The Gentle Hike is a 1/2 mile out and back walk to the beautiful and historic Washington Monument, built in 1827, which promises beautiful vistas of the valley cloaked in autumnal glory. Generally considered an easy route, with little elevation gain, this is the perfect intergenerational hike suitable for people of every age, from young children to older adults. So, grab your friends, neighbors, fellow church members, adult children and grandchildren and join the fun! Following the Gentle Hike, participants will have the opportunity to attend “The Grandma Gatewood/Strong Woman Workshop” conducted by Tina Fraley, PTFW Board Member and owner of Power House Studio. Tina will share Gatewood’s story, highlighting this amazing woman’s belief in herself, her ability to overcome incredibly difficult circumstances and her perseverance in realizing her dreams. Tina, who knows that all women face challenges, will share her story of overcoming life’s obstacles, and give workshop participants a chance to share theirs as well.

The Intermediate Hike will begin at the parking lot at Washington Monument State Park. Along this 2-mile out and back hike, we will stop at the Washington Monument to take in the breathtaking views before continuing down the trail.  Except for a ¼ mile downhill section (which means one uphill section on the way back), this section of the Appalachian Trail is well-maintained, provides sure footing and is made easier by natural step-like features.

he Advanced Hike, like the Gentle and Intermediate Hikes, will start at the Washington Monument State Park Parking Lot. Together, we will head off down the trail, stop at the Washington Monument Overlook to enjoy the glorious views of the valley below, giving nature lovers a chance to take in the beauty of the natural world.  This 5-mile, out and back hike is trail is relatively flat with some rolling hills and a moderate but gradual elevation change, made easier by natural stair-step features.

Can’t make it on October 26th? No problem!  You can join us virtually anytime between September 26th and October 26th and support two worthy nonprofits. Be sure to take and send pictures of your hike! We will share them on our website and post them on social media! 

Sponsor your favorite hiker and support two worthy nonprofits! The hiker who raises the most will win the coveted Golden Hiking Poles Award!  Your sponsorship will support Prime Time for Women’s mission to foster healthy aging through FREE programs that emphasize positive social connections, lifelong learning and healthy lifestyle activities. This year, Prime Time for Women will share the proceeds from the 5th Annual Grandma Gatewood Legacy Hike(s) with The Elder Group, a nonprofit committed to ending elder abuse and delivering high-quality services to seniors and displaced persons. 

Business owners that embrace challenges as adventures and want to share in the legacy of possibilities are invited to sponsor the 5^th Grandma Gatewood Legacy Hike and Birthday Bash. Your support will enable PTFW to continue FREE community-based programs (Walking to Wellness, PTFW Book Club and Saturday in the Park) that celebrate and foster healthy aging at every age! Based on scientific research our programs emphasize positive social connections, lifelong learning healthy lifestyles with the goal of increasing health span and improving community health.

Don’t miss the 5th Annual Grandma Gatewood Birthday Bash at the 19th Hole Restaurant on Saturday, October 26 from 6-8 PM. Celebrate the remarkable legacy of Grandma Gatewood, connect with fellow hikers, share stories of your trail adventures, nibble delicious appetizers prepared by Chef Carolyne Crosby and enjoy music provided by DJ, Jay Heich. And best of all, after we sing Happy Birthday to Grandma Gatewood, delight in the scrumptious birthday cake prepared by Lillian’s Bakehouse…mmm good!