Description:

NOTICE: ALL OBSIDIAN HIKES ON THE RIDGELINE TRAIL SYSTEM ARE CANCELED UNTIL THE CITY DECLARES THEM SAFE FOR HIKING. CHECK BACK FOR UPDATES.added by trip leader: IT WILL LIKELY BE SEVERAL WEEKS OR MAYBE EVEN MONTHS, BECAUSE IN ALTON BAKER PARK A SIGN READS "MONTHS". I DO NOT EXPECT THE OBSIDIANS TO BE DOING CLUB HIKES ON THE RIDGELINE TRAILS IN 2017. THE FACT THAT LIMBS FALL SPONTANEOUSLY AT OTHER TIMES ON THE RIDGELIINE, THE STEPS ARE INHERENTLY DANGEROUS, PEOPLE GO BEYOND THEIR ABILITY AND CAN HAVE TROUBLE ARE APPARENTLY DIFFERENT ISSUES. WHEN IT COMES TO THIS ICE STORM, NOTHING LESS THAN 100.0% SAFETY IS THE GOAL. OF COURSE THAT LEVEL OF SAFETY MEANS STAY HOME. MICHAEL S. SMITH

UPDATE: ***The weather will force cancellation of this hike because of risk of freezing rain before, during or immediately after the hike. ***Please keep an eye on the forecast. We have a chance of freezing rain this weekend that may impact this hike. Because of cold air in place on the ground, the warmer air containing rain will freeze on contact, until the temperature rises enough for it to melt. It is not clear exactly when the precipitation will start, whether it will be freezing rain or sleet, and when it will change to rain. A degree or two and timing is very important. If freezing rain is an issue, please don't try to call, and do not worry about cancelling. **** This trail is part of the Ridgeline Trail System. Please meet at the Blanton Ridge Trailhead - Crest Drive to Blanton Road. The first 2 miles undulates through the canopy of fir trees with snippets of city views. Trail then crosses Willamette Street where we will continue for another 1.3 miles to reach the trail junction to submit Spencer Butte merging with the main trail at 0.8 miles for the final 0.5 push/step to the top.