www.nynjtc.org Connecting People with Nature since 1920 November/December 2007

New York-New Jersey Trail Conference — Maintaining 1,700 Miles of Foot Trails

In this issue: Crowd Builds RPH Bridge...pg 3 • A Library for Hikers....pg 6 • Are Those Pines Sick, Or What?...pg 7 • Avoid Hunters, Hike Local...pg 12

revamped. There was an enormous amount BELLEAYRE Trail Blazes of Glory of out-blazing the old markers, putting up new markers, closing trails, clearing the By Brenda Freeman-Bates, Senior Curator, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation trails of over-hanging and fallen debris, Agreement Scales reconfiguring trails, walking them in the different seasons, tweaking the blazes, and Back Resort and having a good time while doing it all. A new trail map has also been printed, Protects Over with great thanks and gratitude to the Trail Conference for sharing its GPS database of the trails with the Westchester County 1,400 Acres of Department of Planning. The new color map and brochure now correctly reflect Land in New York N

O the trail system, with points of interest, I T A

V topographical lines, forests, fields, and On September 5, 2007, Governor Spitzer R E S

E wetlands indicated. announced an agreement regarding the R E

G This amazing feat would never have been Belleayre Resort at Catskill Park develop - D I R accomplished so expeditiously without the ment proposal after a seven-year legal and D N

U dedication of volunteers. To date, a very regulatory battle over the project. The O P

D impressive 928.5 volunteer hours have agreement between the project sponsor, R A W

: been recorded for this project. And by far, environmental groups, New York State, Y S E

T the majority of those hours were spent and New York City will allow the project to R U

O in the beautiful woods, not only blazing move forward but in a significantly scaled- C Ward Pound Ridge Reservation's 35 trail miles are much improved thanks to volunteers. Above: trails, but forming comradeships, enjoying back form. The agreement is consistent David Roider, Heather Schneider, Gail Blumenfeld, and Brenda Bates set out to do some work. nature, working hard, and feeling good! with joint testimony provided by the Trail But alas, as always, there is still more to Conference and Adirondack Mountain ard Pound Ridge Reservation, new guide book, Walkable Westchester , in be done. We will be adding many more Club (ADK) to the Dept. of Environmen - Westchester County parkland, is the development. Our continued communica - junction markers, with the goal of getting tal Conservation and the governor’s office. Wlargest park in the county, consisting tion led to the New York – New Jersey Trail every junction marked, and we are taking of 4,300-plus acres and more than 35 miles of Conference holding a trail blazing work - on bigger projects of trail maintenance trails. The park is a biodiversity preserve, with shop here in October of 2006, in which such as installing water bars. So if you are This acquisition much to offer including camping, picnicking, our first trail got re-blazed and a core of interested, we would love your company nature experiences of all kinds, a nature museum, volunteers was recruited. Among these and your labor. Just give me a call at 914- will ensure that the and hiking on the extensive trail system. recruits were three gentlemen in particu - 864-7317, and you too can be part of a views from the These trails, however, were in dire need lar—Jim Fitch, Fred Howley, David wonderful thing! of reconfiguring and re-blazing. Over the Roider—who have been blazing their Catskill High Peaks many years (the park was established in hearts out ever since. They have been here 1925), there have been a variety of blazing once a week for about a year now, missing will not be impaired. techniques, colors, and configurations, and only a few weeks out of that whole time, the trail system had become very confus - and have managed to recruit even more ing. Calls from lost hikers were routine, regular volunteers. They have also held To the Trail Conference the most impor - and between the poorly blazed trails and an meetings to keep the momentum going, tant aspect of the agreement is that the outdated map, it was difficult for us to and filed progress reports with the Trail construction of the resort, located in the determine their location. The addition of Conference. heart of the Catskill High Peaks, will be junction markers several years ago helped As there was so much work to do, I had limited to the west side of Belleayre Moun - with this, but major work still needed to be anticipated the trail work would take at tain, adjacent to the Belleayre Mountain done. And then... least a few years, but to my wonderful sur - Trail blazers extraordinaire Patrick Colangelo, Ski Center. The west side of the project site Along came Walt and Jane Daniels, prise, in just under a year the park’s whole David Roider, Fred Howley, and Jim Fitch was previously part of the Highmount Ski wheeling and “GPSing” the trails for their trail system has been re-blazed and have volunteered almost weekly for a year. Center. We strongly opposed plans to develop a resort on the eastern portion of the mountain, known as the Big Indian Lookout Trails and often turns out for Plateau, because of the environmental and Volunteer of the Year blow-down clearing operations. She made aesthetic impacts of the construction of a a substantial contribution to help relocate hotel and townhouses on the prominent Trail Conference member Danielle Her enthusiasm soon led her to also join a section of the Highlands/ Stonetown and steeply sloped Belleayre Ridge. The Bouchard was recognized as Volunteer of the Weekday Trail Crew, which met more Circular Trails, and create a new section agreement provides for state acquisition of the Year by the New Jersey Department of often and so enabled her to contribute of the Monks Trail, both in Long Pond 1,216 acres of land on the Big Indian Environmental Protection in a September more of her time. Soon Danielle was show - Ironworks State Park. Training her sights Plateau, which will be added to the Catskill 29 ceremony in Stanhope, NJ. ing others how to do trail work, serving as on the Appalachian Trail, she contributed Forest Preserve. This acquisition will ensure Danielle first appeared on the Trail Con - an inspiration and squad leader on trail her time and effort toward the installation that the views from the Catskill High Peaks ference hiking trail scene as a volunteer crew days. of new puncheons through wet pastures in will not be impaired. member of the North Jersey Monthly Trail She helped to re-blaze and refurbish Wawayanda State Park. The state will also acquire 78 acres at the Crew, helping to relocate a section of the many miles of the Highlands, Horse Pond As though all of this was not enough, former Highmount Ski Center, which will Crossover Trail in Ringwood State Park. Mountain, Hoeferlin, Cannonball, and Danielle requested a trail that she could be integrated into a westward expansion of personally maintain, and so is now assigned the Belleayre Ski Center. The agreement to a section of the Yellow Trail in the also includes a NYS Watershed conserva - Ramapo Mountains. tion easement on 200 acres of nearby lands. In her spare time Danielle leads area The agreement includes many other hikes for her friends, introducing them to environmental safeguards such as: reduced the natural features of the beautiful North visibility of the resort from Forest Preserve Jersey state parks and forests. Wilderness Areas; redesigned portions of the resort to eliminate the placement of –John Moran most buildings on steep slopes; clustered Chair, North Jersey Trails Committee continued on page 3

VOLUME XXXIV, N UMBER 6 ISSN 0749-1352 Non-Profit US Postage Paid Permit No. 1239 Bellmawr, N.J.

TC member Danielle Bouchard was named NJ DEP Volunteer of the Year. She poses with, left to right, Eric Pain, Superintendent Ringwood State Park; Vin Dryer, North Jersey Work Crew and maintainer; and John Moran, chair, North Jersey Trails Committee. Page 2 November/December 2007 From the Chair

VOLUME XXXIV, NO.6 NOVEMBER /D ECEMBER 2007 Milestones GEORGETTE WEIR EDITOR LOUIS LEONARDIS GRAPHIC DESIGNER A Trail Conference member told me of an the number of our volunteers. Now we are As board chair I participated in some of The TRAIL WALKER (USPS Permit #1239) article in her college alumni magazine that in the process of planning an even bigger these accomplishments significantly and (ISSN 0749-1352) is published bi-monthly by the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference as a noted the following research findings: peo - move, not so much in physical distance— others not at all. All are meaningful activi - benefit of membership. Subscriptions are ple report feeling happier when they take the new offices will be just a mile or so ties that contribute to a better trail system, available to libraries only at $15.00 a year. part in meaningful activities rather than in west of our current location—but to owning more opportunities for the public to enjoy Periodical postage paid at Mahwah, N.J., and activities that simply bring them pleasure. an historic building sorely in need of trails, and a better, stronger advocate for additional offices. Postmaster: Send address As I step down from six years as chair of the renovation—the Darlington Schoolhouse trails and hikers in the Trail Conference. changes to the address below. Opinions expressed by authors do not necessarily represent the policy Trail Conference board of directors, I can in Mahwah. The dedication of the Trail Conference or position of the Conference. Contributions of say those findings ring true for me. Wedged between those major events are staff and volunteers—like-minded people typed manuscripts, photos, and drawings are My husband Walt and I get much pleas - many other projects often described or who appreciate the benefits of engaging in welcome. Manuscripts may be edited for style ure out of hiking—being outside in nature, reported in the Trail Walker . A short list meaningful activities—has made these and length. Send SASE for writers’ guidelines. sharing time and walks with family and includes: achievements possible and my tenure as Submission deadlines for the TRAIL WALKER are January 15 (Mar./Apr. issue), March 15 friends—most of our vacations and many • a highly successful Capital Campaign chair extremely satisfying. Together we (May/June issue), May 15 (July/Aug. issue), of our day-trips center on hiking. But we • research on invasive species have found ways to enhance the pleasures July 15 (Sept./Oct. issue), September 15 also derive deep satisfaction in giving back • completion of the Pochuck of hiking with the satisfactions of meaning - (Nov./Dec. issue), November 15 (Jan./Feb. to trails and the hiking community, and Bridge project ful activity. Thank you, all. I hope to see issue). Unsolicited contributions cannot be acknowledged unless accompanied by SASE. these past six years have been particularly • digitizing our maps you on the trail soon. For information on advertising rates, please write productive ones for both me and the Trail • securing and protecting hundreds or call. Conference. of acres of land Copyright 2007 by: When I started my term in October • beginning the Bear Mountain New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, Inc. 2001, the Trail Conference had recently Trails Project 156 Ramapo Valley Road (Rt. 202) Mahwah, NJ 07430 moved from New York City to Mahwah, • publishing new editions of books and Jane Daniels 201-512-9348 NJ, a relocation that had been much debat - maps and new books, most recently Chair, Board of Directors e-mail: [email protected] ed as to its wisdom. The move proved to be Hiking the Jersey Highlands editorial e-mail: [email protected] a good one. The location is at the center of • hosting the Appalachian Trail World Wide Web: www.nynjtc.org our region, easily accessible to more of our Conservancy’s biennial conference, members, and we have seen an increase in Ramapo 2007

Request for Hiking Partners Andres Rodriguez, a self-described “Determined Blind Hiker,” seeks “open-minded, risk-taking” hiking partners—either indi - viduals or a team of hikers—to go with him and guide him on challenging trails. Andres lives in Washingtonville, Orange County, NY, not far from Schunemunk Mountain. He reports Mission Statement Thanks for Hewitt-Butler Trail Improvements that he has hiked and camped, he travels daily to NYC to work, The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference is a I was out hiking on Hewitt-Butler Trail (in the Wyanokies) today and does not want to be dependent, but does require a partner federation of member clubs and individuals dedicated to providing recreational hiking (September 29) and would like to extend my thanks to the trail for hiking. “Usually, we go single-file and I put my hand on the opportunities in the region, and representing the maintainers. The last time I hiked a portion of this trail it was back or backpack of the person ahead,” he says. Contact Andres interests and concerns of the hiking community. almost impassable in places. Today it was well marked and it was at home at 845-497-7128 or at work, 212-677-6668, ext. 152. The Conference is a volunteer-directed public evident that there had been a lot of work put into clearing the service organization committed to: brush. It was a pleasure to walk on (except for that steep climb A Thank-you for Long Service To Metro Trails • Developing, building, and maintaining from West Brook Road). Please tell the maintainers that their On June 18, Bob Ward, former Chair of the Metro Trails hiking trails. • Protecting hiking trail lands through efforts are much appreciated. Committee, presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Herman support and advocacy. Sincerely, Ed Walsh, Sr. Zaage, a long-time maintainer of a portion of the White Trail in • Educating the public in the responsible the Staten Island Greenbelt. Herman answered the call for volun - use of trails and the natural environment. John Moran, Chair of the North Jersey Trails Committee responds: teers when the Trail Conference first started maintaining trails on The North Jersey Trails Committee has been working hard for the Staten Island and continued until medical conditions forced him Board of Directors Jane Daniels Chair past year and a half to whip the Hewitt-Butler Trail (north) back to resign a few years ago. Bob felt that such long time service Robert Boysen Vice Chair into shape. It looks like we got in just under the wire before Ed should be acknowledged. The certificate was presented to Mac Highet Treasurer Walsh went hiking—we spent 30 volunteer hours just the day Herman at the regular quarterly meeting of the Staten Island of Daniel Chazin Secretary before to finish up all blazing and clearing. Even the steep climb the Metro Trails Committee. Directors up from West Brook Road has been made easier by improved Henry Atterbury Seth McKee blazing, along with clearing blow-downs and sticker bushes. Chris Connolly Anne Osborn Thanks go to our Weekday Wonder Warriors trail crew, the Send Us a Letter Ellen Cronan Mary Smart Venture 100 Hike and Serve crew, and our regular section main - Email it to [email protected]; in the subject line, put “letter to TW Matthew Garamone Malcolm Spector John Gunzler Daniel Van Engel tainers. We’re still looking to relocate the nearly one mile of editor”; or send it to Trail Walker Letters, NY-NJ Trail Peter Kennard north-south trail that extends under a power line, but a lot of Conference, 156 Ramapo Valley Rd., Mahwah, NJ 07430. Staff volunteers already have made a vast improvement to this trail. Edward Goodell Executive Director Joshua Howard Director of Membership & MGM Prize Leads Development Contribute Such great interest was shown in the Jack Kloster Operations Director to Grand Hike Larry Wheelock Trails Director quilt/wall hanging “Meeting Place,” which Bill O’Hearn Conservation & Your Club, was raffled at ATC Ramapo 2007, creator Advocacy Director Carolyn Canfield has offered to construct Brenda Holzinger Conservation & Trail Project another wall hanging for the new New Advocacy Assistant York-New Jersey Trail Conference offices at Director T-Shirt to TC the Darlington Schoolhouse. To accom - Jeremy Apgar Cartographer plish this project, she will need a collection Gary Willick Fulfillment Quilt Project Coordinator of new or nearly new T-shirts appropriate to Catherine Gemmell Information Trail Conference activities in the New York- Manager New Jersey area. These could include, but Eddie Walsh, Jr. Trail Projects are not limited to, club T-shirts, project Suse Bell, member of the NY-NJ Trail Coordinator Leslie Rapparlie Bear Mountain T-shirts, park T-shirts. The size of the wall Conference Publications Committee, was a Project Manager hanging will depend upon the space avail - winner in the Member Get a Member Katy Dieters Membership & able at the school house and the number of (MGM) contest held this past spring by Volunteer Associate usable donated T-shirts. To become part of the Trail Conference. Her third-place prize J. Cal Rizzuto Administrative Trail Conference history, drop off your was an airline ticket to anywhere in the Assistant T-shirt donation at the Trail Conference continental United States donated by a The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference is a office before April 1, 2008. Donated Trail Conference board member. volunteer, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. It is a federation of 103 hiking and outdoor groups, T-shirts will not be returned. Suse did not set out to win a prize in the and 10,000 individuals. contest; rather, she had just been busy pro - moting the Trail Conference, as usual, to Taking Digital Pictures for Trail Walker? the new members of her Boy Scout troop. Members of Troop 89 (Wyckoff, NJ) are printed on recycled content paper File sizes needed for print are larger than those encouraged to join the Trail Conference so required for the web. Set your camera for a they can benefit from discounts on equip - high or highest resolution. ment at retail outlets such as Campmor The smallest size photo that we can use is and Ramsey Outdoor, and also to support 3 inches x 2.25 inches @ 300dpi (900 x 675 pixels). trail maintenance and conservation. Visit Us Today! Larger sizes are recommended and should be Suse used her ticket to accompany her saved as RGB jpeg files. husband Colin on a trip to the Grand www.NYNJTC.org Canyon and Sedona in Arizona, where they spent their time HIKING. November/December 2007 Page 3

From the Executive Director I could go on about Jane—that her Trail Conference accomplishments have been in affair, from its very diverse composition to addition to raising a family, working as a There she the rather thorough vetting procedures that reference librarian full-time through her were delegated evenly among all the com - early tenure as board chair, starting a new goes again … mittee members. company, completing a section-hike of the The hallmark of Jane’s approach and the Appalachian Trail, preparing a new book, By the time this Trail Walker is in print, Jane key to her success are the people that she Walkable Westchester , for publication next Daniel’s six-year tenure as chair of the Trail brings to the table: everyone is deemed year, and knitting countless garments Conference’s board of directors will have capable and willing to embrace responsibil - through an eternity of meetings. I could come to a highly accomplished and satisfy - ity. People learn that serving on a Jane also write another column about her hus - ing end. I want to dedicate this column to Daniels committee means being pressed band and co-conspirator, Walt Daniels, one thanking Jane and other highly engaged if into service. She easily identifies the doers of the few people whose recent accomplish - overcommitted volunteers who embody the in a group and quickly converts talkers to ments on behalf of the Trail Conference active service that drives the Trail Confer - doers or ex-committee members. rival her own. ence forward, year after year, decade after The great thing about Jane is that she However, this is just a thank-you, not a decade. You know who you are, and you are isn’t a sink-or-swim drill sergeant type. She eulogy, because Jane is not stopping. She an inspiration to the rest of us. learned first-hand a wealth of techniques practices what she preaches and has already Jane’s active involvement in the Trail for motivating and supporting volunteer- volunteered (readily accepted, I might add) Conference goes back 30 years, and powered initiatives. She can coach and Never an idle moment for outgoing to chair the Trails Council again. There - includes working with her husband, Walt, support volunteers who become concerned board chair Jane Daniels. fore, I would like to thank Jane and all the in 1983 to set up the first computerized that they have gotten into something over other volunteers who helped the Trail Con - registration for an Appalachian Trail Bien - their head. There are many in the Trail are collaborating with Rutgers University ference grow to meet the challenges of this nial Conference, and chairing the East Conference, staff and volunteers alike, who on federally-funded ecological research, our century. Let’s continue the journey. Hudson Trails Committee, the Trails have benefited from her experience and trail stewardship has expanded by 300 Council, and the Publications and Strategic generous spirit. miles, our maps are produced digitally, Planning Committees. The Trail Conference has experienced our budget has doubled, and we have just – Ed Goodell, [email protected] I first met Jane when interviewing for the many challenges, accomplishments, and purchased “New Jersey’s most architec - executive director position in the fall of changes during Jane’s six years as board turally significant schoolhouse,” located 2000. She was (no surprise) chairing the chair. For example, we are now protecting on the escarpment of the Highlands, to search committee! It was a highly organized trail lands directly through acquisitions, we rehabilitate as our headquarters.

$50,000 ‘Get them to come, and they will build it .‘ This twist on a line from the movie Field of will stick around.” His commitment to this list of regulars and they have come to Dreams sums up Tim Messerich’s two- point is such that he pays for most of the expect the project on the second weekend Anonymous pronged approach to trail projects: he puts food costs. This year, $1,000 bought 88 of July. (This year was an exception so there as much effort into recruiting volunteers as items from Sam’s Club that required four would be no conflict with the ATC Con - Gift to TC in designing the work itself. Tim’s secret to cars to transport to the work site. “We’re ference at Ramapo.) recruiting success—the July 22-23, 2007, not talking just hot dogs and hamburgers,” Tim traces his trail volunteer involve - project brought out 50 volunteers eager to he says. Steak, pork chops, chicken and all ment to his own AT hike in 1997. “I was A Trail Conference donor has taken advan - help bridge a bridge on the AT in Dutchess the usual ingredients for a summer bar - thru-hiking,” he explains, “and I saw a lot tage of the Pension Protection Act of 2006 to County—is to communicate extensively beque party are on his shopping list. of trail magic—people providing food for make a very generous gift of $50,000. This and “offer food.” Over the years the number of volunteers the hikers.” Unfortunately, he had to cut unique opportunity, which will end The advice is familiar to those who and size of attendant picnic festivities have his hike short when his father became ill. December 31, 2007, allowed this benefac - recruit and motivate volunteers in all kinds steadily grown. “It’s taken nine years to get The next year, he decided to provide some tor to make an annual gift to the Trail of settings. Tim lives the advice each year as to this point,” he says. He has an extensive continued on page 5 Conference from their IRA, free from fed - he leads the organizing of a big weekend- eral taxation. long project at or near the RPH Shelter on This great opportunity allows your char - the AT in Dutchess County. He sends itable distribution to satisfy all or part of updates about project planning year-round your required minimum IRA distribution and he makes food a central part of each for the year. You can use your IRA to make year’s project. His regularly posted email your charitable gifts this year and avoid fed - messages and blog entries deliver news, eral tax on your required IRA distribution. project details, and a sense of eager antici - For additional information on the Pension pation to his contact list. Protection Act of 2006 or to inform the Trail Conference that you are making an IRA dis - June 23, 2007 tribution, please contact Joshua Howard, The first shopping trip for food went the TC’s Membership and Development well. The bridge cribbing assembly is Director, at [email protected] or 201-512- coming along well. Only a few more 9348, ext. 13. weeks til the FUN starts! July 9, 2007 The cribbing is ready to be transported From piling construction...... to meal prep, there’s a job for everyone. to the shelter along with the RPH Grill. Mike and I will be on site Thursday afternoon to set up everything and do the final shopping for food. July 15, 2007 The cribbing and the grills are now at the worksite. ... I have it on good authority that the cook is meditating and getting ready for a massive feast!”

Tim looks to the hiking community and BELLEAYRE RESORT beyond for his volunteers. His cousin Mike Pardee, for example, is chief cook and continued from page 5 PR/web volunteer. “He’s not a hiker,” Tim development to reduce acreage of disturbed notes, “but he enjoys camping and this is land from 573 to 273 acres; reduction of his way of giving something back. Without the total number of the resort’s hotel and his help, the word would not get out to the lodging units; and half a million dollars in masses.” Other volunteers are drawn from state funds for local smart growth projects trail neighbors—people who use the trail to through a new Central Catskills Smart walk their dogs or take a short stroll on a Growth Initiative. beautiful day. Families turn out, as do peo - Overall, the Trail Conference and ADK ple with expertise, such as masons and are pleased with the agreement. We would carpenters. Thru-hikers pause in their trek also like to take this opportunity to to enjoy the festivities and help with the acknowledge the Governor’s office, Con - work. Tim finds appropriate jobs for every - gressman Maurice Hinchey, the Natural one, even those who don’t necessarily want Resources Defense Council (NRDC), and to do heavy work or get covered with dirt. the Catskill Center for Conservation and They may end up helping with the shop - Development (CCCD) in helping to reach ping, cooking, or clean-up. this favorable resolution. “Food is really important for these proj - ects,” Tim says. “It attracts volunteers and Team leader Tim Messerich puts a last touch on the new bridge: you’ll get more work done because people a plaque with the names of the volunteers. Page 4 November/December 2007 Conservation Advocacy Bear Naked & Granola Hits Conservation & Advocacy News Notes the Trail Get timely news about trail issues by subscribing to the TC monthly e-newsletter and/or action alert list. Go to www.nynjtc.org/emaillists/index.html. On Tuesday, August 14, 2007, a crew of employees from Bear Naked Granola put on work gloves and hefted tools to the Federal Highlands Funds Land Transfer Completed south side Appalachian Trail construction site on Bear Mountain. After several hours of Preserve Camp Vacamas Land Land on the Shawangunk Ridge pre - work, the crew had removed duff from dozens of feet of trail. On October 1, the Highlands Coalition served by the Trail Conference through The group’s work helped to mark the company’s announced support of the Appalachi - celebrated the successful efforts of Sena - purchase has been transferred to the an Trail as part of its Triple Crown Project—“conserving, building and maintaining tor Frank Lautenberg, Congressman Dept. of Environmental Conservation of America’s three great long distance hiking trails”—namely, the Appalachian, Pacific Crest, Rodney Frelinghuysen, and Congress - the State of New York. Though the state’s and Continental Divide Trails. The company announced the project to mark its release of man Scott Garrett to secure the first acquisition of the property—150 acres in new trail mix blends. funds under the Highlands Conservation Otisville that includes a fire tower—had The Trail Conference is pleased to partner with groups like Bear Naked Granola that Act (HCA) towards the preservation of been announced by Governor Pataki in support our trails. Visit www.bearnakedgranola.com for more information on the Triple Camp Vacamas in the Wyanokie High - 2005, the actual closing on the property Crown Project or to order their Appalachian Blend of Trail Mix. lands. The State of New Jersey is took place with the NYS Attorney Gen - purchasing 310 acres of Camp Vacamas eral’s office on August 28, 2007. The using its share of the $2 million in HCA Trail Conference purchased the land as Update: Harriman Park funds approved by Congress last year, part of its effort to protect the route of Gas Pipeline Construction and $3 million from the Garden State the Shawangunk Ridge Trail. The parcel Construction of the Millennium Pipeline Preservation Trust (GSPT). The Trail abuts the SRC and includes a recently through Harriman State Park continues and Conference is a founding member of the built 2-mile loop around the Graham Trail News was very active as this issue went to press. As Highlands Coalition, which works to Fire Tower (see page 1 story, May/June noted in the September/October TW , all protect the sustainability of natural and 2007 TW ). affected trails will remain open unless there human communities in the more than is blasting or other dangerous conditions on three million acre Highlands region of ATVs on Trails: a particular day and time. When construc - Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and Photos, Stories Wanted Get timely trail news by subscribing tion is active or dangerous conditions prevail Pennsylvania. If you have photos or stories of ATVs on to the TC monthly e-newsletter. at a trail crossing, flagmen will be present. hiking trails or park lands, please consid - Go to www.nynjtc.org/emaillists/index.html Work will continue to adjacent Kakiat er sending them to the Conservation & County Park, where the Millennium Advocacy staff. They will be useful to Additional Stillman Bridge Pipeline connects with the Algonquin Gas document and illustrate presentations Work Will Close Trail Transmission, LLC pipeline that runs about the damage caused by these vehi - The second phase of the Stillman Bridge roughly NE and SW, approximately paral - cles. Send them to Brenda Holzinger, replacement in Storm King State Park has leling Route 202. There, the horse trails [email protected]. started this fall. For the safety of the crew will be rather severely affected by closures and hikers the bridge will be closed during because they follow the right of way for sig - construction. Scheduled work dates are nificant distances. Information about when October 28, November 10, 17, and 18. the Algonquin work may begin was Scout Completes Eagle There may be other work trips during unavailable as of our deadline. November when the bridge is not passable. Once the construction through Harri - Project at George’s Island man Park is completed, work is to Weekday Detour Required for commence between Route 84 in Sterling Wanaque Reservoir Trails Forest and Warwick, NY, although the The Wanaque Reservoir section of West park has not been advised when this will Brook Road, between Stonetown Road and occur. From Warwick, pipeline construc - Greenwood Lake Turnpike (County 511), tion is to continue to Corning, NY. is scheduled to be closed through Novem - As noted in the prior article, once the ber for reconstruction. The closure will be pipe is lowered and overfill is completed, in effect Monday through Friday, 8am to the construction areas are to be graded and 4pm. Access to the trails in Norvin Green restored to pre-existing contours. Discus - can be made from the north via Stonetown sion with PIPC personnel confirms that Road and Morestown Road; from the south the park is monitoring the construction via Otter Hole Road. and will be closely involved with assuring appropriate restoration. For information The Harriman Parking on the status of specific trails on specific Area That Isn’t days, call the Park Superintendent’s office On Trail Conference Southern Harriman at 845-786-2701. Bear Mtn. Trails Map 118, a parking "P" is At the Blue Disc Trail, immediately west shown just off the east side of 7 Lakes of Johnsontown Road, significant con - John Quartucio of Cortlandt Manor, NY, Drive, along Lake Welch Road. Although struction activity was continuing at the recently completed his Eagle Scout Project at that location there exists a very obvious, start of October. This busy area is likely to at George’s Island Park in Westchester. “I fairly large, partially graveled and partially remain active for an extended period. The can’t say enough about what an outstanding grassy lot, the Trail Conference has been flagged reroute of the trail is now well job this young man did,” says Mike Bongar, informed that it is not an official parking trampled and easily followed. Trail Conference Supervisor for Westchester area and cars can be ticketed. At the trailhead at Johnsontown Road Trails. “He not only built a bridge on the there is a confusing sign: “Road closed, use East Hudson Greenway, but he did a big Map of New LP Connector the right of way.” This sign is for the con - relo (from a wet spot that was on its way to In Catskills struction workers so they avoid power lines becoming a deep gully) and he connected In the last issue of TW we described the over the paved access road that the trail ini - the two Greenway sections in George’s new Warner Creek Trail in the Catskills that tially follows. Hikers should ignore the sign Island, plus he brought in a pack of Cub connects the Long Path to the Devil’s Path and follow the trail up this short paved sec - Scouts for major trash removal, plus he got on Plateau Mountain. Below, responding to tion to reach the short reroute that begins rid of metal fence pole stumps that were a popular demand, is a map of the new trail. across from the gas distribution station. serious hazard. And that’s not everything. John’s planning on donating the excess of his budget to the Trail Conference.” The project involved one particularly unusual circumstance: floating the bridge, which John built in his garage, to the site at George’s Island. John researched Hudson River tides for best time of day and arranged for boats with licensed captains to float the bridge onto the site. John recruited and managed a crew of 45 volunteers who contributed 465 project work hours. The volunteers included Boy Scouts and leaders from Troop 49 Ossining, Troop 174 Yorktown Heights, Top to bottom: Eagle Scout candidate John Troop 165 Yorktown Heights, and Troop Quartucio's finished bridge on George’s 36 Montrose; Girl Scout Troop 1257, Island; getting ready to float the bridge Cub Scout Pack 118, Cortlandt Manor; from the mainland; putting the bridge students from Hendrick Hudson High into position; placing the decking. School and Ossining High School; friends, neighbors, and family members. In blue: the new trail that connects the Long Path to the Devil's Path in the Catskills. November/December 2007 Page 5

NJ HIGHLANDS CREW EAST HUDSON CREW Leader: Glenn Oleksak, 973-283-0306, Work dates to be announced on website. Trail Crew [email protected] Sign up for email notification at www.nynjtc.org; click on Trail Crews, then Sign-up for Trail Crew First Sunday of each month at top of page. Teaching Practical Skills to Schedules Trips start at 10am. Call, email, or check www.nynjtc.org crew calendar for directions NEW JERSEY APPALACHIAN TRAIL FIELD CREW Trails Volunteers at Locations and details of work trip. Leader: Gene Giordano, Throughout the NY-NJ Area [email protected] November – December 2007 METRO TRAILS CREW Unless otherwise noted, to register or get For the latest schedules and additional Leader: Joe Gindoff, 914-760-3568, Second Saturday of Each Month, more information contact Leslie Rapparlie details, go to nynjtc.org and click on [email protected] April through November Work begins at 9am and is finished before 4pm. at 201-512-9348, ext. 28. “Trail crews/Work trips.” November 17 (Saturday) Covers the entire NJ section of the AT, blue-blazed October 25 – 28 (Thursday – Sunday) TBD = To Be Determined Trail Construction: Staten Island Greenbelt side trails, and shelters. Supplements work by our Building Over Bedrock: The Art of Stone Pinning For all trips bring work gloves, water, 9am, Leader - Joe Gindoff individual maintainers as requested and for special Come out for all days or just the weekend lunch, insect repellent. In some cases, Meet: 9am at the Nature Center (200 Nevada) work projects. Workers bring gloves, lunch, and Instructor: Peter Jensen tools are provided. Contact leaders in Work project to be announced water; all tools, equipment and training provided. Location: Bear Mountain Trails Project advance for meeting times and places. Email leader to be placed on email notification list. December 15 (Saturday) Volunteers must become members of Close to where the new AT route joins the old, the Alley Pond Park, Queens BEAR MOUNTAIN TRAILS PROJECT trail will wrap around a ridge which is a smooth the Conference to participate in these Meet: 9am at the upper parking lot, across the Contacts: Eddie Walsh, Construction Manager bedrock ledge for nearly 60 linear feet. Here, for projects. A one-time “guest” participation Sanitation Department, off Winchester Blvd. 845-591-1537, Leslie Rapparlie, Project Manager these 4 days, crews will be anchoring a 2- to 3- is allowed, so bring your friends. Work project to be announced 20 1- 512 -9348, ext. 28 foot tall crib wall onto numerous steel pins for that WEST HUDSON NORTH CREW Individuals as well as organized groups are entire length, while enjoying leafless views down NORTH JERSEY WEEKEND CREW Leaders: Denise Vitale, crew chief: welcome, regardless of experience level, to the onto the Bear Mountain Bridge, Anthony’s Nose, Leader: Sandy Parr, 732-469-5109 and the Hudson River. Most quarrying will be done 845-738-2126, [email protected] work on the mountain. To get involved, register Dave Webber: H: 845-452-7238, web - online or contact the Trail Conference staff. prior to the weekend, allowing participants a Second Sunday of each month [email protected] Join one day or a string of days. unique opportunity to learn and perfect skills. Tackle a variety of projects ranging from trail repair Participants must have volunteered on stone work to bridge building in northern New Jersey. Storm King State Park October 26 – 29 (Friday – Monday) trail crews before and get permission to participate Trips start at 9:30am; call for location and details This fall, we will be completing the Stillman Trail Joint project with the Adirondack Mountain Club from Eddie Walsh or the general project manager during the week before the scheduled trip day. (see above). bridge-stairs project. We will put the finishing Volunteer Trails Program NORTH JERSEY WEEKDAY CREW touches on the bridge that crosses a land breech & Stone Work with Peter Jensen November 3 & 4 (Saturday & Sunday) Leader: John Moran, [email protected] beside a cliff. From the bridge, we will be building Work on the east or south face of the mountain. Trail Construction: steps to scale a nearby ledge. Rock shaping/ Volunteer one day or several. Stone Step Construction for Beginners This crew covers the NJ Ramapos, Ringwood S. P., drilling and carpentry skills will be helpful as well Instructors: Jon Paulson, former SCA crew leader northern Wyanokies, and NJ Palisades, among as some traditional stone footing and stair build - November and Yosemite National Park Trail Crew member other areas. Its purpose is to respond quickly to ing skills. Rock climbing harnesses and rigging Trail crews will be completing major structural Location: Bear Mountain Trails Project immediate needs rather than to schedule definite will be needed during some phases of construc - work (rock steps and stone retaining walls) on the tion. There are also project tasks that can be “high traverse” on the mountain’s east face. Large Participants will learn how to build stone steps, events far in advance. If you’re interested in being on call for this work, contact leader by email. accomplished by all skill levels. Contact leaders stretches of trail will be paved with stone (patio- working a short distance from the Summit Tower. for meeting time and location. like structure built to withstand heavy waterflows). Several different methods will be employed to build WEST JERSEY TRAIL CREW Crews also will begin installing steps in the “boul - a 2-foot wide stone staircase in beginner-friendly October 28 (Sunday) der fields” uphill of Hessian Lake. terrain on the mountain’s south side. Instruction Leader: Monica and David Day Phone: 732-937-9098 Cell: 908-307-5049 November 10 (Saturday) and tips will be given for safely moving stone with November 17 & 18 (Saturday and Sunday) Beginner trips and larger groups will work on the minimal effort and impact to the environment. Email: [email protected] Website: www.trailstobuild.com south and western side of the mountain doing WEST HUDSON SOUTH CREW November 10 & 11 (Saturday & Sunday) basic tread work and easier stone construction. Leaders: Chris Ezzo (Crew Chief): 516-431-1148, Advanced Trail Construction: Bring your lunch, plenty of water, gloves and [email protected] Stone Crib Wall Construction sturdy work shoes, and be prepared to get dirty. December Brian Buchbinder: 718-218-7563, Instructors: Joshua Ryan, Timber and Stone, LLC All tools, materials and training will be provided. We will be applying trail surfacing to much of the [email protected] Location: Bear Mountain Trails Project Beginners are welcomed on all work trips—and “high traverse.” This involves sending imported, are especially invited to our ‘Try-A-Trail-Crew’ days Claudia Ganz: 212-633-1324, [email protected] finely crushed stone down to the trail from an If you missed these workshops in the fall or in year (see the schedule below). All events begin at 9am. Robert Marshall: 914-737-4792, rmar - overlook on Perkins Memorial Drive via a 500-foot one, this may be your last chance for a while; most Please phone the leaders for meeting location and [email protected] long cable highline. Power wheelbarrows will be of the work planned for the 2008 season involves driving directions. There is usually a walk to the Monica Day: 732-937-9098, Cell: 908-307-5049, used to transport the crushed stone down the trail stone steps. Participants in this workshop will learn work site, so please be there on time (call the lead - [email protected] and into place. Finally, help will be needed to to build dry stack stone retaining walls, aka crib ers’ cell phone if you are coming to an event and spread the stone along the trail from where it is walls. In addition to learning key structural and are running late). Rain cancels; if in doubt, call the November 3 (Saturday) dumped. This work is as active as you like. Hot design requirements, participants will also learn leaders between 6 and 6:30 that morning. R-D on Black Mountain, Bear Mountain S. P. coffee, tea, and chocolate will be provided each how to use stone shaping tools to cut rock to Leader: Chris Ezzo day. desired shapes and sizes. October 27 (Saturday) November 1 – 5 (Thursday – Monday) Warren Trail, Jenny Jump State Park November 8 (Thursday) Leaders: Eddie Walsh, Peter Jensen, Matt November 17 & 18 (Saturday & Sunday) We will continue work on the Warren Trail. Major Welch Trail, Bear Mountain State Park Townsend Advanced Trail Construction: Leader: Bob Marshall Stone Cutting and Shaping November 3 (Saturday) November 8 – 12 (Thursday – Monday) & Instructors: Eddie Walsh, Matt Townsend Dunnfield Creek Trail, Worthington State Forest November 10, (Saturday) November 15 – 19 (Thursday – Monday) Location: Bear Mountain Trails Project We will continue work on the step-stone crossing R-D on Black Mountain, Bear Mountain S. P. Leaders: Eddie Walsh, Jon Paulson, Matt Townsend Leader: Brian Buchbinder This will be the inaugural workshop to take place in of Dunnfield Creek at the site of one of the bridges the dramatic “boulder fields” uphill of Hessian that was destroyed by Hurricane Ivan. November 28 – December 3 (Wed. – Mon.) November 15 (Thursday) Lake. Stone cut and split during this workshop will Leaders: TBD Major Welch Trail, Bear Mountain State Park be used as 5-foot wide stone steps that wind November 4 (Sunday) Leader: Bob Marshall between bus-sized boulders and under dramatic Dunnfield Creek Trail, Worthington State Forest December 6 – 10 (Thursday – Monday) rock ledges. By learning how the stone prefers to We will continue work on the step-stone crossing Leaders: TBD November 17 (Saturday) break, participants in this classic Bear Mountain of Dunnfield Creek at the site of one of the bridges TBD workshop will learn how to split boulders into that was destroyed by Hurricane Ivan. December 13 – 17 (Thursday – Monday) Leader: Chris Ezzo Leaders: TBD continued on page 7

GET THEM TO COME needing a coat of paint,” he recalls. “Then Donors continued from page 3 the well needed to be dug out and cleared. Central Hudson Gas & Electric (Mark trail magic of his own by bringing food to I got involved with more and more work Molepeter): two 35-foot telephone poles the RPH Shelter to share with thru-hikers. each year. And then more people got L.L. Bean Grant (ATC & NY-NJ Trail In the way that things have of proceeding involved, bringing more and more Conference): $750 from one step to another, he gradually resources.” His preference is to take on the found himself organizing more and bigger big projects, and to plan and build them ADK (Mid-Hudson Chapter): $500 trail projects. “It started with the shelter for the long-term. Tree Top Services Fishkill NY (Rick “It’s a lot of work, and there are days RPH Bridge Project 2007 Credits Volunteers Consulato): 1,000+ feet of logs for RPH when it’s not any fun,” Tim confesses. projects last two years “But, it’s very satisfying. And there are out - Kim Mooers, Donna Perez, David Drorsky, standing volunteers who provide a lot of Paul Pasternak, Lalita Malick, Chuck Wood, John Joseph Welding & Fabrication support.” In addition to his cousin Mike Stephanie Rogers, Joe Muskus, George Inc. Beacon, NY: Materials and shop for Pardee, Tim cites Sands Frost (“our go-to Muller, Scott Vaka, Joel Romy, Mark six steel structural plates for new bridge. guy in terms of getting donations from Hudson, Sarah Reinhardt, Brian Solis, Special thanks also to John Sgorbissa for local businesses”), Chuck Wood (“he drives Sands Frost, Marissa Frost, Walt Daniels, constructing the plates up each year from Pennsylvania and brings Ralph Ferrusi, Kevin Reardon, Hanna Rear - Tony Ginese of Chelsea Forest Products: tarps, tools, a picnic table, and anything don, Rich Taylor, Esther Perez, Seth Lyon, approximately 300 feet of lumber for else we might need”), and George Mueller Tamas Vilaghy, Bob Miller, Dick Rhoads, bridge construction (“a frequent volunteer who donated the Andrew Seirup, Jack Parker, Charlie Nagy, rebar for the concrete bridge piling”). Joel Ryan “Shradley”, Dianna Kloepping, Dennis Miller (East Fishkill Highway “I couldn’t finish the trail,” Tim says. Kim Glatz, Rob DuRay, Ollie Simpson, Jim Dept): Crushed stone for the bridge crib - “This is my way of keeping connected to it Haggett, Ralph Verdu, Mary Gomez, Kim bing and to the AT community. I’m interested Ward, Steve Clair, Ken Walsh, Kevin Boyce, Sam’s Club: $25 Gift Card in seeing this work be there for the next Old Yeller, Singe, Misplaced, Karl “Hunsus” 300 to 400 hikers, and for those coming 20 Weiss, Larry, Tomas Vilaghy Jr., Kathy & Home Depot: $25 Gift Card to 30 years from now.” Paul Abdis, Tim Messerich, Mike Pardee Hannafords: Case of bottled water Page 6 November/December 2007

Jane & Walt Daniels Finish the AT By Ollie Simpson

Message from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy to Walt and Jane Daniels: Library Project “Congratulations on becoming the first By Annette Feldman 2,000 miler couple to serve on the ATC Board!”

Did you know that the Trail Conference houses a treasure trove of books and videos, all available for member use, to guide and inspire you on your next adventure? The Hoeferlin Memorial Library in the Trail Conference office contains more than 1,200 books for walkers, hikers, climbers, paddlers, and campers. About half of the collection comprises trail guides, focusing on specific states or regions in the United States and around the world. The other half is an amazing assortment of how-to books, equipment guides, trail journals, trail inspired poetry, and photo collections. There are historic volumes from the late 19th century, such as Philip H. Smith’s 1887 Jane and Walt Daniels finished the AT Legends of the Shawangunks , as well as guides for how to make the most of the latest GPS at High Point State Park. way-finding technologies. There are books about backpacking with pets, surviving ava - lanches, and how not to get eaten. You would be hard pressed to find another library that is as perfect for people who enjoy being active outdoors. On September 2, 2007, Jane Best of all, if you are not sure whether we have something you can use, you can browse and Walt Daniels (respective - the entire collection from home using our online catalog. If you find what you want, you can either come in and check it out, request that the item be mailed to you, or follow a ly board chair and volunteer link to buy the book (if it is available) with 5% of the purchase price going to the Trail webmaster for the Trail Conference. To make this online access happen, the entire collection of books has been recataloged and entered into LibraryThing, an online library catalog system. A Library Conference), took the steps books search box has been added to the Trail Conference website right in the middle of that brought them to the end the library page. To get to the library catalog online, follow the Hoeferlin Library link from the left side of the Trail Conference home page www.nynjtc.com. of their 15+ year section-hike To try a search, enter a search term and click the Search button. You’ll see a list of books along the entire length of the that match your search term. Click on any book in the list that looks interesting and you’ll Appalachian Trail. be taken directly into the Trail Conference’s online catalog. For example, if I were looking for a trail guide for Massachusetts, I would simply enter Massachusetts into the search box. The Daniels had reserved for their My search finds 28 books, including ones on skiing, hiking, and bike trails in Massachu - finale a hike close to home—High Point setts and the rest of New England. If I want to find ones on places to hike with my kids, State Park in New Jersey—so that fami - I can enter children into the search box and see about 20 books with hikes recommended ly and friends could join them for the for kids, as well as about 10 more that are just about enjoying the outdoors with children. last 1.2 miles, presentation of 2000-mil - er patches, celebratory beverages, and a picnic. Their two daughters, two grand - children, and 55 friends were on hand for the festivities. Walt and Jane helped build the AT in Putnam County, NY, starting in 1984. It was 1992 when Walt decided he want - ed to section hike the entire trail. (Section hikers complete the 2000+ miles a portion at a time over a period of Use our online catalog to see if we have what you are looking for. years by day hiking, backpacking, or some combination thereof.) The Daniels When you are in the catalog, you may notice that you can see other LibraryThing sub - began keeping track of their miles, scribers who have that same book. If you’d like to be able to join any of the LibraryThing grandfathering in previously hiked sec - groups that members create, such as “Ecology and the environment” or “Outdoor Read - tions. They hiked Springer Mountain ers”, two groups that have members with a lot of books in common with the Trail (southern terminus) with their younger Conference, you can join LibraryThing for free and even create your own online catalog daughter in 1993 and climbed Katahdin of the books you have at home. When you become part of LibraryThing’s online commu - (northern terminus) in 1995 with both nity, you can get suggestions for new books on topics you’ve already read about, keep a daughters. wish list of books you’d like to have, or use LibraryThing’s swap link to hook you up with Prior to setting themselves the AT book swapping sites. Check it out at www.LibraryThing.com. challenge, the Daniels earned Adiron - One more thing. One way in which the Trail Conference library grows and stays dack 46er status, climbing the high current is through contributions of books from members. In particular, although we have peaks with their two daughters and fin - many trail and travel guides, we need to constantly remove old ones from our shelves, as ishing in 1987 on Rocky Peak Ridge. the information is often out of date. So, if you have finished with a trail or travel guide Their next goal: finish writing Walkable that is still in good condition and has been published within the last two to three years, Westchester in 2008 and see it published please consider sharing it with other members by passing it along to the library. by the Trail Conference. To ATC’s greetings we at the Trail Conference also say to Walt and Jane: Trail Supporter Patch Congratulations! Offered by New York State

The New York State Dept. of Environmental Conservation is now selling a new Trails Supporter Patch, available for $5 at all outlets where sporting licenses are sold, on-line (you must be an existing DECALS customer and you will need to provide your customer identification number), and via telephone at

P 1-866-933-2257. Patch proceeds will help maintain and enhance non- A M

E motorized trails throughout New York State. All money raised from the purchase C I V

R of the patch will be deposited in the Conservation Fund’s Outdoor Recreation, Trail E S

K Maintenance, and Development Account. DEC administers more than 3,500 miles of R A

P non-motorized trails on State Forests, Wildlife Management Areas, Forest Preserves, and L A

N Multiple Use Areas. Among those trails that will benefit from the patch are some of O I T A New York’s finest and most well-known, including the Long Path, Northville-Placid Trail, N and the main Finger Lakes Trail. November/December 2007 Page 7

Science & Ecology ecosystems. Indeed, it appears that parasites items so that the are actually essential to the functioning of host eats them, or Parasites: ecosystems, and we need to think about they may infect an “healthy” ecosystems as ones that are rich intermediate form In Sickness Can in parasites. Quite simply, parasites are part that carries them of every ecosystem on earth; data suggests from one environ - Be Eco-Health that half of all biodiversity may comprise ment to another. By Tavis K. Anderson parasitic species! These life cycles are not always For centuries, parasites have lived in night - unobtrusive events. mares and in the shadows of science. Parasites can have Parasites can have Aristotle described the worms that are significant effects upon significant effects found on pig tongues, and the Bible upon populations, mentions the “fiery serpents” that plagued populations, communities, communities, and the Israelites. Those few parasites that have ecosystems. In

come to the public’s eye have been decried and ecosystems. Britain, nematodes N O S R

as killers and considerable effort has gone infect some red E D N toward eradicating their pathological grouse populations; A S I V

burden. These labors have painted a stark This observed diversity of parasites and only infected popu - A T picture, omitting the positive role parasites their success in establishing within any lations go through Nematodes removed from gut of marsh killifish play in ecosystems, a role researchers are organism is due to their elegant and dramatic cyclic fluc - now revealing. amazing strategies for traveling from host tuations in size. Rats carrying Toxoplasma parasites, we can be confident that the com - Parasites contribute to keeping popula - to host. Each strategy depends upon an gondii carry out behaviors that put them at munity of hosts is also wonderfully diverse. tions of their hosts at moderate levels, they intimate interaction between parasite and risk of predation, and therefore are more Thus, a diverse and “healthy” ecosystem keep energy, in the form of carbon com - host. Parasites have evolved extraordinarily likely to transmit the parasite. Cockles will also be one with many parasites. pounds, flowing through food webs, and sensitive abilities to hone in on the unique (marine shellfish) that are infested with The next time you’re out hiking and a they help maintain a diversity of species in features that signal suitable hosts. Each worms do not process sediment as efficient - mosquito bites you, consider that it’s doing parasite recognizes a narrow set of cues, ly as uninfected cockles, which alters the exactly what it’s supposed to do. Parasites such as odors, that ensure it infects the energy flow to fish. Fungal pathogens that are not only nasty beasts responsible for a proper host at the proper time. infect the roots of most plants affect which human death every 12-seconds (malaria), The result of this evolutionary process is plants grow, and thus can determine how but also remarkable organisms that have a wide range of transmission strategies many species of plants are found in an area. wide-ranging effects on entire ecosystems – among parasites. The ability of parasites to Because parasites, by definition, are a healthy ecosystem is a sick ecosystem! I

N be highly specific in finding hosts helps dependent on the free-living hosts that they I T T

E ensure their ability to both disperse and infect, the diversity of hosts and the diversi - Tavis K. Anderson is a graduate student in the L Y

E successfully move from host to host. These ty of parasites are tied together. When an Program in Ecology & Evolution, Depart - C A T

S strategies can involve various approaches: ecosystem is rich in free-living species, it will ment of Ecology, Evolution and Natural Infective nematode stages on a grass parasites may passively wait to contact the have an amazing diversity of parasites. Con - Resources, at Rutgers University. blade waiting to be eaten by a sheep host, they may position themselves on food versely, when there is a rich community of

Why are the Pines ens to feed through the following spring, dominant and widespread tree in the eventually emerging as an adult in June. eastern United States in 40 years. If the Trail Conference Turning Brown? Unlike nearly all of our most famous and In contrast, periodic infestations by Had a Penny for Every By Gabriel Chapin devastating forest pests, including the native pests such as the needleminer are part gypsy moth, chestnut blight, Dutch elm of a natural cycle of disturbance in our Internet Search… It’s autumn now, but gaze back or ahead to disease, and the hemlock wooly adelgid, native forests that includes, among other springtime high atop the Shawangunk the pine needleminer is a native forest pest things, wildfires, ice storms, and hurricanes. We could earn a lot of money! How? It’s Ridge at Sam’s Point Preserve. Everywhere of the northeastern United States and parts Forests in the northeast have adapted to as easy as choosing the right search you look, signs of summer are beginning to of Canada. This somewhat finicky caterpil - survive or recover from these “native” engine! Goodsearch, a search engine appear. Birds are singing, hardwoods are lar dines exclusively on “hard” pines, those disturbances and, in some cases, forests may powered by Yahoo!, will donate money leafing out and azaleas are in bloom. But having clusters of fewer than five needles, even depend on periodic disturbances like to the Trail Conference for every click somewhere between the fading shadbush and is particularly fond of both pitch pine wildfire to maintain their health and vigor. you make. If 100 people search two blossoms and the peak of mountain laurel and jack pine. Despite the harsh appear - times every day, the Trail Conference season, another annual event is taking place ance of acres upon acres of browned trees, can earn $730 a year. If 1,000 people at Sam’s Point…the pines are turning the pines have adapted to tolerate needlem - searched using Goodsearch two times a brown. For the past several years at Sam’s iner damage and few trees actually die. day, the Trail Conference could earn Y C

Point Preserve, the browning up of over a Although more severe infestations may be N $7,300 a year! A V thousand acres of dwarf pines has become cyclical—possibly lasting for several R Please visit www.goodsearch.com and E S N

a regular sign of the changing seasons, and years—climate and natural predators O either download the search toolbar or C E

a source of concern and questions among generally keep needleminer populations in R make Goodsearch your homepage. Be U T visitors. What is causing it? The answer, as check. Even after a few years of infestation, A sure to choose the New York-New N E H

it turns out, lies within. the most significant impacts are generally T Jersey Trail Conference as the “Cause I Deep inside each and every brown nee - limited to reduced tree growth and greater In early spring, the pines at Sam’s Point Search For,” and every time you click, dle, a tiny caterpillar is eating away in susceptibility to other more serious pests had the appearance of a dying forest. you’ll make a difference in our work! preparation for its metamorphosis into a like bark beetles. small, nondescript moth known as Exoteleia Chemical pesticides can be used to As we move into the 21st century, how - pinifoliella , the pine needleminer. Despite control the pine needleminer in some ever, global climate change may jeopardize its small appearance, the pine needleminer instances, however, natural predators and this delicate ecological balance that has can cause extensive damage, particularly other controls usually do the job. Non- evolved over time. Some of the more obvi - evident in the browning of the pines at native insects and tree diseases, including ous impacts of climate change—melting Sam’s Point Preserve in May and even into those mentioned above, have few natural glaciers and the like—often mask more TRAIL U early June. Soon though, the trees’ new enemies when they arrive on a new conti - subtle changes, including increased wildfire continued from page 5 shoots “regreen” the forest. Then, after nent and native tree species have no activity and possibly even stronger hurri - usable steps and smaller boulders as well as how hatching from an egg in mid summer, the defenses to ward off the new invaders. canes. Subtler still, warmer temperatures to delicately shape stone. needleminer enters a healthy needle as a Because of this, non-native pests often are contributing to widespread infestations small caterpillar and gradually “mines” its cause profound and long lasting ecological of forest insects, including spruce bark December 1 and 2 (Saturday & Sunday) way through the center. After overwintering damage. Although an extreme case, the beetles that have wiped out 4 million acres Advanced Trail Construction: Stone Paving in its cozy “mine,” the hungry larva awak - chestnut blight nearly wiped out the most of spruce trees on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. Instructors: TBD Location: Bear Mountain Trails Project Although naturally more lethal, the native spruce beetle was once limited by the very Stone Paving, also called rip-rap, or pitching, is a same factors that hold the pine needlem - technique used to create a durable walking surface iner at bay. that can withstand heavy water flow. On Bear The lesson that we repeatedly learn is Mountain it is used below large rock slabs and in that nature is a delicate balance of forces areas where intermittent streams flow across a wide area of hillside. Tools include basic rock mov - where subtle changes can combine to have ing tools, shaping tools, and occasionally rock profound cumulative impacts. Although saws. This work differs from other construction the needleminer may not be a significant work on the mountain in that the stones used are threat today, continued disruption of other usually smaller and easier to handle. natural process such as climate and wildfire may exacerbate the impacts of this seem - December 1 (Saturday) Advanced Trail Skills: Rigging and Highline Basics ingly benign moth. Maintaining the Instructors: TBD natural processes that keep forests healthy Y Location: Bear Mountain Trails Project C N

A and resilient is the key to preserving our V

R Learn the basic safety and operational methods of E

S globally rare and treasured pitch pine N using high-lines to move large stones. This work - O

C forests in the Shawangunks.

E shop will take place in the lower boulder fields R U T

A above Hessian Lake, weather permitting.

N Gabriel Chapin works at Sam’s Point Preserve E H T as a Land Steward with the Shawangunk Tiny, hungry caterpillars live inside the pine needles and eat their way through to maturity. Ridge Program of the Nature Conservancy. Page 8 November/December 2007 HI KERS’ ALMANAC A Sampling of Upcoming Hikes Sponsored by Member Clubs

November UCHC. Egbert Lake Park, Rockaway Twp., NJ. Leader: Peter UCHC. Oakdale, South Mtn. Reservation, Millburn, NJ. Leader: PMNHA. Children’s Hike. Leader: Call Pyramid Mountain Natural Beck, 201-274-4471. Meet: 9:30am at lake parking lot; call for Cherryll Short, 973-299-0212. Meet: 10am; call for directions. Historic Area at 973-334-3130 for more information. Meet: 1pm at Thursday, November 1 directions. Moderately easy 5 miles. Hike on old rail bed, lunch at Easy 3 miles with one hill. Pyramid Mtn. visitors center, 472A Boonton Ave., Montville Twp. UCHC. Pyramid Mtn., Kinnelon, NJ. Leader: Mike Handelsman, the lake. Tuesday, November 13 Calling all nature detectives — animals have been leaving holes 718-633-6129. Meet: 10am at visitors center parking. Strenuous 9 throughout the forest; help us figure out who’s responsible! Thursday, November 8 AFW. Parker Cabin Mtn., Harriman State Park, NY. Leader: Call miles at brisk pace over varied terrain; for experienced hikers. Both Great for all ages. sides of Boonton Ave., including Tripod Rock and Turkey Mtn. UCHC. Abraham S. Hewitt State Forest, Hewitt, NJ. Leader: 973-644-3592 for more information and to register. Meet: 10am. Eric Singer, 973-744-7147. Meet: 10am at A&P in Hewitt; call Moderate hike; out by 2pm. Monday, November 19 Saturday, November 3 for directions. Strenuous 8 miles on the Bearfort Ridge; for GS. Baby and Me Hike, Morris Co., NJ. Leader: Call Great RVW. Minnewaska State Park, NY. Leader: Call 845-338-8772 UCHC. Watchung Trail Maintenance, NJ. Leader: Pre-register by experienced hikers. Swamp Outdoor Education Center at 973-635-6629 to register for more information. Meet: 8:30am. Strenuous 8-mile hike in the calling Trailside at 908-789-3670, ext. 3420. Meet: 9:30am at old Friday, November 9 and for more information. Meet: 9:30am; call for meeting place. area of Gertrude’s Nose; expected to take up to 7 hours. Trailside Museum building. Bring water, gloves, trash bag, and Put your infant in a baby pack and join a naturalist for this Inclement weather date is following Monday. clippers if you have them. Have fun while giving back to the trails; RVW. Maintenance Hike on the Long Path, NY. Leader: Call 1.5-hour hike at Dismal Harmony. $1 fee. UCHC. The Tourne, Boonton, NJ. Leader: Joe Burns, 973-887- we’ll work until noon. No experience needed. 607-363-7267 for more information. Help maintain this section of the Long Path, from Platt Clove Rd. to Palenville. UCHC. Jenny Jump Park, NJ. Leader: Peter Beck, 201-274-4471. 8173. Meet: 10am; call for directions. Easy 3 miles to pretty TLR. Teatown Trail Maintenance, NY. Leader: pre-registration Meet: 10am in cabin/shelter area; call for directions. Moderate Birchwood and Crystal Lakes. required, 914-762-2912, ext. 110. Meet: 9am at Teatown Lake Saturday, November 10 6-7 miles, for experienced hikers. Enjoy this underestimated Tuesday, November 20 Reservation, Ossining, NY. Join us in maintaining some of UOC. Delaware & Raritan Canal, Kingston, NJ. Leader: Charles gem; includes the new Warren Trail. Teatown’s 15 miles of trails. Learn the basics, no experience Severn, 732-246-3387. Meet: Call leader 7:00-9:00pm to register. GS. Pre-K Walk, Morris Co., NJ. Leader: Call Great Swamp needed, projects vary according to skill levels; for ages 14 up. Tranquil, scenic 6-mile walk from Kingston to Princeton along Wednesday, November 14 Outdoor Education Center at 973-635-6629 to register and for Lake Carnegie. Inclement weather cancels. UCHC. Watchung Reservation, Mountainside, NJ. Leader: Joan more information. Meet: 10am; call for location. Kids ages 4-5 IHC. Minnewaska State Park, NY. Leader: Jordon Lampert, with an adult join a naturalist for a guided theme walk and fun AFW. Ramapo Mtn. State Forest, NJ. Leader: Call 973-644-3592 Lepselter, 908-273-4188. Meet: 10am at Trailside; call for direc - 732-516-0148. Meet: 8am at Harriman RR station, Arden, NY. activity. $5 per child. Strenuous 8 miles from Lake Minnewaska to and around for more information and to register. Meet: 10am. Easy hike; tions. Moderately easy 5 miles at brisk pace. Steady rain cancels. Gertrude’s Nose, then on to Millbrook Mtn. for the view and sheer out by 2pm. Thursday, November 15 UCHC. Ramapo State Forest, Oakland, NJ. Leader: Kathleen Grifone, 201-891-5161. Meet: 10am at upper lot on Skyline Dr.; cliffs. Parking fee. ADK-R. Indian Hill, Sterling Forest State Park, NY. Leader: UCHC. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, NJ. Leader: Eric Singer, call for directions. Moderate 6-7 miles, for experienced hikers, Call 845-359-2465 for more information. Moderate 5 miles. 973-744-7147. Meet: 10am at picnic area; call for directions. ADK-R. HTS Trail Up the Torne, Harriman State Park, NY. including a 900’ climb. Leader: Call 201-357-4642 for more information. Moderate 7 miles. WTW. South Mountain Reservation, NJ. Leaders: Hermann and Strenuous 8 miles; for experienced hikers. Wednesday, November 21 UOC. Round Valley Recreation Area, Hunterdon Co., NJ. Marlene Memmer, 973-267-0539; call to confirm. Meet: 10am at UCHC. Hedden Park, Dover, NJ. Leaders: Len Schnitzer and Leader: John Horvath, 732-249-4257. Meet: call leader. Moderate Tulip Springs parking. Moderate 7 miles. Norma Cohen, 732-499-9176. Meet: 10am; call for directions. Mod - hike with one steep incline. erately easy 5 miles along woods and a stream, with some hills. WTW. Autumn Colors, Central Park, NYC. Leader: Irene Kelvasa, Friday, November 23 212-246-6641. Meet: Call leader for time and meeting place. Easy 4 miles to enjoy the fall colors. RVW. Full Moon Hike on Overlook Mtn., NY. Leader: Call 845- 246-8616 for more information. Moderate, slow-paced evening UCHC. Turkey Mtn., Montville, NJ. Leader: Al Verdi, 973-262-8569. hike; 5 miles in about 3 hours. Meet: 10am at Pyramid Mtn. parking. Moderate 4.5 miles on rocky trails with hills; not for beginners. Saturday, November 24 TLR. After the Turkey Hike, Ossining, NY. Leader: pre-registra - Sunday, November 4 tion required, call 914-762-2912, ext. 110. Meet: 1pm at Teatown AFW. Raptor Trust and Great Swamp, NJ. Leader: Call 973-644- Lake Reservation. Hike off the turkey at Teatown; all ages 3592 for more information and to register. Meet: 10am. Raptor welcome for this easy 1.5-hour hike. Nonmembers $5. program followed by an easy hike in the Great Swamp; out by 3pm. WTW. Loantaka Park, Morristown, NJ. Leaders: Hermann and ADK-MH. Ferncliff Forest, Rhinebeck, NY. Leader: Salley Decker, Marlene Memmer, 973-267-0539; call to confirm. Meet: 9:30am at 845-454-4206; call eves before 10pm or morns before 10am. Madison Hotel, Convent Station. Easy 5-6 miles. Meet: Approximately 12:45pm in Poughkeepsie, NY; call leader for meeting time and carpool location. Easy 2-hour walk in the woods; PMNHA. Turkey Mtn., NJ. Leader: Call Pyramid Mountain climb 60-foot observation tower for great views of the Hudson Natural Historic Area at 973-334-3130 for more information. River. For beginners or those preferring a leisurely pace. Rain Meet: 1pm at Pyramid Mtn. visitors center, 472A Boonton Ave., cancels. Optional stop at Rhinebeck restaurant after hike. Montville Twp. Moderate to easy hike to burn off all those extra calories! Appropriate for ages 7+. PMNHA. Butler Reservoir, NJ. Leader: Call Pyramid Mountain

Natural Historic Area at 973-334-3130 to register (required) and S UCHC. Roundabout Parlin, Sayreville, South Amboy, NJ. E

N Leader: Gary Petrie, 973-257-0137. Meet: 9:30am (please note for more information. Meet: 9am at Pyramid Mtn. visitors center, O M time); call for directions. Moderate 9-10 miles. Stroll through 472A Boonton Ave., Montville Twp. Strenuous 12 miles for experi - N E

V parks, woods, and urban areas, partly on old RR railbed; panora - enced hikers; expected out by 2pm. E T S ma of Raritan Bay. UCHC. Watchung Reservation, Mountainside, NJ. Leader: View at Harriman State Park. Sunday, November 25 Naomi Shapiro, 973-762-1832; call before 9pm. Meet: 10am at Saturday, November 17 PMNHA. Lake Valhalla Overlook, NJ. Leader: Call Pyramid AMC-NYNJ. Mt. Peter to Arden, Harriman State Park, NY. Trailside Nature Center on Coles Ave. at New Providence Rd. UOC. Harriman State Park, NY. Leader: Coralyn Gorlicki, 732- Mountain Natural Historic Area at 973-334-3130 for more infor - Leader: Barry Skura, 914-779-0936. Meet: 9:25am at Elk Pen Moderate 4 miles; steady rain cancels. 548-2315. Meet: Call leader. Moderate 4 miles from beautiful Lake mation. Meet: 1pm at Pyramid Mtn. visitors center, 472A Boonton parking; 2 miles north of Southfields on Rt. 17, right at “Welcome Monday, November 5 Tiorati on portions of the AT and Long Path. Ave., Montville Twp. Moderate hike on Turkey Mtn.; appropriate to Harriman” sign then first right into parking (8:30am Short Line RVW. Berlin Mountain (2,790'), Renssalaer County, NY. for ages 7+. AFW. Seven Hills Trail, Harriman State Park, NY. Leader: Call bus to Arden from Port Authority). Difficult 12 miles with steep Leader: Call 518-895-8474 for more information. Meet: 8am. 973-644-3592 for more information and to register. Meet: Sunday, November 11 climbs and at a fast pace. See what’s on the other side of Rt. 17; Moderately strenuous hike of 5 miles (expected to take 9:30am. Strenuous hike from Reeves Meadow to Lake Sebago; AT with fantastic views of Harriman and NJ. Shuttle required. 4.5 hours). Inclement weather date is following Monday. WTW. AT Trail Maintenance Hike, Bear Mtn., NY. Leaders: Sarah out by 3pm. and Glenn Collins, 973-744-5126. Meet: call leaders for meeting UCHC. Watchung Reservation, Mountainside, NJ. Leader: Mae UCHC. Elmdale, South Mtn. Reservation, Millburn, NJ. Leader: place and time. Help maintain a section of the popular Appalachian WTW. Jockey Hollow National Historic Area, Morristown, NJ. Deas, 908-233-6641. Meet: 10am at Trailside; call for directions. Irv Auerbach, 973-239-4342. Meet: 10am; call for directions. Trail; no experience needed. Leader: Ernest Wagner, 973-694-3194; call to confirm. Meet: 10am Moderate 4-5 miles with some hills. Steady rain cancels. Easy 3 miles with several hills. at visitor’s center. Easy 5.5 miles. AFW. Terrace Pond, NJ. Leader: Call 973-644-3592 for more infor - Monday, November 26 Tuesday, November 6 mation and to register. Meet: 10am. Moderate hike; out by 3pm. TLR. Sylvan Glen Park Preserve, NY. Leader: Peter Meskin; pre- RVW. Hunter (4,040') and SW Hunter (3,740') Mtns. Leader: GS. Baby and Me Hike, Morris Co., NJ. Leader: Call Great registration required, call 914-762-2912, ext. 110. Meet: 10am at Call 845-246-1823 for more information. Meet: 8am. Moderately Swamp Outdoor Education Center at 973-635-6629 to register IHC. Allis Trail and the AT, Sterling Forest State Park, NY. Lead - Jefferson Valley Club Fit; expect to carpool. Moderate 5 miles; ers: Pete Tilgner and Suzan Gordon, 201-871-3531. Meet: 9am at strenuous 7.5-mile hike with some bushwhacking; expect to take and for more information. Meet: 9:30am; call for meeting place. about 3 hours. Geologic tour of one of Yorktown’s hidden gems: 6 hours. Inclement weather date is following Monday. Put your infant in a baby pack and join a naturalist for this commuter parking, Rts. 17 and 17A, Southfields, NY. Moderately this former rock quarry is now a hikers’ paradise. Rain cancels. 1.5-hour hike at Pyramid Mountain. $1 fee. strenuous 7.5 miles. We’ll do the entire Allis Trail and part of the AT UCHC. Old Short Hills Park, Millburn, NJ. Leader: Cherryll to Mombasha Rd. Shuttle required. GS. Winter Stream Wonders, Morris Co., NJ. Leader: Call Great Short, 973-299-0212. Meet: 10am; call for directions. Easy 3 miles UCHC. Ramapo State Forest, Oakland, NJ. Leader: Carol Swamp Outdoor Education Center at 973-635-6629 to register with hills. O’Keefe, 973-328-7395. Meet: 10am in upper parking; call for Monday, November 12 and for more information. Meet: 10am; call for location. Hike down directions. Moderate 5-7 miles, for experienced hikers. To the AMC-NYNJ. Storm King Mtn., Cornwall Area, NY. Leaders: to the Black River at Kay Center in Chester to search for critters Tuesday, November 27 castle and around the lake. Kathy and Barry Skura, 914-779-0936. Meet: 10:30am at living in and around the river; appropriate for ages 7+. GS. Baby and Me Hike, Morris Co., NJ. Leader: Call Great Ft. Montgomery, NY; Rt. 9W and Little Richie’s, one mile north of Swamp Outdoor Education Center at 973-635-6629 to register Wednesday, November 7 UCHC. Delaware Water Gap, NJ. Leader: Tanya McCabe, 908- Bear Mtn. bridge (8:45am Short Line bus from Port Authority). and for more information. Meet: 9:30am; call for meeting place. 362-5499; call before 10:30pm. Meet: 10:30am (please note time) AFW. Doodletown, Harriman State Park, NY. Leader: Call Difficult 8 miles with steep climbs, but at a moderate pace. Put your infant in a baby pack and join a naturalist for this at west end of Gaisler Rd., Blairstown, NJ; call for directions. 973-644-3592 for more information and to register. Meet: 10am. Gorgeous views overlooking Hudson River. 1.5-hour hike at Buttermilk Falls. $1 fee. Easy hike; out by 2pm. Moderate 6 miles. Enjoy views of the Delaware River and perhaps some fall foliage. UCHC. Johnsontown Rd., Harriman State Park, NY . Leader: Dave Sutter, [email protected]. Meet: 10am at Johnsontown circle; Sunday, November 18 call for directions. Moderate 6-7 miles; for experienced hikers. The activities listed are sponsored by member clubs of the NY-NJ Trail Conference. All hikers are welcome subject to club regula - ADK-R. Beginner’s Hike, Nyack, NY. Leader: Call 845-634-7635 Hike on less-used trails with some surprises. Rain cancels. for more information. Easy 5 miles on the Beach Trail. tions and rules of the trail. You are responsible for your own safety. Wear hiking boots or strong, low-heeled shoes. Bring food, water, Wednesday, November 28 rain gear, first aid kit, and a flashlight in a backpack. Leaders have the right and responsibility to refuse anyone whom they believe IHC. AT from Warwick to Rt. 517, NJ-NY. Leaders: Carolyn and RVW. Berger Hill, Rhinebeck, NY. Leader: Call 845-246-2945 for cannot complete the hike or is not adequately equipped. Easy, moderate, or strenuous hikes are relative terms; call leader if in doubt. Jim Canfield, 973-728-9774. Meet: 9am at Wawayanda State Park more information. Meet: 9am. Easy 3-mile hike at a slow pace; ranger station, Vernon, NJ. Moderately strenuous. Hike from More than 90 clubs belong to the Trail Conference, and many of our affiliate groups sponsor hikes not listed in the Hikers’ Almanac. expected to take 3 hours. For a descriptive list of Conference clubs, consult our website or send a SASE with your request to NY-NJ Trail Conference. Pochuck boardwalk, up Stairway to Heaven, then up and over Wawayanda Mtn. Shuttle required. UCHC. Hacklebarney State Park, Long Valley, NJ. Leader: Club Codes Micky Siegel, 201-797-7054. Meet: 10am; call for directions. AFW. Cheesequake State Park, NJ. Leader: Call 973-644-3592 Only those clubs with hikes offered in this issue are listed below. Please call numbers listed to confirm. Moderately easy 5 miles. A gorgeous gorge along the Black River. for more information and to register. Meet: 10am. Easy 4-mile Call if inclement weather. ADK-MH ADK Mid-Hudson Chapter NYR New York Ramblers hike; out by 2pm. Thursday, November 29 ADK-R ADK Ramapo Chapter PMNHA Pyramid Mountain NYR. West Caldwell to Great Notch, NJ. Leader: Richard Barr, AFW Adventures for Women Natural Historic Area 212-877-2694. Meet: 7:45am at Port Authority bus terminal for UCHC. Pine Meadow Extension, Harriman State Park, NY. AMC-NYNJ AMC New York-North Jersey Chapter RVW Rip Van Winkle Hiking Club 8am DeCamp #33 bus (one-way to West Caldwell). Lenape Trail Leader: Hank Perrine, 212-666-0694. Meet: 10am at Equestrian GAHC German-American Hiking Club TLR Teatown Lake Reservation through West Orange, Eagle Rock Reservation, Verona Park, onto Center in Ramapo; call for directions. Strenuous 8+ miles; for GS Great Swamp UCHC Union County Hiking Club abandoned Erie RR which we use to our out at Great Notch. experienced hikers. Explore the new Pine Meadow extension trail. Outdoor Education Center UOC University Outing Club ADK-MH. Poughkeepsie to Highland, NY. Leader: Noel Tepper, IHC Interstate Hiking Club WTW Woodland Trail Walkers [email protected]. Meet: 10am at Adriance Library parking in Poughkeepsie, NY. Moderate 6-7 miles. Part historic, part Clubs wishing to have hikes listed in Hikers’ Almanac should send their schedules to [email protected] or to the Trail Conference Office. nostalgic hike through Poughkeepsie, over Mid-Hudson Bridge to The deadline for the January/February 2008 issue is November 15, 2007. Highland, then return. November/December 2007 Page 9 December Monday, December 10 UCHC. Cedar Grove Community Park, NJ. Leader: Roz Bloom, Saturday, December 1 973-364-0186. Meet: 10am; call for directions. Easy, level 3 miles. UCHC. Watchung Trail Maintenance, NJ. Leader: Pre-register by A RR bed, hemlock gorge, and the reservoir. calling Trailside at 908-789-3670, ext. 3420. Meet: 9:30am at old Member Club Profile RVW. Black Dome (3980') and Blackhead (3940'), NY. Info: Call Trailside Museum building. Bring water, gloves, trash bag, and clip - The Trail Conference comprises 10,000 individual members and more than 100 pers if you have them. Have fun while giving back to the trails; 845-658-8606. Strenuous hike: 8.4 Miles, 5 hours. Meet: 8am. we’ll work until noon. No experience needed. Inclement weather date, following Monday. Note: snowshoes and member clubs with a combined membership of 150,000 hikers. We invite club crampons may be necessary. UOC. Birding Walk to Barnegat Lighthouse, NJ. Leader: George representatives to submit photos from hikes or maintenance outings or other events Pitcher, 732-828-1890. Meet: Call leader. Look for Harlequin Tuesday, December 11 ducks, Scoters, Horned Larks, Red-throated Loons along the sand GS. Baby and Me Hike, Morris Co., NJ. Leader: Call Great (please set your digital camera for highest resolution). Email your photos, along with and jetty. Swamp Outdoor Education Center at 973-635-6629 to register complete caption information to: [email protected]; put “TW club photo” in the subject line. and for more information. Meet: 9:30am; call for meeting place. ADK-MH. Gertrude’s Nose, Minnewaska State Park, NY. Lead - Put your infant in a baby pack and join a naturalist for this ers: Georgette Weir and Jean-Claude Fouere, 845-462-0142. 1.5-hour hike at Kay Center. $1 fee. Meet: Call leaders for meeting info and car pooling arrangements. Moderately difficult 5 miles from Lake Minnewaska to Millbrook PMNHA. Bear Rock, NJ. Leader: Call Pyramid Mountain Natural Mtn., then to Gertrude’s Nose, returning on Millbrook Mtn. Historic Area at 973-334-3130 for more information. Meet: 1pm at carriageway. This is a no-hunting zone. Parking fee. Rain cancels. Pyramid Mtn. visitors center, 472A Boonton Ave., Montville Twp. Moderate hike to largest glacial erratic in the park. Adults only. UCHC. Van Campens Glen, Blairstown, NJ. Leader: Tanya McCabe, 908-362-5499 (no calls after 10:30pm). Meet: 10:30am at UCHC. Ramapo Torne, Harriman State Park, NY . Leader: Dave Millbrook Village, Blairstown; call for directions. Moderate 6 miles. Hogenauer, 973-762-1475. Meet: 10am at Reeves Meadow, Seven Come enjoy this lovely hike in beautiful Delaware Water Gap. Lakes Dr.; call for directions. Moderate 6-7 miles; for experienced hikers. Hike to spectacular view from the Tourne, back via Reeves WTW. Ringwood/Skylands, NJ. Leader: Ernest Wagner, 973-694- Brook Trail; some steep sections. 3194; call to confirm. Meet: 10am at Ringwood Manor front parking lot. Moderate 7 miles. Thursday, December 13 Sunday, December 2 UCHC. Sterling Ridge and AT, NY. Leader: Hank Perrine, 212- 666-0694. Meet: 9:30am at parking lot on Rt. 17A, Greenwood AFW. Norvin Green, NJ. Leader: Call 973-644-3592 for more Lake, NY.; call for directions. Strenuous 8+ miles; for experienced information and to register. hikers. Hike on the AT and Highlands Trail. Shuttle required. IHC. Ramapo Valley County Reservation, Mahwah, NJ. Leader: Saturday, December 15 Jim McKay, 973-538-0756. Meet: 9:30am at Ramapo Valley County Reservation off Rt. 202. Moderate 8 miles on Schuber WTW. Apshawa Preserve, NJ. Leader: Bob Busha, 973-777-5016; Trail to a lookout, then back on Yellow/Silver Trail. call to confirm. Meet: 10am at Burger King on Rt. 23N. Easy hike. ADK-MH. Mt. Taurus, Cold Spring, NY. Leader: Pete McGinnis, ADK-MH. Appalachian Trail, Pawling, NY. Leader: Russ Faller, 845-297-5126; call before 9:30pm. Meet: Call leader. Moderate [email protected]. Meet: 9am at Fishkill Holiday Inn, or call leader A group of AFW hikers enjoys the view from Breakneck Ridge. for other possible meeting locations. Moderate pace, hilly terrain 7.5 miles on AT along Hammersly Ridge past several high-eleva - tion swamps; short ups/downs. Rain cancels. with outstanding views. Optional stop for refreshments after hike. AFW was started by one woman, GS. Winter Wander, Chatham, NJ. Leader: Call Great Swamp Adventures PMNHA. Singles Hike, NJ. Leader: Call Pyramid Mountain Natu - Betsy Thomason, in the spring of 1981. ral Historic Area at 973-334-3130 for more information. Meet: 1pm Outdoor Education Center at 973-635-6629 to register and for For Women at Pyramid Mtn. visitors center, 472A Boonton Ave., Montville more information. Meet: 10am at Great Swamp. Easy, guided The nascent event was a hike up Twp. Looking for someone to hike with and more? This singles 1-hour hike to look for early winter changes; appropriate for ages 7+. www.adventuresforwomen.org Popolopen Torne in Harriman Park. The hike may be the answer. Ages 18+. UCHC. Pyramid Mtn., Montville, NJ . Leader: Jay Dibble, 908- 973-644-3592 group grew as more and more women UCHC. Loantaka Brook Reservation, Morris Twp., NJ. Leader: 289-8813. Meet: 10am at Pyramid Mtn. parking lot; call for asked, “What’s next?” AFW is now in its Al MacLennan, 973-451-1435. Meet: 10am at South St. parking; directions. Moderate 4-5 miles with some steep sections; not for Adventures For Women (AFW) is a non- 26th year and has certainly evolved since call for directions. Moderate 4 miles, level. Lovely walk through beginners. See Bear and Tripod rocks and some pretty views; out by about 12:30pm. Rain or snow cover cancels. profit organization and one of the few those early days. The group now offers woods, duck pond, and one water crossing. “women only” outdoor groups in the hikes of various levels of difficulty, bike Sunday, December 16 Monday, December 3 U.S. AFW strives to promote physical rides, and paddling day-trips. Year-round, TLR. Winter Animal Signs, NY. Leader: pre-registration required, UCHC. Locust Grove, South Mtn. Reservation, Millburn, NJ. and emotional growth through the members enjoy weekend trips to the Leader: Irv Auerbach, 973-239-4342. Meet: 10am Locust Grove; call 914-762-2912, ext. 110. Meet: 1pm at Teatown Lake Reserva - call for directions. Easy 3 miles. Follow the Rahway River past tion, Ossining, NY. Search through woods and fields for animal unpredictable challenges of wilderness Adirondacks, Shawangunks, and Catskills. Diamond Mill Pond. signs and learn about ways animals survive winter. Easy 1.5-hour adventures. We give a foundation in Over the last several years, AFW has hike; all ages welcome. Nonmembers $5. RVW. Stissing Mountain, NY. Info: Call 845-876-3609. Moderate technical outdoor skills, building self- introduced instructional and practical hike: 4 Miles, 4 hours. Meet: 8am. Inclement weather date—follow - ADK-MH. Black Mtn., Harriman State Park, NY. Leader: Sue confidence, increasing decision-making workshops in paddling, orienteering, ing Monday. Note: snowshoes may be necessary. Mackson, 845-471-9892. Meet: Call leader. Moderate 4.5 miles on abilities, and providing a forum for adven - firearms handling, auto maintenance, a mountain along the Hudson River. Moderate pace with lots of Tuesday, December 4 park history; suitable for new hikers. Inclement weather cancels. ture and camaraderie with other women. backpacking, and lifelong fitness. GS. Baby and Me Hike, Morris Co., NJ. Leader: Call Great AFW also has a more cosmopolitan UCHC. Watchung Reservation, Mountainside, NJ. Leader: Mae Swamp Outdoor Education Center at 973-635-6629 to register Deas, 908-233-6641. Meet: 10am at Trailside; call for directions. and sophisticated side. Many members and for more information. Meet: 9:30am; call for meeting place. Moderate 4-5 miles with some rough terrain. Steady rain cancels. and friends like to explore New York City Put your infant in a baby pack and join a naturalist for this If enough snow cover, bring X-C skis (or walk). 1.5-hour hike at Schiff Natural Lands Trust. $1 fee. attractions and restaurants through “City PMNHA. Children’s Rock Hike, NJ. Leader: Call Pyramid Moun - Paths,” the decidedly non-woodsy branch UCHC. Washington Valley Park, Bridgewater Twp., NJ. Leader: tain Natural Historic Area at 973-334-3130 for more information. Steve Gruber, 908-647-3253. Meet: 10am at lot on Newman’s Lane; of the group. AFW does not confine itself Meet: 1pm at Pyramid Mtn. visitors center, 472A Boonton Ave., call for directions. Moderate 6-7 miles; for experienced hikers. only to New York. This year the group Montville Twp. Easy hike to old limestone and serpentine quarry; is venturing out to Duke Gardens, Wednesday, December 5 appropriate for ages 5+. Philadelphia, The Raptor Trust/Great UCHC. Tulip Springs, South Mtn. Reservation, Millburn, NJ. Monday, December 17 Leader: Joan Lepselter, 908-273-4188. Meet: 10am at Tulip Swamp, and a Jackals minor league game. RVW. Lone (3721') and Rocky (3506'), NY. Info: Call 607-363- Springs; call for directions. Moderately easy 4 miles at a fairly 7267 or 845-338-8772. Strenuous bushwhack: 10 miles, 9 hours. In addition to organizing these activi - brisk pace. Meet: 7am. Inclement weather date, following Monday. Note: ties, AFW gives back to the community Thursday, December 6 snowshoes and crampons may be required by maintaining the MacEvoy Trail in AFW. Lemon Squeezer, Harriman State Park, NY. Leader: Call Tuesday, December 18 Ramapo Mountain State Forest for the 973-644-3592 for more information and to register. Meet: 10am. GS. Baby and Me Hike, Morris Co., NJ. Leader: Call Great NY-NJ TC. Through this experience, Moderate hike; out by 2pm. Swamp Outdoor Education Center at 973-635-6629 to register many individual members of AFW have UCHC. Johnsontown Circle, Harriman State Park, NY. Leader: and for more information. Meet: 9:30am; call for meeting place. gone on to maintain their own trails for Dave Hogenauer, 973-762-1475. Meet: 10am at Johnsontown circle; Put your infant in a baby pack and join a naturalist for this the Trail Conference. Several members call for directions. Strenuous 8+ miles; for experienced hikers. 1.5-hour hike at Jockey Hollow. $1 fee. Marvelous views from Dater Mtn. and “Almost Perpendicular.” have participated in the invasive plant UCHC. Ramapo Valley Co. Reservation, Mahwah, NJ. Leader: survey that is ongoing in New Jersey. RVW. Omi Art Center and Van Buren Estate, Columbia Co., NY. Carol O’Keefe, 973-328-7395. Meet: 10am; call for directions. Info: Call 845-758-6143. Easy Walk: 4 Miles, 3 Hours. Meet: 9:00. Moderate 5-7 miles; for experienced hikers. To Bear Swamp Lake Adventures For Women has become an Saturday, December 8 for lunch. Inclement weather may cancel. eclectic organization that loves to explore AFW. Harriman State Park, NY. Leader: Call 973-644-3592 for Wednesday, December 19 and is equally at home in the woods, the more information and to register. Meet: 10am. Strenuous hike, UCHC. Ramapo Lake, Oakland, NJ. Leader: Micky Siegel, 201- suburbs, or the city. We pride ourselves route determined by weather and trail conditions; out by 3pm. 797-7054. Meet: 10am at Skyline Dr.; call for directions. on providing ample opportunities for ADK-R. Elk Pen, Harriman State Park, NY. Leader: Call 201-816- Moderately easy 4 miles. Very scenic, well worth the commute; women to empower, improve, and define 9465 for more information. Moderately strenuous 9 miles. view beautiful Ramapo Lake. Inclement weather may cancel. A group from Adventures For Women themselves. Come join us and find out WTW. Frelinghuysen Arboretum, Morristown, NJ. Leaders: Thursday, December 20 gets ready to climb a crevice for yourself. Hermann and Marlene Memmer, 973-267-0539; call to confirm. UCHC. Jones Point, Harriman State Park, NY. Leader: Dave in the Shawangunks. Meet: 9:30am at Madison Hotel, Convent Station. Easy 7 miles. Sutter, [email protected]. Meet: 10am at Jones Pt. parking lot on Rt. 9W, 4 miles south of Bear Mtn. bridge; call for directions. TLR. Animal Tracking Hike/Snowshoe, NY. Leader: pre-registra - Tuesday, December 25 PMNHA. Year End Hike, NJ. Leader: Call Pyramid Mountain Strenuous 8 miles on forgotten footpaths to rarely seen places; tion required, call 914-762-2912, ext. 110. Meet: 10am at Teatown Natural Historic Area at 973-334-3130 for more information. for experienced hikers. AMC-NYNJ. Holiday Hike in Harriman State Park, NY. Leader: Lake Reservation, Ossining, NY. Look for tracks in the snow and Larry Spinner, 845-517-0858. Meet: 10am at Sloatsburg, NY, park - Meet: 1pm at Pyramid Mtn. visitors center, 472A Boonton Ave., learn about other signs like scat, rubbings, and chew marks. Saturday, December 22 ing; from Rt. 17N turn right at blinker, right again before RR tracks. Montville Twp. Moderate hike; appropriate for ages 7+. Moderate 2-hour hike; children 6 and over with adult welcome. WTW. Loantaka Park, Morristown, NJ. Leaders: Hermann and Moderate 7 miles; beginners welcome. Join us as we celebrate UCHC. Watchung Reservation, Mountainside, NJ. Leaders: Rick Nonmembers $5. Marlene Memmer, 973-267-0539; call to confirm. Meet: 9:30am at the season; leader brings cookies and hopes others will bring and Ellen Jeydel, 908-232-2413. Meet: 10am at Trailside; call for ADK-MH. Harriman’s Pretty Little Secret, NY. Leader: Barry Madison Hotel, Convent Station. Easy 5-6 miles. treats to share. Conditions may require crampons; inclement directions. Very fast paced 5-6 miles on rocky trails; for advanced Skura, 914-779-0936. Meet: 9am at Sloatsburg, NY, commuter ADK-R. Dunderberg Mtn., Harriman State Park, NY. Leader: weather may cancel. If in doubt, call after 7am morning of hike. hikers. Inclement weather may cancel. parking; from Rt. 17N turn right at blinker, turn right again before Call 201-816-9465 for more information. Moderate 7 miles. Wednesday, December 26 Sunday, December 30 crossing RR tracks. Strenuous 13 miles with many hills. Fast-paced UCHC. Jockey Hollow National Park, Morristown, NJ. Leader: UCHC. Turkey Mtn., Montville, NJ. Leader: Terry Kulmane, 908- hike on AT between Bear Mtn. Inn and Lake Tiorati, covering IHC. Pequannock Watershed, NJ. Leader: James Schlenker, Betty Mills, 973-538-4922. Meet: 10am at visitors center; 665-2672. Meet: 10am at Pyramid Mtn.; call for directions. pretty sections seldom day-hiked. 908-561-0228. Meet: 9am at Burger King/Stop and Shop, Rt. 23N, call for directions. Easy 3 miles; good for beginners. Inclement Moderate 5 miles. Inclement weather may cancel (call before Butler, NJ. Moderately strenuous 8 miles from Hanks Pond to PMNHA. Pyramid Mtn., NJ. Leader: Call Pyramid Mountain weather cancels. 8:45am day of hike if in doubt). Buckabear Pond; lovely hike seldom done and not to be missed. Natural Historic Area at 973-334-3130 for more information. Sunday, December 23 Friday, December 28 Shuttle required. Meet: 1pm at Pyramid Mtn. visitors center, 472A Boonton Ave., Montville Twp. Moderate, quiet hike; appropriate for ages 7+. PMNHA. Winter Solstice Hike, NJ. Leader: Call Pyramid Moun - GS. Winter Bird Stroll, Chatham, NJ. Leader: Call Great Swamp UCHC. Jockey Hollow National Park, Morristown, NJ. Leaders: tain Natural Historic Area at 973-334-3130 to register (required) Outdoor Education Center at 973-635-6629 to register and for Clotilde Lanig, 732-549-4977. Meet: 10am at visitors center; call Sunday, December 9 and for more information. Meet: 3:30pm at Pyramid Mtn. visitors more information. Meet: 10am at Great Swamp. Search for birds for directions. Moderate 4 miles. Inclement weather cancels. IHC. The Escalator and More, Harriman/Bear Mtn. State Park, center, 472A Boonton Ave., Montville Twp. Moderate hike to watch that live here year-round; binoculars available. Great for all ages. NY. Leader: Dave Sutter, [email protected]. Meet: 9:30am at Jones sunset on one of shortest days of the year and see the rising full Saturday, December 29 Point parking, Rt. 9W, about 4 miles south of Bear Mtn. Bridge moon; appropriate for ages 7+. $3 fee. Circle. Strenuous hike on less-used trails with some surprises. ADK-R. Ladentown Mountain. Leader: Call 845-354-0738 for Visit Us Today! UCHC. Watchung Reservation, Mountainside, NJ. Leader: Steady rain cancels. more information. Easy to moderate 6 miles. Eck Khoon Goh, 908-790-0939. Meet: 10am at Trailside; call for WTW. Eagle Rock Reservation, West Orange, NJ. Leader: UCHC. Pyramid Mtn., Montville, NJ. Leader: Angela Coble, 908- directions. Brisk 4-5 miles. Inclement weather cancels. 686-5958. Meet: 10am in Pyramid Mtn. parking lot; call for Ernest Wagner, 973-694-3194; call to confirm. Meet: 10am at www.NYNJTC.org directions. Brisk 4-5 miles with hills and some rocky trails. Hiking reservation parking lot. Easy 3.5 miles. boots required. Rain cancels. Page 10 November/December 2007 DONORS TO THE ANNUAL FUND Volunteer Classifieds: Get Involved! July 21, 2007 to September 24, 2007 GIFTS Robin Abrett & Bernard Baron, Raymond Adam, Estelle Anderson, John & Bonnie Anlian, Robert & Joan Augello, Joan Balducci, Warren Becker, Edna & Laszlo Berkovits, John Blenninger, Richard Block & Helen Ostrowski, Walter Bogdewicz, Metro Trail Help Judith Bott, Alice Broquist, Kevin Bruenig, William Chiappane, Chris Connolly, Robert Cresko, Harry Cross, Andrea Damato, Jane & Walt Daniels, John Denkowski, Sandra Diana, David Dykhouse, Marcia Egger & James Langford, Vincent Ellison Jr., The Metro Trails Committee is looking for Jo Ann Evans & Andrew Frazzano, Charles Evans, Jr., Christopher Ezzo, Robert Feder, Robert & Bobby Fernekees, Jane Flood volunteers to join our trail maintenance crews & Sherman Cox, Ben & Phyllis Frankel, Christopher & Dorothy Freeman, Jane Geisler, Tom Gilmore, Coralyn & Abraham and to join our trail construction crew. Gorlicki, Scott Graber, Judith Green, John Grob & Anne Grob, Margaret Haltigan, Gordon Hamilton, Hanes Heller, Joseph Hirstius, Joel Kantrowitz, Nitin Kapadia, Vincent Karabatsos, Michael King, Mark Klingenstein, Matthew Kress, Theresa Lahr, Positions are available in all boroughs, for Leave No Trace, Philip Limeri, John Linderman, Max Lopp II, Robert Mackay, Walter & Joan Maier, Pasquale Marcotullio, people with all skill levels. On-the-trail Robert Marshall, Nicholas McKenna, Robert Messerschmidt, Eric & Susan Meyer, Katherine Miller & Sandra Caravella, Seth training and trail workshops are provided for Minsk, Ruth Misheloff, Jack Morrison & Sue Morrison, Martina Moss, Richard Murray, John Nemeth, Rex Lalire & Greta our volunteers. Contact: Joe Gindoff at Nettleton, Nicholas Palazzo, Palisades Nature Association, Reed Perron & Janice Cutler, Frederick Pinkney, John Poole MD, Looking for Crew Members James Prommel, Gretchen & Jerry Redden, Charles Rood, Donald & Josh Rudbart, Gunvor Satra, Richard Smith, Gerson [email protected] for details. Smith, Marek Stycos, Robert Sullivan, Roger & Carol Swanson, Samuel Tatnall, Miriam Taub, Robert Thompson, Peter West of Hudson Tilgner & Suzan Gordon, Michael & Lauren Tome, Frederic Tourelle, John Turrell, Anthony Valerio, George Van Riper, Data Entry and Clerical Support The West Hudson North Crew is looking Rudolf Walter, Richard Warner, Mark Weinraub, Barbara Westergaard, Gene & Muja Yoon With over 104 member clubs, 10,000 indi - for some new faces to complete the TRIBUTES DARLINGTON SCHOOLHOUSE FUND vidual members, and 1,300 volunteers, the Stillman Bridge in Storm King State Park Thanks to Bob Jonas and Estelle Anderson Chris Tausch, Michael Sasse Bing Bai Trail Conference office in Mahwah, NJ is a this fall. The project offers opportunities MEMORIAL GIFTS pretty busy place! Come join us during the for training and fun! If you would like to In honor of Peggy Ostland Naomi and Dave Sutter In memory of Don Freudeburg week and put your data management and volunteer with us, please contact Denise At Your Own Risk Hiking Club In honor of Manny Silberberg’s 70th Birthday clerical skills to good use. We seek individuals Vitale at [email protected]. William and Joan Weisberg In memory of Jean A. Holke Herbert Shulman with database experience to assist with run - In honor of Ollie Simpson ning short programs that check data entry for Catskills Trails Need Maintainers Harvey Hill In loving memory of Brian Motyka Kelly Dunn accuracy as well as entering membership info, The Catskill region is looking for new faces In honor of Malcolm and Nancy Spector’s provide assistance with shipping retail orders, to take care of trails. We are seeking several recent marriage In memory of William & Berthe Myles and help coordinate mailings. Contact: Gary hikers to adopt trail segments for mainte - Ann G. Loeb Erwin Conrad In honor of Cleo Sterngold’s 13th birthday In memory of Milton & Sylvia Zatal Willick at [email protected] for details. nance. In exchange for three maintaining Ilene & David Zatal days a year, you will receive the satisfaction of Naomi and Dave Sutter PC Calc Help Wanted caring for the outdoors and ensuring a posi - MATCHING GIFTS NEW LIFE MEMBERS All development professionals agree that tive experience for other hikers. No Avon Matching Gifts Program, BP Foundation, Earth Share, Susan & Timothy Delaney, Gari & Lori Ledyard Independence Community Foundation, Verizon Foundation planned giving is a great way to invest in experience necessary; we’ll show you how! Tributes are only printed for donations of $25 or more. the Trail Conference’s mission and that Whether you like to garden, dig in the dirt, charitable gift annuities are one popular or just walk in the woods, this is an excellent Trail Conference visitors interested in what the Trail Confer - method to make a donation. The Trail opportunity to do something rewarding ence does, how they could volunteer, and Conference is looking for some profession - while having fun. It is a great activity to do on Wins Third Prize what was going on with Darlington al assistance for its Charitable Gift Annuity your own or with family members and Schoolhouse. In order for the schoolhouse program. If you have access to PG Calc friends! Call Katy Dieters at 201-512-9348, at Mahwah Day restoration to be effective, community and would be willing to help prepare ext. 17 for more information. support and interest is essential. Mahwah planned gifts for the Trail Conference, On September 15, 2007, Trail Conference Day was one of the first events in which the please contact Joshua E. Howard at 201- staff and volunteers participated in the Trail Conference reached out to the 512-9348 ext.13, or [email protected]. annual Mahwah Day and Parade at community to let them know about Stuff That Would Help the Cause Commodore Perry Field in downtown Darlington. We hope to continue these Lower Twin Lake Volunteer Base Mahwah, NJ. Marching down East types of efforts as we embark on the Camp Needs You! Base Camp Supplies Ramapo Avenue, the Trail Conference rep - fundraising components of this campaign. As we create a comfortable home for our vol - We need: resentatives proudly displayed a banner Overall the day was a success and could unteers who need a base camp, we’re trying • propane stove announcing the upcoming restoration not have been completed without the help to meet all their basic and essential needs. In • cooking/eating utensils of the Darlington Schoolhouse as the Trail of Allyn Dodd, Carole Greene, George order to build a kitchen area that Trail Con - • pots and pans Conference’s future headquarters. The ban - Becker, Gus Vasiliadis and his dog Gretchen, ference volunteers and staff have exclusive • a sink ner, designed by Brian Donegan, a graphic Bill and Jack Dauster, Nancy Hoogenheis, access to, we are looking for the donation of • small kitchen appliances design intern from the Chubb Institute, and all other members of the Friends of a gas kitchen stove or, if you have the skills, • dishes won third place for best design in the parade! the Darlington Schoolhouse Committee. an electrician to re-wire the electric stove that • tools of all sorts The Trail Conference booth was appro - Thank you all for your hard work and for is currently on site. Other needs at base camp Contact: Leslie Rapparlie rapparlie@ priately located next to the portable rock making our first introduction of the include: nynjtc.org or 201-512-9348, ext. 28. climbing wall and the day was filled with Darlington Schoolhouse project a success! • assistance to clean the camp • help building shelves, picnic tables, Vehicles for Transport food storage areas, etc. The Trail Conference needs an 8-passenger • help splitting firewood vehicle and a pick-up truck to move tools, • carpenters volunteers, and materials. Without this • electricians much needed resource, we are limited in • chimney cleaners what we can offer. If you have a used vehi - • reliable hosts cle(s) that you would be willing to donate, or Contact: Leslie Rapparlie at rapparlie@ access to vehicles that could be leased, please nynjtc.org or 201-512-9348, ext. 28. contact: Joshua Howard at 201-512-9348, ext.13, or [email protected].

Visit www.nynjtc.org The Trail Conference promoted its project to restore the landmark Darlington Schoolhouse as its new headquarters during Mahway Day festivities in September. November/December 2007 Page 11

FAVORITE HIKE ing workpants made by and for Dutchess County women—the name originates from the continued from back cover Numerous grand 19th- and early 20th- fact that female ants do all the work in Westchester County century estates, since transformed into GEAR their colonies. RAP allow women to “Westchester is full of trails in no-hunting public parks, offer the public extensive trail choose the cut—curvy or straight— zones,” enthuses Jane Daniels. Jane and her possibilities in an increasingly developed length and waist for a customized pair of husband Walt are nearing the end stages of corridor along the east bank of the pants! The result? A pair of high-quality, researching and writing their book Walkable Hudson River. The Morse, Roosevelt, and CHECK American-made, durable pants that fit, Westchester . She names three big parks that Vanderbilt estates are three sites that are An occasional series that will review gear flatter, and function. are favorites: Ward Pound Ridge, Teatown prominent among those where access to appropriate for hiking. What’s unique about RAP is that each Lake Reservation, and the Rockefeller State the grounds is free to the public. pair has a small red ant sewn onto Park Preserve. Then, a couple of smaller The Hyde Park Trail system includes them—if you find someone else with the destinations: Westchester Wilderness Walk nearly 14 miles of trails linking parks and ant in the same place, take a photo, send and Hart’s Brook Park and Preserve. historic sites in that town, including the it to RAP, and you’ll get a free T-shirt! The The Westchester Wilderness Walk FDR National Historic Site (densely downside to this product is that you can’t (www.westchesterlandtrust.org) is a project wooded, steeply hilly and craggy, with find the pants in local stores (the compa - of the Westchester Land Trust. The walk views of the Hudson River) and the ny is based in Montana). You have to comprises a network of 8 miles of trails Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site M

O order online (www.redantspants.com)— through 150 acres of rocky woods, hillside (meadows and woods). You can download C . S

T which can mean a bit of mailing back and streams, lakes, and wetlands in Pound a brochure with maps (a VERY BIG file) at N A P

S forth to find the right cut and fit. But, the Ridge. You can check out their trail map on www.hydeparkny.us—click on Recreation, T N

A pants are great! And men, don’t fret, the their web site. then Trails. D E R straight cut will fit you too! Hart’s Brook Park and Preserve in the A new park with a very different Red Ants Pants southern part of the county offers nearly 3 ambiance can be found in the Town of Work Pants Made By and For Women miles of trails on 123 acres. Once the estate Poughkeepsie. Peach Hill Park and Pre - of Henry Gaisman, founder of Gillette, the serve was once an orchard, and rows of Reviewed by Leslie Rapparlie preserve offers visitors wide, gently graded trees continue to pattern the hillsides. The Rating: 4 boots out of 5 trails (a good place to keep in mind for park’s 160 acres include the highest point When it comes to workpants, women snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in in the town, from which one can enjoy have to choose from cuts and styles made winter). There is no web site for the park. panoramic views south to the Highlands and designed for men. As a result, Directions: Sprain Brook Parkway to and north to the Catskills. More than a women labor in pants that are too big, Greenburgh exit. Make a left onto 100B at mile of winding trail is mowed up, down, too long, or too snug. Red Ants Pants the end of the ramp and follow to West and around the orchard, and unsprayed (RAP), set out to change that by design - Hartsdale Avenue. Turn right. Follow to apples festoon the trees in season. You can Ridge Road, approximately 3 miles. Turn view images and get driving directions at right on Ridge Road. The entrance to www.peachhill.org. Book Review Hart's Brook Nature preserve is approxi - mately 1 1/2 miles on the left. Do you have a favorite small park? Send us Wilderness Survival: The commentary is not political or the name of the park, its location, and a few Living off the Land with the philosophical; this is no Thoreau’s Walden . words of why you like it to: [email protected]. Elbroch and Pewtherer wanted to “stress Put ‘community trails’ in subject line. Clothes on Your Back and test” themselves. They had already mas - the Knife on Your Belt tered many wilderness skills and taught in survival schools and camps. They were By Mark Elbroch and familiar with the locale—an undisclosed Michael Pewtherer location in upstate New York—which had abundant fresh water springs. Their aim in this extended “off the grid” sojourn was to prove to themselves that they were not merely surviving on stored fat reserves but actually living in the wilderness, healthily at that, on the wide variety of flora and fauna they foraged. The climax of the experience was a four-day “solo.” Each man went off alone to fast, meditate, and contemplate his future path in life. Elbroch, writing a decade after the quest, N

says it was a turning point in his life. It I Z A

taught him about “letting go” and “going H C L E with the flow.” Sure that’s trite; more inter - I N A

International Marine/ estingly he observes that he learned most D Ragged Mountain Press, 2006 about “personal” energy efficiency. “Efficien - Flat Rock Brook Nature Center Reviewed by John Kolp cy is predominant on your mind when you live in a survival situation,” he writes. “You Wilderness survival skills are a bit far afield cannot afford to waste energy; every action for the typical day hiker. Even the inveter - must have a purpose. I’ve carried that lesson Hunting Seasons 2007 ate backpacker would not want to push the from the woods and it has made my life eas - envelope quite so far. But the title of this ier. It has governed my decision making and book is, in fact, quite misleading. It’s not focused my intentions and behaviors.” really a text book or a field manual. Yes it Reading this book, I found myself NEW YORK NEW JERSEY does contain 26 detailed and illustrated at times recalling Stephen Ambrose’s Deer Seasons: Regular and Archery In New Jersey, the safest course in the essays on essential survival topics: eating a Undaunted Courage about Lewis and Clark’s Southern Zone fall is to hike only on Sundays, when balanced diet, maintaining personal Corps of Discovery exploring the Louisiana (includes Hudson Valley and Catskills) hunting is prohibited throughout the hygiene, building “debris huts” for shelter, Purchase and the hoped for easy path to the Regular: Nov. 17 – Dec. 9 state. Otherwise, hunting seasons vary fabricating canteens and cooking contain - Pacific. There was no easy path and the men Bow: Oct. 13 – Nov. 16 by weapon and geography. ers, catching trout bare-handed, “carcass had to overcome numerous challenges, Bow and muzzleloading: Dec. 10 – Dec. 18 care” (aka butchering deer). Rather, the knowing little or absolutely nothing about For the complete set of deer season heart of the book is a journal of the authors’ what lay ahead. Elbroch and Pewtherer have Westchester County regulations, go to www.state.nj.us/dep/ 46-day experiment in living divorced from that kind of backwoodsmen skill and Bow only: Oct. 13 – Dec. 31 fgw/dighnt.htm. civilization and totally by their wits out in adventurer mentality. Having no new lands the woods. to discover, they embarked on an interest - Suffolk County If you know the zone you want to hike ing spiritual quest instead. Bow only: Oct. 1 – Dec. 31 in, you can find the hunting seasons for it at www.nj.gov/dep/fgw/pdf/2007/ Hunting is not allowed in Bear Mountain- regsets07-08.pdf. Harriman State Parks. However it is allowed in parts or all of other state For information about other hunting Let It Snow parks. Call parks for details. seasons in New Jersey (including bear), go to www.nj.gov/dep/fgw/ Where in our region do you go to find the best winter Black Rock Forest (845-534-4517) scenes after the white stuff falls and/or the streams closes to all hikers from Nov. 17 through and lakes freeze over? Send us your vote for Dec. 9. Best Winter Hike or Snowshoe. For more info about big game seasons in Email [email protected]. Put “Favorite winter hike” New York, go to www.dec.ny.gov/ in the subject line. outdoor/28605.html. For info about all Results will be reported in the next TW. If you have hunting seasons and regulations in a winter photo of your favorite place, send that too, New York, including for small game as an attachment. and bear, visit www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/ hunting.html. Page 12 November/December 2007

Favorite Hike It’s Hunting Season. By Georgette Weir During Hunting Season, Hike Local Wear Orange When Hiking.

It’s hunting season—or about to be. Some See Schedule on Page 11. favorite hiking areas, such as Black Rock Forest in New York, are off limits to hikers for the duration (see Hunting info page 11). Some, notably Harriman/Bear Moun - tain State Parks, bar hunters. These two examples bookend a range of hunting/no hunting configurations that apply within Hikers’ parks in our region. Easy guidelines for remembering when and where hunting is Marketplace permitted are few. Here’s one: Hunting in New Jersey is prohibited on Sundays. NY-NJ TC member? YES NO JOINING NOW Member #______If you are among those who long to Please order by circling price Retail Member P/H Total stretch their legs in natural settings but don’t want to chance being mistaken for Official Conference Maps Order 8 or more and get discounted expedited shipping! four-legged prey, or if you just want to save Catskill Trails (2005) & see combo $14.95 $11.21 +$1.65 ______on gas and drive time, consider using these East Hudson Trails (2006) $10.95 $ 8.21 +$1.50 ______few weeks to explore some community NEW!! Harriman-Bear Mountain Trails (2007) & see combo $ 9.95 $ 7.46 +$1.50 ______trails—walking/hiking trails that are close Hudson Palisades Trails (2005) $ 8.95 $ 6.71 +$1.50 ______to populated areas—that enrich our towns Kittatinny Trails (2005) & see combo $12.95 $ 9.71 +$1.65 ______and urban areas. NEW!! North Jersey Trails (2007) $ 9.95 $ 7.46 +$1.50 ______Below are just a few possibilities to con - Shawangunk Trails (2005) & see combo $10.95 $ 8.21 +$1.50 ______sider. Recommended hikes for many of South Taconic Trails (2006) $ 4.95 $ 3.71 +$1.10 ______these parks are available on the Hike of the Sterling Forest Trails (2005) $ 7.95 $ 5.96 +$1.30 ______

N West Hudson Trails (2006) $ 8.95 $ 6.71 +$1.50 ______Week page of www.nynjtc.org. We invite I Z A H

readers to recommend others; we’ll include C Books L E a selection of responses in the next issue. I NEW!! Appalachian Trail Guide to New York $19.95 $14.96 +$3.00 ______N A D & New Jersey (2007) North Jersey A short walk at the Tenafly Nature Center NEW!! Hiking the Jersey Highlands (2007) $22.95 $17.21 +$3.50 ______Flat Rock Brook, Tenafly Nature Center, in New Jersey (above) can be extended to a New York Walk Book (2005) & see combo $22.95 $17.21 +$3.50 ______and Teaneck Creek Conservancy are three moderate hike thanks to paths that connect New Jersey Walk Book (2004) & see combo $19.95 $14.96 +$3.50 ______small parks high on the Recommend list to more trails at the Lost Brook Preserve. Circuit Hikes in Northern New Jersey (2003) $11.95 $ 8.96 +$3.00 ______for New Jersey Walk Book editor and Bergen Day Walker (2002) $16.95 $12.71 +$3.00 ______Record Hike of the Week contributor George Washington Bridge” is the Teaneck Harriman Trails Guide (1999) & see combo $16.95 $12.71 +$3.50 ______Daniel Chazin. Daniel notes that though Creek Conservancy (www.teaneckcreek.org). Hiking Long Island (2005) $19.95 $14.96 +$3.50 ______these are small parks, they “have enough This 46-acre open space features three trails Iron Mine Trails: NY/NJ Highlands (1996, rev. 1999) $ 8.95 $ 6.71 +$3.00 ______trails to make a reasonable hike possible.” (one of them ADA accessible) that can be Kittatinny Trails (2004) & see combo $18.95 $14.21 +$3.00 ______Flat Rock Brook Nature Center combined to make a short excursion of just Long Path Guide to NY/NJ (2005) $16.95 $12.71 +$3.00 ______(www.flatrockbrook.org) is a 150-acre pre - over 1 mile. You can walk along the banks Scenes & Walks in the Northern Shawangunks serve and education center situated on the of the Teaneck Creek, meander on a board - (2006) & see combo $13.95 $10.46 +$3.00 ______western slope of the Palisades in Engle - walk across wetlands; or step off the trail to Health Hints for Hikers (1994) $ 5.95 $ 4.46 +$3.00 ______wood. Its network of self-guiding trails is explore a meditative walk in the site’s Peace Doodletown: Hiking Through History in a open free to the public from dawn to dusk. Labyrinth. No charge to visitors. Vanishing Hamlet on the Hudson (1996) $12.95 $ 9.71 +$3.00 ______Natural features include a cascading stream, Trail Conference staff member Gary Nature Walks in New Jersey (2003) $14.95 $11.21 +$3.00 ______wetlands, ponds, wildflower meadows (in Willick also has a list of preferred small AMC Catskill Mountain Guide (2002) $19.95 $14.96 +$3.00 ______season), quarry cliffs, and woodland. parks in New Jersey. One, Closter Nature ADK Catskill Trails (2005) & see combo $19.95 $14.96 +$3.00 ______The 65-acre Tenafly Nature Center Center (www.closternaturecenter.com), ADK Catskill Day Hikes for All Seasons (2002) $12.95 $ 9.71 +$3.00 ______(www.tenaflynaturecenter.org) adjoins the was founded in 1961 when prescient Catskill Trails: A Ranger’s Guide to the High Peaks 316-acre Lost Brook Preserve and com - municipal officials acted on their concern Book Two: The Central Catskills (2000) $14.95 $11.21 +$3.00 ______bined they offer 7 miles of trails through that “unwise development might erode the Shawangunks Trail Companion (2003) $18.95 $14.21 +$3.50 ______woodland and around a pond. Trails are future quality of life in the borough.” Moon Take a Hike NYC (2006) $16.95 $12.71 +$3.00 ______open to the public dawn to dusk and are Today, the center comprises 136 acres of Walking Manhattan’s Rim (2003) $13.95 $10.46 +$3.00 ______free of charge. ponds, brooks, meadows, and forests, all 50 Hikes in the Lower Hudson Valley (2002) $16.95 $12.71 +$3.50 ______Just “seconds from the NJ Turnpike and open to the public. 50 Hikes in New Jersey (2006) $16.95 $12.71 +$3.50 ______I-80 and less than 10 minutes from the continued on page 11 Best Hikes w/ Children in New Jersey (2005) $15.95 $11.96 +$3.00 ______Best Hikes w/ Children in the Catskills & Join the volunteers who bring you the great outdoors! Hudson River Valley (2002) $14.95 $11.21 +$3.00 ______Hudson to Delaware: The Great Valley (2004) $75.00 $56.25 +$5.50 ______1,700 miles of trails; your membership helps us expand our horizons. Combo-Packs Catskill (5-map set & ADK book) $30.35 $22.69 +$3.00 ______Included with membership, Trail Walker , 10% discount on purchases at most Harriman (2-map set & book) $23.40 $17.55 +$3.50 ______outdoor stores, and 25% discount on all Trail Conference maps and books. NY & NJ Walk Books $38.60 $30.95 +$4.50 ______Save time and a tree by joining or renewing online at Shawangunk (3-map set & Scenes & Walks book) $21.65 $16.23 +$3.00 ______www.nynjtc.org. Just click on the Join/Renew button. Kittatinny (4-map set & book) $27.80 $20.85 +$3.00 ______MEMBERSHIP LEVEL DUES The Personal Touch Note Cards: TC Collection $12.00 $ 9.00 +$3.00 ______Senior Individual (65+) $25 Long-sleeve Denim Shirt Circle: S M L XL $29.90 $22.43 +$5.50 ______Senior Family (65+) $30 Polo Shirt (Forest Green) Circle: S M L XL $19.90 $14.93 +$5.50 ______Supporter $30 Trail Conference Baseball Cap $ 5.00 $ 3.75 +$2.10 ______Family $40 Trail Conference Logo Patch $ 2.50 $ 2.50 postpaid ______*Sponsor Individual $60 Long Path Logo Patch $ 2.75 $ 2.75 postpaid ______*Sponsor Family $75 Trail Conference Logo Decal $ .85 $ .85 postpaid ______*Benefactor Individual $120 Subtotal ______*Benefactor Family $150 Postage/handling from above ______*Life Individual $1,000 New Jersey residents add 7% tax* ______*Life Joint $1,500 TOTAL ENCLOSED $ ______Name ______Address ______Method of Payment: NAME City ______State ______Zip ______Check or money order enclosed Visa Mastercard Amex Day Phone ______Evening Phone ______ADDRESS Card #______E-MAIL ______CITY STATE ZIP Exp. Date: ___ /___ Check or money order enclosed Visa Mastercard Amex Signature: ______Card # ______Exp. Date: ____ / ____ EMAIL TELEPHONE Make check or money order payable to the NY-NJ Trail Conference, Make check or money order payable to NY-NJ Trail Conference, and mail to: 156 Ramapo Valley and mail to: 156 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah, NJ 07430. Road, Mahwah, NJ 07430. For a full descriptive catalog, please write or call 201-512-9348. *Tax must be paid on books, maps, misc., but not on clothing or shipping, by customers New Sponsor, Benefactor, and Life Members may elect to receive a with NJ ship-to (not billing) addresses. Prices are subject to change. (11/07) Trail Conference cap. Check here if you would like us to send you a cap. Tax-deductible. Dues are not refundable. YOU CAN ALSO ORDER AT OUR WEBSITE: WWW.NYNJTC.ORG