodies. Prompt: What “sunlight” is beaming into your life?

• 6:45 We set off!

• 7:30 We take our tea break. Together, we’ll choose a spot for our community altar and circle. We’ll set up the altar and place our items one by one. Christina will say a few words to give thanks to Mother Earth and Father Sun, and invite the community to share gratitudes as well. Then each community member will have a chance to share about their altar item (see Special Items to Bring).

• 8:00 We set off on the last leg of our hike.

• 8:30 Sun sets around 8:30. If we’re high up enough on the trail, we can turn and enjoy the sunset.

• 8:50 Closing circle and final gratitudes.

Special Items to Bring on this Hike

• Wear layers: The temperature drops quickly after the sun sets.

• A headlamp with a red light: Helps navigate your footing after sunset at 8:30. A red light helps to not disturb wildlife and other hikers.

• A small blanket or mat to sit on during the tea break: We might choose a tea spot without benches nearby.

• A small, meaningful item to place on the community altar: This may be a childhood toy, an art piece, a crystal, or a gift you received. We ask that it is not larger than 1 cubic foot (use your judgment). 

  • If you want inspiration, bring something related to the summer, the sun, or fatherhood.

  • You will have a chance to share about it at the tea break, if you desire.

  • If you do not bring an item, we encourage you to grab something from the forest during the first half of the hike!

• An altar cloth for the community altar: We will bring one, and it is nice to see what the community can share!

Items to Bring

• Appropriate clothing: Opt for moisture-wicking layers, clothing that covers the skin.

• Hiking footwear: Choose comfortable, broken-in hiking boots or shoes with good traction and ankle support.

• Food and water: Pack high-energy snacks and a bottle of water.

• Sun protection: Bring sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.

Let's Avoid

• Dehydration: Drink enough water to prevent dehydration, which can cause dizziness, fatigue, headache, heat exhaustion, or heatstroke.

• Sunburn or sun damage: Protect yourself from sunburns and long-term sun damage, which increases the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.

• Injuries or accidents: Wear proper footwear, clothing, and equipment to minimize the risk of slips, falls, blisters, or sprains.

• Exhaustion or overexertion: Pace yourself and be mindful of your physical abilities to avoid exhaustion, which can impair decision-making and increase injury risk. We won't leave you behind.