When I’m feeling happy, walking on a hiking trail fills me with joy. When I’m feeling unsettled or unhappy, walking on a hiking trail gives me a sense of peace. I hope knitting these socks can give you peace and joy. This pattern reminded me of being on a hiking trail. Mountain hiking trails in my area usually have rocks and roots that make me pay attention and lift my feet, so I don’t trip and fall. On both sides of the trail, there are lots of pine and oak trees as well as rhododendron and mountain laurel. The beauty of nature always astounds me!

This is a toe- up pattern and I use a short row heel, but you can use any heel that fits your foot the best.

Finished Sizes: Adult XS (S, M, L)
Leg/Foot Circumference: 6 (7, 8, 9)”/ 15 (18, 20.5) cm; fits leg/foot circumference of 7 (8, 9, 10)” / 18 (20.5, 23, 25.5) cm
Leg/Foot Length: Adjustable to fit

Measurement:
Choose size based on foot circumference, allowing approximately 1”/2.5cm of negative ease. For example, if the ball of your foot measures 9”/23cm in circumference, you should knit size M, which has an 8”/20.5cm finished foot circumference.

Foot length on the sock should measure approximately 1/2”/1.25cm less than actual foot length.

Materials:

• 100 grams of Fingering/sock weight yarn (Sample knit in Cascade Heritage in the colorway 5625)
• US 1 (2.25 mm) circular needle, or needle required to achieve gauge. I use a 32” needle for magic loop, or I use 2 circulars – one 16” (Needle 1) and one 24” (Needle 2)
• Stitch markers
Difficulty: Intermediate; this pattern uses lace as well as toe and heel construction

Gauge: 8 stitches and 12 rounds = 1 inch in stockinette