The
Cloudsplitter
Vol. 79 No. 1 January-March 2016
published by the ALBANY CHAPTER of the ADIRONDACK MOUNTAIN CLUB
The Cloudsplitter is published quarterly by the Albany Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club and is distributed to the membership. All issues (January, April, July, and October) feature activities schedules, trip reports, and other articles of interest to the outdoor enthusiast.
All outings should now be entered on the web site www.adk-albany.org . Echoes should be entered on the web site www.adk-albany.org with your login information.
The Albany Chapter may be Please send your address and For Club orders & membership For Cloudsplitter related issues, reached at: phone number changes to: call (800) 395-8080 or contact the Editor at: Albany Chapter ADK Adirondack Mountain Club e-mail: [email protected] The Cloudsplitter Empire State Plaza 814 Goggins Road home page: www.adk.org c/o Karen Ross P.O. Box 2116 Lake George, NY 12845-4117 7 Bird Road Albany, NY 12220 phone: (518) 668-4447 Lebanon Spgs., NY 12125 home page: fax: (518) 668-3746 e-mail: [email protected] www.adk-albany.org
Submission deadline for the next issue of The Cloudsplitter is February 15, 2016 and will be for the months of April, May, and June, 2016. Many thanks to Gail Carr for her cover sketch of winter snows on the Mohawk River.
January 6, February 3, March 2 (1st Wednesdays) Business Meeting of Chapter Officers and Committees 6:00 p.m. at Little’s Lake in Menands Chapter members are encouraged to attend - please call Tom Hart at 229-5627
Chapter Meetings are held at the West Albany Fire House (Station #1), 113 Sand Creek Road, Albany. Education Sessions start at 6:30 prior to the membership meeting. Programs begin following the Chapter business meeting. Refreshments are served after the meetings.
January 12 (2nd Tuesday) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP MEETING 6:30 P.M. Education Session: Used Gear Sale-- Sell your used outdoor gear and look for some bargains at our annual sale. No education session will be held this month to make time (and room) for the sale. Program: Climbing Mt. Shuksan--At 9,127 feet, Mt. Shuksan of the Northern Cascades is one of the most photographed mountains in the world. Its varied rock terrain, hanging glaciers and complicated route finding make for an outstanding mountaineering experience involving rock climbing in a series of chimneys, a section of alpine ice, then glacier terrain culminating in the imposing 700 foot summit pyramid. Tom Denham started mountaineering after the age of 40 and will introduce us to Mt. Shuksan.
February 9 (2nd Tuesday) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP MEETING 6:30 P.M. Education Session: Aquatic Invasives, an Update on ADK Efforts-- Cathy Pedler and Paul Gallery will explain a new Citizen Science Program initiated by ADK. One project initiated in 2015 is a Backcountry Water Monitoring Project that trains volunteers to monitor aquatic invasive plants in backcountry lakes and ponds. Volunteers are asked to adopt a backcountry trail, pond or lake for monitoring and to have access to survey gear including lightweight NRS packrafts for pond surveys. Program: Paddling Down South--Members Mike Cavanaugh and Alan Mapes have a solution to the lack of paddling opportunity during the long Northeast winters. They've traveled south, camping and paddling in every southeast coastal state from Maryland to Louisiana over the past 8 years. Join us for a look at their favorite spots as they paddle on the trips they call “Geezers Go South.”
March 8 (2nd Tuesday) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP MEETING 6:30 P.M. Education Session: Birds--My How You've Changed! Bird expert Rich Guthrie will make a return performance to review the changes in New York's bird life since he started noticing birds 60 years ago. Rich will also give us a look ahead on changes coming for our wild birds in the future. Program: Adventures In and Around the Adirondacks--Most agree that the High Peaks enjoy the spotlight when it comes to discussions among outdoors lovers in our area, but take a look around with Glens Falls/Saratoga ADK member and outdoor enthusiast Peter Fedorick who will share with us images of often-overlooked venues for paddling, hiking and biking available in our backyard. Paddling Jabe Pond, hiking to Barton High Cliffs and biking the back roads around Brant Lake are just a few of the places we will visit on his pictorial journey to some of the gems he enjoys visiting.
2 ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE
PARTICIPANTS’ RESPONSIBILITIES
FITNESS: Know your level of fitness and limitations. The trip leader will ask questions about your experience, fitness, equipment, medical condition, expectations, etc. Be Honest!
TRIP RATINGS: Understand that the level of effort is not the same as the level of difficulty. Trip ratings are for level of effort. Realize that “moderate” for a physically fit person may mean outrageously strenuous for a novice and/or unconditioned person.
HIKERS EFFORT ELEVATION MILES TIME RATING LEVEL GAIN (FEET) (HOURS) A+ Very Strenuous 4,000+ 10+ 10+ A Strenuous 3,000+ 5 – 10 8 – 10 B+ Moderately Strenuous 2,000+ 5 – 10 6 – 8 B Moderate 1,000+ 8 --10 5 – 7 C+ Fairly Easy 1,000+ 5 – 8 4 – 6 C Easy Under 1,000 Under 5 Under 5
Not all trips fit cleanly into one of these categories. Whenever you are unclear about a rating for a trip, leaders will be happy to explain what their designated rating means.
PADDLERS MILES PORTAGES WATER CLASS A 12+ Long (½ mile+) II – Whitewater B 6 – 12 Short I – Moving C Under 6 None Flat
BIKERS MILES TERRAIN A 30+ Moderate to steep B 15-30 Moderate C Less than 15 Flat to Moderate
Please Note: Unless otherwise stated, please sign up with the leader for all Chapter activities. Do not simply show up at the designated meeting place. Arrive at the carpooling site before the stated departure time. Please pay the driver to offset the costs of driving. Do not bring a pet unless the trip leader agrees that it is okay, and bring a leash. Please stay with the group or ask to proceed and stop at the first intersection and wait for the entire group to re-assemble. You are expected to carry adequate equipment, water and food. If in doubt about what to bring, ask the trip leader! Suggestions for all seasons:
Water: 2 - 3 Quarts Layered Clothing (NO cotton) Extra Socks Hat Shell (wind & rain) Extra Sweater or Jacket Headlamp Gloves Sturdy Boots Sun Glasses/Screen (SPF 15) First Aid Kit Food Map & Compass Waterproof Matches Emergency Blanket
Winter Add-ons: Skis or Snowshoes Crampons Ski Pole or Ice Axe Extra Food Warm liquids Extra layers
3 THE CLOUDSPLITTER
January-March 2016 Vol. 79 No. 1
Albany Chapter – Adirondack Mountain Club January-March 2016 Combined Activities Schedule
Note: YM denotes Young Members group
Month Day Destination or Event Leader Rating Jan 2 (Sat) Big Slide Berens A+ 2 (Sat) Indian Head & Twin Kase A 2 (Sat) Mt. Colden Scaife A+ 3 (Sun) Dyken Pond XC Ski Macha B 8 (Fri) Thacher Park – North Antonio B 9 (Sat) Eagle & Big Indian Mountains Lanzillo/Becker A+ 9 (Sat) YM: Adirondack WINTERFEST Baker 9-10 (Sat-Sun) NPT: Lake Durant-Lake Placid Backpack Niland A 10 (Sun) Moxham Mountain Royce B 10 (Sun) OK Slip Falls McGuire B 10 (Sun) Grafton Lakes Luchsinger C 10 (Sun) Second Pond Sheehan B 11 (Mon) YM: Ski West Mtn. Baker 12 (Tue) USED GEAR SALE BEFORE THE CHAPTER MEETING 12 (Tue) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING--Climbing Mt. Shuksan 13 (Wed) Notchview XC Ski & Snowshoe Traver B 16 (Sat) Macomb Berens A+ 16 (Sat) TCT-Robinson Hollow/Mattison Hollow Rd. Pisaneschi A 16 (Sat) YM: Cascade & Porter Baker A+ 16 (Sat) Slide & Panther Kase A+ 17 (Sun) Henderson Lk., Preston Ponds, Duck Hole Siegard A 23 (Sat) Hunter Mountain Susko B 23 (Sat) Allen Mountain Warren A+ 23 (Sat) BREIA XC Ski Rosenblatt B 24 (Sun) Huyck Preserve XC Macha B 27 (Wed) Santanoni XC SKI Antonio B 30 (Sat) Saddleback Berens A+ 30 (Sat) Thacher Park - The Fred Schroeder Trail Waldman C+ 30 (Sat) Lake George Rec Park - Snowshoe or XC Luchsinger C 31 (Sun) Ross & Whortleberry Ponds McGuire B Feb 5 (Fri) Tubmill Marsh &/or Lilypad Pond Antonio B 6 (Sat) Cliff & Redfield Warren A+ 6 (Sat) Huyck Preserve Prewencki B 6 (Sat) YM: Phelps & Table Top Baker A+ 7 (Sun) Kettle & Pine Mtns. McGuire B 7 (Sun) Huyck Preserve Beginner Snowshoe Pacuk C 9 (Tue) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING--Paddling the South 10 (Wed) Folded Rock Traver B 13 (Sat) Mt. Marcy Ski Rosenblatt A+ 13 (Sat) Moreau State Park Luchsinger C 13 (Sat) The Wolfjaws Berens A+ 15 (Mon) Windham & Burnt Knob Susko B 15 (Mon) YM: Buck Mountain Baker B 20 (Sat) Sawteeth, Gothics & Armstrong Scaife A+ 20-21 (Sat-Sun) NPT: Collins Gifford Valley to Benson Rd. Niland B 21 (Sun) Leader's Choice XC Macha B
4 Month Day Destination or Event Leader Rating
Feb 21 (Sun) Street & Nye Lanzillo A 22 (Mon) YM: Ski West Mountain Baker 27 (Sat) Wright, Algonquin and Iroquois Berens A+ 27 (Sat) YM: Mount Marcy Czapranski A+ 28 (Sun) Pharaoh Lake from the South McGuire B 29 (Mon) Grafton Lakes XC Ross/McCarron B Mar 6 (Sun) Santanoni Preserve XC Ski Royce B 6 (Sun) Groff Creek Ski Through McGuire A 8 (Tue) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING--Adirondack Adventures 9 (Wed) Huyck Preserve Snowshoe Traver C 12 (Sat) Peekamoose & Table Mtns. Susko A 12 (Sat) Basin Warren A+ 12 (Sat) Whiteface/Esther Toll Road Ski-Shoe Scaife A 13 (Sun) Leader's Choice XC Macha B 14 (Mon) YM: Ski West Mountain Baker 19 (Sat) Nipple Top & Dial Siegard A+ 20 (Sun) Outer Gooley Club Road XC Sheehan B 23 (Wed) Noonmark Mountain Antonio B+
All outings are listed online at www.adk-albany.org DON’T FORGET TO OPT OUT
rigors of winter season. We'll approach and ACTIVITIES return via Lake Arnold for a round trip distance of about 12 miles and an elevation gain of about 2800'. It's often windy on top of Colden and its DESCRIPTIONS false summit, so be prepared with a balaclava or face mask and goggles. Meet 5:00 a.m. at the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: Bob Jan 2 (Sat) BIG SLIDE (A+) Scaife, 439-7322, [email protected] Get an early start on 2016 hiking. We'll snowshoe from the Garden over the Brothers, Jan 3 (Sun) DYKEN POND XC SKI (B) with views of the Great Range, to Big Slide, then The Dyken Pond Environmental Education descend to the Johns Brook Valley and return to Center is a short drive from Troy. It has over 10 the Garden. It's a loop of about 10 miles with miles of ungroomed trails and lies at over 1600' 3000’ of up (and down). Bring snowshoes with elevation. We will ski a loop of 7 to 10 miles of good grippers, seasonal clothing, lots to eat and varying terrain suitable for the intermediate drink, a headlamp with fresh batteries, and a skier. Expect to be out for up to 5 hours. I will persevering spirit. Depart 5:30 a.m. from the change the destination if snow conditions are Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: Don much better elsewhere. Email contact is Berens, 783-1302, [email protected] preferred. Leader: Rich Macha, 346-3180, [email protected] Jan 2 (Sat) INDIAN HEAD & TWIN (A) This hike climbs two Catskill high peaks. Jan 8 (Fri) THACHER STATE PARK - Snowshoes are required. Other traction devices "NORTH" (B) may be needed based on conditions. The leader Starting from Ryan Road, we will hike, hopefully will advise just before the outing. Plan on eight snowshoe, the Perimeter Trail and work our way miles with 2300’ of ascent. Leader: Tim Kase, to both lookouts along the Helderberg 766-4264, [email protected] Escarpment overlooking Guilderland. With so many trail possibilities, distance will be difficult to Jan 2 (Sat) MT. COLDEN (A+) accurately gauge, but expect to be on the trail This has been a great trip for a few years, so I'll for at least 5 hours. Meet 9:00 a.m. at the try it again. Colden is a spectacular High Peak in Thacher Park Overlook. Leader: John Antonio, winter and a good peak for veteran winter hikers 462-2765 or strong summer hikers to warm up on for the
5 Jan 9 (Sat) EAGLE & BIG INDIAN warm drink in a thermos. We'll meet at 7:00 MOUNTAINS (A+) a.m., as the drive is at least 1.5 hrs. from the Starting from McKenley Hollow, we'll hike past a Albany area and daylight is limited at this time of nice lean-to and then steeply alongside a ravine year. Leader: Nola Royce, 439-0491, until we gain the ridge connecting Balsam and [email protected] Eagle Mountains. Once on the ridge, we'll hike up and over the summits of Haynes Mountain Jan 10 (Sun) OK SLIP FALLS (B) (3420') and Eagle Mountain (3610') en route to We will make a loop out of this trip. Instead of Big Indian Mountain (3700'), where we'll hope following the marked trail both ways, we will for a nice view. From Big Indian we'll retrace our follow the marked trail for about 1 mile and then steps to the trailhead, making this a hike of take the Ross Pond trail .6 miles until it meets approximately 13 miles and 3000’ of elevation Bell Mtn. Brook. We will then ski 1.5 miles up the gain. Leaders: Nick Lanzillo, 322-5591, brook until we reach the road to the youth camp [email protected]; Hannah Becker, 354- and follow that down to pick up the OK Slip Trail 3538, [email protected] again for the last .9 miles to the falls. For the return trip, we will follow the marked trail all the Jan 9 (Sat) YM: ADIRONDACK WINTERFEST way back. The total distance is about 8 miles, Young Members - celebrate Winter Trails Day! with about a third of that off trail. The destination ADK is putting on WINTERFEST at the Heart may be changed if conditions warrant it. Leader: Lake Program Center from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 Tom McGuire, 391-0508, [email protected] p.m. There will be many activities being offered such as guided snowshoe hikes, ski lessons, Jan 10 (Sun) GRAFTON LAKES (C) skills clinics, kid's zone, ice skating, and much Depending on snow conditions, we will either more. Everyone is welcome, including children. snowshoe, XC ski, and/or hike the trail around We will set a meeting time and carpool as the Long Pond at Grafton Lakes State Park. Meet date gets closer. Preferred methods of contact 1:00 p.m. at the main parking lot at the park. are e-mail and text message. Leader: Joshua From the intersection of NYS 278 and NYS Baker, 728-6419, [email protected] Route 2 (located east of Troy), travel approx. 7 miles east on Route 2 to the park entrance. Jan 9-10 (Sa-Su) NPT: LAKE DURANT There will be a social after the outing. TO LAKE PLACID BACKPACK (A) Leader: Ellen Luchsinger, 235-5526, We will hike approximately 8 miles on the [email protected] Northville-Placid Trail (NPT) on day one to our campsite, then about 7.5 miles over the shoulder Jan 10 (Sun) SECOND POND (B) of Blue Mountain to Long Lake on day two. We I tried this hike in September and got rained out. will likely be breaking trail the whole way. Maybe we'll have better luck with snow. Its about Although the terrain and distance are moderate, 6 miles round trip with little elevation change. this trip is rated A due to a combination of This is a pretty little pond at the SE base of Gore distance, winter conditions, and gear carried. Mtn. We will meet at the Clifton Park Exit 9 Park Previous winter backpacking experience is & Ride at 8:00 a.m. strongly recommended. A required gear list will Leader: John Sheehan: (518)674-8121, be provided to participants as they sign up. Due [email protected] to logistics, December 15 is a hard deadline to sign up. This is a co-outing with the NPT Jan 11 (Mon) YM: SKI WEST MTN. Chapter. Leader: Diana Niland, 320-6598, Young Members, let's get together for Monday [email protected] night skiing under the lights. From 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. West Mountain offers a lift ticket for $20. Jan 10 (Sun) MOXHAM MOUNTAIN (B) Skiers of all experience levels and ages are Moxham Mountain, near Minerva, is a lovely welcome. We can discuss food and beverage moderate hike and, if we have good snow, it options after skiing. Ski rentals are also makes a nice snowshoe trip. It's got a sweet available at the mountain. E-mail me for more ridge walk to the top and good views of Gore information or to arrange a carpool. Preferred Mtn. The trail was opened in 2012 and is about method of contact is email or text message. 5.5 miles round trip. The elevation gain is under Leader: Joshua Baker, 728-6419, 1000’ and the height of the peak is 2360’. Views [email protected] are to the south and west and, if it's very clear, we'll see up into some of the High Peaks. Snowshoes, microspikes and winter attire will be necessary, and it's always a good idea to have a
6 Jan 16 (Sat) TCT-ROBINSON HOLLOW TO Jan 12 (Tue) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING MATTISON HOLLOW RD. (A) 113 Sand Creek Road, Albany, NY We'll spot cars and snowshoe a section of the Taconic Crest Trail starting at Robinson Hollow Educational Session at 6:30 p.m. and coming out at Mattison Hollow. The total trip USED GEAR SALE-- Sell your used outdoor distance will be about 10 miles with an ascent of gear and look for some bargains at our annual 1000’+. Leader: Dave Pisaneschi, 459-5969, sale. No education session will be held this [email protected] month to make time (and room) for the sale. Jan 16 (Sat) YM: BEGINNER WINTER HIGH Program at 7:30 p.m. A brief business meeting PEAKS - CASCADE & PORTER (A+) will be followed by a presentation--Climbing Mt. Young Members, this hike is a good introduction Shuksan. At 9,127 feet, Mt. Shuksan of the for anyone wanting to try winter hiking in the Northern Cascades is one of the most Adirondacks. We will be doing Cascade and photographed mountains in the world. Its Porter Mountains with a round trip distance of varied rock terrain, hanging glaciers and 5.7 miles and a combined ascent of 2265’. complicated route finding make for an Winter gear--snowshoes, microspikes, and cold outstanding mountaineering experience weather clothing--is needed. If you do not have involving rock climbing in a series of chimneys, a winter gear but have some hiking experience, section of alpine ice, then glacier terrain contact me and I can try to get you some gear. culminating in the imposing 700 foot summit Meet 5:00 a.m. at the Northway Exit 9 Park & pyramid. Tom Denham started mountaineering Ride. Preferred contact method is e-mail or text after the age of 40 and will introduce us to Mt. message. Leader: Joshua Baker, 728-6419, Shuksan the way he saw it. [email protected]
Jan 16 (Sat) SLIDE & PANTHER (A+) This outing consists of two separate hikes to Jan 13 (Wed) NOTCHVIEW XC SKI & Catskill high peaks. Slide Mtn. is 6 miles with SNOWSHOE (B) 1800’ of ascent. Panther Mtn. is 7 miles and First, note that the rating for this trip is "B." In 1900’ of ascent, for a total of 13 miles and 3700’ fact, your level of difficulty will be up to you, with of ascent. The trailheads are only a few miles options ranging from C to B+. Notchview apart, so we'll get a brief rest/change of clothes Reservation in Windsor, Massachusetts is a between hikes. Snowshoes are required. Other Trustees property comprising 3100 acres. Trails traction devices may be needed based on for both snowshoeing and cross-country skiing conditions. The leader will advise on this just abound, with 40 kilometers of trails, 17 of them before the outing. Leader: Tim Kase, 766-4264, track-set and groomed for classic skiing. There [email protected] is a day-use fee of $15. Due its high elevation, this area has trails opening to mountain views Jan 17 (Sun) HENDERSON LAKE, and will have snow for most of the season. Be PRESTON PONDS & DUCK HOLE SKI (A) sure to keep an eye on the website--if snow Snow and lake ice conditions will decide the conditions are poor, I may choose a different actual length and destinations of this trip, which location. Email contact is preferred. Leader: could be somewhere between 8 and 13 miles. If Virginia Boyle Traver, 322-0950, ice conditions allow, this will be a trip over the [email protected] lakes to Duck Hole. If the ice is not sufficiently thick, it will be over trails. In good snow Jan 16 (Sat) MACOMB (A+) conditions, we should be able to make it to Duck In just one day, we'll hike a road, trail, herd path Hole. If not as good, we will probably turn and slide. From Clear Pond, it's a 12+ mile around at the end of the Preston Ponds. The round trip with 2700’ of up (and down). Expect elevation gain over the trails is only about 800’. views of Elk Lake. Bring snowshoes and The trail can be fun to ski, so we may do this as crampons, seasonal clothing, lots to eat and a loop over the ponds and back over the trail. drink, a headlamp with fresh batteries, and a There are great views to the notch between persevering spirit. Depart 5:30 a.m. from the Henderson and McNaughton Mountains. In case Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: Don the snow is not sufficient in this area, a back-up Berens, 783-1302, [email protected] trip will be planned. Leaders: Steve Siegard, 915-2309, [email protected]; Leslie Siegard, 768-2393, [email protected]
7 Jan 23 (Sat) HUNTER MTN. (B) by the trail up its east side. Expect views of the Hunter is the second highest peak in the Great Range. It's a 13+ mile round trip with Catskills and has a fire tower that provides 3100’ of up (and down). Bring snowshoes, excellent views. We'll take the Becker Hollow seasonal clothing, lots to eat and drink, a trail, which is the most scenic route to Hunter. headlamp with fresh batteries and a persevering The distance is about 5 miles with approximately spirit. Depart 5:30 a.m. from the Northway Exit 9 2000’ of ascent. At this time of year, snowshoes Park & Ride. Leader: Don Berens, 783-1302, and crampons or other traction devices may be [email protected] needed. Leader: John Susko, 383-1284, [email protected] Jan 30 (Sat) THACHER PARK - THE FRED SCHROEDER TRAIL (C+) Jan 23 (Sat) ALLEN MOUNTAIN (A+) This will be a loop snowshoe starting on the Allen is a beautiful and challenging hike in the Fred Schroeder Trail and connecting to Hang winter! It doesn't have an open summit, but Glider Trail. There are two overlooks of the ledges offer beautiful views to the east and Capital District along the way. The round trip is north, making the long approach worth the effort. 5+ miles and the total elevation gain is The hike is approximately 18 miles with 3000’ of approximately 400’. Leader: Martha Waldman, elevation gain. Leader: Claudia Warren, 364- 869-5109, [email protected] 3857, [email protected] Jan 30 (Sat) LAKE GEORGE REC PARK - Jan 23 (Sat) BREIA XC SKI (B) SNOWSHOE OR XC (C) Let's head west to the Tughill area and ski the We will snowshoe or XC ski at the Lake George Egypt Road Trails of the Black River Recreation Park. There are nice views of Lake Environmental Improvement Association George from this park, and it offers a variety of (BREIA). There are very nice intermediate trails trails. Meet 10:00 a.m. at the Northway Exit 9 in that area, open woods for those who like to Park & Ride. Pack a snack/lunch. There will be a venture off trail, and a cozy warming hut where social after the event. Email contact is preferred we can break for lunch. Lack of snow cancels. by the evening before the outing. Leader: Ellen Visit http://www.breiax-countryski.org/ for maps Luchsinger, 235-5526, [email protected] and further information about the area. Contact leader by email to sign up. Leader: Marie Jan 31 (Sun) ROSS & WHORTLEBERRY Rosenblatt, [email protected] PONDS (B) This trip starts from the OK Slip Falls Trailhead Jan 24 (Sun) HUYCK PRESERVE XC (B) on Route 28. We will ski down the OK Slip Falls The Huyck Preserve is in Rensselaerville at high trail for about 1 mile. We will then follow the elevation in southwest Albany County. We will little-used Ross Pond Trail 2 miles over Bell Mtn. ski 8 miles on the three loops of the Partridge pass for a visit to Ross Pond and then continue Path trails. There are lots of hills; some are fairly 1.5 miles to Whortleberry Pond. If conditions are steep, but the woods are usually open on either good and the group wants to, we can make a side of the trails making room for a run-out if visit to Big Bad Luck Pond also. This would add necessary. Be prepared to be out for up to 5 another 1.5 miles. Most of this route follows old hours. The destination will be changed if snow woods roads through hardwood forests. The conditions are much better elsewhere. Email total distance is about 8 miles. The destination contact is preferred. Leader: Rich Macha, 346- may be changed if conditions warrant it. Leader: 3180, [email protected] Tom McGuire, 391-0508, [email protected]
Jan 27 (Wed) SANTANONI XC SKI (B) Feb 5 (Fri) TUBMILL MARSH &/OR We'll ski 10 miles round trip to the Great Camp LILYPAD POND (B) at Santanoni. It is a classic ski trip for sure. If It's the first Friday in February - time for our you have not done it, this is a trip not to be annual snowshoe/"HOTDOG HIKE." This year's missed and, if you have done it, this is a trip that roast will take place in the Pharaoh Lake never gets old. The conditions are almost Wilderness. We will either snowshoe to the always excellent and there is very little elevation Tubmill Marsh lean-to, a 5-mile round trip or, if change. Meet 7:30 a.m. at the Northway Exit 9 conditions allow, we could choose the Lilypad Park & Ride. Leader: John Antonio, 462-2765 Pond lean-to; a 7-mile round trip. Let's keep our fingers crossed that the parking area along Jan 30 (Sat) SADDLEBACK (A+) Route 74 is plowed out! Meet 7:30 a.m. at the From the Garden we'll hike up the Johns Brook Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: John and Orebed Brook Valleys to climb Saddleback Antonio, 462-2765
8 Feb 6 (Sat) CLIFF & REDFIELD (A+) Leaders: Kathy Pacuk, 756-6529, We will start from the Upper Works trailhead and [email protected]; Katie Pacuk, 756- take a shortcut up Cliff, climbing it directly from 6529, [email protected] Flowed Lands--a beautiful route if conditions are good! We'll descend via the herd path to the northeast, climb Redfield, and come out along Feb 9 (Tue) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING the beautiful trail beside the Opalescent River. 113 Sand Creek Road, Albany, NY The hike is approximately 17 miles with 3000’ of elevation gain. Leader: Claudia Warren, 364- Educational Session at 6:30 p.m. 3857, [email protected] Aquatic Invasives, an Update on ADK Efforts--Cathy Pedler and Paul Gallery will Feb 6 (Sat) HUYCK PRESERVE (B) explain a new Citizen Science Program initiated Best known for Lake Myosotis and its biological by ADK with a report from the first year of research station, the Huyck Preserve also offers monitoring and goals for the upcoming season. some wonderfully varied terrain for people who Two projects were initiated in 2015, including a love to use their snowshoes. We will follow the Backcountry Forest Monitoring Project that Wheeler-Watson Trail to the Partridge Path trains volunteers to look for forest pests such as Loops. Approximate distance will be 7 miles with Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, and a Backcountry several hundred feet of elevation gain. Leader: Water Monitoring project that trains volunteers to Cliff Prewencki, 768-2907, [email protected] monitor for aquatic invasive plants in backcountry lakes and ponds. Volunteers who Feb 6 (Sat) YM: PHELPS & TABLE TOP (A+) participate in the projects are asked to adopt a Young Members, we will be hiking two high backcountry trail, pond or lake for monitoring peaks, starting from the High Peaks Information and have access to survey gear including Center at the Adirondack Loj. We will be hiking lightweight NRS packrafts for pond surveys. 13 miles with 3750’ of ascent. Winter hiking gear such as snowshoes, microspikes, and cold Program at 7:30 p.m. weather clothing will be needed. Meet 5:00 a.m. A brief business meeting will be followed by a at the Exit 9 Park & Ride. Preferred method of presentation-- Paddling Down South. contact is e-mail or text message. Leader: Members Mike Cavanaugh and Alan Mapes Joshua Baker, 728-6419, [email protected] have a solution to the lack of paddling opportunity during the long Northeast winters. Feb 7 (Sun) KETTLE & PINE MTNS. (B) They've traveled south, camping and paddling in This ski trip is entirely off trail. These mountains every southeast coastal state from Maryland to overlook the Hudson River Gorge. The 2-mile Louisiana over the past eight years. Join us for approach to Kettle is through a moderately level a look at their favorite spots as they paddle on hardwood forest and passes through three the trips they call “Geezers Go South.” marshes. There is a strenuous 200 foot last pitch through some blowdown to the summit of Kettle Mtn., but it's worth it for the wonderful Feb 10 (Wed) FOLDED ROCK (B) view of OK Slip Falls. After leaving Kettle we will Folded Rock is just northeast of Cambridge in ski cross country another 2 miles to Fork Mtn. Washington County. Summit views look down and more views of the Hudson Gorge. Skins are on the pastoral Battenkill Valley. I have not done recommended but not required. Total distance is this hike in winter and it should be beautiful, about 6 miles, all off trail. The destination may offering even more views in the absence of be changed if conditions warrant it. Leader: Tom foliage. Total round-trip distance is 5 miles with McGuire, 391-0508, [email protected] 1100’ of elevation gain. Be forewarned that the first mile is a continuous moderate upgrade until Feb 7 (Sun) HUYCK PRESERVE it reaches the ridge. From there, the trail rolls BEGINNER SNOWSHOE (C) along comfortably to the viewpoint. Email This hike is designed for individuals who want to contact is preferred. Leader: Virginia Boyle learn to snowshoe or to try it again. The Huyck Traver, 322-0950, [email protected] Preserve has a flat loop that is .6 miles. It is a great spot to practice. If you don't own Feb 13 (Sat) MT. MARCY SKI (A+) snowshoes, I can give you information on This trip is for experienced skiers only. We'll take renting them. Families are welcome. Children the Van Hoevenberg Trail to Marcy for a total of under 18 have to be accompanied by a parent. 15 miles roundtrip, and a gain of 3200’ in Meet time and place is to be arranged. elevation. Contact the leader by email for
9 details. Be prepared to share your current around. In a snowy winter, the winds drift deep backcountry skiing level and experience. snow onto the top of the sharp crest of Gothics Leader: Marie Rosenblatt, and the trees disappear, leaving us walking on [email protected] top of the world. The round trip of about 13 miles and 4500' is harder than it sounds. The trail is Feb 13 (Sat) MOREAU STATE PARK (C) often unbroken on the steep climbs to both We will snowshoe or XC ski depending on snow Sawteeth and Pyramid. The summit ridge of conditions on the lake trails at Moreau Lake Gothics is very exposed for 1/4 mile. Be sure to State Park. Meet 1:00 p.m. at the Northway Exit bring a balaclava or face mask and goggles. 9 Park & Ride. There will be a social after the Meet 5:00 a.m. at the Northway Exit 9 Park & outing. Email contact by the evening before the Ride. Leader: Bob Scaife, 439-7322, event is preferred. Leader: Ellen Luchsinger, [email protected] 235-5526, [email protected] Feb 20-21 (Sat-Sun)NPT: COLLINS GIFFORD Feb 13 (Sat) THE WOLFJAWS (A+) VALLEY RD TO BENSON RD BACKPACK (B) From the Garden, we'll hike into Wolfjaws Notch, This backpacking snowshoe on the Northville- then visit both the superior and inferior lupine Placid Trail will proceed at a moderate pace maxilla (Upper and Lower Wolfjaws). It's a round from south to north through the “New Section,” trip of about 13 miles with 4000’ of up (and breaking trail all or most of the way. After down) to two peaks. Expect some icy steps, so passing Mud Lake, we will camp near a log bring snowshoes with good grippers (and bridge at the Mud Lake outlet, about 3.5 miles crampons if you have any doubt about your in. We will set up camp, build a camp kitchen, snowshoe traction). Bring seasonal clothing, lots and share winter camping skill ideas. The next to eat and drink, a headlamp with fresh day, after breaking camp, we will travel about batteries, and a persevering spirit. Depart 5:00 5.25 miles, crossing a large span of West Stony a.m. from the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Creek, then proceeding to the trailhead. Leader: Don Berens, 783-1302, Although newcomers to winter camping are [email protected] welcome, participants must have all winter gear for an overnight including a tent, stove that will Feb 15 (Mon) WINDHAM & BURNT KNOB (B) function in freezing temperatures, -20 degree We'll take the trail from the end of Big Hollow bag or warmer, snowshoes and microspikes. An Road over Burnt Knob to the top of Windham. extensive required gear list will be provided This is a longer and less frequently used upon sign up. This hike is rated B (primarily due approach to Windham, but it provides several to winter overnight demands). Due to numerous good views. We will either return the same way logistics, please consider February 6 a hard or spot a car at Peck Road and do a through deadline to sign up. This is a co-outing with the hike. The distance is 7 to 8 miles with about NPT Chapter. Leader: Diana Niland, 320-6598, 1500’ of ascent. Leader: John Susko, 383-1284, [email protected] [email protected] Feb 21 (Sun) LEADER'S CHOICE XC (B) Feb 15 (Mon) YM: BUCK MOUNTAIN (B) Expect 8 to 12 miles of intermediate backcountry We will be hiking this gem of a mountain located ski touring. We will go wherever there is good on the shores of Lake George. The usual snow - it could be in the Adirondacks, Southern crowded trail in the summer should be less Vermont or elsewhere. Email contact is crowded in February. We will do 6.3 miles round preferred. Leader: Rich Macha, 346-3180, trip and about 1800’ of ascent. Snowshoes or [email protected] microspikes will probably be needed along with cold weather gear. Meet 8:30 a.m. at the Feb 21 (Sun) STREET & NYE (A) Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Preferred method Starting from the Adirondack Loj, we'll follow the of contact is e-mail or text message. Leader: Old Nye Ski Trail to Indian Pass Brook, which Joshua Baker, 728-6419, [email protected] we'll hope is crossable. From there, we'll follow herd paths to the summits of both Street (4018') Feb 20 (Sat) SAWTEETH, GOTHICS & and Nye (3895'). If we're lucky, we'll get some ARMSTRONG (A+) nice views from each peak. This hike is This is a spectacular walk in winter, especially if approximately 9 miles round trip with an we chance upon a clear day. Each of the three elevation gain of 2500’. Leaders: Nick Lanzillo, peaks has great views (sometimes of the inside 322-5591, [email protected]; Hannah of a cloud) and Pyramid, between Sawteeth and Becker, 354-3538, [email protected] Gothics, is one of the best not-a-high-peaks
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Feb 22 (Mon) YM: SKI WEST MOUNTAIN Feb 29 (Mon) GRAFTON LAKES XC (B) Young Members, let's get together for Monday Grafton Lakes State Park, on the forested night skiing under the lights. From 4:00 to 9:00 plateau between the Taconic and Hudson p.m., West Mountain offers a lift ticket for $20. Valleys, includes six ponds and nearly 2500 Skiers of all experience levels and ages are acres. We'll take a selection of trails between, welcome. We can discuss food and beverage amongst, around (and maybe over) Long, options after skiing. Ski rentals are also Second, Mill, and Shaver Ponds. Plan on about available at the mountain. E-mail me for more 6-7 miles of skiing on easy to moderate ski information or to arrange a carpool. Preferred terrain over several hours. Some of these trails method of contact is email or text message. are groomed for snowmobiles in winter, but on a Leader: Joshua Baker, 728-6419, Monday we should have the woods to ourselves. [email protected] Bad driving or a winter storm cancels, and if there's no snow, we'll hunt for it somewhere else--maybe Pine Ridge on the Rensselaer Feb 27 (Sat) WRIGHT, ALGONQUIN & Plateau or Prospect Mountain farther east. IROQUOIS (A+) Leaders: Karen Ross, 794-7474, From the ADK Loj, we'll visit three High Peaks, [email protected]; Lori McCarron, 587-1957, each above tree-line. If conditions are favorable, [email protected] we'll return over or past Lake Colden and Avalanche Lake and through Avalanche Pass. Mar 6 (Sun) SANTANONI XC SKI (B) Otherwise, we'll return over Algonquin. It could Each year I like to cross-country ski into the be nearly 15 miles and will surely be over 4200’ Great Camp at Santanoni Preserve. Hopefully feet up (and down). Bring snowshoes, seasonal we'll have good conditions and moderate clothing, lots to eat and drink, a headlamp with temperatures in early March. The round trip is fresh batteries, and a persevering spirit. Depart about 9.5 miles and is a pleasant ski in and out, 4:30 a.m. from the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. as there are no big hills. We'll plan to have lunch Leader: Don Berens, 783-1302, out of the wind on the porch overlooking the [email protected] lake. Bring some warm clothes for the lunch break and an extra pair of warm gloves or mittens, because the ones you wore in may be Feb 27 (Sat) YM: MOUNT MARCY (A+) wet upon arrival at the camp. I also always have Young Members, We will begin at the Loj some hot tea or chocolate in a thermos for my parking lot at 7:00 a.m. and take the Van lunch break. Leader: Nola Royce, 439-0491, Hoevenberg Trail up Mt. Marcy. Proper winter [email protected] clothing, waterproof boots, snowshoes, microspikes, headlamp with extra batteries, and Mar 6 (Sun) GROFF CREEK SKI some stamina are required! Expect a moderate THROUGH (A) but steady pace. Carpooling will be organized, We've talked about doing this trip for a few as requested. Leader: Sarah Czapranski, (585) years. We have skied both ends, but never 831-1013, [email protected] connected the 1.5 miles between them. We will begin by placing cars at our end point on River Road and then begin our ski from the new Feb 28 (Sun) PHARAOH LAKE (B) Benson Road Trailhead for the N-P Trail. We will We will do Pharaoh Lake from the south. We will ski about 3 miles north past Woods Lake to the park at the winter lot off Beaver Pond Road. We outlet of Grant Lake. We will then ski .5 miles will then ski 1 mile to the Mill Creek crossing. cross-country to Grant Lake, will cross the lake From there, we'll follow the marked trail along and then ski another .5 miles to Abner Brook. the old woods road, then go 2.5 miles to the We'll then follow Abner Brook north over the lower end of Pharaoh Lake. We will ski to one of height of land to Groff Creek and take the old the lean-tos for lunch before returning by the woods road to our placed cars on River Road, same route. The total distance, with some about 4.5 miles. Though two-thirds of this trip exploring, will be about 10 miles. The destination will be on marked trails, I'm not expecting it to be may be changed if conditions warrant it. Leader: broken out. The total distance is about 10 miles. Tom McGuire, 391-0508, [email protected] The destination may be changed if conditions warrant it. Leader: Tom McGuire, 391-0508, [email protected]
11 trail to follow Chicken Coop Brook up to the col Mar 8 (Tue) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING between Basin and Saddleback. We'll climb 113 Sand Creek Road, Albany, NY Basin from that col, and head out via the Shorey Shortcut trail. The hike is approximately 17 miles Educational Session at 6:30 p.m. with 3500’ of elevation gain. Leader: Claudia Birds-My How You've Changed! Bird expert Warren, 364-3857, [email protected] Rich Guthrie will make a return performance to review the changes in New York's bird life since Mar 12 (Sat) WHITEFACE/ESTHER TOLL he started noticing birds 60 years ago. Rich will ROAD SKI-SNOWSHOE (A) also give us a look ahead on changes coming This is a classic Adirondack winter adventure. for our wild birds in the future. We'll ski up the Whiteface Toll Road to the Wilmington Turn, put on our snowshoes in the Program at 7:30 p.m. shelter of the huge stone wall, and snowshoe A brief business meeting will be followed by a down and up and down and up to Esther and presentation-- Adventures In and Around the back. Then, we'll continue on our snowshoes up Adirondacks: Most agree that the High Peaks to the always-windy summit of Whiteface along enjoy the spotlight when it comes to discussions the rim of the cirque, looking steeply down onto among outdoors lovers in our area, but take a the ski area far below. To cap the day, we get a look around with Glens Falls/Saratoga ADK 45 minute glide back down the road to the cars. member and outdoor enthusiast Peter Fedorick Expect about 12 miles RT with 4000' of elevation who will share with us images of often- gain. Whiteface can be seriously cold (-7F last overlooked venues for paddling, hiking and year on the same weekend). It's always windy at biking available in our backyard. Paddling Jabe the summit and, at points, along the road. Bring Pond, hiking to Barton High Cliffs and biking the a balaclava or face mask and goggles. Depart back roads around Brant Lake are just a few of 5:00 a.m. from the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. the places we will visit on his pictorial journey to at Leader: Bob Scaife, 439-7322, some of the gems he enjoys visiting. [email protected]
Mar 13 (Sun) LEADER'S CHOICE XC (B) Mar 9 (Wed) HUYCK PRESERVE Expect 8 to 12 miles of intermediate backcountry SNOWSHOE (C) ski touring. We will go wherever there is good This will be a half-day outing to a beautiful snow - it could be in the Adirondacks, Southern location. A few years ago, the Huyck Preserve in Vermont or elsewhere. Email contact is nearby Rensselaerville expanded to include preferred. Leader: Rich Macha, 346-3180, three loops called, collectively, the Partridge [email protected] Path. We will do Loop 3, located on Peasley Road, beginning the loop at its high point. Mar 14 (Mon) YM: SKI WEST MOUNTAIN Meandering through a hardwood forest, the trail Young Members, let's get together for Monday eventually runs alongside Ten-Mile Creek. We night skiing under the lights. From 4:00 to 9:00 will snowshoe 3 miles with 400’ of elevation p.m., West Mountain offers a lift ticket for $20. change. Email contact is preferred. Leader: Skiers of all experience levels and ages are Virginia Boyle Traver, 322-0950, welcome. We can discuss food and beverage [email protected] options after skiing. Ski rentals are also available at the mountain. E-mail me for more Mar 12 (Sat) PEEKAMOOSE & TABLE (A) information or to arrange a carpool. Preferred Peekamoose & Table Mountains are the 11th method of contact is email or text message. and 10th highest peaks in the Catskills. We'll Leader: Joshua Baker, 728-6419, take the trail from Peekamoose Road, which has [email protected] good views along the way. The distance is approximately 10 miles with around 3000’ of Mar 19 (Sat) NIPPLE TOP & DIAL (A+) ascent. At this time of year, snowshoes, This will be a loop trip, heading up the Ausable crampons or other traction devices may be Lake Road to the Henry Leach Trail, which goes needed. Leader: John Susko, 383-1284, first over Bear Den. This mountain has a section [email protected] of good views due to fire damage from the Round Mountain fire in the mid-nineties. It then Mar 12 (Sat) BASIN (A+) proceeds over Dial with steady climbing and up Starting from the Garden trailhead, we will hike the last steep section to Nipple Top. There are into Johns Brook Lodge and on to Bushnell some of the best views in the High Peaks of the Falls. Shortly after Bushnell Falls, we'll leave the Great Range and Colvin and Blake. We will then
12 descend steeply down Elk Pass to Elk Pond and fun than intimidating. Expect about 10 miles of back to the Lake Road. The total distance is 13 intermediate skiing. We will meet at the Clifton miles with an ascent of 4100’ at a moderate but Park Exit 9 Park & Ride at 8:00 a.m. Leader: steady pace. Leader: Steve Siegard, 915-2309, John Sheehan: (518)674-8121, [email protected] [email protected]
Mar 20 (Sun) OUTER GOOLEY CLUB RD. SKI Mar 23 (Wed) NOONMARK MOUNTAIN (B+) I usually try to find new areas for leading trips, This will be a 6.6 mile round trip with 2000' of but this one is always such a hit that I decided to elevation gain. We will climb via Round Pond schedule it again this year. This is the new land and the Felix Adler trail. Last winter, the trip added to the Forest Preserve a few years ago. required not only aggressive snowshoes, but we After being closed to the public for 100 years by found ropes to be very helpful. Meet 7:30 a.m. at a timber company and a private hunting club, it the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: John is now open for all to use. The ski trail has some Antonio, 462-2765 hills, but on a wide logging road they are more
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN
The weather forecasts for this winter were recently released. A combination of the strongest El Nino on record combined with a large cell of warm water off the Alaska coast will make it interesting to predict what kind of winter we will have. If we look back to prior strong El Nino events (1982-83 and 1997-98), both resulted in mild winters. The current forecast indicates that we might be in for a mild start and perhaps a classic winter beginning in February. This is pretty good news for lower heating bills, but not such welcome news for our winter enthusiasts!
Skiing, snowshoeing, skating, and ice climbing are all such wonderful winter pursuits, and I do hope we have plenty of wintery weather to help us enjoy the outdoors. ADK will once again lead the way in helping us enjoy winter. The third annual Winterfest event is being held January 9. Winterfest has grown in the last three years and now has programs integrated with Mount Van Hoevenberg and Whiteface Mountain. This family-oriented activity has the potential for as many as 600 participants at the Heart Lake site this year, making it the largest of its kind in the USA! Add to this the ADK Winter Skills Weekend, Winter Mountaineering School and all the wonderful outings offered by our volunteer leaders in this issue of the Cloudsplitter, and we have the makings for an active and fun winter ahead. So, think snow, be safe and have fun! --Tom Hart, Winter, 2016
Many thanks to the volunteers who helped make this issue possible: Virginia Boyle Traver for notifying the leaders and monitoring outings, Barb Esmond for her excellent organization skill and help with the outings files, Chris Imperial for help with the Echoes, and Gail Carr for her consistent generosity in donating her art for the cover illustrations. Their efforts are appreciated.
13 ECHOES FROM THE TRAIL
May 17 (Sun) LITTLE PORTER Leader: John Sheehan After weather related cancellations the two previous years, we finally had not only good, but great weather for this short climb to spectacular views. Little Porter is nothing more than an outcrop on the shoulder of Porter Mtn., one of the lower of the High Peaks. However, it is one of my favorite ‘bang for the buck’ hikes, or as I often call it -- 'a low peak with a high peak view.’ Although the trees are not yet completely full of leaves at that elevation, it was apparent that spring had arrived and you could feel that the vegetation was just itching to show itself. The best views were to the SE, looking down into the Keene Valley. This view is always a spectacular sight. To the S and W we could see into the Johns Brook Valley and the east end of the Great Range. And, of course, front and center is the Bennies Brook Slide, which always conjures up images of the devastation caused by Hurricane Irene. The group ranged from a number of 46ers, aspiring 46ers, and some less intense hikers out for a nice Sunday afternoon climb. Joining me on this adventure were Jeff Levitt, Debby Onslow, Jeanne Michela, John & Kathleen Gansfuss, Lori McCarron, Alisa Nurminen, and Erin Roberts.
Jul 12 (Sun) JOHNS BROOK LODGE Leader: John Sheehan Most ‘peak baggers’ have been to the John's Brook Lodge many times on their way to higher places. Realistically, though, the JBL is a worthy destination in itself. In keeping with my effort to schedule moderate hikes on weekends, I planned this trip to the JBL for a Sunday afternoon in July. Of particular interest to me was showing off the newly rebuilt entrance porch, which was built in part with volunteer labor from the Albany Chapter and money donated to honor Bob Vieno, an active Chapter member who had recently passed away. Although there is over 1000' of elevation gain between the Garden parking lot and the JBL, the climb is gradual over the 3.5 mi hike. Six had originally signed up for the hike, but Claudia was not yet released from the DL after a skiing accident in March and one other person simply didn't show up. So the party of four consisted of Fred McCagg, Brad Mohr, Anneliese Lawson, and the leader.
Aug 21 (Fri) PEAKED MOUNTAIN Leader: John Antonio Remembrances of the day - thirteen is not an unlucky number. We had a great group of that number on an absolutely delightful day. We started at 9:35 and summited at 12:10. The one stream crossing before the summit was very low (sorry, Claudia!). For the first timers on this mountain, it was just sheer pleasure. From the summit is a great view of the High Peaks. Our lunch was long and laid-back. As we dropped down from the steep summit, the quote of the day came from Frank D. as we met six kids who gawked at us "seniors" on this difficult incline. As they questioned us, Frank uttered "they let us out of the Senior Citizen Center for a field trip." Many of us took a cooling dip in 13th Lake before heading home. Our group: Frank Dirolf, Phil Hawver, Peter Kurz, Doug Rosenberry, Kathleen Gansfuss, Mark Schoonmaker, Dick Irving, Karen and Jeffrey Ross, Stefanie Newbert, Gerald Eddy, and Kathleen Sheppard.
Sep 6 (Sun) CRANE MOUNTAIN Leader: Kathy Sheppard It ended up being another incredible summer day. We hiked the loop trail up Crane Mtn. and came down by Crane Mtn. Pond, eventually, after a missed trail or two. It was well worth the short backtrack. Paul Tick, Agnes Zellin, and the leader had to tear themselves away from this beautiful spot. We will be back. Oh, we also hatched the idea for a new group comprised of older, slower, yet ambitious potential 46ers.
Sep 11 (Fri) MOUNT EQUINOX, VT Leaders: Karen Ross and Lori McCarron We took a chance on a dicey forecast, had faith in the part that read "clearing by mid-day," and were duly rewarded with parting clouds and abundant sun on an inspiring summit. We keep promising to come back and ski the lovely trails that the Equinox Preservation Trust has made at the base of the mountain, just above the Burr and Burton Academy in Manchester. Passing through the "Red Gate" trailhead, we took the Blue Summit Trail up and up and up. The climb was, as advertised, "hearty," and we heard the word "relentless" more than once. But all climbs end eventually, just as this one did, and the struggle was soon
forgotten as the views down the steep eastern slope opened up at the lunch overlook (bench conveniently available). There was not a dry eye in the group as we read about the dastardly shooting, by a hunter, of the elderly Lab "Barto" owned by Dr. Donaldson, who gifted these 7,000 acres to the Carthusian monks (who combine eremitical and cenobitic life). At the summit, in the light-filled, soaring, and beautiful building/chapel/history center built just a few years ago by the Carthusians to replace a crumbling bunker- like hotel, we walked quietly about, pausing to remember those who had lost their lives on this anniversary day of 9/11. The interior, with its light, natural wood and large, glass panes demands one's attention, quietude, and respect, so in hushed tones and in socks, we walked through it, saying our own silent prayers for world peace and reading about the history of the Carthusian order, created in 1084 by St. Bruno in the Chartreuse Mountains of France. Some of the group, nursing sore knees, descended by a conveniently placed "JoyTherapy" mini driven by Nancy Jean Henry of Jamaica, VT, and the rest took the foot-escalator down. Enjoying the day, remembering the past, and honoring the Carthusian way of life were Jim Coward, Vicky Singer, Kathy Lee, Bo Harris, new member Katie Cultrara, and Ellen Harris with her sweet dog Kaya.
Sep 16 (Wed) GORE MOUNTAIN Leader: John Antonio I will tell you this, we did not ski Gore today. It was HOT!! It is a beautiful hike, especially along the flowing Roaring Brook, but the last section of this trek is on a wide-open road and, today we baked in the blazing sun. We sure did not need the warming hut at the summit, except to find shade on the outside of it. This hike has a nice variety of sights - the brook with cascading falls, a pond, Ive's Dam, and even ski trails and as a bonus, it has outstanding views of the High Peaks on a clear day. Certainly a worthy hike; just don't attempt it on a hot and humid day. Our group: Lori McCarron, Jim Coward, Mitra Gouneh, Sue Jordan, Dan Pekrol, Kendra Pratt, Dan VanUithuizen, Jeanne Michela, and Carol Christensen (Parker).
Sep 25 (Fri) HURRICANE MOUNTAIN Leader: John Antonio Hurricane Mountain--that is, the "new" old trail on Hurricane. Imagine this ... an ADK trail with switchbacks!! Yes, this redesigned trail is a bit longer than the old one, but the newness is easy on the feet and this route will keep the trail in better condition for longer. The amount of trail work done is astonishing! "Thank you" to all those trail workers. I know our group really appreciated the work on this and ALL trails. The views from the summit on Hurricane are outstanding, and the day was absolutely perfect so we had a long, leisurely lunch before our descent. Definitely a "do-over." Our group: Philip Hawver, Peter Kurz, Metra Gouneh, Jeanne Michela, Lori McCarron, Vicky Singer, Karen Ross, Kendra Pratt, Dick Irving, Jim Coward, Claudia Rosenholz, and Tom Hart.
Oct 3 (Sat) SEWARD, DONALDSON & EMMONS Leader: Don Berens We told Joaquin the trip was full and we would prefer that he not meet us in the North Country, but he threatened to come anyway, first with rain, then just clouds. When ten of us (Don Berens, Susan Brandow, Hania and Stan Grajny, Ben Mastaitis, Matt Peluso, Ray Smith, Sue Thompson, Chieko Vititow and Delphine Winter) began a 6:30 a.m. walk from the summer trail-head, a third quarter moon was setting through partly cloudy, 360F skies We traveled briskly by trail to the Blueberry Lean-to where the sun was poking through the colorful autumn broadleaves. Our pace slowed on the uphill herd path toward Seward. Through the trees, we saw Ampersand Lake below and cloudless blue overhead. Above 3500 feet, we found icicles, hoarfrost, and a layer of thin, clear ice molded onto the rocky ledges of the north- facing path. With care, we passed the icy spots without traction devices. We reached Seward before 11:00 and heard Delphine's pilot-husband flying overhead. The southbound traverse from Seward was sunny and less icy, except for some slick ledges below Donaldson which we reached at noon. We saw the nearby Santanonis sharing our sunshine, but looking farther east, we saw only Marcy and a few other peaks poking above the clouds. Southern exposure and temperatures rising into the 40s had melted almost all the ice (and the mud) on the ridge to Emmons, from which we had views of Long and Tupper Lakes, and, beyond the polychromatic valley foliage, the outline of Snowy Mountain. After Chieko performed a celebratory hand stand, we left Emmons at 1:20 and re-passed the still icy ledges on the north side of Donaldson by 2:30. We soon descended below the last ice on the Calkins Brook herd path. After crossing the brook itself at 4:00, we took a break to savor our good weather. When we returned to the marked trail, the way became straightforward again. With a mile to go, Don's left inner thigh suffered an immobilizing cramp. With potassium-loaded apricots, powdered electrolytes, and physically therapeutic advice about leg position, mobility soon returned and we reached the cars at 5:40. Our adventures were
not quite over. Between Corey’s Road and Saranac Lake, a bird (species undetermined, but about the size of a grouse) flew into the path of Don's car. The bird gave us an immediately startling thud, but the hood delivered a blow which, based on the stains observed Sunday morning, was probably fatal to the bird. Fortunately for all humans on the trip, our day together ended much more happily.
Oct 3 (Sat) THACHER PARK- A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE Leader: Jim Schaller A total of twelve met at Old Stage Rd. in Thacher Park for a joint hike with Albany ADK and the Friends of Thacher Park. We began on High Point Rd., continued to a field and trail, went over to "Flat Rock" (our first view), and observed the plaque to the Whipple family, who were original owners of the Northern part of the Park. Then there was a bushwhack on and off a herd path toward High Point, through nice hardwoods and a hemlock forest. It was an overcast day but with excellent views stretching all the way to Lake George's mountains. From there, an unmarked trail (originally begun by mountain bikers) along the North escarpment led us to Hang Glider Cliff. A short side trail along the way took us to another nice view on a smaller cliff. After a brief lunch stop we took the Hang Glider trail to the Long Path, the Blue Trail, and then the Perimeter Trail back to the parking lot on Old Stage. This hike was about 4.5 miles total. The ADKers were Eric, and Diane Reinhart, James Flavin, Frank Kuwik, Linda Davern, Helena Lynch, and Jim and Bonnie Schaller.
Oct 12 (Mon) OVERLOOK MOUNTAIN Leader: Kathleen Gansfuss On a beautiful warm and sunny fall day, we hiked Overlook Mountain from the town of Woodstock to the summit. Originally scheduled as an ADK-Albany hike, we were invited by Alan Via to join an existing Catskill Mountain Club hike that he would be leading. Alan is a longtime summit steward on Overlook Mountain and is familiar with the history and environment of the area. Unfortunately, a foot injury kept him from climbing, so he asked Wendell George, a well-known leader/volunteer with the CMC, to take us up. We were 13 altogether, with four of us from ADK--Sherri Pignetti, my daughter Caitlin Kirklin, her 6-month old son, Noah (who hitched a ride in a backpack), and me. We saw bear scratches on tree trunks and young American chestnut trees growing alongside their mature elders which had been decimated by disease. We explored the fascinating ruins of the Overlook Mountain House, and were warmly greeted and spoiled at the top by two enthusiastic stewards who offered us cookies and trail mix. The views were spectacular and, best of all, this mixed group of hikers bonded immediately, thus setting the stage for a wonderfully memorable day.
Oct 16 (Fri) JAY RANGE Leader: John Antonio Here are the recollections of the day. We drove up in rain and started our hike in a mostly cloudy, 44 degree morning. The "girls" in our party were mad fast. A couple of them we never saw after we signed in. We summited the first lookout at 11:15 and at exactly 11:33 had a snow squall. Not a big one, but snow just the same. We arrived at the "big carin" at 12:15 and the sun came out and the views came into to focus, except for Whiteface. Lunch was a brief and cold affair so we pushed on quickly to the final (?) summit of the Jay Range. We arrived back at our cars in 5+ hours, all happy with our day on Jay. Participants: Roman Laba, Pam Barbeau, Sue Jordan, Mark M., Frank Dirolf, Sherri Pignetti, Sharee Gritsavage, Mark Schoonmaker, and Karen Cedar and her pooch, Trouper.
Oct 17 (Sat) TABLE TOP & PHELPS Leader: Mike Becker We were treated to a beautiful mid-October snowfall as we walked from the Loj to Marcy Dam. There was still plenty of unfrozen mud as we began our ascent up the Table Top herdpath. The snow intensified as we reached the socked-in summit of Table Top. The cold kept us moving back to the Phelps trail. We had brief views of Marcy and Colden on the way up Phelps, but again were socked in at the top with moderate snow falling. There were a lot of other hikers on both peaks, despite the less-than-ideal weather. We reached the Loj slightly under nine hours after starting, pleased with a full day of hiking. Hikers included Sue Thompson, Akane Suzuki, Joe Styczynski, Vern Kennedy, Mac Dillman, and the leader Mike Becker.
Oct 21 (Wed) CRANE MOUNTAIN Leader: John Antonio Crane - it's short - only 4.8 miles round trip, according to Sue's GPS. Yes, it is short, but it is steep! As mentioned in various trail descriptions: “if you like scrabbling up rocks, this is the hike for you.” In addition
to the rock scrabbling at one point on the trip, you are treated to a 24-rung ladder chained to a cliff. The summit featured a hazy view of surrounding hills and eventually a peek of the pond that was to be our lunch destination. ‘What goes up, must come down’ certainly applies to the descent, which is even steeper than the ascent. A great little mountain! Our group: Sue Jordan, Roman Laba, Jan McCraken, John Gansfuss, Bob Priest, John Susko, Pat McPhee, Pam Barbeau, Mary MacDonald, and John Sheehan.
Oct 21 (Wed) NOTCHVIEW RESERVATION Leader: Virginia Boyle Traver What a discovery! Notchview Reservation is a beautiful place to hike, and since it's known best for cross- country skiing, we expect it is great for that too. Trails wind through woods, uphill and down, to open vistas. Foundation remains and lone fireplaces give evidence of the property's previous life. We scuffled through leaves, enjoyed learning about the Reservation, and got some exercise on a brisk fall day. You can be sure I will offer a ski trip here early in 2016. Out on this adventure were Sharon Bonk, Kathleen Gansfuss, Karen Lydon, and the leader.
Oct 23 (Fri) MOUNT GREYLOCK VIA GOULD TRAIL Leader: Karen Ross and Lori McCarron We got lucky with a forecast for a clear day, but it proved to be mostly cloudy and mostly very cold and windy, with temps at the summit hovering at 32 and winds rather stunningly cold. But it all felt good, knowing the winter snows would soon be here. It's not often we make the extra effort to drive around Greylock to access the eastern trails, but the extra drive is well worth it for this beautiful and newly bright blue-blazed Gould Trail. Bascom Lodge had closed the weekend before, but the road was still open, so we shared the summit with underdressed tourists. Construction is full-paced on the Veterans Tower (for the third time in my lifetime), as they race to button it down for the winter. We did not exactly "race" to the top on the Gould Trail, partly because we wanted to take the time to enjoy the golden fall forest, partly because it's a steady steep grade over the 2.8 miles on the Gould Trail and then the .4 on the A.T. to the top, and partly because with thirteen hikers, there's a gradation in pace. But arrive we did, eat we did in the Thunderbolt Shelter, and admire the views quickly we did too. We knocked an hour off our ascent time coming down and celebrated a great day out on the trail in good company, on a trail many declared was their new "favorite" on Greylock! Happy to be on the trail this day were Sharon Bonk, Kathy Lee, Karen Cedar, Tom Esmond, Roman Laba, David Burtis, Claudia Rosenholz, Dan Van Uithuizen, Joe Gervais, Jim Coward, Nola Royce and orange-blazed trail dogs Trouper and Louie.
Nov 6 (Fri) SNOWY MOUNTAIN Leader: John Antonio Well.....the hike lived up to what was advertised--the elevation gain of a high peak and a steep and eroded trail, especially on the final push to the summit. The day itself turned out to be mostly cloudy and somewhat warm, but alas, like many mountain excursions, we had very limited views and a bit of rain on the way out. No complaints were voiced as we made our way back from the summit, and all agreed that it was a successful day. Participants: Lori McCarron, Kendra Pratt, Jim Coward, Dick Irving, Roman Laba, Rosemary Hirota-Morris, John Morris, and Paul Nelson.
Nov 11 (Wed) CAT AND THOMAS TRAVERSE Leader: Virginia Boyle Traver The forecast was for rain until 10:00 a.m. and drizzle until 1:00 p.m. Still, ten participants chose to brave the weather. As it turned out, the rain stopped by 10:00 and the sky began to clear. We had beautiful views on Thomas Mtn. of misty clouds lifting off the surrounding mountains. By the time we reached Cat Mtn., the sun came out in full, and we needed sunglasses while we relaxed on the rocks with our lunches. The only difficulty was a forest floor of deep wet leaves that made descents treacherous, but no one considered this an overriding problem. Enjoying the day, the views, climbing two mountains in one, and great companionship were Jesse Cole, Ken Esrick, Bo Harris, Margie Litwin, Steve Lomnes, Lori McCarron, Pat McPhee, John Morris, Kendra Pratt, and the leader.
CONSERVATION NOTES
LWCF NEEDS YOUR HELP! This is an absolutely critical time for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and if we don’t act soon, we won’t be able to save America’s most important conservation program. Congress let the LWCF expire on September 30 and we need your help to ensure it is reauthorized intact. We need the program to be reauthorized in its current form and fully funded for it to continue protecting vital parks, trails, wildlife and recreation projects that are counting on LWCF funding. As we commemorate LWCF’s half-century track record of success, please reach out to your member of Congress and urge them to speak up for funding and reauthorization of America’s most important conservation and recreation program.
Please make the following points in your letter:
LWCF is paid for with non-taxpayer dollars. Congress made a commitment to the American public that a small portion of revenues from offshore oil and gas drilling would go to outdoor recreation and conservation, as an offset for the depletion of resources that belong to us all. This is a critical time for conservation as LWCF’s authorizing legislation has expired, threatening conservation and recreation projects that are critical to American communities and our nation’s outdoor recreation economy. In NY, Sterling Forest and the Santanoni Preserve were purchased using LWCF monies. Locally, sections of the Taconic Crest Trail and the Normans Kill Farm were acquired through LWCF funding. Identify yourself as an ADK member.
Urge your Senator to sign onto S.338 and S.890
. S.338 is a bipartisan bill that would permanently reauthorize the Land and Water Conservation Fund.
. S.890 is a bill that would permanently reauthorize and provide full, dedicated and permanent funding of $900 million annually to the Land and Water Conservation Fund as authorized by Congress, and finally fulfill the promise that was made to the American people almost 50 years ago
Senator Schumer has co-sponsored S.890, but Senator Gillibrand has not. So your letter to Senator Gillibrand is important. Also, please send a thank you letter to Senator Schumer.
. H.R.1814 is a companion to S. 338, a bipartisan bill that would permanently reauthorize the Land and Water Conservation Fund.
Our local representatives, Chris Gibson, Paul Tonko and Elise Stefanik are co- sponsors. Thank them for their support
For more information visit the Land & Water Conservation Fund Coalition website at: http://lwcfcoalition.org/about-lwcf.html SAMPLE LETTER (DATE) (YOUR ADDRESS) RE: S 890 Land and Water Conservation Fund The Honorable Kirsten Gillibrand U.S. Senate Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Gillibrand, Please co sponsor S. 890 as introduced by Sen. Cantwell. This bill would permanently reauthorize LWCF and provide full, dedicated and permanent funding of the program. As a member of the Adirondack
Mountain Club, (ADK), this is very important to me. In NY, the LWCF has paid for acquiring Sterling Forest and the Santanoni Preserve. Locally, sections of the Taconic Crest Trail and Normanskill Farm were purchased with LWCF monies. This would stop LWCF’s funding from being siphoned off each year in the appropriations process for other, unknown and unaccountable purposes. In the 50-year history of LWCF, over $18 billion intended for LWCF has been lost to the General Treasury this way. Consistent, predictable funding at the level Congress deemed necessary in 1978 (not even indexed for inflation!) would finally fulfill LWCF’s true promise to the American people. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, (PRINT YOUR NAME) (SIGN YOUR NAME)
If you have questions or want to know more about these issues, please contact David Pisaneschi at: [email protected] or 459-5969. For updates on Conservation issues of concern to ADK members, please visit the chapter website at: http://www.adk-albany.org/conservationNotes.php
ALBANY CHAPTER - OFFICERS and COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS
Chairperson Tom Hart 229-5627 [email protected] Vice Chairperson Frank Dirolf 783-0046 [email protected] Treasurer Jim Coward 915-1924 [email protected] Recording Secretary Jan Peterson 695-3054 [email protected] Corresponding Secretary vacant Members at Large Carl Klinowski 274-8410 [email protected] Don Berens 783-1302 [email protected] Representatives to the Board John Sheehan 674-8121 [email protected] Stephanie Graudons 332-4624 [email protected] Finance Frank Dirolf 783-0046 [email protected] Banquet Deb Reif 944-3369 [email protected] Cloudsplitter Karen Ross 794-7474 [email protected] Conservation David Pisaneschi 459-5969 [email protected] Education Alan Mapes 439-4086 [email protected] Membership Doug Rosenberry 356-3142 [email protected] Nominations Mark Janey 899-6086 [email protected] Outings Virginia Boyle Traver 322-0950 [email protected] Paddlers Rich Macha 346-3180 [email protected] Programs Thea Hoeth 434-3052 [email protected] Public Information Deb Reif 944-3369 [email protected] Refreshments Marlee Bickel 456-7050 [email protected] Socials Helen Menz 463-3036 Trails Gene Reilly 281-7796 [email protected] Ways and Means Sue Jordan 765-5564 [email protected] 301-651- Web Master Ted Letcher [email protected] 8244 Wilderness Dave Pisaneschi 459-5969 [email protected] Young Adults Stephanie Graudons 332-4624 [email protected] Josh Baker 728-6419 [email protected]
Albany Chapter Adirondack Mountain Club P.O. Box 2116 Esp. Sta. Non-Profit Organization Albany, NY 12220 U.S. POSTAGE