The

Cloudsplitter

Vol. 77 No. 1 January-March 2014

published by the ALBANY CHAPTER of the ADIRONDACK MOUNTAIN CLUB

The Cloudsplitter is published quarterly by the Albany Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club and is distributed to the membership. All issues (January, April, July, and October) feature activities schedules, trip reports, and other articles of interest to the outdoor enthusiast.

All outings should now be entered on the web site www.adk-albany.org . Echoes should be entered on the web site www.adk-albany.org with your login information.

The Albany Chapter may be Please send your address and For Club orders & membership For Cloudsplitter related issues, reached at: phone number changes to: call (800) 395-8080 or contact the Editor at: Albany Chapter ADK Adirondack Mountain Club e-mail: [email protected] The Cloudsplitter 814 Goggins Road home page: www.adk.org c/o Karen Ross P.O. Box 2116 , NY 12845-4117 7 Bird Road Albany, NY 12220 phone: (518) 668-4447 Lebanon Spgs., NY 12125 home page: fax: (518) 668-3746 e-mail: [email protected] www.adk-albany.org

Submission deadline for the next issue of The Cloudsplitter is February 15, 2014 and will be for the months of April, May, and June, 2014. Many thanks to Gail Carr for her drawing of snow laden winter woods.

January 8, February 5, and March 5 (1st Wednesdays--***except the Jan. 1 meeting will be Jan. 8) Business Meeting of Chapter Officers and Committees 6:00 p.m. at Little’s Lake in Menands Chapter members are encouraged to attend - please call John Sheehan at 674-8121

Chapter Meetings are held at the West Albany Fire House (Station #1), 113 Sand Creek Road, Albany. Education Sessions start at 6:30 prior to the membership meeting. Programs begin following the Chapter business meeting. Refreshments are served after the meetings.

January 14 (2nd Tuesday) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP MEETING 6:30 P.M. Education Session: Used Gear Sale: Bring your used gear to sell and look for some bargains at our annual sale. No education session will be held this month to make time (and room) for the sale. Program: Climbing Devils Tower-- Called “Grizzly Bear Lodge” by the Lakota, Devils Tower is a monolithic volcanic rock rising to over 5,000 feet in the Black Hills of Wyoming. It was the first National Monument in the U.S. and starred in the movie “Close Encounters of the Third Kind.” Only 1% of Devils Tower’s annual 400,000 visitors ever attempt to climb it. Tom Denham will show how he and his team climbed more than 600 vertical feet, a feat that tested him on every level.

February 11 (2nd Tuesday) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP MEETING 6:30 P.M. Education Session: PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons): Personal Locator Beacons and other personal electronics are being used more and more in the outdoors. We will examine pros and cons of using a PLB and will share ideas for use of other electronics while hiking and paddling Program: Alaska’s Katmai and Kenai Fjords National Parks-- Jake Bortscheller has spectacular photos of salmon, puffins, and bears (oh my!) he encountered when he visited these two Alaskan national parks, one of which is accessed only by float plane. The scenery is nothing short of stunning.

March 11 (2ndTuesday) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP MEETING 6:30 P.M. Education Session: Season Paddle Preview: Our chapter paddling chair, Rich Macha, will bring his crystal ball and will look into the prospects for paddling during the coming season. Rich will be glad to answer your canoe and kayak gear and technique questions as well as discuss places to paddle. Program: “The Mountains Will Wait for You”-- The story of Grace Hudowalski, the first woman to climb all 46 High Peaks, is lovingly told in this DVD narrated by Johnny Cash. Many an ADK member wrote to Grace over the years to share tales of climbing the Adirondacks heights. She always responded with enthusiasm and encouragement. Her devotion to the mountains and to mountaineers made her beloved. This is a special treat. Copies of the DVD will be available for purchase by special arrangement with the producer.

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ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE

PARTICIPANTS’ RESPONSIBILITIES

FITNESS: Know your level of fitness and limitations. The trip leader will ask questions about your experience, fitness, equipment, medical condition, expectations, etc. Be Honest!

TRIP RATINGS: Understand that the level of effort is not the same as the level of difficulty. Trip ratings are for level of effort. Realize that “moderate” for a physically fit person may mean outrageously strenuous for a novice and/or unconditioned person.

HIKERS EFFORT ELEVATION MILES TIME RATING LEVEL GAIN (FEET) (HOURS) A+ Very Strenuous 4,000+ 10+ 10+ A Strenuous 3,000+ 5 – 10 8 – 10 B+ Moderately Strenuous 2,000+ 5 – 10 6 – 8 B Moderate 1,000+ 8 --10 5 – 7 C+ Fairly Easy 1,000+ 5 – 8 4 – 6 C Easy Under 1,000 Under 5 Under 5

Not all trips fit cleanly into one of these categories. Whenever you are unclear about a rating for a trip, leaders will be happy to explain what their designated rating means.

PADDLERS MILES PORTAGES WATER CLASS A 12+ Long (½ mile+) II – Whitewater B 6 – 12 Short I – Moving C Under 6 None Flat

BIKERS MILES TERRAIN A 30+ Moderate to steep B 15-30 Moderate C Less than 15 Flat to Moderate

Please Note: Unless otherwise stated, please sign up with the leader for all Chapter activities. Do not simply show up at the designated meeting place. Arrive at the carpooling site before the stated departure time. Please pay the driver to offset the costs of driving. Do not bring a pet unless the trip leader agrees that it is okay, and bring a leash. Please stay with the group or ask to proceed and stop at the first intersection and wait for the entire group to re-assemble. You are expected to carry adequate equipment, water and food. If in doubt about what to bring, ask the trip leader! Suggestions for all seasons:

 Water: 2 - 3 Quarts  Layered Clothing (NO cotton)  Extra Socks  Hat  Shell (wind & rain)  Extra Sweater or Jacket  Headlamp  Gloves  Sturdy Boots  Sun Glasses/Screen (SPF 15)  First Aid Kit  Food  Map & Compass Waterproof Matches   Emergency Blanket

Winter Add-ons:  Skis or Snowshoes  Crampons  Ski Pole or Ice Axe  Extra Food  Warm liquids  Extra layers

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MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN

It seems like we've been talking about this forever, but it is big news. The Oct. 1st deadline for a decision on the classification of the newly purchased land around the Essex chain of lakes has been postponed for the state to gather more information. Fortunately, the ADK has been able to provide some of that information. Our Executive Director, Neil Woodworth was invited to spend an afternoon fishing with Governor Cuomo on Follensby Pond. Neil armed with a briefcase full of data to support our position that the land around the Chain Lakes should be a Wilderness Area. He was also armed with a one-day fishing license just in case a ranger decided to stop the Governor's boat. Neil came away with the feeling that it was a very productive day. One of the big controversies is the contention that the motorized crowd spends more money in the Park than hikers. Yes, they have big noisy machines and everyone notices them, but compared to hikers they are really not there much. Hikers are there week after week for all 4 seasons. On weekends, the 200 car parking lot at Heart lake is mostly full. Sometimes it's only a tank of gas or a cup of coffee but often it's a meal after a hike or even an extended stay at a motel. Year round, all this adds up, and we have statistics to show it. We tend to keep a lower profile than the motorized crowd and we may go unnoticed much of the time, but we are always there in numbers supporting the local economy. I suggest that we find a way to let the North Country merchants know that we are there for them. Politics aside, even though the classification is not yet determined, the area is open to the public. On Oct 1st when the Gooley Club lease expired there was an Albany Chapter paddle trip on the Chain Lakes. Reports are that it is a spectacular area. Curiosity also got the best of me, and I hiked the outer Gooley Club Road from the end of the Chain Lakes Road in the town of Indian Lake to the Cedar River. Although an old logging road does not feel like a real wilderness experience, it was a very pleasant hike and is very skiable. It remains to be seen how far Chain Lakes Road will be plowed in winter, but who cares-- we'll just ski the rest of the way. In other Chapter news: The 2014 fall outing hosted by the Albany Chapter is taking shape. The event will be held in the Keene Valley. The event will feature a conservation showcase and cocktail hour on Friday. After-hike activities on Saturday will include a spaghetti dinner and a folk concert. Sunday there will be a pancake breakfast and some short hikes for anyone interested. This is a Club-wide event so information can be found on the Club's main website and in the Adirondac magazine. Registration will open in the spring of 2014. I hope the Albany chapter will make a good showing. We also had another successful new member orientation on Nov 16th. About twenty people attended to learn what the club is all about and what we have to offer. At least from what I saw everyone left eager to get outdoors and play. See you out there.

--- John Sheehan, Winter, 2014

WINTER MOUNTAINEERING SCHOOL

January 31 to February 6, 2014

ADK is the sponsor again this year of the Winter Mountaineering School, held at the Adirondack Loj. The program offers a choice of 5 programs, including a weekend day hike program, a 3 Night Backpacking Trip, a 3-night advanced weekend backpack, a 4-Night Remote/Wilderness Backpack or a combo program of weekend day hikes and a 3-night backpack. At the WMS learn safe winter mountaineering and camping skills like hydration and nutrition, winter ascent techniques, and temperature management. Other topics include efficient gear use, risk management, and winter backpacking skills. The cost is $355- $420. Register by January 15, 2014. For more information go to www.winterschool.org.

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Note: If you plan to attend an outing, please arrive at the meeting place on time, and be prepared to drive, if possible.

4 THE CLOUDSPLITTER

January - March 2014 Vol. 77 No. 1

Albany Chapter - Adirondack Mountain Club Combined Activities Schedule

Month Day Destination or Event Leader Rating Jan 4 (Sat) Indian Head & Twin Kase B+ 4 (Sat) Bennett Hill Hart C 4 (Sat) Algonquin, Iroquois, & Wright Scaife A+ 5 (Sun) , Fire Tower Peak Royce B 10 (Fri) Mount Greylock Antonio B+ 11 (Sat) Balsam Lake & Graham Mtns. Susko A 11 (Sat) Mount Marshall Berens A+ 12 (Sun) Tirrell Pond Thru Ski Macha B 12 (Sun) Big Slide Shepherd A 14 (Tue) Rochester Hollow Henrikson C 14 (Tue) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING--Used Gear Sale & Devils Tower 15 (Wed) Woods Hollow XC Ski Traver C 17 (Fri) Merck Forest XC Ski Hart A 17 (Fri) Cedar River via Gooley Club Sheehan B 20 (Mon) Charleston State Forest XC Ski Macha B 23 (Thu) Cat & Thomas Mountain Breslin B 25 (Sat) Giant & Rocky Scaife A+ 25 (Sat) Kettle & Fork Mtns. Ski McGuire B 26 (Sun) Merck Forest XC Ski Macha B Feb 1 (Sat) TCT Snowshoe Robinson H. to Mattison H. Pisaneschi B 1 (Sat) Ski & Snowshoe Rosenblatt A+ 1 (Sat) Susko A 2 (Sun) Stony Pond to Irishtown XC Ski McGuire B 7 (Fri) Fifth Peak Antonio B 8 (Sat) , Armstrong and Upper Wolf Jaw Scaife A+ 9 (Sun) Moreau State Park Beginner Snowshoe Pacuk C 9 (Sun) Northville-Placid Trail to Rock Lake XC Ski Macha B 9 (Sun) Alander Sheehan B 11 (Tue) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING-- Alaska Katmai and Kenai NPs 12 (Wed) Bartholomew's Cobble Snowshoe Traver B 12 (Wed) Santanoni XC Ski Antonio B 15 (Sat) Colvin & Blake Hart A+ 16 (Sun) Avalanche Pass Ski Thru McGuire A 17 (Mon) Snow Hole XC Ski Macha B 19 (Wed) OK Slip Falls Henrikson B 19 (Wed) Hopkins via Mossy Cascade Brook Ross/McCarron B+ 21 (Fri) Hart A 22 (Sat) Kase B 22 (Sat) Haystack Scaife A+ 23 (Sun) Siamese Ponds XC Ski Macha A 27 (Thu) Grafton Lakes State Park Breslin C Mar 1 (Sat) Cliff & Redfield Berens A+ 2 (Sun) Santanoni Preserve XC Ski to Great Camp Royce B 6 (Thu) Dyken Pond Environmental Center Breslin C 7 (Fri) Noonmark Antonio B+ 7-8 (Fri-Sat) Seward, Donaldson & Emmons Berens A+ 9 (Sun) XC Ski Macha B 11 (Tue) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING--Grace Hudawolski DVD 12 (Wed) Hadley Mtn. Snowshoe Traver B

5 Month Day Destination or Event Leader Rating Mar 15 (Sat) , & Thomas Cole Kase B+ 16 (Sun) Whiteface & Esther Ski & Snowshoe Scaife A+ 16 (Sun) Leader’s Choice Ski McGuire B 21 (Fri) Westkill Susko B 23 (Sun) Leader's Choice XC Ski Macha B 23 (Sun) Harmon Hill Sheehan C+ 29 (Sat) Macomb, , Hough & Dix Berens A+

All outings are listed online at www.adk-albany.org DON’T FORGET TO OPT OUT

if the wind is fierce, there's a cabin just below it ACTIVITIES where you can hunker down for lunch. It’s a relatively short hike and not too difficult, but it is a continuously up-hill ascent of almost high peak DESCRIPTIONS status. Since this is an early winter hike, micro spikes or their equivalent would be handy as Jan 4 (Sat) INDIAN HEAD & TWIN (B+) would ski poles. Layered clothing and a wind This outing will visit two Catskill High Peaks. shell for hanging around on top are advised, as Both summits have good views. Snowshoes and is a thermos with a hot drink. Meet 7:30 a.m. at crampons are required. Plan on seven miles and the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Please be 2300’ of ascent. Leader: Tim Kase, 766-4264, prompt and prepared to share the car pool as a [email protected] driver or help pay to for the cost of the trip to the driver. Email or call before 9:30 p.m. Jan 4 (Sat) BENNETT HILL (C) Leader: Nola Royce, 439-0491, Bennett Hill is a wonderful local asset in nearby [email protected] Clarksville. The hike will be a Saturday winter hike featuring views of the Helderbergs, Albany Jan 10 (Fri) MOUNT GREYLOCK (B+) and beyond. We will take an easy pace over a "From pastoral Haley Farm, you will hike through distance of 3.5 miles and 400’ of elevation - lush (but not in January) woodlands to the perfect for testing out winter gear or for those Appalachian Trail in the state's only true boreal wanting an introduction to winter hiking. forest - arguably the most scenic route to the Conditions will dictate the type of "gription" summit." The distance is 8.5 miles, and the devices to use. Leader: Tom Hart, 229-5627, elevation gain is 2390’. Meet 7:30 a.m. at the [email protected] Brunswick Walmart Park & Ride. Leader: John Antonio, 462-2765 Jan 4 (Sat) ALGONQUIN, IROQUOIS & WRIGHT (A+) Jan 11 (Sat) BALSAM LAKE & GRAHAM (A) The walk from Algonquin to Iroquois traverses Balsam Lake Mtn. has a fire tower, and Graham the longest exposed ridge in the High Peaks. has good views near the summit. We'll hike in The views can be wonderful, but the wind can from the Mill Brook Road trailhead, mostly along be brutally cold. Last year high winds and low old woods roads. Balsam Lake is #16 and visibility kept us from visiting Iroquois in Graham is #7 on the list of Catskill 3500 peaks. February. This year we'll try again earlier in the The distance is about 10 miles with around winter season. Full winter gear, including 2000’ of ascent. At this time of year snowshoes, balaclava or face mask (no exposed skin crampons or other traction devices may be allowed!), and ski goggles are required. This will needed. Leader: John Susko, 383-1284, be 11 miles with 4800' of elevation gain. Plan to [email protected] depart Exit 9 Park-and-Ride at 5:00 a.m. Leader: Bob Scaife, [email protected] Jan 11 (Sat) MOUNT MARSHALL (A+) 439-7322. We will hike from Upper Works via the trail to the beautiful Herbert Brook herd path to Mount Jan 5 (Sun) HADLEY MT FIRE TOWER (B) Marshall. It's about 14.4 miles round trip with Hadley Mountain affords wonderful views from over 2500’ of climbing. Bring seasonal gear, lots the tower, even if you don't go up it. The rocky to eat and drink, a headlamp with fresh summit is open in just about every direction and, batteries, and a persevering spirit. Depart 5:00

6 a.m. Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: Don Berens, 783-1302, [email protected] Jan 14 (Tue) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING 113 Sand Creek Road, Albany, NY Jan 12 (Sun) TIRRELL POND THRU SKI (B) We will ski from near the Adirondack Museum to Educational Session at 6:30 p.m.-- Used Gear Lake Durant. The trail drops about 500' before Sale. Bring your used gear to sell and look for reaching Tirrell Pond and is lots of fun in good some bargains at our annual sale. No education conditions. We'll stop for a relaxed lunch break session will be held this month to make time (make sure you bring extra warm clothing like a (and room) for the sale. down jacket, hand warmers, hot drink, etc.) at one of the lean-tos on the pond. Skiing across Program at 7:30--- A brief business meeting will the pond, we will have great views of Blue & be followed by a presentation--Climbing Devils Tirrell Mountains. We'll then be on the Northville- Tower: Called “Grizzly Bear Lodge” by the Placid Trail heading south the rest of the way. Lakota, Devils Tower is a monolithic volcanic It's 8 miles total. Please check gear list on the rock rising to over 5,000 feet in the Black Hills of Activities Schedule page and add gaiters, extra Wyoming. It was the first National Monument in gloves/mittens & duct tape. Please include the U.S. and starred in the movie “Close telephone number(s) if signing up by email. Encounters of the Third Kind.” Only 1% of Destination will be changed if I know snow Devils Tower’s annual 400,000 visitors ever conditions are much better elsewhere. I seldom attempt to climb it. Tom Denham will show how cancel a trip. Leader: Rich Macha, 346-3180, he and his team climbed more than 600 vertical [email protected] feet, a feat that tested him on every level.

Jan 12 (Sun) BIG SLIDE (A) I'm working on my winter round of the high peaks and have not visited Big Slide since it Jan 15 (Wed) WOODS HOLLOW XC SKI (C) made #3 on my list two years ago. It's well past Woods Hollow Nature Preserve, in Ballston Spa, time to pay another visit to this fun high peak offers around three or four miles of gentle with great views! We'll head up to the summit via terrain. Wide trails through the woods and the Brothers and come back the same route. narrower sections by the small reservoir and a The trip is about 9.4 mile RT with 2800’ of swamp require snowplow and herringbone skills. elevation gain. Hopefully, there will be enough These are essential! Let's hope for some fresh snow to snowshoe the entire way, but bring powder, but we'll walk the area if skiing isn't micro-spikes just in case. Warm layers and possible. Because this is a short outing, I am plenty of food and fluids will be needed for this considering including a stop at the Whistling trip. The meeting location will be in Queensbury Kettle in Ballston on the way back for tea and a for those interested in a carpool and, depending snack. http://www.thewhistlingkettle.com/. When on the amount of interest in the hike, more than you email me with your interest in this ski trip, let one driver may be needed. Email contact is me know if you would also like to go to the faster and preferred (please include full name Whistling Kettle. and contact number), and no phone calls after Leader: Virginia Boyle Traver, 322-0950, 7:00 p.m. Please sign up no later than Friday [email protected] before the hike. Bad weather will cancel. See you on the trails! Leader: Jen Shepherd, 312- Jan 17 (Fri) MERCK FOREST XC SKI (A) 0133, [email protected] The Master's Mountain Trail has been cleared of blowdown in the last year by the great trail crews Jan 14 (Tue) ROCHESTER HOLLOW (C) at Merck Forest. We'll take the ski trail up Mt. Rochester Hollow, in Big Indian, NY is an Antone to access Master's Mountain Trail and its intriguing preserve in the Catskills. The woods fabulous set of nearly 30 switchbacks. The are full of old stone fences which are tall and in return trip will be via the more gradual Old Town very good condition. There are a couple of loop Road. This will be a long route through Merck trails that will allow us to explore the scene in Forest requiring reasonable cross country ski winter. The area was described in a recent experience. Total distance is 8 miles, with a total edition of Adirondac. Snowshoes and/or of 1800' ascent. Meet at Brunswick Walmart microspikes may be required. Meet 8:00 a.m. at Park & Ride. Leader: Tom Hart, 229-5627, the Delmar Elm Ave./Rt. 32 Park & Ride. We'll [email protected] hike about 5 miles with 500’ of ascent. Leader: Katie Henrikson, [email protected] 533-7441.

7 Jan 17 (Fri) CEDAR RIVER Jan 25 (Sat) KETTLE & FORK MTNS. SKI (B) via GOOLEY CLUB XC SKI (B) This ski trip is entirely off trail. These two This newly acquired parcel was recently added mountaintops overlook the Gorge. to the Forest Preserve and was opened to public The approach is through a moderately level access. An old dirt road from the terminus of hardwood forest with a last pitch of 150’ to the Chain Lakes Rd. off of Rt. 28 in the town of summit of Kettle Mtn. where we will have a view Indian Lake will make a nice easy ski to the of OK Slip Falls. We will then ski south about 1- Cedar River. It's lots of easy and fun ups and 1/2 miles to the summit of Fork Mtn. Total downs but nothing that will require real back distance is about 6-1/2 miles, all off trail, so country skills. Plan on 8 to 10 miles, depending expect to share in trail breaking. The destination on the extent of road plowing. Meet at the may be changed if I feel conditions warrant it. Clifton Park Exit 9 Park & Ride at 7:30 a.m. Leader: Tom McGuire, 391-0508, Leader: John Sheehan, 674-8121, [email protected] [email protected] Jan 26 (Sun) MERCK FOREST XC SKI (B) Jan 20 (Mon) CHARLESTON STATE Merck Forest and Farmland Center FOREST XC SKI (B) (www.merckforest.org) in Rupert, VT (not far Charleston State Forest sits on a high elevation from Salem, NY) has many miles of wide forest (1200') plateau about 10 miles southwest of roads that are great for skiing. The area is hilly Amsterdam and has over 20 miles of designated and so it’s best for the intermediate skier. We ski trails--and most of them are easy skiing. will ski to one of the high points, Mount Antone We'll start in the southeast part of the forest and or Spruce Peak, and enjoy the downhill run from make a loop, passing a couple of beaver ponds. there. Expect at least 1000' of gross elevation Expect to be out for 4 to 5 hours. Please check change and to be out for 4 to 6 hours. Please gear list on the Activities Schedule page and check gear list on the Activities Schedule page add gaiters, extra gloves/mittens and duct tape. and add gaiters, extra gloves/mittens and duct Please include telephone number(s) if signing tape. Please include telephone number(s) if up by email. Destination will be changed if I signing up by email. Destination will be changed know snow conditions are much better if I know snow conditions are much better elsewhere. Leader: Rich Macha, 346-3180, elsewhere. I seldom cancel a trip. Leader: Rich [email protected] Macha, 346-3180, [email protected]

Jan 23 (Thu) CAT & THOMAS MTNS. (B) Feb 1 (Sat) TCT SNOWSHOE--ROBINSON I haven't hiked these trails in winter nor since the HOLLOW TO MATTISON HOLLOW (B) State bought them. Lake George Land This will be a snowshoe trip, but we'll hike it if Conservancy still maintains this area. I plan to there is no snow. We'll be starting at Robinson make a loop by taking Trail 59 to the cabin on Hollow and we'll come out through the Mattison Thomas Mountain, then the Richard Hayes Hollow Access Trail. The total trip distance will Phillips Trail to Cat Mountain, and then the be about 8 miles. Leader: Dave Pisaneschi, 459- logging trail with some recent reroutes (due to 5969, [email protected] terrain damage) back to the trail head. The total distance will be around seven miles, and the Feb 1 (Sat) SAWTEETH SKI & ascent is about 800’. There are lots of nice SNOWSHOE (A+) views along these trails, at the cabin, and at the Let's take advantage of winter to ski the 3.8 top of Cat. Be sure to bring microspikes or miles from the parking lot of the Ausable Club similar. E-mail sign-up preferred. Leader: Paul out to the dam at Lower Ausable Lake via the Breslin, 783-9154, [email protected] Lake Road. We'll then put on our snowshoes and ascend 1.7 miles to the col between Jan 25 (Sat) GIANT AND ROCKY (A+) Sawteeth and Pyramid before climbing the last One of the most enjoyable experiences in High .5 miles to the summit of Sawteeth. If time Peaks snowshoeing is making the steep descent permits, we'll visit Rainbow Falls after we from Giant toward Rocky in deep, fresh powder. descend, then put our skis back on for the long, We'll attempt to enjoy this pleasure and the gradual (700’), but speedy descent to our cars, many others provided by a wintry and having covered a total of 12 miles. Group size mountainous day in the course of our 10 mile, will be limited to 8. Email contact preferred. 4400' climb to Giant and Rocky. Depart 5:00 Leader: Marie Rosenblatt, 723-0223, a.m. from the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. [email protected] Leader: Bob Scaife, 439-7322, [email protected]

8 Feb 1 (Sat) KAATERSKILL HIGH PEAK (A) Feb 9 (Sun) MOREAU STATE PARK Kaaterskill High Peak is one of the Catskill 3500' BEGINNER SNOWSHOE (C) peaks. We'll hike in from the Platte Clove Road This hike is designed for individuals who want to trailhead along old woods roads, snowmobile learn to snowshoe or to try it again. It is a trails and herd paths. The summit of Graham beautiful hike around Moreau Lake of 1.5 to 3 has no views, but there are good views to the miles with almost no climbing. If you don't own south from Hurricane Ledge near the summit. snowshoes, I can give you information on The distance is 9-10 miles with about 2000’ of renting them. Families are welcome. Children ascent. At this time of year, snowshoes and/or under 18 have to be accompanied by a parent. crampons may be required. Leader: John Call before 2/5 to sign up and for the meeting Susko, 383-1284, [email protected] time and place. Leader: Kathy Pacuk, 756-6529, [email protected] Feb 2 (Sun) STONY POND TO IRISHTOWN XC SKI (B) Feb 9 (Sun) NORTHVILLE-PLACID TRAIL We will leave some cars in Irishtown and begin TO ROCK LAKE XC SKI (B) our 2-mile ski to Stony Pond from Rte. 28N. We Starting from Benson, we'll ski the southern end will make a side trip to Center Pond for lunch of the NPT to Rock Lake, gaining 700' in the and will return to Stony Pond and continue on an process, then we'll enjoy the run back out. It's 10 850' descent to the Sherman Ponds and miles total. Please check gear list on the Irishtown. Intermediate skills will be needed for Activities Schedule page and add gaiters, extra this 8-1/2 mile trip. The destination may be gloves/mittens, hand warmers and duct tape. changed if conditions warrant it. Leader: Tom Please include telephone number(s) if signing McGuire, 391-0508, [email protected] up by email. The destination will be changed if I know snow conditions are much better Feb 7 (Fri) FIFTH PEAK (B) elsewhere. I seldom cancel a trip. Leader: Rich It's the first Friday in February --- time for our Macha, 346-3180, [email protected] annual "Hot Dog Hike." This year we will start at the Northwest Bay Trailhead and snowshoe Feb 9 (Sun) ALANDER (B) from Clay Meadows, heading to the lean-to on For the past three years, weather or lack thereof Fifth Peak. "This is one of the most popular has prevented me from experiencing my favorite destinations on the Tongue Mountain Range, mountain in the South Taconic range in winter partly because of the promontory beyond the conditions. Let's try again. We will approach the lean-to with its exceptional views of the lake." climb from Bashbish Falls along the South Plan on a five mile round trip with approximately Taconic trail. The trip will be 6.8 miles with about 1300’ of elevation change. Meet 8:00 a.m. at the 1000 ft. of ascent. Most of that ascent is in the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: John very beginning of the hike with a pleasant ridge Antonio, 462-2765 walk to the summit. There are some short steep sections, so good traction under foot is Feb 8 (Sat) GOTHICS, ARMSTRONG & essential. There is a cabin near the top where UPPER WOLF JAW (A+) we can enjoy lunch in the event of bad weather. Gothics is particularly beautiful in winter when Meet at the Defreestville Park & Ride at 8:00 the prevailing winds sweeping its magnificent a.m. Leader: John Sheehan, 674-8121, northwest face drift the snow deeply on the [email protected] summit ridge. We'll take an adventurous approach up the 'Cable Route,' though the cable may well be hidden away under the snow and Feb 11 (Tue) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING ice (bring your crampons!). We'll traverse the 113 Sand Creek Road, Albany, NY wonderfully open summit ridge of Gothics, take a quick jaunt up Armstrong's summit ledge and Educational Session at 6:30 p.m.-- PLB’s and then slip, slide and plunge down its steep and Other Electronics. Personal Locator Beacons icy north face. After descending the Jaw of the and other personal electronics are being used Wolf without getting bitten by its icy ledges, we'll more and more in the outdoors. We will examine enjoy a pleasantly relaxing stroll back to the pros and cons of using a PLB and will share Garden in the deepening chill of a winter ideas for use of other electronics while hiking afternoon. Depart 4:00 a.m. from the Northway and paddling. Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: Bob Scaife, 439- 7322, [email protected] Program at 7:30--- A brief business meeting will be followed by a presentation, Alaska’s Katmai and Kenai Fjords National Parks. Jake

9 Bortscheller has spectacular photos of salmon, Feb 17 (Mon) SNOW HOLE XC SKI (B) puffins, and bears (oh my!) he encountered We'll ski at elevations over 2000' on the Taconic when he visited these two Alaskan national Crest Trail north of Petersburgh Pass on Route parks, one of which is accessed only by float 2 at the NY/MA border. There are some good plane. The scenery is nothing short of stunning. hills along the way and we'll have a nice view from White Rocks down to the Rensselaer Plateau and beyond. It will be 6 miles total. Feb 12 (Wed) BARTHOLOMEW'S COBBLE Please check gear list on the Activities Schedule SNOWSHOE (B) page and add gaiters, extra gloves/mittens and Bartholomew's Cobble is a beautiful area in the duct tape. Please include telephone number(s) if Southern Berkshires owned by the Trustees of signing up by email. Destination will be changed Reservations. Trails wind through rocky if I know snow conditions are much better outcroppings, along the Housatonic River, and elsewhere. Leader: Rich Macha, 346-3180, to Hulburt's Hill, which offers views of [email protected] surrounding mountains. We will snowshoe between 4 and 5 miles with 1000’ of elevation Feb 19 (Wed) OK SLIP FALLS (B) gain. Email contact preferred. Leader: Virginia The state has not officially opened the trail to OK Boyle Traver, 322-0950, Slip Falls, but I have been there and can find it [email protected] again. The trail is unmarked for part of its length, but is not difficult to follow. The falls are quite Feb 12 (Wed) SANTANONI XC SKI (B) dramatic in warm weather, and we will hope to We'll ski 10 miles round trip to the Great Camp find them frozen. Microspikes or snowshoes will at Santanoni. It is a classic ski trip for sure. If be required. Meet 8:00 a.m. at the Northway Exit you have not done it, this is a trip not to be 9 Park & Ride. The distance will be about 6 missed and, if you have done it, this is a trip that miles with 500’ of ascent, and the group will be never gets old. The conditions are almost limited to ten people. Leader: Katie Henrikson, always excellent, and there is very little elevation 533-7441, [email protected] change. Meet at 7:30 a.m. at the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: John Antonio, 462-2765 Feb 19 (Wed) HOPKINS via MOSSY CASCADE BROOK (B+) Feb 15 (Sat) COLVIN & BLAKE (A+) Hopkins' open rocky summit offers an amazing By mid-February we're already at 10.5 hours of vista, including the whole . So we'll daylight. We will hope for enough snow for an hope for clear views. It's 6.3 miles and 2120' easy approach on skis via the Lake Road and vertical up through the old hemlocks that line the will switch out to snowshoes after the cutoff trail. Mossy Cascade Brook Trail to the 3183' top. Snow conditions will dictate how far, how fast Today is "National Chocolate Mint Day," so be and what gear we will use, but we hope to ski prepared. Winter footgear required. Meet 7:30 out on the road with the 'slow shoes' neatly a.m. at the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. packed on our backs. Both peaks add up to a Leaders: Karen Ross, 794-7474, 14.6 mile hike (5.2 of which will be on skis) with [email protected]; Lori McCarron, 587-1957, 4100' of elevation gain. Only moderate skiing [email protected] ability required. Meet at 4:00 a.m. at Northway Exit 9 Park and Ride. Leader: Tom Hart, Feb 21 (Fri) PITCHOFF MOUNTAIN (A) [email protected] 229-5627, Pitchoff is one of the easier ridge hikes offering great views and varied terrain. Notable features Feb 16 (Sun) AVALANCHE PASS SKI (A) are Balanced Rock, which is the reward at the We will have two groups, one starting from the top of the relatively steep start of the hike, and Upper Works and skiing north through the the sleeping "elephant" at the end of the ridge. Flowed Lands and the second starting at the Loj We will spot cars to avoid the 2.7 mile walk and skiing south through Avalanche Pass. The along Rt. 73. The hike is 5.6 miles with 1400' of two groups will meet up in the Lake Colden ascent through some rugged terrain and multiple area, have lunch, exchange car keys and summits with accompanying rocky descents. If continue on in our respective directions. We will you're looking to step up to an intermediate level later meet for dinner and swap cars again. The hike in winter conditions, this is a good one to distance is about 14-miles. Since both directions try. Good traction will be needed. Meet at the will require climbing, skins are recommended Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: Tom Hart, but not required. Leader: Tom McGuire, 391- 229-5627, [email protected] 0508, [email protected]

10 Feb 22 (Sat) WINDHAM HIGH PEAK (B) persevering spirit. Depart 3:30 a.m. from the This outing is a nice snowshoe to a Catskill High Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: Don Peak with good views. It will be seven miles and Berens, 783-1302, [email protected] 1600’ of ascent. Leader: Tim Kase, 766-4264, [email protected] Mar 2 (Sun) SANTANONI PRESERVE XC SKI TO GREAT CAMP (B) Feb 22 (Sat) HAYSTACK (A+) A XC ski trip into the great camp at Santanoni What can be said? Haystack is the most Preserve is a delight, and I try to do this at least mountainous mountain of the Adirondacks. It's a once a year. Come join me this March, when high, remote, imposing pyramid, treeless and there should be lots of snow and slightly warmer swept by gale-force winds. What better time to sunnier skies. This is a moderate ski trip of 10 visit this challenging peak than late February miles, so bring sufficient munchies, a hot drink, when the winter has mellowed (we hope!) and and layered clothing to be cool while skiing and the days are lengthening? We'll steadily tick off warm while hanging around the camp. There's the landmarks as we march 8 miles up the lots to explore as they've been renovating for Johns Brook valley past JBL, Bushnell Falls, some time now. Meet 7:30 a.m. at the Northway Basin Brook, Slant Rock, and finally the Range Exit 9 Park & Ride. Please be prompt and Trail. After a steep ascent, we top out on the prepared to share the car pool as a driver or hogback ridge where the wind chills us and help pay to for the cost of the trip to the driver. Haystack looms ahead. Always a wow! Plan on Email or call before 9:30 p.m. Leader: Nola 18 miles and 4100' of ascent. Depart 4:00 a.m. Royce, 439-0491, [email protected] from the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: Bob Scaife, 439-7322, [email protected] Mar 6 (Thu) DYKEN POND (C) I have never been to this Rensselaer County Feb 23 (Sun) SIAMESE PONDS XC SKI (A) operated Environmental Center. There are Starting from Route 8, we'll ski over the shoulder several trails to choose from. I am leaning of 11th Mountain (both uphill and downhill can toward the Long Trail, which is about four miles. be challenging in both directions, so you might If we snowshoe, that is all we will do. If we end want to bring along climbing skins) and then up hiking due to lack of snow, we'll add a couple along the East Branch of the Sacandaga River. more miles. There is very little elevation gain on After a short break at the lean-to, we'll cross the these trails. Meet-up location and time will be river on a good bridge and continue to the determined by participants. E-mail sign-up Siamese Ponds. It will be 13 miles total. Please preferred. Leader: Paul Breslin, 783-9154, check gear list on the Activities Schedule page [email protected] and add gaiters, extra gloves/mittens, hand warmers and duct tape. Please include Mar 7 (Fri) NOONMARK (B+) telephone number(s) if signing up by email. This will be a 6.6 mile round trip with 2000’ of Destination will be changed if I know snow elevation gain. We'll climb via Round Pond and conditions are much better elsewhere. I seldom the Felix Adler Trail. The last two winter trips cancel a trip. Leader: Rich Macha, 346-3180, required not only aggressive snow shoes, but [email protected] we found crampons and ropes to be necessary. Meet 7:30 a.m. at the Northway Exit 9 Park & Feb 27 (Thu) GRAFTON LAKES SP (C) Ride. Leader: John Antonio, 462-2765 We'll try to take advantage of the snow that usually accumulates on the Rensselaer Plateau. Mar 7-8 (Fr-Sa) SEWARD, DONALDSON & The plan is to hike around Long Pond and, for EMMONS (A+) those who want to continue, we'll hike over to It'll be late winter and you'll be really fit, right? Shaver Pond. Plan on four to six miles total with This will be an ambitious and strenuous day trip minimal elevation gain. If there's no snow, it will of 22 miles and 4500’ of climbing from the winter be a hike. Meet-up location and time will be trailhead on Corey's Road via the Calkins Brook determined by participants. E-mail sign-ups herd path to three herd path peaks. Bring preferred. Leader: Paul Breslin, 783-9154, seasonal gear, lots to eat and drink (no joke), a [email protected] head lamp with fresh batteries (really!), and a persevering spirit. To get an early start well Mar 1 (Sat) CLIFF AND REDFIELD (A+) before sunrise, we will stay in the north country This is an ambitious and strenuous day-trip of 19 on Friday night. Sign up by March 1. Leader: miles with 3500’ of climbing to two herd path Don Berens, 783-1302, [email protected] peaks. Bring seasonal gear, lots to eat and drink, a headlamp with fresh batteries and a

11 Mar 9 (Sun) GORE MOUNTAIN XC SKI (B) Mar 15 (Sat) BLACKHEAD, BLACK DOME Now that I have your attention, we will not be & THOMAS COLE (B+) skiing to the top of the mountain. Starting at the This outing will visit the three Catskill High Old Farm Trailhead near 13th Lake, we will take Peaks of the Blackhead Range. There will be the Halfway Brook Trail to The Vly where we will lots of steep climbing and descents. Snowshoes have a good view of Gore. After crossing Barton and crampons are required. Distance is eight Mines Rd., we will go a short distance on the miles and the ascent is 2900’. Leader: Tim Raymond Brook Trail before veering off it and Kase, 766-4264, [email protected] following a trail around the east side of Pete Gay Mountain with views to the High Peaks. Our Mar 16 (Sun) WHITEFACE & ESTHER SKI destination will be Ive's Dam, not far from the ski & SNOWSHOE (A+) trails on the north side of Gore. It will be mostly When conditions are favorable, skiing the toll downhill on the way back. Please check gear list road is a great way to get to Whiteface. For on the Activities Schedule page and add gaiters, those like myself with only modest skiing ability, extra gloves/mittens and duct tape. Please the trip to Esther is best done on snowshoes. include telephone number(s) if signing up by We'll ski up the road to the stone wall at the email. Destination will be changed if I know Wilmington turn, switch to our snowshoes for a snow conditions are much better elsewhere. I jaunt to Esther and back, ascend to Whiteface seldom cancel a trip. Leader: Rich Macha, 346- by way of the trail that follows the ridge crest, 3180, [email protected] and then enjoy 5 miles of blissful zip on the way back to our cars. Anyone not wishing to ski is Mar 11 (Tue) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING welcome to 'slow-shoe' in both directions. It will 113 Sand Creek Road, Albany, NY be 13 miles with 3900' of elevation gain. Depart 5:00 a.m. from the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Educational Session at 6:30 p.m.-- Paddle Leader: Bob Scaife, 439-7322, Season Preview. Our chapter paddling chair, [email protected] Rich Macha, will bring his crystal ball and will look into the prospects for paddling during the Mar 16 (Sun) LEADER’S CHOICE XC SKI (B) coming season. Rich will be glad to answer your March is traditionally the snowiest month in the canoe & kayak gear & technique questions as North Country, so we'll find some nice conditions well as discuss places to paddle. and make a good day of backcountry skiing. The total distance will be about 10 to 12 miles. Program at 7:30--- A brief business meeting will Leader: Tom McGuire, 391-0508, be followed by a presentation, “The Mountains [email protected] Will Wait for You.” The story of Grace Hudowalski, the first woman to climb all 46 High Mar 21 (Fri) WESTKILL (B) Peaks, is lovingly told in this DVD narrated by This is one of the more attractive hikes in the Johnny Cash. Many an ADK member wrote to Catskills with good views near the top and trails Grace over the years to share tales of climbing that follow two streams. If conditions are right, the Adirondacks heights. She always we will spot cars and make this a through hike. responded with enthusiasm and The distance is 6-8 miles with 2000’ of ascent. encouragement. Her devotion to the mountains At this time of year, snowshoes and crampons and to mountaineers made her beloved. This is or other traction may be needed. Leader: John a special treat. Copies of the DVD will be Susko, 383-1284, [email protected] available for purchase by special arrangement with the producer. Mar 23 (Sun) LEADER'S CHOICE SKI (B) Ahhhh! Spring skiing! We'll go wherever I think the best snow conditions are - it could be the Mar 12 (Wed) HADLEY MTN. (B) Adirondacks, southern Vermont or someplace Hadley Mountain is such a wonderful snowshoe else. Expect 8 to 12 miles of intermediate hike. The last time I offered this trip in March, we backcountry ski touring. Please check gear list had no snow and an 80 degree day! Here's on the Activities Schedule page and add gaiters, hoping for spring snow conditions and seasonal extra gloves/mittens and duct tape. Please temperatures, with sun on the summit for a include telephone number(s) if signing up by perfect late winter outing. We will snowshoe 3.6 email. Destination will be changed if I know miles with 1500' elevation gain. Email contact snow conditions are much better elsewhere. I preferred. Leader: Virginia Boyle Traver, 322- seldom cancel a trip. Leader: Rich Macha, 346- 0950, [email protected] 3180, [email protected]

12 Mar 23 (Sun) HARMON HILL (C+) Mar 29 (Sat) MACOMB, SOUTH DIX, Harmon Hill is along Vermont's Long Trail, just HOUGH AND DIX (A+) south of Bennington. The hike is only about 4 This will be an ambitious and strunuous day trip miles round trip with about 1200 ft. of climbing. of over 20 miles with about 5000’ of climbing to Most of that climb is in the beginning of the hike four peaks, three of them without maintained with some sections being steep enough to need trails. Macomb has a slide that might be icy. good traction under foot. Since we will be on the Bring seasonal gear including both snowshoes Long Trail, we will have the option of exploring a and full crampons (micro or other short spikes little further if we want a better work out. Meet at may not be enough), lots to eat and drink, a 8:00 a.m. at the Brunswick Park & Ride in the headlamp with fresh batteries, and a Walmart plaza on Rt. 7. Leader: John Sheehan, persevering spirit. Depart 3:30 a.m. from the 674-8121, [email protected] Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: Don Berens, 783-1302, [email protected]

ECHOES FROM THE TRAIL

Jul 21 (Sun) RACE & BEAR MTNS. Leader: John Sheehan Scheduled for July 19th, the hike did not happen until the 21st. I scheduled this hike for July for a couple of reasons. Blueberries are abundant on both peaks in mid July and also, the trail takes us through Sages Ravine which is cool and refreshing with a lively brook flowing through it. The extreme heat of this year's early summer, however, was too much for even for this natural air conditioner. With the forecast calling for the heat wave to break, we postponed the hike to Sunday, the 21st. Less than half of the original sign-ups were able to make it on the alternate day. Joining me on this interstate adventure were Lori McCaron, John Antonio and Sandry Foley. The hike took us over the peak of Race Mtn. in southern Massachusetts and to Bear Mountain, the highest peak in Connecticut. Sages Ravine is between the two peaks just about at the sate line. The stream through the ravine had a reasonable flow, while Race Brook, which we crossed on our ascent of Race Mtn., was at minimal flow. In spite of all the rain we got in late spring the extreme heat of early summer seemed to have taken its toll on these normally lively streams. We did find blueberries on Race Mtn. and with a small group of fast hikers, we were able to spend a little time feasting on these morsels. The other reason for scheduling this hike in July was to encounter some through-hikers on the Appalachian Trail (AT). It's always interesting to talk to people who are dedicating about six months of their lives to a 2200 mile hike. You can usually identify the through-hikers on the AT by the olfactory evidence, but we noticed that that was not the case on this hike. We wondered why until we got to Sages Ravine and guessed that they took advantage of this refreshing stream to wash up. On the way up Bear Mtn. we ran into another through-hiker and that guess was confirmed. At the peak of Bear Mtn. hikers are greeted by a 10' high pyramid-shaped cairn, large enough to climb for fantastic views north and east. Although the blueberries on Bear were somewhat scarce, the trip down was a pleasant and relaxing walk through an interesting forest to a spotted car at the trail head.

Aug 3 (Sat) WINDHAM HIGH PEAK Leader: Martha Waldman We started off at the Rte. 23 parking area. The weather was dry and very pleasant for August; it was in the low-mid 70s, with a mix of sun and clouds and just enough of a breeze to keep the mosquitoes away. We enjoyed hiking through beautiful evergreens on the way to the summit. Although there was a bit of haze, the views from the top were still good. As we were finishing a relaxing lunch someone noticed a large garter snake basking on a nearby rock. The snake posed for a couple of pictures, then went on his way. We decided it was also our time to return. Enjoying the hike were the leader Martha Waldman, Michael Bonatto, Austin Fisher, Claire Fisher, Dick Irving, Sue Jordan, Kathy McAuley, Cliff Prewencki, Cindy Squadere and Ingrid Wilke.

Aug 18 (Sun) ROUND MOUNTAIN Leader: John Sheehan Round Mtn. in Keene Valley is one of those low peaks with High Peaks views. I know I've said that before, but I feel compelled to schedule this trip once in a while just to share the view with other hikers. On this trip, those other hikers were Jake Bortscheller, Thea Hoeth, John Antonio, Ingrid Wilke, Kathy

13 Sheppard and Linda Sheehan. Since this was a dogless hike, I decided to approach the mountain from the Ausable Club. It's a little more of a climb, but the ascent up the old Dix Trail is steady but gradual. There was no real scrambling until we turned onto the Round Mtn. Trail. Some hikers love these hand- assist rock scrambles while others are intimidated by them. We had both groups represented. The top offered the same views as always. It never changes but it never gets old. We saw to the east the Giant Mtn. Wilderness Area, to the north the Great Range, to the south The , and to the west the heart of the high peaks region. After an extended lunch break with plenty of time to soak up the views, we headed down the Round Mtn. trail back to the parking lot to complete the loop.

Aug 18 (Sun) SNOWY MOUNTAIN SLIDE Leader: Tom Hart Snowy Mountain slide is a must do! We bounced around a bit finding the trailhead and quickly made it to the large huercos boulder field. What a fun place to play on garage-sized rocks full of solution holes, cracks, overhangs and caves. The leader extended the trip with a nice bushwhack to the east of the skiers' herdpath, passing along streams, ledges and raspberry patches with lots of bear sign. The group reached the slides entering the eastern most mossy slide before traversing to the main slide's base. A change of footwear and snack preceded the slide climb. Dry conditions and mostly sticky shoes made for a fun but steep ascent, made safer by the many lateral breaks across the slide with short brush and trees. Lunch and photo ops awaited at the top of the slide where a few of the party bushwhacked to the very top to view the cliffs of Snowy Mountain (the slide is not on Snowy, but an adjacent subsidiary peak). A large animal was heard nearby, presumably our bear companion. The quick descent to the slide's base led to the herd path and a very quick return to the boulder field and then on to the cars. Dinner was enjoyed by all at Basil & Wicks where we made plans to return to the slide in winter. All-in-all, a great Sunday hike! Joining in on the fun were Bob Scaife, Marie Rosenblatt, Jen Sheppard, Nick Lanzillo, Pete Sage, Lindsay Ciancetta and the leader.

Aug 24 (Sat) BLUE LEDGES Leader: John Antonio Mission accomplished! We completed our five mile round trip to the magnificent 300 foot ledges on the Hudson. We did beat in the armada of rafters and enjoyed some solitude before the crowds descended. Some of us swam and just took in the sights, enjoying each other's company. The "bubble" does rise enough that you really have to keep your eye on your backpack and towels. Some were surprised at how high the "tide" was! From a leader's prospective, the Cloudsplitter does say that "groups are asked to stay together for safety reasons." Please - before you sign up for a hike, keep this rule in mind. Accidents do happen, even on smallish trips like this. Participants - Norman Thibodeau, Lori McCarron, Sharon Bonk, Jennifer Kenna, Jay Flavin, Ron Wygant, Ania Gaguine, Cheryl Glenn, and Shelly VanWinkler.

Aug 28 (Wed) NUN-DA-GA-O RIDGE Leaders: Karen Ross and Lori McCarron There weren't too many breezes today on the "Hill of the Wind Spirit," but there was ample evidence of the effect of past tremendous winds on this amazing and delightful half circle ridge. We were thankful that someone had lugged a heavy chainsaw up to clear the many sections of blowdown arrayed around us. The trail is "skinny" but easy to follow (although not, as we found one year, in untracked snow), and on the ridge, cairns guide you to the right path. You pay your dues both up and down, but you get a level break now and then. Rewards were many on this loop hike, and although the books say it's six miles, we planned on--and needed--lots of extra time to savor the spectacular series of views, linger on ledges, and figure out the changing perspective out onto many of the high peaks. This is a hike that shouldn't be rushed. Each time we popped out from the woods onto a new rock outcrop, like kids in a candy store we rushed to the edge (but not over) to see who would be the first to see Whiteface or the Jay Range or to proclaim the new peak configuration. It took our group of eleven about six hours for the tour, so we weren't breaking any speed records. We had a hot humid day that could be relieved only by a long swim in cooling Chapel Pond. Bobbing along on ridge and in water were John ("sweating and swimming") Antonio, Doug (Member Chair) Rosenberry, Alex (hops) Olchowski and acrobatic 'Kal,' Karen ("new member") Cedar, Dan ("hot pasta lunching") Nicponski, Mark (of the eternal smiles) Schoonmaker, Claudia ("river forder") Rosenholz, Kendra ("I need longer legs") Pratt, John Hanley and the canine Golden ("I'm too scared to go down this ledge") Louie.

Aug 29 (Thu) ESCARPMENT TRAIL, THACHER PARK Leader: Katie Henrikson This was a fine late summer hike. Twelve of us set off from the northern end of Thatcher Park through the woods past several lookouts to a set of picnic tables looking over the escarpment. We had a fine though slightly hazy view of the lowlands while we ate lunch. Then it was on to the Indian Ladder Trail and the lookout at the south end of the park, where the haze had lifted and we could see far to the north. Our hike was enhanced by the presence of a pair of hikers who have done extensive trail work in the park. They were able to point out many features we would have otherwise missed. Participating were Jim Flavin, Ray Henrikson, Lori McCarron, Mitchell Riccardi, Susan Roberts, Bonnie and Jim Schaller, Martha Schroeder, Lin and Jim Smith, Ron Wygant, and the leader.

Sep 5 (Thu) PADDLE LAKE DURANT & ROCK POND Leader: Bill Valentino It was the Thursday after Labor Day and was a bit cloudy, windy and chilly. I had seventeen people on my previous paddle and eighteen on the succeeding one but on this day there were just four of us. We speculated as to why, but came up with no satisfactory answers. Those of us who paddle midweek are not likely to have children starting back to school. Lake Durant is a small but attractive lake with significant portions of the lake visible from the highway. Because the water level was quite high for this time of year, with little or no clearance under the Rock Pond Bridge, we skipped the paddle into Rock Pond. We skirted the south shore to nearly the eastern end of the lake. There is an abundance of aquatic vegetation and waterfowl and some strange large boulders and tree roots. It is a lake with character. We were kind of cheating on the wilderness experience by searching for a picnic table for lunch within the state park area. But we were surprised to find all the campsites full. Yet we did find a reasonably good place to eat on the other side of a huge downed tree and root system sitting along the shore. The paddle back was against a strong wind. The leisurely day and about a six mile paddle was enjoyed by Susan Roberts, Katie and Ray Henrikson and the leader.

Sep 7 (Sat) CROWS & BEAR CUBBY Leader: Tom Hart A fine time was had by all as we hiked Little Crow from the little-used East Hill Road trailhead. Within 30 minutes we gained the overlook ledges and viewed the mountains--from the Sentinal Range to the west, the Great Range immediately in front, and all the way around to Hurricane to the east. Continuing over Little Crow, we enjoyed views opening to while near-at-hand columbine, solomon's seal, goldenrod, asters, blueberries, and reindeer lichen were found along the rocky outcrops. The group moved on to Big Crow, passing through the col with its wide-open birch glade. A leisurely lunch was enjoyed back on Little Crow's ledges. The group wrapped up the first hike around 2:00 p.m. Being short on time, the bushwhack to Bear Cubby was reserved for another day, with six members continuing on to Owl's Head to the western bookend of the views back towards the Crows. Though the club hike ended with the Owl's Head hike, Jen and the leader ran a support mission for ADK members Sage, Lanzillo and Sasso on their Great Range Traverse, running supplies and water into Rooster Comb at 5:30 pm. Enjoying the day's activities were: Jeff Levitt, Tam Kistler, Mitchell Riccardi*, J. Flavin*, Kathleen Helfright, Marcia Bates, Wan Chen*, Jen Sheppard, the leader and his faithful canine friend, Molly. (*new members)

Sep 13 (Fri) DUCK HOLE Leader: John Sheehan The impoundment formerly know as Duck Hole, now affectionately call Muck Hole since Hurricane Irene washed out the dam in Sept 2011, is a remote Adirondack gem that I had never seen. The pond lies along the Northville Placid Trail (NPT) just south of the Sewards. The closest access is from the Upper Works trail head off the Indian Pass Trail. Adding up the distances shown on the NatGeo map, it appeared to be 5.5 mi to the intersection of the NPT where there was a shelter. As one of the participants on the hike pointed out, however, a section labeled 1.2 miles looked to be about a mile longer. So with that in the back of our minds we set off on a very wet trail toward our goal. Although it was not raining during the hike, it had apparently rained heavily the night before, as the puddles were bigger than usual and the plank bridges were very slippery. Adirondack hiking always poses these kinds of challenges and we are always aware of that potential. One participant however was a recent transplant from Arizona and was not accustomed to such joys of the Adirondack trails. As we slogged through, all eager to reach our destination, regardless of how anti-climactic it might be, the trail conditions deteriorated. As we approached Lower Preston Pond, we saw water flowing toward us on a flat part of the trail. Upon closer

inspection we realized that the pond was overflowing and the water was running down the trail, filling all the low area on both sides of the trail. At that point, we were nearing my predetermined turn around time. The GPS said that we had already gone 5.5 miles and we still had about a mile to go to Duck Hole. The lesson learned is that if the distance on the NatGeo map looks wrong, it probably is. We did have the option of bushwhacking around the wet area to find higher and drier trail on the other side. But with turn around time approaching and not having had lunch yet, it was not a real option without risking a mutiny. After finding a relatively high and dry spot for lunch we returned to the cars--still not having seen Duck Hole. Joining me on this adventure were Gretchen Gedroiz, John Antonio, Lori McCaron, Mike Bonatto, Frank Dirlof, John Susko, Claire Pospisil, Wendy Williams, and Kendra Pratt.

Sep 19 (Thu) HUDSON RIVER BIG BOOM TO SHERMAN ISLAND Leader: Paul Breslin This was a great day for a paddle, with little wind, mild temps and plenty of sun. The Big Boom area of the Hudson is where the river makes a long narrow U-turn with the Northway bridge at the bottom of the U. We paddled upriver starting on the left side, exploring a nice stream and retention area. At the Sherman Dam we could see that the power plant wasn't currently operating as there was no current coming from the channel. We thought about exploring that channel, but after one kayak got stuck on some rocks we decided it was too shallow. We had lunch at a small sandy beach area in the Hudson Pointe Preserve on the way back. Then we explored a series of islands on the way back past the launch site. Three paddlers left the trip (as advertised in the write-up) and the remaining seven continued downstream toward the Big Boom retention area. Upon entering that channel, we discovered that a fallen tree had blocked the entry into the retention area. We decided not to ford the blockage. We continued downstream another mile and returned to the launch site after a total of 11 miles of paddling. What a perfect trip! The ten paddlers were Gretchen Gedroiz, Karen Lyndon, Charlene Shafer, Steve Cornell, Sue Jordan, Linda Davern, Katie and Ray Hendrickson, Charlie Beach and the leader.

Sep 20 (Fri) INDIAN PASS Leader: John Antonio Leaving the Upper Works trailhead, we headed to our destination--Summit Rock in Indian Pass. It was a totally super weather day as we left our cars after being checked out by a DEC Ranger who made sure we were 15 or less in our group, keeping us within the DEC regulations. We signed in at 10:00 a.m. on the button and discovered that the trail is easy--until the last mile or so, as is written in so many stories, books and articles. Then we reached the huge, and I mean HUGE, boulders and some pretty good scrambles that made the ladders provided there necessary. We reached Summit Rock at 12:50 to gawk at the 500-feet tall, straight-up cliffs. Then, to our delight, we spied rock climbers! All of us were in awe of their courage to attempt such a feat. We spent 45 minutes at lunch, with Frank being taken to task over his choice of a salami sandwich. Yes - we all decided this hike is definitely a do-over, maybe next time starting from the ADK Loj. Our group consisted of Jane and John Husson, Karen Ross and 'Louie,' Karen Cedar, Jim Coward, John Hanley, Alex Olchowski and 'Kal,' Daniel VanUithuizen, Frank Dirolf, Jeanne Michela and Jay Flavin.

Sep 21 (Sat) PITCHOFF Leader: Tom Hart The weather forecast for Keene was not at all nice, calling for afternoon rain and thunderstorms, but by Saturday morning the weather forecasters changed their minds and gave us a fine day! Even before the hike started the day was special--we passed a convoy of over 70 Spyder motorcycles headed for Whiteface Mountain. The theme for the day was set early too, with many stops before and during the hike. Ascending from the west or upper end of Pitchoff, we made good time to the intersection with the Balanced Rock spur. I think we missed a few overlooks along the way on the ridge beyond, but not many! The group enjoyed lunch on the 3rd summit, which featured imported chocolate treats from Anneliese. The entire day was leisurely (some might disagree!) and was capped off with a nice stop at Stewart's in Keene. This mountain is so rewarding, and we were the only party heading east along the ridge. Only three parties passed us heading east or uphill. We thoroughly enjoyed relative solitude in comparison to the multitudes who headed up Cascade Mountain. And...nobody had to be pitched off Pitchoff for getting the direction of the elephant rock wrong! Enjoying a fine outing were Jeff Levitt, Anneliese Lawton, Jen Shepherd, John Gansfuss*, Tia Migliaro*, Kathy Sheppard, the leader and the ineffable canine companion, Molly. (*new members)

Sep 25 (Wed) TREADWAY MOUNTAIN & GRIZZLE OCEAN Leader: John Antonio At the beginning things were really looking up!! Since some of us in our group are considered seniors, we were waived past the gate into Putnam Pond Campsite without having to pay the day usage fee. Excited to hit the trail (to what most of us already knew as an awesome mountain adventure), we booted up in the parking lot in bright sun and plunged into the dark forest. This change in light let to a mishap. BAM!!! Before we even signed in, Lori went down, as she said, "Like a ton of bricks." She shook it off and we continued on and were on the summit of Treadway at 12:10, all alone except for a solo girl from Massachusetts and her dog. After lunch, five of us pushed on to Grizzle Ocean, hoping to retrieve the top to our Hotdog Hike grill that was left behind in February of 2011. No luck! Completely satisfied, we returned to our cars at 4:05 after a good six hours on the trail. Our group included Kendra and David Pratt, Lori McCarron, Claudia Rosenholz, Charlene Shafer and Ania Gaguine.

Sep 27 (Fri) VANDERWHACKER MOUNTAIN Leader: Katie Henrikson The weatherman promised a clear sky, but that was not to be; the haze was very obvious. Nevertheless, the nine hikers on this trip made their way to the top of the mountain, and most made it to the top of the fire tower for good views in all directions. Mt. Marcy was in the clouds, though many other High Peaks were visible. The fall color in the valleys was an indication of things to come in the fall season. Having a very pleasant day were Bob Armeo, Paul Dean, Ania Gaguine, Peg Grogan, Marcia Hanson, Ray Henrikson, Claudia Rosenholtz, Dan Van Uithuizen, and the leader.

Oct 1 (Tue) PADDLE ESSEX CHAIN OF LAKES Leader: Bill Valentino Well the stars all aligned and we made it into the Essex Chain of Lakes the first day it opened to the public in over 100 years. The Essex Chain of Lakes is the jewel in the crown of the 161,000-acre Finch Pruyn land purchased by the state last year. The land had not yet been classified by the Adirondack Park Agency, but the existing club leases had expired and DEC was able to prepare the site on short notice. Phil Brown of the Adirondack Explorer called it "Day one of Forever," and it certainly was a memorable experience. Our group of eighteen from the Albany ADK Chapter were all experienced paddlers with a sense of adventure. The ride in was free of our anticipated problems associated with the extensive roadwork in the vicinity of Newcomb. All the drivers in our long caravan kept a close but safe interval so that our group was not split by the numerous DOT flagmen who were narrowing the road into various single construction lanes. What was not anticipated was the leader getting the group lost upon our arrival in Newcomb. The problem was not the unpaved roads; these, when we finally got to them, were well marked by DEC. The problem was the unmarked paved roads leading into the area. But with the assistance of Jon and Tim, with assorted maps and a handheld GPS, we made it into the designated parking area just to the north of Deer Pond. The portage was a challenge. After signing in at the brand new kiosk, we portaged about ¼ mile on a road and into the woods leading to Deer Pond. After a short paddle across Deer Pond the portaging continued through the woods and onto a dirt road for another half mile. The portaging was a fairly minor task for folks with lightweight pack canoes but was more challenging for others like myself who carried a tandem canoe on their shoulders. I think the folks with heavy plastic kayaks and wheels may try another alternative next time. The wheels were great on the road but difficult on the newly created forest paths. Because of our large number, the different types of boats and the different portaging techniques, the group became well spread out. It was admittedly hard to keep such a large group together. But by the time the portage was finished and the troops saw the water, it was like kids on Christmas morning. People in their enthusiasm headed out in every direction. Technically there are eight numbered lakes in the chain with a few other ponds in the immediate area. You are able to paddle from Third Lake to either Second in one direction or Fourth Lake in the other direction then on to Fifth and Sixth Lake without any additional portaging. The lakes are little more than ponds, really, with Third Lake the longest at 1 ¼ mile. Consequently we could usually keep each other in sight. While we all started the paddle individually, we managed to meet for lunch at Fifth Lake. To get to Fifth Lake from Fourth you had to pass through a storm culvert with a hand over hand rope, which was kind of neat. The outgoing private club members had been good stewards of the land. Some of the areas between the lakes were beautiful in an ecological sense-- biologically rich and environmentally sensitive. Often you could hear loon calls. I stopped counting the loon calls at sixteen. DEC made a marvelous effort with all the last minute spade work, treating the roads, putting up barriers, and most importantly creating portage trails through the woods. We were particularly impressed with Forest Ranger Jeffreys. It was a new location, and some of the paddlers descending into the area were a bit confused while some

were challenged by the portage. Ranger Jeffreys was extremely helpful with unlimited patience answering numerous questions about the site. By the end of the day I was exhausted. I left my house in Delmar at 6:15 a.m. and didn't get home until 8:30 p.m. Most of us paddled about eight miles and portaged a mile and a half. We all worked hard but it was a wonderful day. The place is amazing and should be visited by anyone who loves a wilderness paddle. Our group included Charlie Beach, Bob and Mary Brand, Paul Breslin, Ed Brown, Jon Davis, Don Espey, Lynn Filarecki, Katie and Ray Henrikson, Paul and Lisa Hyams, Bob Linberg, David Pisaneschi, Tim Lawson, Chris Mahoney, co-leader and psychological advisor Susan Roberts, and the leader.

Oct 2 (Wed) WINDHAM HIGH PEAK Leader: Virginia Boyle Traver We were greeted with almost peak fall foliage and dense fog and haze as we arrived at the trailhead for Windham High Peak. The forecast was for clear skies and warm temperatures, but the damp cloud cover kept us cool as we hiked this gradually rising trail through forests of gold and red hardwoods and dark pines. Views were shrouded while we ate lunch on a rocky outcropping at the summit. Just as we were about to leave the summit the sun came out and the atmosphere cleared a little bit. A valley of color was visible through a still-pervasive haze. On the hike down, the sun lit up the trail and surrounding foliage. As we drove back to the Capital Region, we stopped at the two East Windham overlooks since we knew the views would be clearer than they had been a couple of hours earlier at the summit. Enjoying this great day on the trail with beautiful autumn color were Steve Cornell, John Lane, Karen Lydon, Colleen Maloney, Colin Murphy, Rachel West, and the leader.

Oct 5 (Sat) TREMPER & EDGEWOOD Leader: Cal Johnson The hike up Mt. Tremper was quite comfortable, as it was quite cloudy and foggy. From the fire tower at the summit, there were very interesting views of the Catskill peaks sticking up through the clouds, which were hanging out in the valleys below us. The possible showers never happened, but it did become quite hot and humid, just in time for the long fairly steep climb up Edgewood Mtn. after crossing Warner Creek. The section of the NYNJTC Long Path, from Phoenicia to Silver Hollow Notch, gets very little use due to its remoteness, lack of views, and probably the distance caused by a lack of side trails. Joining me for this hike were ADK members Tim Kase and Maguy Paupard. There also were two others attending due to the hike's being listed with the Catskill Mountain Club's Lark in the Park.

Oct 9 (Wed) MOUNT EQUINOX, VT Leaders: Karen Ross and Lori McCarron Sometimes life hands you an unexpected pleasure! Take Mt. Equinox off your "banished" list and instead give it your highest ranking. This mountain showed us a great workout on its relentlessly steep Blue Summit (the former Burr and Burton) Trail, wowed us with a second and new cutting with a jaw-dropping view from the trail to Lookout Rock, warmed us with brilliant sunshine on a clear crispy fall day, softened our steps with colorful leaves and avenues of orange, gold, and yellow, and proved that buildings on summits can actually add to the experience. Gone was the shabby run-down abandoned cement hotel at the top, and in its place was a state-of-the-art, beautifully designed, 2012 spanking brand new "green" building dedicated to the history of the mountain and to its owners and stewards, the Carthusian monks. Its interior spaces were open, light-filled, and soaring; lovely exterior viewing levels afforded views in all directions, and today the clarity of the light allowed us to see all the way to the Catskills, to New Hampshire, around to the Vermont ski areas, northwest to the Adirondack high peaks, and to the Berkshires. After an hour and a half at these various summit overlooks, we reluctantly retraced our steps down this impressive and truly holy peak. Wearing joyous smiles all day and revising earlier reviews of Equinox were John Antonio, Don Berens, John Sheehan, Claudia Rosenholz, Vicky Singer, Tom Hart and 'Molly,' Karen Cedar and 'Trooper,' Rita and Dave Cedar, Mike Boucher, and 'Louie.'

Oct 12 (Sat) BAXTER & OWLS HEAD MOUNTAINS Leader: John Antonio This was the Saturday of Columbus Day weekend, and the foliage was just a bit past peak but still absolutely beautiful, with a crystal clear sky. It was also a lightly warmish day to hike these two great little climbs. We were in awe and kept commenting on how many cars were parked in ALL the trailhead parking lots and lining the shoulders of Route 73. The bottom line was, we all had an awesome experience on both of these popular little bumps. They were "firsts" for many in our group and they certainly did not disappoint as trails or with their spectacular vistas. Fighting the crowds but still having fun

were Cheryl Glenn, Anne Lawton, Christine Tory, Tony and Bonnie Lisosky, Anneliese Lawson, Ron Wygant, Simon Murray, Wan Chen, and Drew Hartzell.

Oct 14 (Mon) WINDHAM & THE ESCARPMENT TRAIL Leader: Katie Henrikson It was another great hiking day in a fall that has been ideal for outdoor adventures. Four hikers set off for Windham High Peak and part of the Catskill Escarpment trail on a clear mild day. The company was congenial, there were a few other people on the trail who passed in either direction, and visibility was improved by the number of leaves that had dropped off the trees. Enjoying the day were Ray Hoelz, Anneliese Lawson, Ingrid Wilke, and the leader.

Oct 16 (Wed) SLEEPING BEAUTY FALL FOLIAGE HIKE Leader: Virginia Boyle Traver Gray clouds loomed high, but the forecast didn't predict rain until late in the day. We began our hike up Sleeping Beauty on a path covered with yellow leaves. Beeches and oaks still gave color to the woods as we ascended the mountain. At the summit, the view spread far and wide under the clouds. Yellow still dotted the mountains and shorelines of Lake George below. We made a loop on our descent, going past Bumps Pond, a place that feels far more remote than it is. We also admired the high cliffs along the trail, more exposed now with less foliage, as we got farther down. Enjoying a great outing to a beautiful place were Charlie Beach, Mike Bonatto, Mike Boucher, Dave Cedar, Sue and Christine Jordan, Eric Krantz, John Lane, Anneliese Lawton, Charlene Shafer, and the leader.

Oct 17 (Thu) HOPKINS FOREST NEAR WILLIAMSTOWN, MA Leader: Paul Breslin Weather worked in our favor today. Original forecasts called for showers early in the morning, but we saw no rain. When we arrived at the parking lot off Northwest Hill Road outside Williamstown, it was jammed. It turned out a class from a nearby school had just arrived, and all of the chaperones were in their own cars. The area around the Rosenburg Center, our starting point, was crowded with students and parents, but we never saw any of them after we started our trail walk. Apparently all of their programs were near the Center. We did the Lower and Upper Loop Trails in a figure eight for a total of 4.6 miles. We stopped at the midpoint to have lunch while sitting on a footbridge on the Upper Trail where it crossed above a small waterfall on the Middle Birch Brook. This was very nice indeed. The fall foliage was a little past peak, but there was plenty of color to enjoy. There were no mountaintop vistas from these trails. This is a great area for an easy hike with more strenuous ones available up to the Taconic Crest Trail where there are views. These would be nice trails for snowshoes and cross-country skis. The area is well maintained by Williams College, and detailed maps are available at the kiosk. The trails we took were mostly former carriage trails with easy footing. At the end two people decided to add more to the day and do the Hoosick River trail (2.2 miles out and back) which follows the Hoosick River in places and is more like a standard hiking trail. That trail got fairly narrow at the end and was overgrown with berry bushes. This seemed like a good place to turn around. Charlie Beach, Blanche Nelson, Dona Burdick, Joan Grusensky, Donna Angley and the leader had a great Fall day.

Oct 18 (Fri) GORE MOUNTAIN Leader: John Antonio Jim, you missed a good one! It's too bad because the Schaefer Trail up to Gore's Summit is a blast. Our day started out with a bit of confusion. Since last time there are some "new" multi-use trails intertwined with the blue Schaefer Trail but, with keen eyes, we soon found ourselves scrambling up the bank along the rocky trail parallel to the bubbling Roaring Brook. It was in no time that we passed the North Creek Reservoir and Ive's Dam. We made the summit warm-up hut in about three and a quarter hours time, only to have the magnificent views get socked in with cloud cover and a light drizzle. On the descent, with 100% consensus, we opted to take a ski trail and avoid the slippery rocks of the hiking trail. We signed out, safe and sound, at 3:30. Our Gore Group consisted of Paul Nelson, Kendra and David Pratt, Karen and Jeff Ross and 'Louie,' Claudia Rosenholz, Tia Migliaro and Lori McCarron.

Oct 19 (Sat) THACHER PARK HIKE Leader: Jim and Bonnie Schaller We were treated with a beautiful Autumn day for our Thacher Park hike. Despite four cancellations, we still had an even ten hikers. All decided to do the "B-" hike with a side trip to Hang Glider Point to make the hike an exact 6 mile loop. Beginning at the Quarry on Carrick Road, we used the Perimeter Trail to

the Long Path and returned via the Fred Schroeder Memorial Trail. Highlights were the Beaver Pond, extensive views from both Hang Glider and High Point Cliffs, and the open fields off Old Stage Road. Hiking were Marion Hoyle, Roman Laba, Clarence and Terry Rodrigues, Maureen Brown, and John Lane. Also from the "Friends" group were Harriet Rosin and a guest, Eileen Manz.

Oct 24 (Thu) WILKINSON NATIONAL RECREATION TRAIL, SARATOGA BATTLEFIELD Leader: Paul Breslin The hike on the Wilkinson Trail at Saratoga National Battlefield is an excellent way to get some exercise while learning some history about our road to Independence. We started out by watching the 20 minute film in the Visitors Center while the temperatures started to climb out of the 30s. After the film and some interesting tidbits given by two of the Rangers, we started our hike. Someone told us to take the 4.2 lollipop type trail in reverse of the lettered stations. Somehow we must have misunderstood because chronologically it made much more sense to follow the lettered stations in order. The trail is 4.2 miles long and is made up of grassy cut trails and wide wooded trails. We took two side trips, one to Road Tour Stop 7, Breymann Redoubt, and the other to Burgoyne's Headquarters. That was at the halfway point, so we ate lunch on the wall at the Information kiosk there. As the day went on it got more cloudy and windy, but overall we were happy with the weather because there was no rain. The fall foliage was still pretty good, and we did see at least one deer looking us over pretty carefully. The total walked route was 5 miles with the side trips. Afterwards we shuffled people and return vehicles so that four people could stay and take in more of the information at the Visitor's Center. Hikers were: Martha Zibrow, Linda English, Fiona Burde, Jim Torriani, Jim Flavin, Patty Costa, Marilyn Huber, Charlie Beach, Jake Bortscheller, John Ferret and the leader.

Oct 27 (Sun) SW HUNTER & HUNTER Leader: Cal Johnson Though it was about 40 degrees with a bit of wind at the start, we were quickly warmed up by the climb up the Devil's Path from Notch Lake. Soon after hitting the herd path, on the remnants of the old Fenwick RR bed, we spotted some small amounts of snow in the shaded areas. More snow deposits were on the final ascent to the canister. After putting our names in the log book, jackets and gloves went back on, since we were well cooled off from all of the previous climbing. Backtracking to the Devil's Acre lean-to, we stopped there for lunch. Then it was on up to the fire tower, taking a short side trail to a fantastic view on the way up. It was quite windy at the summit and very windy on the tower. We then descended the Spruceton and Colonel's Chair Trails to the top of the Hunter Mtn. ski area. After checking out the Rip Van Winkle statue, Cactus sculpture (made of snowmaking pipes) and the zip-liners, we went down via the ski slopes and old mountain bike trails. The 10.5 miles took about 7.5 hours. Joining me were Jeff Levitt, Mike Heim and Bill Schollenberger.

Oct 28 (Mon) SHAKER MOUNTAIN, NEAR HANCOCK, MA Leader: Paul Breslin The weather was great and the trail interesting. The leaves were a little past peak, and the fallen leaves did camouflage loose rocks and tree roots on the well defined trail. This write-up in the Trails with Tales book referenced maps available at the Shaker Museum created as a Boy Scout project years ago. One of the participants who lives nearby tried to get one, but they no longer seem to be available. Without those details it was hard to spot some of the more obscure historical interest points in this former Shaker Settlement. There were several markers along the way with brief descriptions which helped. All that said it was still a great hike. Neither Shaker Mountain (AKA Sinai) or Holy Mountain have any views that we found, but it still was a great hike. One of the hikers had done this trip earlier in the year and suggested we take the loop counter-clockwise. This turned out to be great as the climb has many more switchbacks that way leaving the steeper way for our descent. The total distance was just under 7 miles according to our GPS. Hikers were Colleen Maloney, Blanche Nelson, Donna Burdick, Maureen Brown, Gretchen Gedrioz, Cathy Karp, Rob Bayly, Karen Lydon, Jim Torriani, Mark Schoonmaker, Charlie Beach and the leader.

Oct 29 (Tue) SNOWY MOUNTAIN Leader: John Antonio John Antonio was the instigator of the hike, but was out sick, so Lori McCarron filled in. We had a gorgeous fall day with blue sky and no wind. Once we really began to climb, we started seeing snow and eventually found about 2 inches of snow and ice in the trail. We switched to microspikes and made it to the east lookout point slowly but with no trouble. We made the trip to the top and up the fire tower for the

best views, but we went back to the lookout point in the sun for a leisurely lunch. We hiked from 9:00 to 4:00, with over an hour at the top see the views and enjoy lunch. We were lucky to see lots of rabbit and grouse tracks. Joining the leader were Jim Coward, John Susko, Frank Dirolf, and Bob Priest.

Nov 7 (Thu) MOREAU STATE PARK'S NORTHERN TRAILS Leader: Paul Breslin Well today was a great example of why I NEVER cancel a trip based on a weather prediction unless I feel it will be unsafe. We originally had seven signed up for this trip, but with rain predicted only four including the leader made it to the meet-up location. Even they were skeptical as it was raining pretty hard at the time. I said the hourly weather report called for rain becoming scattered showers by 10:30. As it turned out the report was right on. Rain stopped before we started the hike and we had no rain during the hike. We had to adapt our plan from a two car through hike on the western ridge trail, to a loop hike with one car. We used the parking area on Spier Falls Road where the Western Ridge Trail grazes the parking lot, not the one across from the boat launch further down the road. This lot is somewhat unimproved with the short access road in pretty bad shape. We were happy to have my truck. At the end, we ran into a local who walks these trails regularly with a dog and he said the Cottage Park trailhead by the boat launch is better. But if you look at the map, it is not as convenient to finding the nice five mile loop. Our loop included the Western Ridge trail to Trail intersection 7. Then we took the Cottage Park Trail to Intersection 5 and the white marked CP/ER connector trail to the Eastern Ridge Trail, intersection 4. From there we proceeded to Intersection 3 where we took the Ridge Run Trail to the scenic overlook at intersection 2. We finished up by continuing a short distance on the Ridge Run Trail to an unnumbered but well marked intersection with a green trail (unnamed) back to the parking lot. This loop we estimated to be between five and six miles. The wet leaves made for a quiet walk. Some places along the Western Ridge Trail were windy and therefore colder, but provided great views. The trail back was well protected from the wind. I plan to return here for a winter hike, probably using trails near the lake. This is truly a gem for outdoor activity. I would recommend investing $2.00 for a high-quality full-color map of the park available at the ranger office. The latest version has all trails properly color-coded with marker colors and intersection numbers. Participants were Brad Mohr, Karen Lydon, Colleen Maloney and the leader.

Nov 8 (Fri) PEAKED MOUNTAIN Leader: John Antonio Advertised as a trip that "has it all," we agreed at day's end that this was the case. We have heard the term "shoulder season day." Well, if one had not experienced this type of day before, we certainly learned our lesson today. It started out with a "rookie" in our group inquiring at the outset, "Do we need to carry hats and gloves today?" A brief trip summary would include strong winds, coldish temperatures (about 30 degrees), bright sun, dark ominous clouds and for good measure, a snow squall thrown in that chased us off our lunch spot. We had icy conditions--not enough to require traction devices but certainly slippery enough (especially when coated with snow) to really appreciate a rope assist in one particularly dicey area. This was followed by, believe it or not, a sighting of two loons in one of our favorite summer "sweat and swim" areas. As stated, the day "had it all." Participants Karen Ross and 'Louie,' John and Jane Husson, Paul Nelson, John Susko, Frank Dirolf, John Sheehan, Jay Flavin, Gretchen Gedroiz, and Caitlin Connors and 'Bambi.'

Nov 13 (Wed) STONY LEDGE Leader: Virginia Boyle Traver After an unseasonably warm fall, today's chilly temperatures with a biting breeze came as a shock. We arrived at the Haley Farm trailhead to an inch of snow with air so clear and crisp that we knew it would be a perfect day for views. It didn't take long for everyone to warm up on the steady climb. To our surprise, there was no wind at the top so we could bask in the sunshine under a clear blue sky with mountain views in every direction. Hiking down on the Hopper Trail, we could see the snow-covered ridge in full sun through the trees. Enjoying this mid-November wintry day were Rob Bayly, Charlie Beach, Sharon Bonk, Paul Breslin, Maureen Brown, Michelle Filiault, Gretchen Gedroiz, Roxanne Irwin, Cathy Karp, Karen Lydon, Claire Posposil, Claudia Rosenholz, Mark Schoonmaker, and the leader

Many thanks to the volunteers who helped make this issue possible: Virginia Boyle Traver for notifying the leaders and monitoring outings, Barb Northrup for her excellent organization skill and help with the outings, and Gail Carr for her consistent generosity in donating her art for the cover illustrations. Their efforts are appreciated.

BULLETIN BOARD

JEAN KERR, ADK CONSERVATIONIST Jean Kerr, age 91, died at St Peter's Hospice, on October 27, 2013. Jean was an avid outdoors person and greatly enjoyed hiking with ADK. Until her death, she was an active member of ADK's conservation committee, and she often attended hearings, spoke at meetings and wrote letters on conservation issues. From January 2005 through May 2009 Jean volunteered one day a week at ADK's advocacy office in Albany. She was the first recipient of ADK's Spruce Cone Award for volunteers. In 2002, Albany Chapter ADK presented her with their Chapter Service Award. Over the years of her membership she had served the chapter as secretary, a member of various committees and representative to the ADK board of directors. She and her husband were stewards for the Nature Conservancy Hannacroix Ravine Preserve, from 1980-1990. A celebration of Jean's life was held at First United Methodist Church of Delmar, 428 Kenwood Ave., Delmar, on Saturday, November 16. Burial will be in Grand View Cemetery, Whitesboro, at the convenience of the family. For anyone wishing to remember Jean in a special way, in lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate gifts to the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy, P.O. Box 567, Slingerlands, NY 12159; or the Refugee and Immigrant Support Services at Emmaus (RISSE), 715 Morris St, Albany, NY 12208; or Capital District Habitat for Humanity, 454 N. Pearl St., Albany, NY 12204; or Adirondack Mountain Club, 814 Goggins Road, Lake George, NY 12845.

SAVE THE DATE: MAY 13, 2014. CHAPTER BANQUET Our featured speaker will be Jon Bowermaster, who will treat us to a sneak preview of his latest film covering his Twenty-five Years of Antarctic Exploration. You may recall that the world-known explorer/journalist thrilled us with his tales of kayaking in the world's oceans as well as "this just in" photos of the BP oil spill devastation in Louisiana at a previous banquet.

DEC SUMMER EDUCATION CAMPS--2014 OPPORTUNITIES The Albany ADK Chapter will once again sponsor young people (ages 11 to 17) to attend one or more of the Department of Environmental Conservation's three summer camps during the 2014 summer season. Campers enjoy the typical summer camp experiences as well as learn about the environment and outdoor life skills. If you are or know a person in the target age range who would love this experience of a lifetime, go to www.dec.ny.gov/education. Take note of the options and eligibility requirements. Note the dates for applying and that early application is urged. Contact Chapter member Thea Hoeth at [email protected] to inform the Chapter of your interest in having the Chapter sponsor you. Camper registration begins January 22, 2014.

ADK WINTER OUTING JANUARY 24-26, 2014, Mad River Club • 941 County Route 15 • Lacona, NY Come out and play in the East's heaviest snows for a weekend of xc skiing, snowshoeing, and camaraderie at the annual Tug Hill Winter Outing! Enjoy the rustic setting of the Mad River Club and explore the numerous groomed and backcountry trails that are within minutes from the clubhouse. The full weekend package includes floor space for your sleeping bag and pad, snack Friday evening, breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, and a gourmet catered dinner on Saturday. And of course enjoy some of the best snows in the East. Camping is also an option for those wishing to rough it, as there are good locations on MRC property to pitch a tent. This clubwide ADK Winter Outing (not to be confused with Winterfest) is being hosted by the Iroquois Chapter and is open to ALL (not just members). Registrations will be taken into mid January if there is still room. (We limit clubhouse overnighters to 55, but others can participate sleeping elsewhere). The outing will be held in the "Tug Hill" area off the end of Lake Ontario so it generally gets plenty of snow. For registration information and a listing of alternate lodging in the area contact David White, 28 Mulberry St., Clinton N.Y. 13323, 315-853-1070 / [email protected] General information can also be provided by George Farwell at [email protected]; 315-724-6257.The cost is $100 for the full weekend with or w/out floor space, or $30 for skiing and dinner on Saturday. All but $20 is refundable up to 12/31..see: Adirondac magazine and http://www.adktravel.org/winterouting.htm

CONSERVATION NOTES

GLADE SKIING:- Dean Schneller, attorney for the Adirondack Powder Skiers Association (APSA) made a presentation at the ADK November Conservation Committee meeting. Glade skiing is a new activity in the forest preserve which involves skiing down wild mountain slopes which skiers climb under their own power. The APSA wants to be able to manage designated areas in the Adirondack backcountry for glade skiing activity. This would involve clearing underbrush and trimming back branches within a designated corridor. The designated areas would be non-summer designations. DEC has not embraced this activity, citing a possible conflict with Article 14 of the state constitution. If this constitutes “material cutting”, it would require a constitutional amendment. In addition, the Adirondack State Land Master Plan would require a glade skiing designation. APSA is trying to clarify foot trail and ski trail definitions. The ADK Conservation Committee recommended to Dean that the APSA first attempt this on easements lands where Article 14 and ASLMP requirements would not apply

NEXT CONSERVATION COMMITTEE MEETING WHEN: March 15, 2014 (Saturday) TIME: 10:00 a.m. WHERE: Discovery Center, (195 New Karner Road)

If you have questions or want to know more about conservation issues, please contact David Pisaneschi at: [email protected] or 459-5969. For updates on conservation issues of concern to ADK members, please visit the chapter website at: http://www.adk-albany.org/conservationNotes.php

ALBANY CHAPTER - OFFICERS and COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS

Chairperson John Sheehan 674-8121 [email protected] Vice Chairperson Tom Hart 229-5627 [email protected] Finance Tom Hart 229-5627 [email protected] Treasurer Art Hewig 755-2549 [email protected] Recording Secretary Jan Peterson 695-3054 [email protected] Corresponding Secretary vacant Members at Large Phil Seward 527-1851 [email protected] Don Berens 783-1302 [email protected] Representatives to the Board Carl Klinowski 274-8410 [email protected] Gene Reilly 281-7796 [email protected] Banquet vacant Cloudsplitter Karen Ross 794-7474 [email protected] Conservation David Pisaneschi 459-5969 [email protected] Tom McGuire 391-0508 [email protected] Education Alan Mapes 439-4086 [email protected] Membership Doug Rosenberry 356-3142 [email protected] Nominations Mark Janey 899-6086 [email protected] Outings Virginia Boyle Traver 322-0950 [email protected] Paddlers Rich Macha 346-3180 [email protected] Programs Thea Hoeth 434-3052 [email protected] Public Information Deb Reif 944-3369 [email protected] Refreshments Marlee Bickel 456-7050 [email protected] Socials Helen Menz 463-3036 Trails Ray Bell 528-2966 [email protected] Ways and Means Peg Lindgren 489-1395 [email protected] Web Master Pete Sage 733-6566 [email protected] Wilderness Dave Pisaneschi 459-5969 [email protected] Young Adults Stephanie Graudons 661-9991 [email protected]

Albany Chapter Adirondack Mountain Club P.O. Box 2116 Esp. Sta. Non-Profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE Albany, NY 12220 PAID Mailed From Zip Code 12288

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