BOOTPRINTS Volume 4 Issue 3 July 2000

and blankets were clean and fresh, having been airlifted in for the new season along with the summer food supply. Our kids helped the caretakers carry the many boxes of canned goods and flour upstairs for storage. One group went on to Mt. Jackson for the afternoon. Rob, John, and Wayne cooked up a fine feast in the Hut kitchen. Games followed in the balcony. Saturday we climbed Mt. Pierce and Mt. Eisenhower (elev 4,760ft). For several, it was their first hike above treeline. There are no words that can describe reaching the top and sharing that with children! There are no words that can describe the fellowship and first time overnight backpackers, wholesome spirit that exists in an that was monumental! On the way AMC Hut. There are no words that Mizpah Hut in the to the trailhead we saw a moose! can describe the beauty of the trail. We followed Crawford Path to the White There are no words that can Mizpah Hut. During lunch on the describe what we receive by being he Perfect Trip - trail we were visited by beautiful part of PVHC. Thanks gang for a The Adult-Child Trip to Canadian Gray Jays. perfect weekend! Mizpah Hut in the White The Hut experience was TMountains. Rob & Calli - Ann Mundy - awesome. We were greeted by Schechtman, Mandy & Sue Ziff, friendly caretakers. The mattresses John, Robert, & Stephanie Klebes, Lisa, Mitchell & William Frigo, Wayne & Kelsey Rodrigues, Ann Mundy & Michael McVeigh. Eight children and six adults departed on Friday for New Hampshire. On the way we had a grand picnic at the new Vermont Visitor's Center. That, in itself, is worth seeing. We stayed at Above the Notch Motel Friday night. There were pillow fights, several "monkeys jumping on the beds", tired adults and excited children. From our motel we had a beautiful view of the moon over Mt. Washington. A tent was pitched in one of the motel rooms as a practice for the next evening. Saturday morning posed the challenge of packing the backpack for the final time. For Lisa and Ann, Page 2

A Romp in the Catskills n June 11, 2000, Frank Grabinski led a group of Oseven other PVHCer’s up Mounts Wittenberg and Cornell in the of southeastern State. The highest Catskills, on the whole, are smaller than the highest White Mountains, the Green Mountains, or the . But there are a number of mountains in the Catskills that are over 3500 feet in elevation. Wittenberg and are in that category. Their elevations are 3780 and 3860 feet above sea level, respectively. We drove for two and half-hours to get to our trailhead. (This is the picnic area on Tully Lake to have reason that our club members have lunch. The afternoon turned out to Maintenance Day on hiked so little in this area, and be gorgeous, and the lunch Joe had additionally, know so little about the the Tully Trail ready for us was very filling. The Catskills. Frank is to be treats of cookies and candy really n the morning of commended for going where few hit the spot! It didn't take long for Saturday, May 27 a band PVHCer’s have gone before.) The everyone to wander down to the Oof 10 workers from the trailhead started at Woodland Valley waters edge where most of the PVHC showed up at the State Campground in the South group stretched out on boulders and Trustees of Reservations ranger Central Catskill region. We started knapped for a short time in the station at the Tully Lake at about 1500 feet in elevation, and warm spring sun. We finished up campground. This group of workers climbed over the day by visiting Doan's Falls, just was to be led by their ever-faithful at 3780 feet, and ended 4.7 miles at a mile up the road from the ranger, Andy. As Andy discussed our highest point at Cornell campground. The falls shooting out with the group the goal for the day Mountain, 3860 feet above sea from underneath the bridge made (cutting and blazing a new section level. At that point, we turned for a very picturesque view. of the trail), all members prepared around and went back the same by covering themselves with bug For those that are interested, way that we came. It was a long day spray from head to toe. And so the Tully Trail loop will be on the trail. Fortunately, at that time they were off to the trail..... approximately 18 miles long when of year, we had plenty of sunlight. The work crew cut and blazed a complete. The Trustees of Some of things that stood out 1-2 mile section of trail through a Reservations are very interested in about this hike are the following: 1) cloud of mosquitoes and black flies. the continuing help from the PVHC Frank originally wanted to climb Several trees, shrubs, and stumps with this project. Unfortunately, the Slide Mountain. Slide Mountain, the had to be cleared from the path, as trail will not be completed until rights most popular mountain in the well as a little re-routing around to cross a few local properties is Catskills, is just beyond Cornell steep sections. Those that went to granted or bought. Mountain. It would have been too the end of the trail cutting area were ambitious for us to do all three, Thanks again to Joe and all of Wittenberg-Cornell-Slide, on the rewarded with a view of a beautiful those that gave up part of their little brook. Although there were same day. Frank also wanted to Memorial Day weekend to help with avoid the crowds on Slide Mountain. reports of a few people attempting trail maintenance. to train the bugs to use a pair of The hike Frank chose was a good loppers to help out, nobody actually -Maurice Davis- one. 2) The trail was in good shape captured this on film. and well marked. 3) The view from Wittenberg was spectacular. I Shortly after noon, the trail particularly liked to see the 12-mile maintenance was done and the long , which group had found a beautiful little supplies water to . 4) Page 3

There was plenty of water, Jerimoth Hill, at 812 feet, is not specifically of streams crossing the what you would call nosebleed Open Letter to PVHC trail, thanks to a recent 6-inch material. Many of our little group from Ray Tibbetts rainstorm. And thanks to Mike even questioned if the road outside ilm is a lot like a new hiker Gross, the group had plenty of the private property wasn't higher - until it’s developed you filtered water. 5) There was a dicey then the fabled rock that is Fcan’t tell what is on it. If little steep spot on the trail just commonly considered the highest you put knowledge on the film, you’ll before Cornell where it was a little natural point in Rhode Island. But, develop knowledge. tricky to climb either up or down thanks to the help of the without a little help. 6) Frank did a HighPointer Club, we joined the Dear Pioneer Valley Hiking Club, good job of planning and leading elite few that have summited the hike. And apres hike, we all Jerimoth Hill with permission of the In the beginning, when the club stopped at a decent restaurant landowner. After our short visit we was first formed there was a need in called “The Spotted Dog,” which moved on to a very enjoyable hike the valley to teach new hikers what had a bunch of fire-fighting on the Walkabout Trail in Rhode to bring and what to wear on the equipment and memorabilia and Islands' George Washington Mgmt trail, so that they could enjoy their good food. And finally, 7) Staying up Area. Great view of Bowdish hike, be safe and protect the fragile with Mike and Monica on the trail Reservoir as we hiked alone the environment. I always felt the need nearly killed me. rocky edge before climbing to help hikers grow in their -Dick Forrest- gradually through a maze of knowledge of the woods. The same stonewalls from old farms and for backpackers. Other clubs were crossing numerous footbridges, leaving hikers behind on hikes. I Wilbur Pond, and wetlands filled saw an opportunity to help hikers with moss and green ferns. and meet new friends that liked the Mt. Mansfield's Hike started from same things I did. I also saw it as a our base at Smuggler's Notch business opportunity at the store, Campground as we followed the which Sandy and I had just started. Long Trail south to the Taft Lodge. I have made some great friends Along the way we saw great fields in the club. I have had some of fiddlehead ferns and wild flowers. tremendous experiences with good At the Taft Lodge we listened as the people. I hope that I have helped caretaker described the fantastic the club members advance in their views that we were missing in the knowledge of the outdoors with rain and mist. We hiked over the some of the things I’ve learned Chin, the highest point, then across along the way. Other people have the ridge to the Summit Station met life partners in the club. One of before hiking down the Mansfield the goals I’ve had for the club is that ski trails to our campsite. it would always be a teaching club Join us in August as we attempt and not a follow me club. As Mt. Washington, the highest point in experience grows in the club, it the northeastern United States, and would be my wish that your then follow along into September as knowledge is passed on to we finish our New England Tour New England's someone else. The friendliness of with Mt. Katahdin in Maine. the club and its people has been the Highest State - John Klebes - envy of other clubs in the area. We

Summits have had many visitors and he PVHC Year 2000 Tour inquiries on how we do it and what of New England's State we do. The club can grow as big as THigh Points continues with … the moral I learned today, it wants to, but the main focus at least two more high peaks since "Never judge a mile by a mile. should never change because that the last newsletter. In May we All miles are not created is what made it strong. I realize that visited the elusive Jerimoth Hill in equal." I have not been on the trail like I Rhode Island, June brought a wet want to or like I used to, but my and foggy tromp across Mt. health has been going down hill for (Quote from the AT journal of Mansfield in Vermont, and, weather sometime. My thoughts are with you Shari Cox. Read all about her permitting, we will also have seen on every hike. Appalachian Trail Thru-hike the summit of Mt. Greylock in Sandy and I want to thank the Odyssey at www.trailplace.com) Massachusetts on the 1st of July. club for its friendship and warmth and all the wonderful experiences Page 4 we’ve shared. The dinner at the decision making, problem solving, Monte Carlo was fantastic. It meant cooperation and commitment, as so much to know that someone participants learn to trust remembered just how much work I themselves and each other and test have put into the PVHC. Thanks their personal limits. again for everything and we’ll see Activities: Back to Back, Goal each other on the trail. Good luck Setting session, Warm-up, ice on your new adventures and a new breakers and de-inhibitizers, chapter ...... challenge course and trust -Ray Tibbetts- sequence.

Afternoon Session - High Ropes Course: Focus shifts from team orientation, to more individualized Ladies Day Weekend goals. in Saratoga, NY Activities: he singing, swinging, Re-orientation & goal setting swimming soul sisters from Warm-up games and stretching Tthe Battenkill canoeing and Introduction to rope elements, camping weekend had such a fine equipment and procedures time together that we'd like to enjoy climbing and another experience together. Springfield College belaying, focusing on support, Presently Marcia Kelly and feedback and communication myself are gathering information for Challenge Course: High ropes Activities a day or weekend this August at the Burma Bridge Saratoga Race Track. We're he Springfield College Centipede researching the dates and hours of Challenge Course is Dangle Duo the track and any special events as Trecognized as one of the Pirates Crossing well as tent/ car camping best courses of it's kind in the Zip Line opportunities on a lake in that local Northeast. Experienced facilitators area. guide participants through a series Saratoga Race Track is an old, of individual and group challenges possibly turn of the century, that build commitment, and team- beautifully groomed and manicured building skills. Up Coming Hikes track and grounds. The stadium is The date for the Springfield -Gary Dolgoff- bright white and the surrounding College Challenge Course is set for acreage is accented with gorgeous Saturday, August 12 from 8:30am to BASH BISH FALLS HIKE- flowers everywhere you look. It 4:30pm. The cost is $350.00 and August 26th! Bash Bish Falls- a 40- definitely calls out for the limited to 15 people. The number of (or so)-foot waterfall, split in two by "appropriate outfit". people who participate would a giant boulder! The thundering, In anticipation for this journey determine the individual cost. If we thick, cascading water, splashes we're suggesting that you check get 30 people to go we can have mightily near your feet, sending a your closet or go to your favorite two groups. As far as payment fine-mist-spray of wonderful, fine store in search of a fine 1920's to goes, I would like to get the money water, gently on your face- you are the present, summer dress. Hats paid up front to PVHC and then on a nearby boulder, sunning are absolutely, positively required!! have a check made Payable from yourself; maybe your feet are Gloves, opera binoculars, and PVHC to Springfield College. If slightly dipping into the water, which betting are personal decisions and anyone has any questions you can continues into a small river; a fitting optional!! Our mission is to get all call Wayne Rodrigues at 572-2511. end to a hike (which is about 1 and gussied up and have a really good 1/2 hours away from our 8am time. The following is an idea of what meeting place, Westfield Friendly's), More details will follow as soon the itinerary would be: that is a rugged 'moderate' hike; the as they assembled. If interested, hike, and the day, will be wonderful, please E-mail Donna Jago at Morning Session - Low Challenge and the pace compassionate- the [email protected], or call Course: Low-element activities Hike Leader, Gary Dolgoff, has 413-789-1744. take place no more than a few feet plenty of experience guiding, and - Donna Jago - off the ground and require only low encouraging, newer hikers. Veteran to moderate risk and physical hikers will also be fulfilled, as the strength. Issues addressed include terrain has a 'goodly amount of ups Page 5 and downs'. After the hike, we will He'll give you the 'skinny' on what is look for a place to have a involved, and offer some mellow Don't Miss meal/snack; as always, the encouragement. After talking to him, Upcoming Clinics: camaraderie, 'fun value', and you just might want to give leading, general Goodwill of the PVHC or co-leading, a try! (Of course, the th July 11 - Pete Anderson on members, is a joy to experience! 'choice' is 'up to you')! summiting all 50 state Questions? Call Gary Dolgoff, at highpoints (HighPointers Club) 413-584-8564. (Hike will be about 5 COME TO OUR TUESDAY fun miles). We will also have a EVENING MEETINGS! It's the first st Aug 1 : Scott Cook interactive 'mystery co-leader'... Tuesday of each month (the clinic on Kayaking exception: July 11th). Meet your

MYSTERY HIKE AND DINNER fellow Club Members! Find out new th Sep 5 : Brian White, author of -Led by Gary Dolgoff and Dick 'info'! Browse the new shop Fifty Hikes in Massachusetts, Puzzo (Sept 9th- 9am-Brooks RX 'meeting ground'! Have an slide show Holyoke) Near and convenient- and opinion/thought/constructive

Easy/Moderate-(we'll probably hike criticism related to The Club? Then- Future clinics being looked at Poet's Seat, or some other nearby speak out, at our Speakout include: Backcountry first aid, area)- this will be a fun, social hike segment, which is a part of every winter hiking and camping skills, (as are 'most all of our Club Hikes!)- Club meeting! (Some of the ideas deciphering animal tracks, New newer members will not feel left out; 'bandied about' at Speakout have England geography, and native I take special pains, to 'involve really helped to move The Club wildlife) everybody', both socially, and hiking FORWARD)! So- lend your Many of you have given wise, in my 'hike leads'! (Of course, presence to our meetings, and- see suggestions for future clinics during you can be as quiet, or as sociable, you there!! our meetings. That’s great! as you choose to be!). One of my -Gary Dolgoff- Suggestions for future clinics are main aims is for everyone to feel extremely welcome and comfortable with the hike, and with encouraged. Unfortunately your themselves- so 'come out and play'! trusty executive board gets pulled in We welcome your participation!! As many directions during our hectic is usually the case, we will have a PVHC meetings. Please help us out and 'wrap-up restaurant gathering' (for Annual scribble your suggestions down on those so inclined), at the end of the a scrap of paper and hand them to hike. Hike will be between 4-6, Picnic one of the board or even email. It 'friendly miles'. ur Club Picnic this year will help us remember your

will be held at suggestions after a hectic Tuesday Dave Rotondo's MYSTERY O"Peppermint Park Camp meeting. Some of our best received MOONLIGHT HIKE - Sept 15th Ground" in Plainfield Ma, on August clinics are from club members (Friday)-Call Dave for location, etc. 6th from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. sharing their skills and or favorite Dave returns to lead us all, for Once again we will have available adventures with the club. How another 'Walk in the Moonlight'! His to us: Softball field, Volley Ball area, about volunteering to host a clinic? enthusiasm, experience, and Swimming Pool, Hiking trails, -John Klebes- entertaining personality, make for Walking areas, etc. There is a an enjoyable experience! Dave Pond nearby (4 miles) for canoeing leads a mellow, competent, and fun or kayaking or fishing. 'night outing'. His night hikes have Members will be asked to bring become a PVHC classic. Don't miss side dishes and soda only. it! Hamburg's and hotdogs will be supplied along with all paper plates, "No end is visible or even HIKE LEADERS AND CO- condiments, silverware, etc. We will LEADERS-STILL WANTED! have access to the "Lodge" as a conceivable to this Although we presently have a part of our package. This is an area kingdom of adventure." 'bunch' of 'splendid hike leaders inside for us to sit and eat or relax (and co-leaders)', we need more! at tables or booths. For those of you (George Leigh-Mallory) We want to offer your fellow Club that don't want to bring beverages, Members, the benefit of 'new leadin' the "PUB" serves a (complete) line blood'! It's fun, fulfilling, and- best of of liquid refreshment available to all- you'll have an excellent 'support you at a nominal cost. So fellow system' within the Club! club members, lets picnic together CURIOUS? Call Gary Dolgoff and have a good time. (Evenings), with your questions, etc. - Terry Cripps - Page 6

Where Your PVHC Dues Go The BASICS The Pioneer Valley Hiking Club was formed in 1992 to promote hiking and backpacking in New England. Since that time we have Backpacking grown to over 140 members with each of you supporting the club through annual dues. Every wonder where those dues go? Last issues column reviewed the During the past few months the executive board has reviewed the basics of Day Hiking. Extending the day clubs past expenditures and prepared a detailed budget for long term hike to an overnight or multiple nights planning purposes. The attached pie chart represents a summary of expands your outdoor experience and the approximate distribution of how your dues contribute to the many facilitates getting to more remote activities that the club promotes. wilderness. For this reason, carrying the The club provides our members with a subsidized picnic and a proper equipment is essential for a safe subsidized holiday party each year. In addition we have an active trip. Make a list before you go of the trail maintenance program that promotes conservation and land specific clothes and food you wish to stewardship. Your dues also make it possible for you to receive new take so nothing is forgotten. Besides the activity schedules by mail, if you cannot attend a meeting, and items needed for a day hike you will provide for publishing our club newsletter "Bootprints". Volunteers probably need: a tent, sleeping bag, run all the executive board positions and the clubs activities. sleeping pad, water filter or purification tablets, stove, pot(s), spoon, toiletries, food, pack cover, camp wear, stream Where PVHC Dues Go (approximate) crossing footwear, and extra socks. Talk with experienced backpackers to supplement this list for more enjoyment. TRAIL MAINT. OPERATIONS Often time's club members will loan 7% 10% equipment to beginners to get some quick experience without a large PHOTOCOPY investment. CHRISTMAS PARTY & MAILINGS The club normally runs beginner- 30% 25% backpacking trips over relatively easy terrain to give new backpackers a safe first experience. Go as light as possible to prevent overstressing your body, and prepare physically for your trip with day CLUB PICNIC ACTIVITIES MEMBERSHIP 12% 9% GOODWILL hikes and regular exercise. 7%

For Sale

Dave's Deals: New camping items at Operations: Office Equipment & Supplies cost or below cost: (crampons - canoe Guest Speaker Gratuity T-Shirts, dry bags - backpacks - Lite/glow sticks - and Special Occasion Refreshments tent 4-season - fanny packs - climbing Photocopy & Meeting Agendas, Schedules, Newsletters, rope 11mm, 9mm - paracord rope - Mailings: Club Brochures, Membership Kits, Labels, Postage batteries 'AA' & 'D' size - firestarters Activities: Support For Activities: Purchasing Trail Maps & various types - swiss army knives - Guide Books, Camping Show Booth, WGBY Auction flashlights - gloves- first aid kits - socks - Sponsorship medical supplies - books - tent pole Christmas Includes Food, Hall Rental, Door Prizes, & repair kits - stuff sacks - Coleman fuel - Party: Entertainment emergency candles - solid fuel bars - tent Club Picnic: Includes Food & Misc Expenses pegs - mini liquid candle lanterns - Trail Includes Supplies & Materials, Maintenance On mirrors - water tablets PurAqua - space Maintenance: Equipment, Workday Refreshments, Etc. blankets - strobe flasher lights - fuel Membership Special Awards, Donations, And Charity bottles - food - whistles - and more.) Goodwill: Monday thru Friday 5pm -10pm, call for weekends. 1.860.668.7721 IT IS WORTH THE TRIP Page 7

Things I have Learned on the Trail after 700 Miles E-Hiking 1) Four legs are better than two -- love those with Jay hiking poles. Helps me get up the mountain, get down the mountain, holds me up when I step across rocky rivers, or if I stumble on a rock or root. E-Hiking 2) My maglite has a replacement bulb but you Jay Sylvain shouldn't look for it at night or outside. 3) I always wondered what those little lips of Each newsletter I will be reviewing an outdoor related material inside stuff sacks were for. I didn't web site and give an internet tip as well. This month I know that they were to put over the opening to will be reviewing www.gorp.com. keep the water out. 4) When the profile maps show you steep GORP is the mommy of all outdoor sites; if you have inclines, it doesn't always mean it's hard. the time you can search thru a large selection of links When the profile maps show short inclines it to just about anything outdoor related. This includes doesn't mean it's easy. gear, hikes, biking, canoeing, food, first aid, etc. There 5) It does snow in the south. is also a discussion board where you can post a 6) Cleanliness is not next to Godliness; it's next to question for review and answer by other GORP impossible. aficionados. Ask the experts is another feature that is 7) It's OK to wear the same clothes two days in a valuable to the novice as well as seasoned hiker. row -- even a month. 8) Balds are beautiful -- I'm not referring to my The information is all there all you need to do is enter new haircut but to the balds in North Carolina & the site and check it out. You will find almost anything Tennessee. hiking related at this site. By the way, you can join 9) If you follow a wide dirt road and didn't see a GORP and it is free. As a member you will receive white blaze -- you are probably not on the trail. newsletters thru your email as well as notification of 10) It is acceptable to let your hair grow on your other GORP information. legs. 11) I can live without Diet Coke. 12) I can drink Diet Coke out of a can. TIP #1 Don’t forget to check out the classifieds in Yahoo or 13) Peanut Butter tastes good every single day. Excite for outdoor gear. These are very extensive and 14) That piece of round aluminum with the hole in it you never know you may find what you are looking for is not a stand for my stove. at a very reasonable cost. 15) I really can cook -- Raman's, Lipton Noodles, & rice. 16) Snails don’t live just at the beach -- sometimes Tip #2 For those of you with a computer and modem but are you can find them in hiker's boots. not online, there are many free Internet Service 17) The Yogi's and the Smokey's don’t live in the Providers available. Guess you sponsors Smokies. I think they moved uptown. Never www.bluelight.com. I have been using one of the free saw a bear in the Smokies but I might see providers for over a year and I have not had a problem them in Virginia. with it yet. So if you need more info call me at 786- 18) The mice will find your GORP wherever you 0275. Hey you AOL users. Did you know if you log onto leave it. the internet thru another provider such as one of the 19) No matter what you do, you will have good free ones, you can cut your AOL bill in half. days & bad days. 20) Hiking may not be fun everyday but it certainly a challenge.

- Shari Cox - (mailed from Roanoke, VA while on the AT)

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Pioneer Valley Hiking Club Officers & Committees IMPORTANT NOTICES Rob Schechtman, President (860) 668-2758 John Klebes, Vice President (413) 786-3620 Jennifer Lamothe, Secretary (413) 562-5654 Next Club Meeting: Joyce Berg, Treasurer (413) 786-4404 August 1, 2000, 7pm at WEU Scott Cook, Wilderness Experiences Unlimited Clinic: Kayaking with Scott Cook Ray Tibbetts, Founder Next Hike Planning Meeting: Standing Committee Chairs August 8, 2000, 7pm at WEU Trail Maintenance: Joe Zawrotny Hike Planning Coordinator: Dick & Sue Forest Deadline for Submissions for next Backpacking Coordinator: Mike Rattelle BootPrints is: August 22, 2000 PVHC Web Page Editor: Ron Gaudreau Intranet Site/Email List: Terry Cripps SPECIAL NOTE: The PVHC Bootprints Editor: John Klebes Sponsored Club Picnic is August 6th. Quartermaster: Wayne Rodrigues Membership: Ann Mundy & Dottie Gates

Bootprints is a publication of the Pioneer Valley Hiking Club. Send your story contributions to the editor at: [email protected] (Email) or by USmail to John Klebes, 157 Thalia Drive, Feeding Hills, MA 01030.

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A publication of the Pioneer Valley Hiking Club c/o Wilderness Experiences Unlimited, Inc. 526 College Highway Southwick, MA 01077