MARCH – MAY 2015

Newsletter of the Mohican Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club Serving Westchester, Putnam, and Fairfield Counties ...and Beyond

From the Chapter Chair NO MEETINGS IN THE WINTER – OUR NEXT and Vice-Chair MEETINGS WILL BE IN APRIL AND JUNE ------Hi Everyone: Our next ADK Meeting will be Wednesday, April Well, has this been some winter -- or WHAT? 1, 2015 at 7:30 p.m. at Westmoreland Sanctuary, We've had snow storms, ice storms, wind storms, 260 Chestnut Ridge Road, Bedford Hills, N.Y. as well as all three happening at once - and even a pseudo-blizzard! Skiing at Craftsbury Outdoor Center in As I write this the weatherman says that we will be Craftsbury Common having the coldest temps this weekend in 20 years. in Vermont. Well, that said, this cold, snowy winter has also given us lots of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, Jean Dolen tells us ice-skating, and hiking in the crisp and clear beauty this is an inspiring of a winter's day. We are grateful for the people place to experience who invented hand and toe warmers, wool socks, the great outdoors. It heated car seats, snow blowers, etc. is a year round destination on 400 There is nothing so satisfying as coming inside acres and Jean has skied there for many winters. from a few hours of exercise on such a day, and She will present a slide show of cross country having a hot chocolate or a hot toddy by a warm skiing through the hills of Vermont fire. This is what keeps us all living in the Northeast! BITS & PIECES

And won't it be a wonder to see the first crocuses Reasons for walking in the woods: peeking up out of the snow, welcoming spring and all the warmth and color of the season. 1. The Japanese have a practice called “forest bathing” which is nothing more than hanging And do we have spring hikes for You! Take a look out in the woods. They believe that aside from at the hikes listed in this newsletter, and mark them nature’s relaxing effects, trees emit down as I usually do in anticipation of an exciting antimicrobial compounds that may boost spring hiking season. We have lots of wonderful immunity. hikes in the schedule, including a May 3rd trek through Central Park to see the flowers in bloom, 2. Doing some form of moderate daily activity like and to view all the historical sites. Now won't that walking can cut your number of colds in half. be grand? The increased breathing and blood flow and temporary rise in body temperature are Also, please try to come to our April and June believed to aid the immune system. meetings at Westmoreland Sanctuary. It would be nice to see a large turnout representing our 3. Walking is the best and easiest way to avoid or Chapter of the ADK - to see our friends and hear reduce arthritic knee pain. 6,000 steps per day interesting talks with slides and photos of trips and (60 minutes of walking) is recommended but hikes from some of our members. even 3,000 steps a day can help mobility.

Spring is just around the corner! See you all on the trails! Adeline and Jean

1 MARCH – MAY 2015

used to in the Northeast. This is a trip not to be

missed, but it's good to be back home again.

Jennifer Reidy organized a late 2014 hike of the entire Old Croton Aqueduct trail. On December 27, Jennifer Reidy, Kathie Laug, Sue Perciasepi, Lisa Weismiller and Jane Restani finished all 3 sections between the Croton Dam and Bryant Park in NYC thereby hiking the full 41 miles over three different days. They were joined by Eileen West and Liz Rubin for some parts of the venture. Margaret Freifeld will make up the last 3rd from Lehman College, through The Bronx, Harlem and Central Park when she recovers from her medical treatment. We hope by then the High Bridge ( part of the original aqueduct) from the Bronx to Manhattan will be open to pedestrians and we will Jane Restani on the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro avoid the incredible crush on Fifth Avenue that the (19,351’) along with 5 others on Sunday, February earlier finishers experienced. The group enjoyed 14. Their final push started at midnight from their seeing the parts of the Aqueduct still visible, such camp at 15,300+ feet. After an 8-hour slog in the as ventilators in Westchester County, various dark and a snowstorm and ascending 4,000 feet in gatehouses, and the berms covering the original a little over 3 miles, they summited Uhura Peak. pipes that provided linear walkways in parts of Way to go Jane!!!!! Westchester and the Bronx. A thank you goes out to the kind folks at High Bridge Recreation Center Carol Ann Benton and who enthusiastically shared their facility and Eileen West spent two knowledge of the area with the hikers, even if they glorious weeks in early thought our project was a bit odd. November hiking in Utah and Arizona. The Our best wishes go out to Margaret Freifeld who is first week was on their recovering so well from her recent procedure that own with visits to Zion, she is doing easy walks/hikes and has even Bryce and Grand volunteered to lead a hike in Teatown on March Canyon National 22nd – Margaret you are the best!!!! Parks. They hiked past hoodoos, mountain and desert vistas, and (unfortunately) only At entrance to The partway down the trails Narrows, a slot canyon in Zion leading to the Colorado River at Grand Canyon October due to the unavailability of beds at the Phantom Dan Belcastro, Sharon Bodenschatz, Amanda Ranch. But it didn't matter--all of the national parks Ingtassia and Terry and Angela Livingston were truly amazing. Then it was off to Sedona for a second week of hiking with an ADK group led by November Sue Kenyon. Among the other 17 participants was David Larson, Robert Williams, Joanne Witmyer chapter member Mirjana Djordjevic, who is back on the trails after recovering from a serious skiing December accident--she sends her best to all. The weather Linda Nastaszewski, David Nissen and Eileen Taus was cool at night, warm and dry during the day (are you jealous yet?), and the sandy terrain and REJOINED MEMBERS switchbacks were very different from what we are Gay Barton, Davie and Melissa Duda, Alan and Catherine Webb, Diane Bamford, Walter Bruice, Barbara Harrison and Fred Scheier

2 MARCH – MAY 2015

This column is dedicated to December/January Holiday Hikes you, our members, whose lives, events, and Here is what you missed if you were unable to hike achievements on and off the over the holidays: trail are to be recognized and shared. On December 20 we had two events. Jean Dolen led a Central Park exploration followed by visits to If there is a special event, the New York City special Christmas attractions vacation or achievement in such as the 5th Avenue windows and the tree at your life you would like to Rockefeller Center. Our own Kathie Laug joined share, please send in your news to Annette Grau at Jean and a good crowd from the WTA. The same [email protected]. day Jane Restani led a Devil's Den, CT hike that covered the Giant Ledges area and the Amblers' Gorge and parts in between for about 7 quick miles. TT RR III PP TT AA LL EE SS The weather was crisp and Jane, Scott Griffith, Eileen West, and Julie DiRaimondo welcomed Fran November 15 Levinson back to winter hiking. Trail Work

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU to Jane Restani, Carol Harting and Margaret Freifeld for turning out on the first cold day of the fall to do maintenance on our trail in Harriman State Park. I am grateful for the loyalty of these regular workers – but it would be nice to see a few new faces too – maybe in June when we do our Spring work trip. Submitted by Kathie Laug

Saturday, December 13 Angle Fly Preserve On December 28, Eileen West started Part 1 of this winter season's Round the County (Westchester) series. The 9.3-mile hike started in New Rochelle and ended in Mamaroneck, just beyond Larchmont Village. The adventure featured many nature preserves and shoreline parks, all hooked together by pleasant road walks, most of which had Sound views. Rain was predicted but instead we had mild temperatures and a peak of sun. Eileen does a wonderful job of scouting and constructing these unusual jaunts. Submitted by Jane Restani

4 hearty swimmers at the annual New Year’s Day plunge at Greenwich By setting up short shuttle we were able to hike Point Park several different trails in the Preserve. Joining Jane led by Jane Smalley in this four hour hike were left to right: Restani (in Geraldine O'Donnell, Judy Russell, Carol Harting, glasses). Mike Kaplan, Bev Kimmel, and Robyn Stockton. Margaret was Submitted by Jane Smalley there in spirit as our paper bag face.

3 MARCH – MAY 2015

January 16-19, 2015 Adirondack Loj Weekend

Five hardy Mohicans spent Martin Luther King Weekend at the Adirondack Loj in the heart of the high peaks. The temperature dropped to -25 degrees on Friday night, but had warmed up to -11 degrees when we awoke at 4:45 a.m., and was a balmy -5 degrees by the time we started our hike at 6:15 a.m. By "we" I mean Lisa Weismiller, Jane Restani, Pat Johnston, and myself plus Janice Miller and her friend Gail who were staying at another location but joined us for the hike. The L to R: Kathie Laug, Pat Johnston, Joe Ippolito, ascent of Nippletop and Dial mountains started with Lisa Weismiller and Jane Restani a walk through the Ausable Club property in the dark, led by Jane's headlamp, until we reached the Monday morning we headed for home a little tired and sore, but exhilarated by the experience. If this sounds like fun to you, consider signing up the Loj Weekend next year. Submitted by Kathie Laug

Sunday, January 31 High Point X-Country Ski

trailhead just as dawn was breaking. The 13-mile hike over two 4,000 foot peaks took us 10.5 hours-- we reached the cars just before dark and were back at the Loj in time for dinner. It was a crystal clear day with outstanding views - well worth the effort in the extreme cold. We posed for pictures pretending to dial a phone on Dial and doing an appropriate activity on Nippletop (use your imagination.) Joe Ippolito, only slightly less crazy, spent the day cross-country skiing.

There is no phone service at the Loj, but there is In the shadow of the High Point Monument at the Wi-Fi in one room so we were able to learn Sunday northern tip of NJ, three extremely hearty (or crazy) morning that there was a terrible ice storm going on x-country skiers (Kathie Laug, Carol Harting and back home while we were having fun in the snow. Pat Johnston) ventured out into the frigid wind and cold. In below zero temperatures but with bright Janice and Gail did not have enough exercise so blue sunny skies, we skied most of the trails in the they climbed two more mountains--Upper and park enjoying beautiful vistas of the surrounding Lower Wolfjaw--on Sunday. The other 4 ladies took area. We took a break at lunch to enjoy some hot a "rest day" and hiked to Marcy Dam in the morning soup and a much-needed warmup by the fire at the and Rocky Falls in the afternoon, less than 9 miles lodge before heading out to spend some more time and very little elevation. Joe Ippolito did (what on the trails. It was a great outing and we plan to do else?) more skiing. it again next year.

4 MARCH – MAY 2015

WTA’s Annual Dinner will be held on Sunday, Windham, NY, a full service resort with swimming, April 19th returning to the Casa Rina Restaurant, fishing, tennis, a putting green, nightly 886 Commerce Street in Thornwood. For a fixed entertainment, and of course, great hiking in the price of $30 including tax and tip, you can enjoy a Catskills. You can find complete information on complete dinner and choose from: an appetizer, their website at www.thompsonhouse.com. They soup or salad; ten different meat, fish, chicken and even created a webpage especially for WTA vegetarian entrees; four different desserts; and (http://thompsonhouse.com/summer/groups/westch coffee, tea or soda with the meal. The club is ester-trails/) which has rates and other information paying part of the beverage cost to keep the price for the group (this is a password protected page so at an even $30, and the only items not included are you will need to enter the password, which is: orders from the bar. To see all the choices trails). Rooms range from “standard” to deluxe available, visit on their “Sunday thru Wednesday” suites with rates starting at $89/person/night, menu. We have reserved a private room from 5:30- depending upon the type of accommodation and 9:00 p.m. Those wishing to do so can join us for length of stay. All rates include use of the resort’s cocktails starting at 5:30 p.m., and we’ll order facilities, full breakfast, complete dinner, taxes, and dinner around 6:30 p.m. We’ll also be treated to an all gratuities. The only meal not included is lunch, after-dinner talk by Erik Kulleseid, Senior Vice but all accommodations except the “standard” President and Director of the Open Space rooms have refrigerators (refrigerators are available Institute’s Alliance for NY State Parks, who will for the standard rooms upon request at an speak about the history, mission, accomplishments additional charge). Reservations can be made any and goals of OSI and the Alliance for NY State time after January 1, and rooms will be held for us Parks, which works to protect and enhance New until April 30. (Those without internet access can York’s state parks and historic sites. Please note call the Thompson House at 518-734-4510 for that payment for the dinner must be received by information--be sure to tell them that you are part of April 10. Make your checks or money orders for the Westchester Trails Association group.) So mark $30 payable to Westchester Trails Association, and your calendars, keep the dates available, and make mail them to Gloria Lewit, 25 Valley Road, a resolution to reserve after New Year’s Day. Once Scarsdale, NY 10583. For any questions, contact you’ve made your reservation, please contact Eileen West at [email protected]. Eileen West via email at [email protected] to let her know you are coming. Save the Dates “Spring” Hiking Week in the Catskills Send Us Your Catskill Hike Suggestions. The Thursday June 25 - Thursday July 2 Thompson House webpage lists several hikes in the area, but many of our members know the Out of all the Catskill trails well. So we would like to draw on that suggested knowledge to come up with a wide array of hiking locations in choices for the week, from the rugged routes that WTA’s recent make these mountains famous, to easier hikes that survey for 2015 others may prefer. Your suggestions are welcome spring hiking regardless of whether you plan to go on the trip; but week, the most if you do intend to join us, then please consider popular was the leading one of these hikes. Don’t worry about Catskill “scouting” in advance - as is the case with our other Mountains. hiking weeks, we’ll just “wing it” and have a great However, for a time! Send all hike ideas to Eileen West (see the better contact information above). And if you don’t already experience, it was decided to extend the definition have it, be sure to pick up the NY/NJ Trail of “spring” to include early summer when hopefully Conference’s Catskill map set before we leave for the black fly season will be over. Arrangements vacation. have been made to stay at the Thompson House in

5 MARCH – MAY 2015

time or information, call Jean Dolen at 914-948- HH III KK EE SS aa nn dd SS TT UU FF FF 4585.

Attention Leaders and Hikers Sunday, March 8 When car-pooling, it is recommended that a charge of $.40 Hook Mountain (Joint with WTA) per mile be equally divided among passengers, including the driver, and that everyone shares in the tolls. Trip tales 6 miles moderate go to [email protected]. To enter the leader lottery, send your signup sheets to Pat Johnston, 35 Millburn Road, with an easy Apt. 1, Goshen, NY 10924 return on the shore path. We Sunday, March 1 will hike along the Rockwood to Rockefeller (Joint with WTA) ridge with spectacular views Three-to four-hour walk through rolling hills and of the Hudson, view of Hudson River. Bring lunch, water, and and return on the snacks. If there is snow, bring snowshoes, etc. For shore path. Note: meeting time or information, call Jean Dolen at 914- Trail may be icy, especially on the climb up to the 948-4585. ridge. Shuttle from North White Plains at 9:30 a.m. To register, contact leader Catharine Raffaele at Sunday, March 1 914-948-4061 or [email protected]. Round Hill East Mountain Loop (Joint w/WTA) Saturday, March 14 7.5 mile, moderate hike. Starting on School Catskill Peak Mountain Road, we will ascend Round Hill on the Fahnestock Trail, then continue on the Perkins Trail Let's take advantage of the end of calendar winter. and around the East Mountain Loop before Likely hike--Slide Mountain via the Long Path. returning to our cars. For meeting time/place or Strenuous hiking at a moderate pace. If there is a other information, email leader Sheila Khatibi at big demand for a different peak, we might alter the [email protected]. Rain or heavy snow plan. Winter devices required. To register, email cancels. Jane Restani at [email protected] by 5 p.m. Thursday. Saturday, March 7 Hudson Highlands Saturday, March 14 Sugarloaf Mountain and Breakneck Ridge Trail Around the County - New Rochelle to Bedford. (Joint with WTA) Part 3: Rye Brook to Armonk (Joint with WTA)

This 6-mile moderate-to-strenuous loop hike 8.7 miles, easy to moderate. Contact leader for steeply climbs to several panoramic viewpoints meeting time. This is the third in our series of hikes over the Hudson River, gaining a total of about from New Rochelle to Bedford. Starting near the 2,000 feet in elevation. For meeting time and place, Rye Brook/Greenwich line, we’ll explore areas contact Pat Johnston at 845-294-3439 or email owned by Greenwich Audubon that are not often [email protected]. visited by the club. First we’ll hike on the Byram River Gorge trail, parallel the river, and continue Sunday, March 8 into Hemlock Gorge. From there we’ll walk to the Mountain Lakes Camp (Joint with WTA) Greenwich Audubon Center and explore the trails in that preserve. Finally we’ll cross back into New Three-to-four hour walk through a Westchester York and visit the Nichols Preserve, which County Park which has partially restored the camp straddles the Greenwich/Armonk border. Today’s from the olden days with yurts and log cabins, hike is primarily on preserve trails, and hiking boots bonfire pit, bathrooms, showers, dining hall, etc. should be worn due to potentially rocky, muddy or Trails are beautifully marked through the camp, icy terrain. To register, contact leader Eileen West with some viewing areas. Bring lunch, water, and via email at [email protected]. Rain or snowshoes if the snow is still here. For meeting heavy snow cancels.

6 MARCH – MAY 2015

Sunday March 15 the paths were designed to go in one direction and Armstrong Preserve, Richards Preserve, and we will try and follow that plan. To register, call Leatherman’s Loop (Joint with WTA) Carol Harting at 845-669-6731.

4.2 or 5.5 miles Sunday, March 22 (depending on Teatown to Kitchawan (Joint with WTA) temperature and weather), easy to 7 miles, easy to moderate. Join me on this linear moderate. Hike hike that connects the two preserves. We begin by through two small walking along Teatown Lake and its outlet. The trail Pound Ridge continues in the woods and into varied terrain with Land open meadows, views of the Croton Reservoir, and Conservancy a short walk on lightly traveled roads before it properties and enters Kitchawan Preserve. Here the trail winds walk across the street to Ward Pound Ridge to visit through former farmland and then enters deeper the Leatherman’s Cave. Snowshoeing is possible if woods of large pines and old hemlocks. Before we there is sufficient snow cover. Bring water, lunch. come to the parking area, we will traverse some Parking is limited at Armstrong Preserve, so open fields. Elevation gain is very moderate. carpooling is necessary from the Katonah Station. Depending on ground conditions, traction aids may Meet the 9:55 a.m. train across from the steps to be advised. A short shuttle is needed and everyone the northbound trains. Call to let us know if you must be willing to participate in driving other hikers. need pickup. To register, contact leaders Jane and For more details and to register call leader Walt Daniels 914-245-1250 or [email protected]. Margaret Freifeld at 914-617-9193 or [email protected]. Please provide full name and phone number. Qualifies for the Westchester Saturday, March 21 100 (No. 28). AT Series Hike #11 Saturday, March 28 Edith Read Sanctuary - Rye, NY This will be a moderate, 5-mile hike from Elk Pen to West Mombasha Road. It begins with the steep This hike has it ascent of Arden Mountain known as "Agony Grind." all - wooded Trail includes rocky ledges, stream crossings, and trails-marsh, hemlock groves. Several good viewpoints. Contact lake-Long Island leader Kathie Laug to register at 203-348-3993 or Sound-bamboo email her at [email protected]. forest. Possible car fee into Saturday, March 21 Playland Parking Manitoga at the Russel Wright Design Center Lot to access (Joint with WTA) trail. Two hours-- can add more walking on boardwalk for another 4 miles, easy one or two hours. If hungry after, we can eat at Tiki to moderate. Bar---will deduct parking fee from food bill---if you This will be a have the receipt and spend a certain amount on relaxing hike food. For meeting time or information, call Jean exploring the Dolen at 914-948-4585. paths through Manitoga, off Saturday, March 28 Route 9D in Storm King State Park (Joint with WTA) Garrison. We will begin at Mary’s Meadow, named after Russel This will be a moderate hike of about four hours Wright’s wife who was also a designer. Wright and 5 miles with an elevation gain of about 1200 designed his paths as a journey into the secrets of feet. We will begin with an ascent up Butter Hill and the forest. In keeping with his original plan, all of then join the Stillman and Howell Trails hiking Storm King with spectacular views over the Hudson

7 MARCH – MAY 2015

River and the Hudson Highlands. Plan to meet at Saturday, April 4 10:00 a.m. To register and for meeting place, call Around the County - New Rochelle to Bedford. leader Jane Smalley at 914-276-0413 or e-mail Part 4: Armonk to Mt. Kisco (Joint with WTA) [email protected]. 8 miles, easy to moderate. This is the fourth in our Sunday, March 29 series of hikes from New Rochelle to Bedford. We’ll Harriman Trails (Really) Less Traveled start with a circular hike in the Betsy Sluder Nature (Joint with WTA) Preserve in Armonk, then continue through Wampus Brook Park and Lombardi Park. From 7 miles, moderate. It is guaranteed that you've there, we’ll walk north to the Meyer Preserve, never hiked this loop before. And may never want where we’ll hike on trails covering both the eastern to do it again. It includes the Long Path, secret and western sections of this Nature Conservancy routes past Lakes Massawippa and Te-Ata (which property, ending on the Mt. Kisco side of the means "Wandering Spirits" in the language of the preserve. While we will be on hiking trails for most once-indigenous Munsee Indians). Much of the hike of the day, the connection between Lombardi Park will be on civilized blazed trails and woods roads. and Meyer is via a two- mile road walk so good all- The rest, however..... Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the cul- around footwear is suggested. For meeting time de-sac on Route 6 where it intersects the Long and to register, contact leader Eileen West via Path. Please bring your sense of humor. To email at [email protected]. Rain cancels. register, contact leader Howard Millman at Qualifies for the Westchester 100 (Nos. 18 and 55). [email protected] or 914-439-8031.

Sunday, April 5 (Easter) Sunday, March 29 Sleeping Giant, Hamden, CT (Joint with WTA) Blue Mountain Reservation (Joint with WTA) It is time to return to

our project. We will 5-6 miles, easy to moderate. Meet at North White likely do the strenuous Plains at 9:30 a.m. or contact leader to meet at Blue and White loop trailhead. This large park in Peekskill has rolling with some additions. hills through woodlands, impressive boulders, Subject to change glacial erratics and rock outcroppings. To register, based on group contact leader Carolyn Hoffman at needs. This will be 8+ [email protected], home 914-948-0608, cell miles at a moderate pace. To register, email Jane on day of hike only 914-420-5778. Qualifies for the Restani at [email protected] by 5 p.m. Friday. Westchester 100 (No. 48.)

Saturday, April 11 Saturday, April 4 Storm King State Park (Joint with WTA) Minnewaska State Park Mossy Glen/Blueberry Run/Rainbow Approximately 5 miles primarily on Stillman Trail Falls/Hamilton Point Loop (Joint with WTA) from Route 218 approach. Strenuous, 1000+' elevation gain in the first 2 miles, expansive views 9.1 mile moderate circuit of Hudson. For meeting time and place, call leader hike that follows the Steve Singlak at [email protected] or cell cascading Peters Kill and 845-641-4132. climbs to panoramic viewpoints from dramatic Saturday, April 11 cliffs. For meeting time Pawling Nature Reserve (Joint with WTA) and place, contact Pat Johnston at 845-294- 4-6 miles, easy to moderate. This can easy hike of 3439 or email about three hours, or it can be made longer by [email protected]. hiking on part of the AT. Carpooling is available from McDonald’s on Route 22 in Brewster. To register, contact leader Carol Harting at 845-669- 6731.

8 MARCH – MAY 2015

Sunday, April 12 where livestock may be present. To register, Rockefeller Park – Main Entrance (Joint w/WTA) contact leader Steve Klepner via email at [email protected], (h) 914-617-9193, (c) 845- Three-to-four hour hike which may lead to Stone 297-7066. Barns for food. Bring lunch or buy lunch. There are picnic tables indoor and outdoor. Fee to park. For Sunday, April 19 meeting time or information, call Jean Dolen at 914- Easy Walk in Baxter Preserve, North Salem 948-4585. Join the easy walkers in Baxter Preserve on easy Sunday, April 12 paths, along stone walls, through meadows to Tuxedo Seven Hills Circular enjoy nature and maybe see some horse riders. To (NY Rambler’s Hike) register, call leader Adeline Natiello at 914-669- 5536 or e-mail [email protected]. 12-16 miles, moderate-to-strenuous hike to include the Kakiat, Blue Disc, Seven Hills and other trails in Sunday, April 19 Harriman State Park and has almost constant ups Around the County New Rochelle to Bedford and downs. While some have previously referred to Part 5: Mt. Kisco to Bedford (Joint with WTA) the leader as “Speedy Bob”, this hike will be done at a pace that even he considers fast! For further 10-11 miles, easy to moderate. Join us for the last information or to register, contact Bob Fiscina at in this series of hikes from New Rochelle to [email protected]. No beginners please. Bedford. Our journey will begin with an exploration of Merestead; then we’ll continue around Butler Sunday, April 12 Memorial Sanctuary and through Westmoreland Schunemunk Circular (Joint with WTA) Sanctuary. Leaving Westmoreland, we’ll take various country roads and paths maintained by the Bedford Riding Lanes Association and head through the Guard Hill Preserve. Finally, we’ll walk north to Bedford’s Historic District, past the “Little Stone Jug” schoolhouse, Old Bedford Burying Grounds and some of the centuries-old buildings in the heart of town, ending at the Village Green. There are options to join and leave the group at Merestead, Butler and Westmoreland for those who would like a shorter hike, but please be sure to bring a trail map so you can get back to your car on your own! This hike is on a variety of terrain, from potentially rocky and muddy paths in the preserves and on the BRLA trails, to sidewalks and dirt roads, 6-7 miles, moderate to strenuous. The so sturdy all-around footwear is suggested. To Schunemunk conglomerate ridge is known for its register and for meeting time, contact leader Eileen interesting geology and varied terrain. Morning West via email at [email protected]. Steady ascent via the Sweet Clover, lunch at the Megaliths rain cancels. Qualifies for the Westchester 100 and return on the Jessup trail. Shuttle from North (Nos. 10, 49, 65 and 66). White Plains at 9:30 a.m. To register, contact leader Catharine Raffaele at 914-948-4061 or Saturday, April 25 [email protected]. AT Series Hike #12

Saturday, April 18 This will be a 7-mile hike from West Mombasha Fahnestock State Park (Joint with WTA) Road to Mt. Peter. We should have great views from Mombasha High Point and the top of Cat Hike is about 7 miles with modest elevation gain. Rocks and will hike pass Fitzgerald Falls, a 25-foot We pass three lakes, one with a nice overlook. It waterfall in a rocky cleft. Contact leader Kathie includes a section that goes through an open field Laug to register at 203-348-3993, [email protected].

9 MARCH – MAY 2015

Sunday, April 26 Saturday, May 2 Marshlands Conservancy in Rye (Joint w/WTA) Bennett’s Pond State Park, Ridgefield CT

3-4 miles, easy. Enjoy 3-4 miles, easy. This will be a 2-3 hour walk a two-hour hike in this through meadows, along a lake with beaver dams Rye Preserve on a and water fowl, then onto a woods trail. Trail is network of trails mostly flat with a couple of hills. Sturdy shoes and through a field, a water are recommended. We will start by 10:15 deciduous forest, and AM. To register, contact the leader Barry Leibowitz a salt marsh. Meet at 845-278-2479 by 8 p.m. the night before the leader at 10:30 a.m. at hike. Rain cancels. the Conservancy parking lot located at 220 Boston Post Road near the Rye Golf Course. To register, Sunday, May 3 contact leader Leslie Millman by e-mail at Central Park Walk - NYC [email protected]. Cell number is for day of hike changes only: 914-552-7720. Qualifies for the From the North—See the Historic Monuments. Westchester 100 (No. 9). Harlem Line Train to 125th Street. Explore the Park from the North End to Midtown. For meeting time or Sunday, April 26 information, call Jean Dolen at 914-948-4585. Dr. Dolittle Hike #4 (Joint with WTA) Sunday, May 3 6-7 miles, moderate to strenuous. Cat’s elbow, Manitoga to Arden Point (Joint with WTA) birds that fly at night and more on this Harriman hike. It is No. 4 in a series of hikes aimed at visiting 9 miles, moderate. This hike will use the AT, all of the three-dozen+ features in the park which Osborn Loop, Sugarloaf Hill, down to the Castle have an animal in their name. To register, contact Rock Unique Area, plus a visit to Arden Point. leader Debbie Farrell at [email protected] or Please note this is an end-to-end hike, therefore it call 914-282-9942. will involve a shuttle. We will begin in the Manitoga parking lot and end at the Garrison train station. Saturday, May 2 Meet at the Garrison train station parking lot at 9:30 The Great Views Hike (Joint with WTA) a.m. for a shuttle to the start of the hike. For further information and to register, contact leader Steve 7 miles, Singlak at [email protected] or cell 845-641- moderate 4132. plus. We will hike in a less Saturday, May 9 traveled area Hudson Highlands Mt. Beacon Circular of the (Joint with WTA) Ramapos. We'll start by 9-10 miles moderate-to- exploring an strenuous hike. We will obscure go up the Casino Trail unmarked trail along South Hill. Very brief off trail. and climb the fire tower Then it's on to the Ramapo Torne, followed by the for 360o views, then take Torne View. Along the way we'll see many the Wilkinson and Fishkill excellent mountaintop views, including views of Ridge trails for more Manhattan. Although this is a moderate hike, there views before intersecting is one long steep ascent that entails brief rock the Casino Trail again for scrambling. Meet at the Reeves Meadow Visitor’s a return to our cars. For Center at 10:00 a.m. For questions or information meeting time/place, and to register, contact Mark Jelléy at 914-261- email leader Sheila 0987 or email at [email protected]. Khatibi at [email protected].

10 MARCH – MAY 2015

Sunday, May 10 Sunday, May 17 Cranberry Lake - North White Plains Castle Rock Unique Area (Joint with WTA) (Joint with WTA) 4-5 miles, moderate. Starting at Garrison, we will Two hour walk through area of quarry used to build hike up Sugarloaf South and enjoy the views, and Kensico Dam 100 years ago. Trails go through then hike various trails for the views from White various ponds, woods, rock formations, bridges, Rock. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Red Barn. For more foundation of old quarry building, etc. For meeting information and to register, contact leader Minu time or information, call Jean Dolen at 914-948- Chaudhuri at [email protected] or 914-391- 4585. 5918.

Sunday, May 10 Sunday, May 17 Storm King State Park Tarrywile Park in Danbury, CT (Joint with WTA)

Moderate loop hike of 5-6 miles. Meet at Rt. 9W 4-5 miles, easy to moderate. Tarrywile is a parking area at 11 a.m. Bring lunch and beautiful, diverse gem and this hike, of about 2-1/2 water. Beautiful views of the Hudson far below. To to 3 hours, takes us through hay fields, past ponds register and for meeting place directions, call Dod and brooks, and into the woods. 9:00 a.m. start. We Chahroudi at 845-878-6869. will meet in the parking lot which is located just inside the Southern Blvd. entrance. To register, Saturday, May 16 contact the hike leader Rosanne Schepis at 203- Hudson Highlands (Joint with WTA) 417-5552 (cell) or [email protected].

10 mile, moderate-to-strenuous hike. Starting from Sunday, May 17 the Notch Trail on 9D, we will climb South Beacon Dry Brook Ridge Trail Mountain to the fire tower, then do a loop along the Scofield and Fishkill Ridges passing Bald and Lamb Hills before descending on the Fishkill Ridge Trail. For further information or the register, contact Bob Fiscina at [email protected]. No beginners please. Rain cancels. A short shuttle is required.

Saturday, May 16 Easy Walk in Lasdon Park, Katonah

Join the “easy walkers” where the walk will go through A moderately strenuous 9.4 miles with plenty of woodlands elevation gain. At 3,460 feet Dry Brook Ridge and open Mountain comes just short of being a Catskill 3500. grass But for those willing to make a day of it, you will be meadows. rewarded with rare and sweeping views, a There are cornucopia of wildflowers and ferns, as well as beautiful some significant accumulated elevation gain. A flower gardens with flower and shrub specimens remote hike in the western Catskills the trail passes from all over the world. To register, call leader through a mix of hardwood and conifer forest then Adeline Natiello at 914-669-5536 or e-mail the summit before reaching pristine first-growth [email protected]. forest. Some believe that the extremely tall pines on the northwest end of the ridge may have been planted back in the 1930’s. Because of the

11 MARCH – MAY 2015

remoteness, length and the need to set up a shuttle your own car pool from NWP and drive to Muscoot. this expedition requires an early start. A car pool for Leader: Vipin Shukla, [email protected]. those traveling from east of the Hudson will be Qualifies for the Westchester 100 (No. 58). This is arranged. To register, contact Fran Resch before a WTA hike. Thursday, May 14, 7:00 pm by calling 914-255- 7742 or email to [email protected]. Monday, May 25 Memorial Day Hike on the Rocks Trail Saturday, May 23 (Joint with WTA) AT Series Hike #13 7 miles, moderate. Hike along this interesting trail A hike of about 7 at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, passing miles will follow the features including Spy Rock, Dancing Rock and an ridge of Bellvale Indian Petroglyph of a bear. Appropriate footwear, Mountain with many lunch and sufficient water are required. To register, short steep ascents contact leader Carol Harting at 845-669-6731. If it and descents is very hot, we can always adjust the hike to although there is accommodate the weather. little actual elevation change until we Saturday, May 30 cross the State Line Black Rock Forest (Joint with WTA) into New Jersey. At that point, we will 7-8 miles, moderate. We’ll hike on the Scenic trail, turn onto the State Line Trail which descends to up Rattlesnake Hill, past Arthurs Pond, and maybe Greenwood Lake Marina on NY Route 210. At this up Spy Rock (the view is long gone, but it has the point, we will have completed our goal of hiking all distinction of being the highest peak in the of the Appalachian Trail in New York. Perhaps we Highlands west of the Hudson River). No first time will continue into New Jersey or do the trail in hikers please. Meet at 10 a.m. at the main parking Connecticut next. Contact leader Kathie Laug to lot on Reservoir Road. To register, contact leader register at 203-348-3993 or email her at Mike Kaplan at [email protected]. Rain [email protected]. cancels.

Sunday, May 24 Saturday, May 30 Breakneck Ridge Canoe/Kayak – Harriman State Park (Joint with WTA) 5-6 miles, moderately strenuous with a steep, rocky descent. We will go up along the Brook Trail, past Explore the cascades and waterfalls. Then we come down the lakes along Breakneck Ridge Trail (not the Bypass) on the Seven Lakes exposed and rocky ridgeline. Spectacular views Drive and in of the Hudson River and other Highland peaks the Park. where we'll stop to eat our lunches before the steep Saturday we descent. Meet at 11 a.m. along Rt. 9D. For those will plan to that want, we can go for ice cream in Cold Spring paddle all after the hike. To register and for meeting place three parts of directions, call Dod Chahroudi at 845-878-6869. Lake Kanawauke. Sunday, May 24 Need to pay a one-time $30 registration fee per Muscoot Farm - Katonah boat good through November 30. Bring canoe, paddle, lifejacket, and lunch. May be space in 4-5 miles, easy to moderate. We will walk the leader’s canoe. We’ll meet at Tiorati Circle at 10:00 yellow perimeter trail and perhaps other trails if the a.m. To register, call leader Jane Smalley at 914- weather conditions are favorable. Meet the leader 276-0413 or [email protected]. at 10 a.m. at the Muscoot farm parking lot, or form

12 MARCH – MAY 2015

Sunday, May 31 Sunday, May 31 Rockefeller State Park Preserve - East of 448 Island Pond Circular (Joint with WTA) 6-7 miles, moderate. We’ll start on the A-SB, hike 5-6 mile easy-to-moderate hike. Meet at North up to the ridge for expansive views along the RD White Plains at 9:30 a.m. or contact leader to meet and Lichen trails, and then head over to Island at trailhead. On the less traveled side of Rockefeller Pond for a relaxing break on a rock outcrop we'll avoid the crowds, and walk along open fields, overlooking the water. Return is via the A.T. To a ridge with craggy rocks, and views from the top of register, contact co-leaders Alice Benash, Buttermilk Hill. To register, contact leader Carolyn [email protected] or 914-723-8722; and Lillian Hoffman at [email protected], home: 914- Wolfe-Brown, [email protected] or 914-668- 948-0608, cell on day of hike only: 914-420-5778. 3184. Rain cancels. This is a WTA Hike. Qualifies for the Westchester 100 (No. 59).

The beauty of a cold winter day on the trail. What lovely sights you will see--a series of rocks encased in ice in Harriman State Park.

Ten hikers enjoyed a vigorous loop hike in Fahnestock State Park on chilly day in late November passing several ponds with a thin layer of ice. Photo courtesy of Jane Smalley

Photo courtesy of Pat Johnston

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Name: ______To join: Address: ______Send this form with payment to: City: ______State: ______ZIP: ______Adirondack Mountain Club 814 Goggins Road Home Phone: (______) ______Lake George, NY 12845-4117 Or call 800-395-8080 I want to be a Mohican Member Family Life $1950 List spouse and children under 18 and birth dates: Individual Life $1300 Adult $ 50 Spouse: ______Family $ 60 Child: ______Birth Date: ______Senior (65+) $ 40 Child: ______Birth Date: ______Senior Family (65+) $ 50 Student (full time 18+) $ 40 Bill my: Visa Mastercard Discover School______ADK is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization. Expiration Date: ______Account #: ______Membership fees are tax deductible, as ______allowed by law. Please allow 6-8 weeks for receipt of first issue of Adirondac. Signature (required for charge)

13 MARCH – MAY 2015

Mohican ADK P.O. Box 218

Bedford, NY 10506

Officers Hospitality Publications Notify ADK of address Chair Doris Bosworth [email protected] change at least six Adeline Natiello H 914 277 3269 Carolyn Harting weeks in advance H 914 669-5536 Carole Ehleben H 845-669-6731 via email at [email protected] H 914-205-3207 Pat Johnston [email protected] or call [email protected] H 845-294-3439 1-800-395-8080 M-F 8:30 a.m. - Vice-Chair

5:30 p.m Jean Dolen Outings Coordinator Programs/Speakers H 914-948-4585 Carolyn Harting Fran Resch [email protected] H 845-669-6731 Check out our H 914-232-1483 Secretary [email protected] chapter web page: [email protected] Jane Restani Paddling Coordinator Co-Chair Margaret Freifeld www.adkmohican.org [email protected] Jane Smalley H 914-666-0710

Treasurer H 914-276-0413 [email protected] Delegate to NY/NJ Lisa Weismiller Cell 203-246-8200 Trail Conference If you would like to receive Conservation [email protected] Dod Chahroudi Barry Leibowitz updates between newsletters, [email protected] e-mail ADK Director H 845-878-6869 [email protected] [email protected] Leslie Millman

and we will add you to our 914-552-7720 Webmaster list serve, [email protected] [email protected] Pat Johnston Membership H 845-294-3439 Annette Grau [email protected] H 914-205-3089 [email protected]

14