2025 HIKES
Hike Report M15 South Hill Rd > Burdett 04/27/25
Today's hike started a little cooler than yesterdays with wind in our faces.
Cindy S, John N, Gwen W, Guy F, Steve E & Lucy 🐾
Promptly we put on our windbreaks/raincoats and there was an icy rain but only for a few minutes.
From South Hill Rd we turned up Burnt Hill Rd and rose about 300' so we were no longer cold.
Today's hike went through the Finger Lakes National Forest.
"The Finger Lakes National Forest lies on a ridge-called the backbone-between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes in the Finger Lakes region. New York State's only national forest, this multi-use land is reminiscent of western national forests with a great deal of open land and free-ranging cattle. The forest has over 30 miles of interconnecting trails that traverse gorges, ravines, pastures and woodlands. The forest is managed to provide a diversity of native forestlands, shrublands and grasslands, including areas of native older forests, diverse wildlife habitats, quality recreation areas and forage for livestock."
We crossed Burnt Hill Rd and the first parking area and uphill again to the Dunham Shelter that had a privy about the same size.
This was the first lean-to that I have seen built by the US Forest Service, a part of the US Agriculture Dept.
So it makes sense now that I know this is a National Forest.
We crossed Burnt Hill again at another trailhead
The trail followed a gorge for a while that had many little waterfalls.
The sun came out and as the temperature rose the layers of clothes came off, eventually to a tee shirt.
The spring blooms keep coming, bloodroot, Norway Maple, red elderberries, trillium, anemone, shadberry, strawberries, wild mustard, apple, mayflower, blue cohosh, cherry blossom.
There were at least three bridges on this hike which made the stream crossings possible.
There was a recent brush fire in Finger Lakes National Forest and I'm not sure if it was a controlled burn or unwanted fire??
The last couple miles of the hike was a reroute to the road as apparently the FLT lost access through the woods on private property..
We parked near the Overlook Coffee Company in Burdett which overlooks one of the prettiest falls on Hector Creek..
The hike was 7.6 miles with a 933' ascent.
Map:
Photos:
Spring Bloom Day,
Steve
M21 Taylor Valley Passport E03 & Taylor Valley Lean-To 04/26/25
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This morning with threatening rain 5 hikers could not be deterred.
Pat B, Tom M, Christine G, Gwen W, Steve E. headed for Taylor Valley in the rain.
When we arrived the rain stopped and we started across the creek on the stepping stones.
The trail along the creek showed us the remarkable work of the beavers, increasing their waterways.
This time of year renews our faith in nature.
Seeing the blooms and leaves sprouting from the recently frozen ground is all the proof we need.
Some of the first green to appear is false helebore and we wondered what the difference was between false hellebore and hellebore....
False hellebore and hellebore are both plants within the same family but belong to different genera. Hellebore generally refers to plants in the genus Helleborus, while false hellebore belongs to the genus Veratrum. Both are toxic, but they have distinct characteristics and uses. False hellebore, such as Veratrum viride, is found in eastern parts of North America and is known for its dense spikelike flower clusters and medicinal use, although it is highly toxic and can cause severe congenital abnormalities in animals if ingested. Hellebore, on the other hand, is an evergreen plant that flowers in winter and is often used decoratively due to its bright flowers.
After a milre of easy hike we came to the register and Passport Station E03.
We returned to the Cheningo Day Use Area where we parked and continued on the FLT/ NCT up to the lean-to.
This switchback trail rises about 500' in a half a mile.
It was easier today than it was this past winter with the snow that required us to consider microspikes.
It always takes a little longer to 'keep the pace' when there is so much to look at and wonder.
We Came to the lean-to dedicated to Horst Schwinge and thank Sigi and her family for the contribution to the FLT and the outdoors!
The lean-to gave us time for a group photo and time to enjoy delicious strawberries and shortcake for a birthday celebration.
After the break we floated downhill back to the cars.
The first part of the hike to the passport station out and back was 2 miles and to the lean-to it was 1.3 out and back.
Total miles 3.3.
Map:
Photos:
Tellin' it straight!
Steve
8 hikers: Lisa B, John N, Guy F, Jeanne P, Lisa R, Dave, Cindy S-S (for O&B) and Gwen W (down-only) and two dogs: Annie and Lucy enjoyed fantastic weather and a wonderful outing up past Chippewa Falls from Lincklaen County Highway 12 to Stoney Brook Rd and back. Those who hiked up reported seeing lots of flowers, distant deer, an elderberry bush, signs of extensive maintenance, and an insect monitoring device. They reported hearing a rave review of the Metallica concert this past weekend...still the best heavy metal band ever. I believe the encore was Enter Sandman, but don’t quote me on that. If you missed it, you really missed out; it was once in a lifetime. One uphill hiker reported seeing multiple mirages of Stoney Brook Road that they were convinced must surely be within sight after all that climbing only to see another switchback and set of box stairs to climb. They persisted and victory was theirs!
Perfectly timed, the uphill hikers met the lone downhill-only hiker at the appointed hour. The vista from Stoney Brook Road was a view to behold and one hiker called their son who lives in Stoney Brook, NY (Long Island) to let them know where they were. Along Stoney Brook Road we saw a vernal pool with many amphibian eggs in it and investigated a foundation for any evidence of pioneer treasures. We snapped a group photo (-1) and headed down. Ephemeral spring flowers are emerging: trillium, trout lilies, and squirrel corn; blue cohosh, day-lilies, spring beauties, and pussy willows all made a showing too. The falls did not disappoint and we saw, or re-saw, depending on who you were: upper, middle, and lower falls. On the way down, we leaned back, engaged our cores, and made sure our heels hit first. Other notable happenings on trail were a hiker kicking the bucket, a game of peek-a-boo, taking time to smell the flowers, visualizing a hat rack, and the recounting of the story of Dumbo’s gift of the “magic feather” from the crows for those unfortunates who never saw or read the story as a child…what’s a childhood without a few emotional scars? Mention was made that this tract of land was purchased by the Finger Lakes Trail Conference…remembered trivia from a previous hike. Trail ended by crossing or re-crossing, depending on who you were, the very nice footbridge installation (no trolls encountered). Hike was 5.21 miles and 824’ climb and declimb.
Happy Earth Day Everyone!
Gwen
Photos:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1dtrUhmKfeBkuYz6EXWClaG23Bfczz6CO?usp=sharing
Map:
https://www.gaiagps.com/public/9PMRZXRi4uh57bQoi8axyqjB
Finger Lakes Trail Conference Completes Largest Land Acquisition in Organization's History with Purchase of 140 Acres in Chenango County | ||||
The Finger Lakes Trail Conference closed on the purchase of 140 acres of property in Chenango County late last year, the largest land acquisition in the organization’s 60-year history. The purchase was made possible by the FLTC's Sidote Stewardship Fund, which is designated for trail preservation and protection efforts.
The 140 acre purchase contains a trail section through the woods and down the lane on the far side of this scenic valley on County Route 12 in Lincklaen (Chenango County). We obtained a trail access easement for the trail shown in the picture above coming up the near side along the fence line to this view point. This creates a connection from near Paradise Garden Lean-to in Mariposa State Forest on the far horizon, to the Chippewa Falls spur trail in Cuyler Hill State Forest, which would be at your back standing where the photo was taken. When the trail is re-routed here it will replace 4.4 miles of road walk on Lincklaen Road and Cuyler Hill Road. |
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Hike Report M19 Dabes Diversion > Kuzia Cut Off E01 Passport 04/13/25
This morning about 38° 9 hikers came to hike the Dabes Diversion / Kuzia Cut Off Loop.
Guy F, Janel F, John N, Gwen W, Valerie H, Alice H, Beverly O, Jeanne P, Steve E.
The snowmobile trail drew us in and we took off but not for long.
We realized the FLT trail was around the corner and took off in the right direction.
This loop is in the James Kennedy SF and part of the loop is on the 'White blazed' FLT
We warmed up quickly and found refreshment in some young ramps we came across.
Fields of daylilies not yet in bloom, big-toothed aspen leaves, Shoe String rhizomorphs, Herb Robert plants.
We signed the trail register on the main FLT just before the Kuzia Cutoff and then again at the Passport Station E01 where several hikers got their rubbings.
One of the oldest things we found on the trail other than some hikers was a cherry tree 12'8" around, calculated to be about 245 years old, circa 1780.
Two 'new' hikers who are sisters Beverly & Valerie, got their Bullthistle patch today
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Group photos were taken near a hedgerow with an awesome view and by the stream crossing bridge where the railing is high enough to deter 'jumpers'.
Everyone enjoyed the morning!
The hike was 3.6 miles
Map:
Photos:
Hiking Is Not for Everyone.
Notice the Wilderness Is Mostly Empty
Steve
Hike Report M19 Dabes Diversion > Kuzia Cut Off E01 Passport 04/13/25
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9 Hikers, Christine G, Lisa E, Lisa R, Cindy, Ben, Gwen W, Brenda R, John N, and Guy F and 2 dogs, Lucy and Warren B, arrived to hike with senses of humor and songs in their hearts as instructed. After warming up with some Dad jokes, car spotting, and caravaning, we marched uphill for a straight hour…that Virgil Mountain just keeps on giving. There was a stream with many waterfall features alongside the trail and a few spring flowers blooming on the up, up, and away. Guy hunkered down in what may be a big boiler (see picture) as we kept marching uppity up up like the magnificent men in their flying machines. The trail near the power lines is blazed on rocks in the road. We paused for pictures at the bench and scenic vista. We finally reached the highest point in Cortland County at 2132’ where we all put our best foot forward at the geological marker (picture) and then did the hokey pokey. Some of us foolishly believed that it would all be downhill from here since we were at the highest point. We signed the FLT register while Warren cooled down in a massive mud puddle. The woods and sun were so beautiful, one hiker serenaded us with “Sunshine Day” by the Brady Bunch: https://youtu.be/OznUQnkrC-w?si=eDzXf981qhbzeHma
As we continued, we passed a hollow log with regular yellow lines in it and realized from other nearby evidence that it had been a beehive! Hope it was not active when they cut it! We thought about Pooh Bear and his love of honey and hikers enjoyed his exercise song: https://youtu.be/Pm1qzfbRAPw?feature=shared
We took an early snack break and looked out from the ski slope. Today, we benefited from a couple of beautiful, new bridges while some of the other water crossings were a little more sketchy. Some hikers encountered a garter snake in the middle of the stream holding onto a stick for dear life (see picture)…how did it get there? A stepping stone construction prompted the singing of the Monkees Stepping Stone https://youtu.be/I9pUq339ptA?si=C8-8iKYZ_nJyIcsF
After a good deal more climbing that separated the fittest from the those who huff and puff but don’t blow the house down, we arrived at the Foxfire Lean-to and had more snacks. We passed a section of clear cut which inspired new lyrics to I Can See Clearly Now by Johnny Nash https://youtu.be/LDNKOblg3gs?si=MOZl_x5WeNhJHFWn
We finished strong with our senses of humor intact and songs we wished we could get out of our heads. The hike was 7.21 miles with 960’ ascent.
Map and stats
https://www.gaiagps.com/public/SZXVC4mD0XFTZc4FqruE4Yu2
Photos
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Cr6kwnPfzvmOcvDhE__q7uHXaErhdK6F?usp=drive_link
Hike, laugh, and sing,
Gwen
Hike Report M28 NYC RD7 Cannonsville Res > Faulkner Rd. 04/11/25
9 hikers appeared this morning at the parking lot in Bainbridge.
Cindy S & Lucy 🐾, Guy F, Rich B, Gwen W, Deb N with two 🐾🐾, Lisa R, Christine G, Paul S, Steve E.
We drove by the trailhead and ended up taking the back way to the car spot on Faulkner Rd. which added time to our hike.
Either way the area is beautiful and we saw lots of wildlike, (deer, turkeys and an eagle)
The trail was on the road for about a tenth of a mile and then we walked through a field overgrown with pines before coming to a roadbed for a few tenths of a mile then back to the woods and on to the stream crossing that almost everyone took off their shoes and waded barefoot or with water shoes.
This slowed us down a bit for the two shoe changes.
After the creek was the hill that seemed to go on. We walked a mile but up 800' to Speedwell Mountain.
It leveled off for a bit and then it was up to Tower Mountain.
The ramps and trout lilies are up but the lilies have not bloomed yet.
There was still a little snow hanging on from last night.
Ice still holds to the undersides of rocks where there is no sun.
In the Fletcher Hollow Unit we came across an old foundation.
The walls may have been 5' high but not sure how much leaf litter and dead limbs filled it in.
There was a bivouac area with an old trash pile that had a couple of old porch glider frames and old beer cans.
Coming down Fletcher Hollow Rd, a stony dirt road there was a beautiful stream down in a gorge but one spot was spoiled where someone thought it a good idea to throw their trash down the bank. At the bottom we came to Finch Hollow and Dryden Roads. Road walk that we thought would finish the hike was diverted to a steep uphill trail that paralleled the road to Faulkner Rd.
At the 'corner' of Faulkner Rd there was a huge old maple with a hollowed out trunk.
3 people could have climbed in. This reminded me of 'My Side of the Mountain'
When we got back to the trailhead where the cars were we took a well deserved break and had a 'snack'
of cartucerey items, hummus with carrots and blue corn chips, broccoli salad and macaroni salad with shrimp,
sourdough brownies, lemon cheese cake.
Map:
Photos:
Still willin' https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNqv85coyTw
Steve
Hike Report Ludlow Lean-To > E07 Passport / Register 4/6/25
The kiosk parking lot was full this morning when 11 hikers and a 'pup' showed up.
Anne A, Holly C & Bot 🐾, Beverly O, Alice H, Tom M, Pat B, June G, Melissa T, Lynn K, Steve K, Steve E.
The troupe headed toward the Tucker Rd trailhead but went on the the one lane wooden decked bridge that the CCC built in the '30's
Everyone did an about face and went back to the trailhead.
In about 1/4 mile we arrived at the lean-to and almost immediately went to the falls where the creek was full from the rain yesterday.
Spring has started and the proof was ramps and trout lilies.
Photo of the trout lilies but no proof for the ramps, I ate the evidence.
This early springtime is great since the bugs are not out yet but there have been ticks for the past few weeks on some of our hikes, so take care.
The plan to bushwhack to the stone piles was delayed as the swamp was undoubtedly very wet.
The FLT trial was not too wet and we made good time to the Passport Station.
On the return the geocache was too tempting to pass by.
Most of the hikers went to La Maison Blanche Bakery Cafe in Norwich.
A short hike of 2.5 miles and Sunday coffee and pastries. A relaxing start to a Sunday (funday)!
Map:
Photos:
Born to be wild, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=igvP806798U
Steve
Hike Report M15 Schuyler Vet Mem CR 6 > South Hill Rd 4/4/2025
Eight hikers met this morning to head west from a parking area near the Schuyler Veterans Memorial.
There were geese in the pond by the trailhead.
Lisa R, Cindy S, Lucy 🐾, Gwen W, Sue N, Christine G, John N, Guy F, Steve E. set out and headed up Roger Hill.
At the top we took a rest at the Rogers Hill LT which was really nice near a pond. There was no register at the lean-to.
The only disappointing thing was the number of bottles and cans in the firepit.
We crossed Steam Mill Rd and entered the Texas Hollow SF.
The trail dropped down steeply to a flat that had a couple nice ponds. Geese on one of them.
There was a mourning cloak butterfly and a pileated woodpecker that couldn't be photographed, try as we might.
We crossed Texas Hollow Rd and the finale of the hike was an uphill traverse on a path that was hardly benched and covered with dry oak leaves.
This was a tough uphill climb that no one said was easy.
Map:
Photos:
One step up, and one step over,
Steve
Hike Report Jackson Pond > E04 Passport > Perkins Lean-To O&B
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Surprisingly 10 hikers and one Jack Russle Terrier showed up on this rain threatening day.
Abbie T & Pic 🐾, Tom M, Pat B, June G, Gwen W, Steve K, Lynne K, John N, Melissa T, Steve E.
The troupe set out from John Smith Rd at the Jackson Pond Kiosk and followed the FLT through the woods to the South end of the dam.
The first green false hellebore buds were poking out of the ground.
The dam led to a trail headed NW through the woods uphill to the first clear cut section that was recently logged and reopened last summer.
There will be plenty of berries in the next year or two and more than enough to trim to keep up on our trail maintenance through there.
There is an island of woods before the next clear cut section which holds the E04 Passport rubbing station and a trail register.
We stopped there to sign in and get our rubbings to help complete the Eastern Passport book.
More info on the Passport Program:
There was a red backed salamander under a fossilized rock that we picked up to inspect.
There was still some snow, probably where it had drifted and where the sun doesn't shine.
Casting off the woods island we walked through the next clear cut and found two big cherry trees that had tipped over across the trail.
More trail maintenance...
We arrived at Johnson St where the FLT crosses and heads toward Clarence Church Rd.
There 2 hikers and Pic hiked back to their vehicles opting for the shorter hike of 2.2 miles.
Heart shaped foam flower leaves were at the edge of the dirt road.
The remaining 8 went North on the FLT and passed by the red trail to Plank Rd and on to the blue Perkins Lean-To.
We took a break after moving the wintered picnic table outdoors, signed the register, had a snack and water.
This was the halfway point.
We noticed a lot of different mosses today looking for the anticipated spring flowers,
princess pine, brocade, interrupted club-moss, juniper haircap moss, fan club moss.
The hike was 4.8 miles with only a few rain drops.
Map:
Photos:
On the level,
Steve
Hike Report 3/23/2025 Ludlow to Moore Cemetery
from Karen:
Five hearty hikers (Pat, Tom, Mike, Holly, and Karen) and one 4 legged friend (Bot) braved the 19 degree weather and dusting of snow to get our steps in on a crisp and sunny morning.
We started at the Ludlow kiosk parking area and hiked over the Ludlow Creek wooden deck bridge and north past Ludlow Lake where we got a close view of the colorful cottages.
The sun was bright, the temperature quite chilly and everything was covered with a light dusting of snow. In places where the bare trees didn't block the sun, we felt a bit of warmth and watched as the sun melted away the snow from the dirt road. The hike was on dirt roads with mostly woods and fields and so it was very quiet. A nice way to spend the morning among good company.
We did pass one house that had a horse and pony in the field. We stopped to check out the old cemetery and read some of the headstones before turning around to go back. On the way back, we noticed some things that we missed on the way up. There were skeletal remains of a deer and also some beaver activity along the creek.
On the way we did our duty and picked up trash and cans. We filled two bags full! Quite a bit for a quiet road.
Thanks for joining me!
Karen
Distance 5 miles
2 1/2 hours
link to pictures:
Hike Report M16 Connecticut Hill > M15 Schuyler Veterans Memorial CR6 03/28/25
This Friday morning 8 hikers met on Connecticut Hill to hike West to Schuyler Veterans Memorial.
Christine G, Lisa R, Cindy S, Lucy 🐾 our border collie, Brenda R, Gwen W, John N, Guy F, Steve E.
got started finally after traffic slows down in Ithaca. Don't go that way again!!!
There is a trail closure to the West of Connecticut Hill so we took the reroute East then South West on Boyland Rd.
We did see logging activity on Boyland Rd, big piles of trees with logging equipment working nearby.
After 1.5 miles we entered the woods South of Boyland Rd.
We followed a gorge that had a few beautiful waterfalls with flat rocks that looked like you could slide on.
This gorge held a feeder stream to Cayuta Creek Inlet.
The trail seemed kind of drab but we soon started to notice things (perhaps imagine them)
There were two Indian trees that were close enough to get them both in a photo.
A sculpture in the roots at the base of a tree.
A picture frame that captured one hiker that dared to look through.
The trail along the gorge was rooty and rocky.
There were a couple of old foundations with many metal artifacts. It must have been a farm as there were old apple trees nearby.
At a stream crossing we discovered a dead porcupine.
The path along Cayuta Creek Inlet looked to be an old railroad bed and was much easier to walk on 'park like'.
We walked 9.3 miles 761' elevation gain
Map:
Photos:
A day in the woods,
Steve
Hike Report M24 Kopac Pond > Bowman Lake Loop 03/15/25
At 38° this morning 8 hikers showed up at the Kopac kiosk.
Holly C & Bot 🐾, Tom M, Jeanne P, Melissa T, Gwen W, Anne A, Guy F, Steve E.
We were in for a surprise because the ice and snow had not melted yet.
I had left my microspikes home but Guy loaned me his and it was a blessing.
The previous snowshoe, skiing tracks left a nice path if ice, you need not follow the blazes.
The warm weather this week had melted some of the snow and there were wet sections but easily forded.
At the end of the Kopac trail North we stopped for a water break then headed East on the blue trail to pick up the main FLT trail.
The downhill stretch was wet but still passable. There was one double 'tip over' that we had to go around.
This find will bring us back for a trail maintenance day. If the root ball does not lay down then a diversion path will be made.
The North side of the hill leading to Bowman still had quite a lot of snow and it was work, breaking trail.
The FLT comes to the beach area at Bowman Lake SP. The lake was still iced over and looked to still be pretty thick.
Down the East side we passed in front of the Lifeguard station and boat house.
The South end lean-to was a great place to sit and take a break.
Across the dam and up the blue trail to Kopac and a great day for a hike.
It had warmed to the 50's by the time we finished.
Map:
Photos:
Hike Report M16 Connecticut Hill Rd > Hines Rd.
This morning on Connecticut Hill Rd 7 Hikers convened to take a walk through some of the nicest woods around.
Lisa R, Cindy S, Lucy 🐾, Daisy M, Mary M, Gwen W, Guy F, Steve E
Up Tower Drive there were two towers, cell & microwave.
We walked by the Bob Cameron Loop (BCL) is a 2.6-mile loop trail located within the Connecticut Hill Wildlife Management Area in Newfield, New York. It starts and ends at Tompkins County's highest point, just under 2,100 feet. The Bob Cameron Loop is named after Bob Cameron, a former manager of the Connecticut Hill Wildlife Management Area.
By the Laura McGuire bench and on to Stevensons Forest Preserve where there were vernal pools still frozen but will open soon for the rebirth of spring.
The falls along this crystal clear creek on Stevensons Forest Preserve were spectacular,
Bock-Harvey Forest Preserve is a 48-acre wooded area located just west of Ithaca, New York. This preserve is a highlight of the 585-mile Finger Lakes Trail and offers visitors ideal options for both easy walks and more challenging hikes. The preserve is owned by the Finger Lakes Trail Conference and is subject to a conservation easement held by the Finger Lakes Land Trust. The land features some of the region's oldest and most majestic sugar maples, which have been cherished and protected by the Bock and Harvey families for centuries. The trail within the preserve continues through younger successional woods, past a lean-to shelter, over dry stream beds, and eventually back to more mature hardwood forest. About half a mile of the Finger Lakes Trail runs through the preserve, connecting it to Riemen Woods and the Land Trust’s Stevenson Forest Preserve.
Riemen Woods Nature Preserve is a short hike through successional woods that was given to the Cayuga Trails Club in 1972 by The Nature Conservancy and transferred to the Finger Lakes Trail Conference in 2014.
We stopped at the Locust lean-to for a break and group photo.
We ended the walk after 9 miles with an 840' ascent.
Map:https://www.gaiagps.com/public/0zPOoBDCwUs1rqaYVf454XZX/
Photos:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LW3YQxrJ-5p-fgoW8y_42xYK6UoYb9wC?usp=sharing
Walk a while,
Steve
Hike Report: Moonlight Hike, Tuesday 3/11
Last night turned out to be a beautiful evening for a moonlight hike. 11 ambitious hikers and two dogs converged on the hillside above Hunts Pond to explore an unknown trail. The hikers were Pat Bonnell, Thomas Monday, Melissa Tworkowsky, Jeanne Peters, Mike Cunningham, Holly Crouch (with Bot), Joanne Finch, Cindy Starbird-Salak (with Lucy), Julia Iannello, Sue Nogaret, and myself.
The hike started out at sunset just after 7pm, with downhill jaunt down to the pond which was still ice covered. There was a stiff breeze coming across the pond, so we did not linger on the dam. We continued back uphill to the seasonal camping loop road which we followed to the start of the snowmobile trail. Conditions were tricky, with some snow in the shade but icy conditions where the trail was hardpacked from cars and snowmobiles. The moon was already high above the horizon and, as we gathered to enter the woods which were quickly becoming dark, a pack of coyotes began to howl from somewhere down below us—from a location we might soon find ourselves. This definitely got the dog's attention, but we never did come across any tracks, glowing eyeballs, or other evidence.
After the first steep downhill section, we paused to allow people to reconsider the need for traction devices, which were then immediately advantageous on the return trip uphill. This turned out to be the worse section of the trail in terms of steepness and ice, so it was nice to get that out of the way. Fortunately, and even though most of the snow was melted, the trails were still mostly frozen so we didn't have to deal with muddy and soft conditions. A few days from now it might be a muddy mess.
The snowmobile trail was well marked and easy to follow as we wound our way through the woods. The wetland in the bottom of the valley was still snow-covered and brightly lit by the moon above and the new snowmobile trail bridges made it easy to cross the streams. After the wetland there was one more small uphill section that warmed our legs. As we neared the southern end of the snowmobile trail, there was a lone hoot off to the east. We paused hoping to hear more. A second singular hoot eventually retorted. Uncertain if it was a barred owl or great horned owl, I tried to elicit a response with a "who cooks for you" call, but there was only silence.
A short while later we emerged onto Buttermilk Falls Rd, roughly halfway on the hike. We paused on the edge of field to have a snack and look at the clear sky above. In honor of the worm moon, gummy worms and sour gummy worms were shared, but the clear favorite were the Whippets—chocolate covered marshmallow cookies with raspberry filling, representing the blood red moon which will be visible overnight during the lunar eclipse on Friday. After making sure everyone was energized to finish the hike, we followed Buttermilk Falls Rd west to Hunts Pond Rd and turned north to head back to the starting point. With solid footing underneath and clear skies above, the pace was steady as trekked uphill back to the cars.
We arrived just after 9pm, completing the hike including rest time in 2 hours and 10 minutes, with a reported elevation gain of 545 feet, I believe. The distance was between 3.96 and 4.07 miles, depending on your GPS device. There is a rough map of the hike below.
Thank you all for a nice evening. The next window for a moonlight hike is April 9-12.
Photos from Melissa are available here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHFaTJlsAiP/?igsh=dnp6eTl5dWxpN2dv
Hike Report M23 Berry Hill FT > Preston Rd. O&B
Clear skies brought 12 hikers to Berry Hill this morning.
Tom M, Pat B, June G, Kelly G, Miranda W, Jeanne P, Holly C, Melissa T, Gwen W, Guy F, Larry C, Steve Ellsworth
A surprise for some was the amount of snow still on the hill.
The road to the fire tower was drifted in so we did not make the climb to the top.
Everyone headed South to the first trailhead that was cleared by a couple Bullthistle maintainers yesterday.
Two poplars had blown down across the road in a storm.
The Town of McDonough cut the trees and with their plow truck pushed the mess to the side, right at the trailhead.
The maintainers did cut stairs with the chainsaw up the frozen snow bank.
There was a dusting of snow on top of the frozen snow pack so animal tracks were clear today.
Fox, fisher, deet, squirrel & mice. No sasquatch tracks today!
It was a toss-up for snowshoes (it might have been easier).
Some steps were supported by the snow and some broke through.
In the summer this would have been an easy hike but we chose a genuine workout.
Most of the wet areas were frozen but the wet spots were easily avoided and easily crossed by puncheons or the Breslin Bridge.
Toward Preston Rd there are three blowdowns that need attention.
We hiked about 3.6 miles and about 6 miles of laughs.
Map:
Photos:
Another notch on our walking stick,
Steve
Hike report M19 Babcock Hollow Road > Lake Road 030725
At the last minute we decided to go to Lake Rd rather than Tone Rd.
We hiked down to the creek from Babcock Hollow and balanced on a down tree with the aid of our hiking poles.
Then started the ascent past the trail register and saw that we had checked in 9/8/24.
We donned our mocrospiles 3 times on this hike because there were a couple road walks and we didn't want to dull our points.
It was particularly icy on the trail going up from Babcock Hollow, before Carpenter Hill Rd just before Daisy Hollow and on the hill just East of Dryden Lake.
The hike was 9.7 miles but another gps recorded 10 miles.
Map:
Photos:
You never know, but any hike is a good hike,
Steve
Hike Report Bullthistle Bridge > Lower Pond O&B 03/01/25
Rain was threatening our hike today, still 13 hikers showed up for the unknown.
Holly C & Bot 🐾, Joanne F, Cindy S & Lucy 🐾, Melissa T, Jeanne P, Pat B, Guy F, June G, Tom M, Gwen W, Lynn K, Steven K, Steve E.
We checked the trail and there was at least 12" of snow with a crust so 10 of us donned our snowshoes and the other three followed.
Taking turns breaking trail helped but the first 1/3 of the hike was uphill but we still broke a sweat.
We emerged from the woods to Elmer Jackson Rd (seasonal snowmobile road)
The hard packed snowmobile tracks were a welcome rest from post-holing through the crusty snow.
From the road back into the woods then back to the road and finally made it to Lower Pond.
The rain changed to snow and the temperature dropped so the clothes we took off were put back on.
At the Lower Pond we looked at the water coming over the dam that was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)
It was easier going back with a packed snow trail.
The trail was packed so well that some of the non-snowshoers went on ahead.
We enjoyed some home squeezed cider when we returned to NY23 where the cars were parked.
It was great to have two new hikers join the group today... Lynn & Steve
We hiked about 4 miles.
Map:
Photos:
Keep on truckin'
Steve
Hike Report M16 > M17 - Layen Rd > Terman SP > Hines Rd
This Friday eight hikers rolled out of bed and came to what we like... to be in the woods of discovery.
Lisa R, Chris G, Gwen W, Brenda R, Katie R, Cindy S & Lucy 🐾 Guy F, Steve E.
The first part of the hike was not too interesting as road walks go but there were some interesting properties that we passed.
The best thing about our initial road walk was that it was downhill and we managed to hit 3.5 MPH, an unheard of speed for us in the woods.
The first part of the hike tooks us through Sweedler Nature Preserve where there are a number of wonderful waterfalls along Lick Brook.
Some of us donned our microspikes to keep from slipping on the icy path.
We came to the FLT Low Point 434' before crossing under NY13/34
Crossing under the NY13/34 Bridge was tricky as the ice from the creek had washed up on the sides where the trail was.
(Easier with the microspikes.)
Twice we had to revert to a railroad bridge because Enfield Creek was too high to cross with the snow melt.
The FLT follows the Southern edge of Treman SP so it would be interesting to hike the Gorge and Rim trails sometime.
There were a lot of ups and downs on the trails through the park and they did not end until the very end of the hike.
The birds are starting to return so it will be nice to have spring once again.
Our car spot on Hines Rd was by a barn that looks to be converted into an event center and the stone work around the property was amazing.
We hiked 8.7 miles with an elevation gain of 898'
Map:
Photos:
Keep on tramping!
Steve
Hike Report M23-24 Kopac - Whaley Snowshoe 2/23/25
Four pairs of snowshoes were strapped on this morning and Jeanne P, Gwen W, Guy F & Steve E. headed to the observation deck.
On the way realizing that none of us started our gps apps.
After the no sign of the otter at the observation deck we went to the Passport station to sign the log book.
There was an inch of ice covering the latch but no match for a whack with the but end of the 'leatherman'.
This was a hike that required snowshoes if you wanted to avoid post-holing as the snow was anywhere from 12" - 16" deep.
Staying on top of the snow is much less work.
There were fisher tracks and signs of the demise of a red squirrel. A little blood and fur everywhere.
The blue blazes took us North to the intersection of Whaley Pond - Bowman Lake trails.
There we stopped for a group photo. (water too)
We headed West to Whaley Pond on the yellow trail.
The Whaley trail had changed to snow since the flooded sections for the First Day Hike.
That First Day hike it was so bad that we had to turn around as there was literally a waterfall from the snowmelt.
The snow was a welcome change today.
The only hill was an ascent up to Whaley Pond which might have been 50' so it was not unsurmountable.
Once up the hill, through the pines we could see the frozen Whaley Pond and the little island.
There was a little more wind standing on the Whaley dam so we took the group photo and headed back to the woods for a little break.
Then returned to the Kopac kiosk and trailhead.
The hike was 3.2 miles recorded and perhaps another .1 before turning on the gps.
Map:
Photos:
Hiking for change...
Steve
The 'Weight'
Hike Report M17 Michigan Hollow Rd > Layen Rd
This Friday morning 2/21/25
7 Bullthistle Hikers met at the Michigan Hollow trailhead .
Lisa R, Gwen W, Christine G, Cindy S & Lucy 🐾 ,John N, Guy F, Steve E.
On the way to the carspot there was a shredded wheat bear (bear bales).
It was almost as high as the telephone wires.
From Michigan Hollow Rd we headed into the woods where the wind was slowed to 'bear'able.
We headed ~North through the woods and thought perhaps the microspikes might help.
Not too long into the hike we came to the spur trail to the Chestnut Lean-To.
It was there that some of us decided to put on our microspikes.
Crossed the seasonal Bald Hill Rd then to Comfort Rd to walk around the 'Closed Storm Damage' section of the FLT.
The wind was unrelenting on the now even longer road walk.
Off Comfort Rd there was a road sign 'Slow Lane' which was obviously meant for us since we had fallen behind.
At the end of the Road Closed, Bruce Hill we were glad to get back to the protection of the woods.
Then it was into and out of a steep ravine that was adorned with assist ropes.
We were delighted at the frozen falls.
Going down and up was much easier and safer with our microspikes.
Along the hedgerows of the frosted shredded wheat field the snow was a little drifty
as was the last leg of the trail to the truck.
We hiked 7.1 miles and an elevation gain of 540'
Map:
Photos:
Take it easy,
Steve
Hike Report: Chenango Greenway Conservancy Quarry Snowshoe Hike 2/14/25
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This morning 5 snowshoers and one canine came to walk the trail of lore.
Jeanne P, Joanne F, Cindy S. & Lucy 🐾, Gwen W, Steve E.
We hit the primary color trails, blue to the pondering pool, little quarry, twin ponds, red to the face, and yellow to Domross.
This may be of interest to the Fat Tire riders since we had 5 sets of snowshoes packing the trail.
If you are wondering about these places, here is a link to the 'Book of Lore' at the quarry.
Map:
Photos:
One shoe off and one shoe on,
Steve
Hike Report: Ambler State Forest Snowshoe 2/8/25
Warmer this morning at 11° Zoe Z, Christine G, Gwen W & Steve E went for the 3rd snowshoe this year.
The forecast looks good for more of the same.
The DEC road was plowed for a ways off Pat Farley Rd where we parked.
In just a few minutes we had our snowshoes on and off we went down the DEC Rd.
The road was packed from previous snowmobile runs but there was snow over the tread marks that they leave.
Ideal for x-country skiing!
We looked for Don's (Windsor) Stick Man but it may have given way to decay.
A replacement is in order I believe.
There is a private property parcel in the middle of the Ambler State Forest.
Actually there are three parcels totaling 54 acres.
"Ambler State Forest is situated on a hillside overlooking the Unadilla River valley, just west of the village of South New Berlin. The forest consists of 629 acres. There are no formal hiking trails, but there is a truck trail that extends into the forest, and hiking is allowed anywhere on the forest unless posted otherwise." (NYS DEC reference)
A loop around the whole State Forest was considered but the number of blowdowns, bushwhacking this loop loop would not be easy in snowshoes.
We did break out off the road to the edge of the State Land for a view of the distant hills and Amblerville on NY23 in the valley.
The snow in the woods was about 12", deep enough to let us know that if the hike had only been in the woods we would not have gone as far.
There is a quarry that resembles a box canyon (one way in and out) .
A metal grill and firepit was set up at one end of this 'hideout' to make the bivouac area like home.
There is a turn-a-round at the end of the DEC road and that's what we did rather than a bushwhack that we'll do someday without snow.
The return was like a stroll compared to some of our hikes that have more elevation.
We hiked 3.7 miles with an elevation gain of 197'
Map:
Photos:
Life is a highway, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVPmwSTMhjo
Steve
M17 Michigan Hollow Rd - Abbott Loop Partial
This morning Cindy S, Lucy 🐾, Lisa R, Gwen W, Guy F, Steve E started at an FLT trailhead that went straight up or so it seemed.
About 1.5 miles in we realized that we were on the Abbott Loop and not the main FLT.
Guess we should have known sooner rather than later because the blazes were red and we didn't come to any main FLT junction with white blazes.
The 'view changes once you start walking' (quote below)
We decided to hike the Abbott Loop around to the Michigan Hollow Rd where the main FLT crosses.
There wasn't much snow but we came to an area where it was iced over and finally relented to the microspikes we had been carrying the whole time.
The microspikes sure made it easier.
There were some dried tulip tree blossoms sticking out of the snow..
The sky could not have been any bluer that it was today!
The hike was 5.2 miles with an elevation gain of 557'
Map:
Photos:
Do you know where you're going to?
Take it as it comes,
Steve
Hike Report Whaupaunaucau Groundhog Snowshoe hike 2/2/2025
It was a little cooler today at about 1° but Guy F, Gwen W & Steve E showed up to stomp the Whaup.
It was groundhog day and overcast so I doubt that a shadow was cast.
On the other hand the Punxsutawney Phil saw it differently...
"On Groundhog Day 2025, Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, predicting six more weeks of winter. However, it's important to note that Phil's predictions are not based on scientific evidence and his accuracy has been around 35% over the past 20 years, according to the National Weather Service."
The hike took us to the fishing access parking lot then across the day an up the West side of Jeffrey Pond.
I had a fleeting apparition to go off trail (bushwhack) to the pond to have a look and found myself in 2' of snow.
Perhaps I was adrift!
Trail #4 leads you around the lake to Post Rd. and we crossed a culvert that goes over the marshy inlet to the pond.
When we were almost back to the Fishing access parking trail #1 heads Easterly and loops back around to the kiosk.
This hike we now call 'The Butterfly' loop and aptly named if you look at the track on the map.
Map:
Photos:
Richie & Rosie from the Ithaca area...
Play local..
Steve
Hike Report M25 Cooper School House Rd > Brooksbank Rd.
This cool morning three hikers showed up from the Bullthistle Hiking Club.
Guy F, Gwen W & Steve E.
I don't think it got above 15° but not so bad if you kept moving.
The rain from the day before knocked the snow down a bit so we left our snowshoes in the truck.
However, we did carry microspikes just in case.
Breaking through the top crust just made it harder than walking through fluffy snow.
It was a toss up in some places whether our snowshoes would have helped or not but there was not enough time to go back and try with them.
A grouse flew by through the woods in front of us.
Lots of animal tracks and a couple were like large bobcat tracks.
The lean-to was in good shape and a welcome place to sit for a bit in the sun with no wind.
We were so relaxed that we forgot to take the obligatory group photo by the lean-to.
There were two other opportunities though, the group by the bridge and by a neatly stacked tall stone wall. (photos)
The ice on the creek was thick enough to cross safely but still unnerving.
From the low area we climbed and saw lots of turkey tracks, then one of the most interesting places.
An area where a large flock of turkeys had torn up the forest floor foraging.
Scratched clean around many trunks of trees down to the dirt.
Coming down the hill toward Brooksbank we spotted the truck, relieved that we could sit and rest our legs.
We hiked 6.8 miles today.
Map:
Photos:
Runnin' on Empty! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdHg4QEmBvk
Steve
Hike Report M27 Arctic China Sf Shear Rd > Barbour Brook Rd 01/24/25
This morning we met at the DEC parking lot on NY8 and changed our plans to hike to Dry Brook Rd as only close access is on seasonal roads.
The new plan changed to hiking to Barbour Brook Rd where we had started a hike to Cannonsville Reservoir last year.
So Mike C, Ben H, Gwen W, John N, Guy F & Steve E headed over the hill to Steam Mill Rd and dropped down further to a creek that had a sign for a bridge.
I think 4 of us put on microspikes and I know it helped me on the slippery slopes.
The first hill in the Steam Mill SF seemed to be hardwoods with a lot of young white birch.
That bridge was a 2x10 board. it was a little downstream from the trail.
On the return some of us walked across the frozen creek without a breakthrough.
Heading ESE we climbed some more to Barbour Brook Rd and followed that to our previous trailhead and headed back.
This was now Barbour Brook SF and there were a lot of conifers on the way up the hill, some towering maybe 100' high.
There were several foundations along the way and lots of stone walls. Imagine what life was like in those hills!
The first part of the hike was 3.3 miles with an elevation gain of 1067'
When we returned 5 of the hikers decided to piece the road walk section (due to logging) from Arctic China SF to the NY8 parking area.
We spotted a car up on Shear Rd just a little farther than the driveway with a road sign that read 'No Friggin Way'
We walked from the FLT trailhead on Shear Rd. to NY8 and back to the parking lot which totaled 2 miles.
Map:
Photos:
Movin' right along ....
Steve
Hike Report French Rd > Tucker Rd 01/20/2024
On a calm cool morning 2 hikers set foot to complete some FLT roadwalk.
Parking on French Rd was perhaps taking a chance going through the plowed roadside.
The gps started late about .3 miles after we began.
As soon as we turned off of French Rd to Fred Wilcox luck was with us as the owner of a rottweiler was out getting firewood and commanded her dog to stay.
The sun came out and the temperature did not sting like a strong North wind would do.
Walking along in the cold another dog decided it was time for a little nip. (not Yukon Jack)
We thought it came out to greet us and did by taking a bite at my coat but that was it thankfully.
The microwave tower on Fred Wilcox is a lot different than the newer cell towers of today.
The original microwave towers were put in place to create a radio-relay skyway.
Microwave towers were designed to transmit telephone and television signals nationwide.
This tower is likely abandoned as fiber optics took over.
On down the road to Stone Quarry past The McGowan property where the owners let the FLT park on their lawn.
The trail used to go North along their hedgerow but the FLT has since lost access to the next property so this section is a roadwalk.
A roadwalk while the temperatures are low is better than a sunny, muggy 90° day.
There is a little valley with a stream running under the road where it was said that you could catch minnows there for fishing.
Right on Enggaard Rd where there is a vista and the wind to go with it.
Finally to the DEC Road where the woods are a hallway, a windbreak where you can feel the quiet stillness all around.
With the sun at our backs it was time for a group 'shadow' photo.
Arrived at the Ludlow kiosk and drove to the carspot where the truck pulled out of the snow without a hitch.
Hike was 4.2 miles
Map:
Photos:
Hazy Shade of Winter ... Simon and Garfunkel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnZdlhUDEJo
On the level,
Steve
Whaupaunaucau Snowshow 01/18/25
This Saturday morning the temperatures were pleasant compared to what is coming.
Jeanne P, Gwen W, Steve E put on our snowshoes for the first time in two years on a Bullthistle hike.
The snow was not too deep so breaking trail was comfortable.
The sound of the hunting dogs we heard made us believe that they were coming to see us but never appeared.
I had to try out the discarded minivan seat which made me think of the song 'Free Ride' by Edgar Winter
Our route took us to the parking area by Jeffrey Pond then across the dam.
There were some wet areas that we avoided along the West side of Jeffrey.
The West side allowed us views across the pond that we can't see during the summer because of the leaves on the trees.
Gwen had to try the mountain bike jump on snowshoes which she managed to pull off without injury. (mp4 video)
The West trail led us back to the road and just before we came to the Jeffrey Pond parking area we took the #1 trail to the NE.
The #1 trail was a counterclockwise loop that is in need of multi floral rose pruning.
The tall pines near the end of the trail are really magnificent and shortly after them we came to the road by the kiosk and parking area where we started.
The hike was 2.6 miles and looking at the map of out tracks the two loops drew a butterfly.
Map:
Photos:
Snow hopper,
Steve
Hike Report M21 Taylor Valley Day Use > Cheningo Solon Pond Rd O&B 011525
Today, Wednesday 1/15/25 we all met at Taylor Valley SF Day Use Area at 8:45
CIndy S, Lucy 🐾, Ben H, Gwen W, Guy F, Steve E.
It was about 17 degrees this morning and never got over 21.
Not too bad in the woods but the wind was biting in the open near the clearcuts.
It was an up and down kind of day and before we left the lean-to we all had our microspikes on. (photo)
This hike was work but we still managed to have fun as you can see in the photos.
Some kids never grow up.
The snow was loose and 'sandy' so it was like walking in the sand on the beach only uphill.
The Taylor Valley lean-to was a great place to take a water break and check out the nice woodwork.
Sign, stool, ornament, an engraved folding saw a really nice lean-to.
Some parts of the trail were so steep that we had to slide down the path (videos)
The snow on the trees hung over the limbs like blankets and there were places where the snow was plastered on the sides of all the trees.
We will never experience anything like this in our living room.
What you can see on the map link:
The hike was 5.4 miles with an elevation gain of 1125' and a descent of 1137'
Map:
Photos:
We can't stop winter so just jump in,
Steve
Hike Report Five Streams SF - Pucker pond loop
A warmer Sunday morning and the wind has settled.
5 hikers met on CR-5 at Pucker St.
Melissa T, Gwen W, John N, Guy F, Steve E.
We headed East and entered the woods close to the Five Streams SF boundary.
Our intent was to bushwhack around the East side of Pucker Pond.
It looks like the winds this past summer tipped over a lot of trees.
When we could no longer make any reasonable progress we cut out to the road and went back into the woods on the North side of Pucker Pond.
Not without obstacles, a new challenge was crossing over a beaver dam.
Walking was easy on the east side of Pucker pond dam and after crossing we headed Southeast.
Just into the woods again we came to a bivouac area that was set up for tarps (photos)
The logging since I was there last further hampered our stroll in the woods, the briars grew where the sun now shines.
The powerline swath creates a really good view of the expanse of these woods.
Next we crossed Burkholder Rd and dropped down into a hollow.
There we saw such impressive stone walls that begs questioning.
Who lived there?
How many generations contributed to the tallest stone walls I have ever seen.
Was the purpose to keep wildlife out or to keep livestock in?
We will go back to try and find a foundation and possibly pioneer treasure.
The hike was 4.1 miles.
Map:
Photos:
You'll grow roots if you don't keep moving!
Steve
Hike Report M27 Shear Rd > Butts Rd Arctic China SF Beals Pond SF
This morning Lisa R, Cindy S with Lucy🐾, Gwen W, Guy F & Steve E Truckpool up the seasonal Shear Road and Parked by the trailhead.
We entered the Arctic China SF and it felt like the arctic with the cold and wind.
The trail was snow covered but not enough for snowshoes.
The recent thaw / rain / freeze and snow made parts of the trail deceptive because of the needle ice sometimes 6" that made for a surprise footing when it collapsed.
It was nice having Cindy and Lucy along since she lives in the area and knows these places like the back of her hand.
There was a fisher path that crossed Beals Pond Rd and it was heavily traveled on both sides of the road.
About a mile into the Beals Pond SF we took the DEC road to the 14 acre Beals Pond and found a hidden treasure.
There Is a picnic area, primitive campsite and a viewing platform.
Through the woods up and down until we came to an open field where the snow piled up and created beautiful drifts.
The wind was biting.
We walked along the hedgerow of the field rather than the road that was drifted in with a foot of snow.
At the top there was a bench and it was time for a break, snack and water and a group photo.
Back into the woods where the wind was blocked and the trail continued.
There are many stone piles in this area, some are in a fence line and others seemed to be random.
We spotted an engine on the bank of the creek then came to a nice bridge over a gully and stream.
The Getter lean-to was a great place to have another snack and more hydration.
The hike down the hill to Getter Rd there was a stone wall where the stones are laid at an angle.
The hike was 8.75 miles with an elevation gain of 850'
Map:
Photos:
A walk in nature's playground,
Steve
Hike Report M23 Bullthistle Bridge > Sandberg Lean-To > Pharsalia Blue Loop 1/05/25
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5 hikers and one canine arrived at the FLt crossing in NY-23 this morning.
Cindy, Lucy 🐾, Christine, Gwen, John & Steve.
The trees kept with wind speed down in the woods but in the open our faces got wind whipped. (Rudolfs we were).
We discovered a few blow downs that will require the chainsaw.
Cindy and John were in the lead and were cleaning the trail the whole way.
The snow on the pines made the woods look enchanting.
There was a break at the Sandberg lean-to and we hydrated and refueled with Christines muffins, Cindy's pecans and Gwen brought some oatmeal cherry cookies.
There were several water crossings and we all made it without incident.
What would a hike be without some silliness... check out the photos.
The hike was 9.9 miles
Map:
Photos:
Long hike, short report,
Steve
Hike Report M26 Butts Rd > Bainbridge 010325
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This morning 8 hikers and one dog headed up Butts Rd off of NY8
The photo going up the road reinforces the road name.
There was Cindy and Lucy 🐾, Joanne, Lisa, Gwen, Brenda, Guy, John & Steve.
Much of the hike was a road walk but an uphill one at that. From Butts Road > Houck Dr > Highland Acres Rd > Neff Hill Rd to a powerline.
We went into the woods after Neff Hill which was like a logging road then followed a path along a stream to the powerline.
The power line had some great views of the Sydney Airport and the Susquehanna River.
After we came down from the powerline and headed West toward Bainbridge we saw an eagle.
From the bridge over the Susquehanna Cindy pointed out an eagles nest.
We ended up at the municipal lot in Bainbridge and got a ride to our car spot on Butts Rd.
We are fortunate to have such great hiking neighbors (Cindy & Joanne) near Bainbridge who are always willing to go along.
Map:
Photos:
Peace & quiet are free!
Steve
Hike Report DEC First Day Hike at Bowman Lake SP
Our December thaw/rain and today's forecast did not help attendance today.
The long hike was well attended by 22 hikers and 2 canines.
There were hikers from Syracuse and Schenectady and Kirkwood besides more local towns.
The hike took us over the Bowman Lake dam and around the old Kopac Foundation.
Then over the hill to the Kopac Trail and the Passport rubbing station.
The new hikers were introduced to the process of gaining a patch for hiking the Finger Lakes Trail to the Passport stations.
The Kopac (blue) trail, North, was wet but walkable. Turning West toward Whaley Pond the (yellow) trail turned very wet and swimmable.
Every hiker was persistent in getting around the deep runoffs.
At one point a small waterfall and rushing water made us realize that drier conditions were necessary to get through.
We were close to Whaley Pond but decided it best to turn back and complete the rest of the hike.
Back we went on the Yellow and Blue Connector to the main FLT (white) trail and turned south toward Bowman Lake.
Dropping downhill to the Bowman Creek Bridge we paused to get a couple of photos of the group.
The predicted rain was but a drizzle and by the time we returned to the Nature Center it was snowing.
The planned hike could not be completed today as planned but I'm sure everyone was happy with the start of the New Year.
We warmed in the building and had coffee, cocoa, muffins and donuts and some were already dreaming of the next hike.
We hiked 3.9 miles:
Map:
Photos:
Walking in the woods is our freedom and happiness,
Steve
