Crooked Canes hiking group, active hiking, paddling, skiing and biking enthusiasts, ≡ MENU

~ Outings Archive 2015-2018 ~

2015

 January 1  #15.1536   Saratoga State Spa Park Hike / Snowshoe   Tom Gibbs   583-1550
We will begin the New Year with a hike/snowshoe of the “5 Mile Trail” of the Saratoga SPA State Park.  A gentle walk-about that will allow us to explore some of the many features of the park.  Meet at the Saratoga Spa State Park warming hut off Avenue of the Pines near Rt 9 at 9:45.

January 8  #15.1537   Inman Pond Snowshoe   Don McMahon   633-4214
From the Sly Pond road trailhead we will snowshoe ~ 2 miles to a rocky overlook of Inman Pond for lunch.  After lunch we will circumnavigate the pond and return to our cars for a 4 mile RT with a ~500' elevation gain.  WCMC*

January 15   #15.1538   Bullhead Pond Snowshoe   Lenore and Jack Reber   H 587-6161   C 859-8555
A new outing in Indian Lake!  Beginning at the trailhead off of Chain Lakes Road near Indian Lake we will hike/snowshoe ~.6 mi to Bullhead Pond, and then explore the area around and on the pond.  Mostly flat, up to 5 miles depending on conditions.  Meet at WCMC at 9:15; depart at 9:30 or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 10:00, call for IL meeting location.

January 22   #15.1539   Ben Wood Mountain Snowshoe   Donna and Peter Wood   494-2874
We will start from the Wood's house on 457 Potter Brook Rd and snowshoe along an old jeep trail to the top of Ben Wood Mtn. The trip is about 4.5 mi round trip with an elevation change of about 300 . After the trip everyone is invited to have hot chocolate at the Wood's house. WCMC* or meet at the Woods house at 10:00.

January 29   #15.1540   Santanoni Ski And More    Fran Herve   899-3216
We will ski in to the Great Camp Santanoni which lies at the east end of Newcomb Lake. This camp, one of the largest of its kind built more than a century ago by Robert Pruyn, has been reconstructed as a historical site. The trip into the camp is gently uphill most of the way and then downhill to the camp for a RT of 10 miles.  Meet at WCMC at 8:45; depart at 9:00 or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9.30.
**The outing is scheduled as a ski. However, for those who do not ski there may be an option offered to snowshoe the nearly 4 miles of trails of the Adirondack Interpretive Center located nearby on Rich and Harris Lakes. Details will be made available as the date approaches.

February 5   #15.1541   Garnet Hill Ski   Nancy Kimball and Donna Wood   668-0115
Nancy and Donna will lead the group for skiing on the groomed trails of Garnet Hill.  In the morning we ski mostly downhill to the bus pickup and return by bus.   Bring a lunch to eat at the X-country ski center.  In the afternoon we ski the relatively easy "Old Faithful" trail.  A follow-up email will be sent as soon as the trail maintenance charge is known.   Meet at WCMC at 8:45; depart at 9:00 or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:30.

February 12   #15.1542   Pharaoh Lake Ski   Fran Herve   899-3216
We will begin from Pharaoh Rd., north of Brant Lake, and ski to the southern shores of Pharaoh Lake and return for a total of 7-8 mi.  The trail is fairly level except for one long hill near the beginning.  WCMC* or meet at Horicon Town Hall off Northway Exit 25, east on Route 8, at about 9:50.

February 19     #15.1543     Casey Mountain Garnet Mine Snowshoe   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D 796-1993  K 796-5495
A new outing!  There is a very interesting trip very near a route many of us have travelled numerous times without being aware of the wonders we were walking literally within yards of.  Casey Mountain, in the triangle formed by Route 28, the OK Slip Falls trail and the road into a Christian summer camp was, for a few years right around 1900, a flurry of garnet mining activity and site of the only shaft mine in New York State dug in search of garnet.  Mine adits, ore cars, garnet and rail are still visible 115 years later. Some of the views we will see are at their most spectacular in the winter.
**Our access to the garnet mines will be over the private land of a local outfitter and we will each make a donation of $5.00. This is a trip the outfitter offers commercially to the public, so it is more than fair to pay this small amount for the privilege of spotting cars and the trail access afforded by this location.  The BIG plus of accessing the garnet mines from this location is that it saves 5.6 miles of trekking, half of that distance an unbroken bushwhack! This trip will not be longer than 3.2 miles with a total ascent of not more than 1200 feet. WCMC 9.15 or Wevertown at 10.00 +/- or Ross Pond trail head at 10.20 +/-.

February 26   #15.1544   Brookhaven Golf Course Ski And More    Tom Gibbs  583-1550
Three or four miles of skiing or snowshoeing over gentle hills. Meet at 9:45 at the municipal parking lot in Corinth opposite the town beach or the Senior Center in Greenfield Center on the south side of Wilton Rd just off Rt 9N (yes! two locations at the same time).
**Plan on bringing lunch.. However, if conditions are good, with lots of snow, The Haven Tee Room may be open for lunch and would allow for the option to have lunch there and support a local business. Details will be made available as the date approaches.

March 5   #15.1545   Pinnacle Ice Walls   Karen Burke andPeter Fedorick   Cell 844-2945  Home 893-2629
A new outing for the canes to a hidden gem in gthe southern Adirondacks. The Pinnacle Ice Walls are located on the northwest side of Pinnacle Mountain in - between County Line and Chase Lakes, along Pinnacle Creek, in the Town of Bleecker, Fulton County. We will follow the marked trail to County Line Lake for a short distance before bushwhacking through mixed hardwoods and crossing a couple of frozen vlies to the three locations of the Ice Walls, each unique in their colors, for a total distance of ~5 miles RT. The trailhead is located on Pinnacle Road about 20 miles from the Visitor's Center located on the NE corner of NY 29 and 30. Meet at the Amtrak station in Saratoga Springs at 9.00 ir at the Visitor's Center on the NE corner of ny 29 &30 at 9.45

March 12  #15.1546   Pharoah Lake Ski   Fran Herve   899-3216
We will begin from Pharaoh Rd., north of Brant Lake, and ski to the southern shores of Pharaoh Lake and return for a total of 7-8 mi. The trail is fairly level except for one long hill near the beginning.  Meet at the WCMC at 8:45 for a 9:00 departure or at the Horicon Town Hall off Northway Exit 25, east on Route 8, at about 9:20.  

March 19   #15.1547 Moreau Lake State Park Snowshoe   Gail Stauble  295-8858
This will be a 5-6 mile snowshoe hike of some of the trails on the Spier Falls side of the MLSP starting at the Spring Trailhead the actual route to be determined.  Meet at the park s main parking lot at 9:15 or at the Spring TH at 9:40.  

March 26   #15.1548   Balm Of Gilead Snowshoe  Peter Fedorick     893-2629
The trailhead to Balm of Gilead Mt is located adjacent to the Garnet Hill Ski complex in North River.  Our 3 +/-mile loop will first take us to the summit of Balm of Gilead Mt, which offers extensive views west, including Thirteenth Lake.   From just below the summit we will bushwhack to the sunny shores of William Blake Pond for lunch, before continuing our return to the abandoned Hooper Garnet Mine for some exploration and back to the starting point.   Total elevation gain of ~750 .  Meet at the WCMC at 9:00 or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:45.  I realize that there are some people that would prefer to take advantage of spring skiing at this time rather than snowshoe.  Please feel free to offer a ski outing as an alternate outing on this date.  Just let us know ahead of time or post it as a bonus outing as time gets closer. 

April 2  #15.1549   Goodnow Mountain Snowshoe   Peter Fedorick   893- 2629  
Goodnow is a fire tower mountain with excellent views from the summit, located just south of the high peaks, near Newcomb.   Round trip is about 4 miles, with an elevation gain of ~1,050 .   Plan on stopping at the Adirondack Interpretive Center, nearby, to use their facilities.  Meet at the WCMC at 8:45, departing at 9:00 or at the Black Bear Restaurant, Northway Exit 26 at 9:30.  I realize that there are some people that would prefer to take advantage of spring skiing at this time rather than snowshoe.  Please feel free to offer a ski outing as an alternate outing on this date.  Just let us know ahead of time or post it as a bonus outing as time gets closer.

April 9     #15.1550  CANCELLED    Casey Mountain Garnet Mine Snowshoe   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D 796-1993     K  796-5495
A new outing! There is a very interesting trip very near a route many of us have travelled numerous times without being aware of the wonders we were walking literally within yards of.  Casey Mountain, in the triangle formed by Route 28, the OK Slip Falls trail and the road into a Christian summer camp was, for a few years right around 1900, a flurry of garnet mining activity and site of the only shaft mines in New York State dug in search of garnet.  Mine adits, ore cars, garnet and rail are still visible 115 years later. Some of the views we will see are at their most spectacular in the cooler months.

April 16   #15.1551  SUBSTITUTED WILTON PRESERVE    Merck Forest and Farmland Center Hike   Joanne Armstrong   798-3236
After visiting the farm (Elev. 1800 ), plan on hiking up Mt. Antone (2600 ) followed by some of the interior trails for a total distance of 5-6 miles and ~1000 elevation change.   The area is typical Vermont countryside so there is very little level ground, but nothing terribly steep either. The primary meeting place is Dick s parking lot (left of store entrance) at Wilton Mall, Exit 15.   Please meet at 9:00 for a 9:15 departure.   We will make a brief stop at the Greenwich McDonald s at ~9:45.   If you wish to drive directly to the trail head, plan on meeting us at the Visitor Center parking lot around 10:30. 

April 23   #15.1552   Berry Pond Hike   Fran Herve   899-3216
Starting from the Lake George Rec Area, we ll hike the blue trail to a lesser peak that has views of Lake George to the north and Darling Mtn to the south. Then we continue down along logging roads by Berry Pond and finally downhill to the starting point. About 5 miles with 1,200 total ascent. About 5 miles with 1,200 total ascent. WCMC at 9:45 or meet at the Lake George Rec Area parking lot at 10:00.  

April 30   #15.1553   Tenant Creek Falls Hike   Lenore and Jack Reber   J 223-3632   L 859-8555
It has been several years since we last visited Tenant Creek and its series of three waterfalls so they are about due for our return.  With this year s snowfall they should be roaring so bring a camera.  The trail to the falls is located at the end of Hope Falls Rd in the Town of Hope, Hamilton County due north of the Village of Northville.  From the trailhead it is about 1 mile to the first falls, another mile to the middle falls and a short distance to the third.  Meet at the Amtrak station in Saratoga Springs at 9:00 or at the Visitor's Center on the NE corner of NY 29 & 30 at 9:45.

May 7   #15.1554   Bass Lake Hike  Karen Burka    494-2217
A new hike for the CC's. Last year, we hiked into Moose Mountain Pond in the Hammond Pond Wild Forest.  I thought it would be fun to explore Bass Lake in the same area. This will be a thru hike of ~4.5 miles with a total gain of ~600 .   After leaving the trailhead, we'll go 1.7 miles and make a right at the junction (left goes to Moose Mountain Pond). There's a steady, mostly gradual climb which will take us to the beginning of the lake. We'll continue around the lake to a nice rock outcropping for lunch for lunch and finish with an easy 2-mile walk to the other end of our journey.   WCMC 8:45 or Frontier Town Parking Lot, exit 29, at 9:45.  Other locations upon request. 

May 14   #15.1555   OK Slip Falls Hike   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D. 796-1993,   K. 796-5495
An approximately 6 mile RT hike with 600-800 gentle vertical to OK Slip Falls, starting at the Ross Pond trailhead. The falls should have a pretty good stream and with any luck it will be sunny and we will see rainbows dancing in the mist.  WCMC* or meet at Wevertown at 10:00 or Ross Pond trail head at about 10:20.

May 21   #15.1556   Hudson River Paddle   Tom Gibbs   583-1550
We will start at Snake Rock near Warrensburg and canoe down to 1000 Acres Ranch Resort for a total distance of 6 miles.  WCMC* or meet at the Thurman train station, Route 418 just beyond the bridge at 10:00. River Gauges: North Creek   Hadley

May 28   #15.1557   French Mt. Hike  Don McMahon  633-4214
From our starting point at the pull-off for the Colonel Willams Monument, on US 9 in Lake George, we will head NE and ascend the southern slopes of French Mountain.  From the height of land we will continue for ~ 1mile to a couple of picturesque overlooks before making a northerly loop to Bear Pond and then returning SW and back to our cars.  The approximate gain over this 5 mile RT is 1,400 .  WCMC* 

June 4   #15.1558   Battenkill Paddle   Tom Gibbs   583-1550
We put in at the State Line on Rt 313 and paddle for ~12 miles to the Rt 22 bridge with a stop for lunch at the Giorgi Museum in Shushan. The first 7 1/2 miles has many fast sections, sharp turns and possible obstructions. The 4 1/2 miles after-lunch portion is easier. With proper water levels it is a fun trip. Meet at McDonald's in Greenwich at 9:15. River Gauge: Battenville 

June 11   #15.1559   Sleeping Beauty Mt Hike   Fran Herve   899-3216
Starting from Dacy Clearing we climb Sleeping Beauty Mtn which offers wonderful views to the south and west. Spring flowers and especially lady s slippers should be in full bloom. After lunch we return via Bumps Pond for a total distance of 4 miles and a total elevation change of 1000 . WCMC*     

June 18   #15.1560   Zim Smith Bike   Ken Gericke   683-8420   Fran Herve   899-3216
This is a new route for the Canes, beginning at Shenantaha Creek Park. We will pedal south on the Zim Smith Trail to meet the new Luther Forest spur. With several miles of paved bike path we will explore Luther Forest and stop for lunch at Malta Community Park (picnic tables/pavilion, rest rooms). Reversing our route, we head back to the ZS trail and bike south to Round Lake with a stop at Leah s Cakery....delicious pastries, etc.   Then north again to the start at Shenantaha Creek Park for a round trip of ~ 20 mostly flat miles.  We will meet at 10:00 at Shenantaha Creek Park....from exit 12 of the Northway west on Rt 67 for 1.5 miles...turn left on Eastline Rd....then go 1/4 mile and turn left into Shenantaha Park.  

June 25   #15.1561   Bird Mt. Hike   Diane and Kurt Wisell    D. 796-1993  K. 796-5495
A new hike for the CC's and one likely to become a favorite.  Bird Mountain is located just east of Castleton, VT.  A number of excellent vantage points provide 360 degree views that include the Green Mountains, Taconics and Adirondack High Peaks. A good trail includes work road remaining from the Birdseye Mountain Ski Area which operated there into the 1960's.  6.5 miles RT, 1714' rise (527 vertical ft / mile is a pretty good climb), 2,100' +/- total ascent.  Meet at WCMC at 8.45, departure at 9.00.
**Directions to the Bird Mountain trail head: Travel time is almost exactly one hour including a 10 minute pit stop at the Vermont Welcome Center. The distance is 40.1 miles. From WCMC, right on 9, right on 149  to Fort Anne, left on 4 to Whitehall, right on 4 to Vermont Exit 5, right at end of ramp on East Hubbardton Road, 0.1 mile to left on 4A, 2.8 miles to trail head on right. There is no trail sign, only a small parking lot and some chain link fence, a “private property no dumping” sign and another sign that says “Welcome To Castleton” if viewed from the direction opposite your travel direction. N43.61017 W73.11507

July 2   #15.1562   Lens Lake Paddle   Fran Herve   899-3216  
Lens Lake is a small lake ~6 miles west of the hamlet of Stony Creek in Warren County. There is a nice launch area with adequate parking for our group. Our plan is to explore the lake and its irregular shoreline at a leisurely pace and have lunch at the launch area before returning for more exploring if desired. Meet at the parking lot across from the Lake Luzerne High School on Rt 9N at 9:15. Of course you can plan on stopping at the Up River Café (formerly Papa s Ice Cream Parlor) on the way home!
**Meeting at the parking lot across from the Hadley-Luzerne High School is recommended for all except those coming from Warrensburg and points north (in which case we would make arrangements to meet at the Town of Stony Creek offices) – if you are from Warrensburg or points north you already know the back way to Stony Creek.  However, for the adventurous you could also go directly to the launch area – if you are so inclined, email and we will send you directions.

July 9   #15.1563  Northville Lake Placid Trail Hike, Southern Section   Karen Burke and Gail Stauble  
A new hike!  From the new trailhead on Collins Gifford Valley Rd., just south of the Village of Northville, we will hike generally west through mixed forest to the banks of West Stony Creek for a distance of ~4 miles.  On the way, we will pass Mud Lake about 2 miles in, about the prettiest lake I have ever seen, with lily pads and approachable shore.  After another mile we will encounter what has been named the Frankenstein Rock - you'll see why when you see it.  In another mile or so after that we'll come to our lunch spot on the bank of West Stony Creek a perfect spot to relax and visit before returning on the same route for a total of nearly 8 miles. The terrain is up and down, very typical of the NP trail -  a somewhat steep part is mitigated by switchbacks, very nicely done.  Meet at the Amtrak station in Saratoga Springs at 8:45, the Visitor's Center on the NE corner of NY 29 & 30 at 9:30 or the new trailhead at ~10:00.   (Recorded: RT distance: 7.71 mi.; TVA: 1440')
**This is a new section of the Northville - Placid Trail, with the trailhead located south of the Village of Northville on the Collins Gifford Valley Rd. Work is ongoing on this section, estimated to be completed in 2016. Currently, the southern end of this section ends at the banks of West Stony Creek where a bridge is planned that will allow the visitor to continue north and connect to the NPT at Woods Lake on the Benson Rd. For those that would like to meet at the trailhead here are the directions beginning at the Vail Mills visitor center at the junction of NY 29 and NY 30: Take NY 30 N for ~5 miles to the intersection of NY 30A (blinking light) where you bear right and continue on NY 30; continue on NY 30 N for ~9.2 miles to CR123; turn left on CR 123 and continue for ~.9 miles to Collins Gifford Valley Rd; turn right onto CGV Rd. and continue for ~.7 miles to the parking lot access road on your left.

July 16   #15.1564   Lake Abanakee Paddle   Lenore and Jack Reber   L.859-8555   J.223-3632    
We will paddle from the Route 28, Lake Abanakee bridge south to the Big Brook Rd. causeway.  Lunch will be at a primitive but accessible site. The group may choose to continue under the causeway and do further exploring before heading back.  We will use bathroom facilities at Byron Park and then drive back the short distance to the launch site.  Paddlers are invited back to the Reber s place in Indian Lake for an edible treat and swim afterwards.  Meet at WCMC at 9.00, depart at 9.15; Wevertown 9:45; Byron Park 10:15.
**Byron Park is located ~.75 miles towards the hamlet of Indian Lake from the Rt 28 Bridge over Lake Abanakee on the south shore of Adirondack Lake. The launch site is located adjacent to the parking lot on the south side of Rt 28 just before you go over the bridge crossing Lake Abanakee.

July 23   #15.1565   Hudson River-Feeder Canal Paddle   Tom Gibbs   583-1550  
A new paddle for the Canes!  From our launch site at the Town of Queensbury s Hudson River Park off of Big Boom Road we will paddle the Hudson River downstream for ~3 miles to the Glens Falls Feeder Canal.  Here we will exit the Hudson and portage a short distance around the Glens Falls Dam, have an early lunch and enter the canal.  We will then paddle the Feeder Canal for an additional 5 miles to the takeout at the Martindale Basin on Martindale Ave. in Hudson Falls where we will have spotted cars.  Meet at the Hudson River Park at 10:00.
**The Hudson River Park is located off of Big Boom Road in the Town of Queensbury. From Exit 18 of the Northway head east on Broad St only a short distance and turn right on to Big Boom Rd. (adjacent to Carl R’s Restaurant). Continue on Big Boom Rd. south to the shore of the Hudson River and the boat launch.

July 30   #15.1566   Blue Ledge Hike   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D.796-1993   K.796-5495     
From the trailhead on the Northwoods Club Road in the Town of Minerva we will hike to the Hudson River Gorge where slate-blue cliffs tower above the river.  It is about 5 mile RT with 900 ft total ascent.  WCMC* or meet at the Black Bear Restaurant at 10:00.

August 6   #15.1567   La Chute River Paddle   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D.796-1993   K.796-5495  
The La Chute River connects Lake George to Lake Champlain and is located entirely within the town of Ticonderoga.  We will paddle from the downtown park  2 miles into Lake Champlain.  Then, with favorable conditions on Lake Champlain, paddle 1.9 miles north, passing Fort Ticonderoga, to a park and picnic area.  After lunch we'll paddle back to Ticonderoga.  The round trip is a very scenic 8 miles.  The La Chute is flat water with minimal current, paddle-friendly in both directions. WCMC at 8.45, departure at 9.00, or Exit 24 at 9.20, arrival at Ti about 10.10.
**Our early departure from WCMC DOES NOT mean we'll be back at WCMC early! With two + hours of drive time and an 8 mile paddle, figure our return to WCMC will be 5.00-ish, maybe a little later. The put in is on the opposite side of the river from Bicentennial Park at coordinates 43.849745 73.419400.  Pit Stops: After leaving WCMC (meeting time 8.45, departure by 9.00), we will make a pit stop at the Ticonderoga McDonalds before proceeding to the put in. Alternatively, restrooms are available at the Ticonderoga Heritage Museum & Visitor Center at 137 Montcalm Street which opens at 10.00 am. It’s right on the southwest corner of Bicentennial Park. Routes and Trip Length: Two options are available. Take your pick: (1) The scheduled trip is about 8 miles round trip from the put in to the park at the ferry landing on the lake and back to the put in; (2) Some paddlers may wish to run the La Chute down to the lake then head back to the put in which can involve paddling a minimum 2 miles. At their option, several more miles and lots of scenery are easily possible in the marsh and bay area before the main part of the lake. It is likely that a sub-group leader will be appointed for the short paddle to keep track of that group as the group going to the ferry landing will have no way to keep track of the short trip folks; (3) When deciding who to car pool with, try to do it with someone going on the same trip you are, either long or short. Certainly, if you do not mind a little idle time in Ti or on the water waiting for your ride, don’t worry about that. Boats: Any of the boats routinely used on flat water CC paddles are fine for the La Chute portion of the trip and on Lake Champlain. If you plan to do the longer trip and if you have a choice of boats, whichever one you have that is better suited for a little wind and some waves would be the better choice. In any case, Swifts, Hornbecks, Placids, Wenonas and others of that ilk are just fine for anything on this trip.

August 13   #15.1568   Thirteenth Lake Paddle   Joanne Armstrong   Claire Pospisil   J 798-3236   C 436-8312  
The Dynamic Duo's second attempt for this new outing!  We have paddled and hiked some from this location but this may be the first official “paddle only” outing of Thirteenth Lake for the CC s. Thirteenth lake is only two miles long but its shoreline is mostly state owned and gives you a sense of remoteness, surrounded with heavily wooded mountains. From our starting point at the boat launch located on the northern end of the lake, ~150 yards down a wide smooth trail to the water,  we will explore the lake at a leisurely pace, stopping for lunch and a swim at a picturesque picnic spot known as Elizabeth Point before returning to paddle and explore more of the lake. Canoe/Kayak wheels may be helpful. WCMC* or the Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 10:00.

August 20   #15.1569     Cedar River Flow Paddle   Ray Bouchard   893-7314  
From Wakely Dam we will paddle the length of the Flow, continuing upstream on the Cedar River for an additional mile to a lean-to where we will have lunch and then return for a total distance of 9-10 miles.  The pace will be leisurely, so we ll have plenty of time to explore the shoreline and look for wildlife.   The flow is home to waterfowl and other birds so bring your binoculars and camera who knows, we may even see a moose.  The drive is a little longer than we are used to so we will depart from the WCMC at 8:30, with a brief stop at the Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:00 and a pit stop at Stewart s in Indian Lake at 10:00.  The last 10 miles is on an unimproved dirt road.
**The Cedar River and associated Flow (lake) is located in the Moose River Plains Wild Forest Area near Indian Lake. We will launch at Wakely Dam and paddle the length of the Flow until we reach the junction of the lean-to and the Northville-Lake Placid Trail near the Cedar River. This will serve as our lunch spot and turn around point. The round trip distance is about 9 - 10 miles, but folks are welcome to come along and just paddle the Flow on their own, hopefully with a friend or two. The pace will be leisurely, so we’ll have plenty of time to explore the shoreline and watch the wildlife. Wind, when it does blow, tends to follow the length of the Flow so it can be an issue, especially if you are paddling a tandem canoe with high sides. Solo canoes and kayaks should fare well. In the past I have seen loons, Canada geese, osprey and ducks so bring your binoculars and your camera. Because of the long drive and the length of the paddle I would like to meet the main group at WCMC at 8:15 with a departure time of 8:30. This will be followed by a brief stop at the Town of Johnsburg Court House at 9:00 and a pit stop at the Stewart’s Shop in Indian Lake around 10:00. Please note that the last 10 miles or so of the trip is on a dirt road with occasional pot holes and protruding rocks. I’ve driven it many times in my Honda Civic but then I find that dodging the latest frost heaves is kind of fun.

August 27   #15.1570   Hudson River Bike   Ken Gericke   683-8420  
From our start at the Rogers Island Visitor Center in Fort Edward we head west across the Hudson River to West River Road (WRR).  We follow WRR south to Bacon Hill where we continue south on Grange Hall Rd. to NY 29.  We then take NY 29 east to NY 4 in Schuylerville, then north on NY 4 to Hudson Crossing Park (HCP) for lunch.  After lunch we cross the Hudson on the newly renovated Dix Bridge to CR 113 where we turn north to connect with NY 4.  We continue north on NY 4 thru Fort Miller back to Ft. Edward to our start, with options of taking some lesser traveled roads on the way.
**This route has nice views of mountains both east and west while traveling thru rural farmland with mostly level terrain with a total biking distance of ~27 miles. For those that wish to shorten their route there would be an option to spot a car either at the HCP, for a total of 15 miles, or Fort Miller, for a total of 19 miles. Meet at the Rogers Island Visitor Center at 10:00. Please feel free to contact me to discuss spotting a car at either of the two locations noted. Directions to the Rogers Island Visitor Center: From Exit 17N proceed on US 9 north for ~1.8 miles to NY 197. Turn right on NY 197 and continue for ~4.6 miles – entrance to the Rogers Visitor Center will be on your right.

BONUS September & October    Peter Fedorick's 2015 Foliage Tour (P3FT)
Hi everyone,Greetings and Happy Autumn I made a decision, despite a very busy personal schedule and lots of commitments, to once again put fun time ahead of being responsible and offer some fall bonus outings. Last year we enjoyed some unique hikes and the foliage was outstanding. This year the outings are unique but the foliage is playing tricks with us and it isn’t known just how vivid the colors will be. Regardless, take a look at the outings descriptions and decide whether you would like to attend. If you do not find any of these offerings to your liking and would like to offer one or more of your own please do not hesitate to schedule on the same dates as mine – all of mine are tentative and will be subject to last minute changes due to weather and my schedule. Also, if you are interested in participating on any of these outings I ask you to contact me via email and let me know – only those responding will receive further emails regarding these outings. You are not committing to the outing – only that you are interested. Unfortunately, I will not be able to scout any of these hikes beforehand. Please note that there is an overnight planned this year. Peter
     Monday, September 28th, Noonmark and Round Mt.
If you have hiked in the Keene Valley area you have heard about and seen Noonmark Mt. – it is a prominent peak in the area and a destination for many hikers that don’t want to climb a High Peak but want to enjoy spectacular views – Round Mt is close-by and lesser known but offers a great view. The decision to include Round Mt on the return will be determined by the group at the appropriate time – this is a challenging hike if Round Mt is included. We begin the hike at the parking lot at St. Huberts – across from the Roaring Brook parking lot to Giant. We walk along the Ausable Club Road for ~.5 miles before entering the woods and heading for the summit via the Stimpson Trail. We will have gained 2,250’ in the 2 miles to the top. We will descend via the Felix Adler/Dix Trail, losing ~1,250’ in a mile before hiking ~.7 on fairly level to the junction with the Weston Trail to Round Mt. Here we must decide whether to climb an additional 750’ to Round Mt via the Dix trail (and out to the parking area) or continue on the Felix Adler trail and its gradual descent to the parking area. Mileage and gain including Round Mt – 6.4 miles and 3,000’; mileage and gain excluding Round Mt – 5.7 miles and 2,250’.
Since it is not known whether this hike will include Round Mt and early start is needed just in case. WCMC at 7:30 for 7:35 departure.
     Monday and Tuesday, October 5th and 6th, Lyon and Catamount Mts
Lyon Mt: located west of Plattsburgh with the TH on the western shore of Chazy Lake. The new trail is ~7 miles RT with an elevation gain of 1,900’ – the summit has an elevation of 3,820’. FANTASTIC views – check out this trip description. The drive from WCMC is a little less than 2 ½ hours and ~130 miles – this would be an early start and the first day of an overnight in Wilmington.   Catamount Mt: One of my favorite’s of the non-high peaks and would be the second day of the overnight that includes Lyon Mt. Views are fantastic and it is a fun hike with ~4 miles RT – a good choice for the second day. It has an elevation of 3,180’ and a ~1,670’ gain. There is a new parking lot I think – I haven’t been there in years.
My plan would be to offer motels in Wilmington and possible camping. Eating out may be limited and the costs maybe a little higher than normal because it is leaf-peeper season. The return drive to the WCMC is about 2 hrs and ~100 miles. I will supply motel/campground information to those interested. This outing will require more coordination between the participants than other outings in order to simplify the logistics. Also, while this is scheduled as an overnight – you are welcome to do either or both of these hikes as day hikes – however, you will be on your own for transportation.
     Tuesday, October 13th, Pitchoff Ridge as a Thru Hike
The trailhead is located just across the road from the Cascade Mt TH – we would be hiking west to east. It is less than 4 miles one way with a gain of nearly 1,800’ counting the 5 bumps. I think the highest elevation is 3,600’ – the descent is somewhat steep.
The drive from the WCMC is 1.5 hours and 80 miles. Most likely would meet somewhat early at the WCMC – exact time TBD – perhaps 8. We will need two cars in order to drop off one on the eastern end of the trail.
     ***Please be honest with yourself when deciding whether these hikes are within your capabilities. Do not hesitate to contact me with questions regarding any of these hikes. Also - if you find any errors in the descriptions please let me know so that I may correct them.

September 3   #15.1571  Cascade Pond Loop Hike   Karen Burke   844-2945  
A new hike for us! From the trailhead at the western end of Lake Durant, just east of the hamlet of Blue Mountain Lake, we will hike in a counterclockwise direction for slightly less than 3 miles. We have gained close to 600   but nothing steep and are rewarded with a picturesque lunch spot on large rocks and an open area. After lunch we will continue our counterclockwise direction for .7 miles where our route joins the Northville-Lake Placid Trail. We follow the NPT for the final 2.5 miles on a wide trail, with few obstructions and mostly downhill, to the Durant State Campground and our previously spotted cars. Meet at the WCMC at 8:45 for a 9:00 departure or the Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:30. We plan on making a short pit stop at Stewart s in Indian Lake at 10:15 before proceeding to the Durant State Campground where we will drop off a couple of cars.
**For those that would like to go directly to the trailhead we should arrive there by 10:30. From the Hamlet of Indian Lake, continue west on NY 30/28 towards Blue Mountain Lake for ~10.5 miles. Turn left on Durant Rd/CR19 and in ~1/4 mile turn left on a dirt road to the trailhead. Also, Karen will go directly to Stewart’s in Indian Lake but Peter has offered to meet the group at the WCMC and Wevertown.

September 10   #15.1572   Friends Lake Paddle & Picnic   Tom Gibbs   583-1550   
Eric and Tom are offering a hot dog cookout on the beach at Friends Lake preceded by a 4-5 mile paddle around the lake. Bring everything you want to eat or drink except the hot dogs and rolls. WCMC* or meet at Tom's house on Friends Lake at 10:00. Friends Lake currently does not have any invasive plant species and they would like to keep it that way. As a preventative measure a boat wash for all to use prior to entering a boat into the water will be provided. 
**Directions from the South (Most common, starting at Exit 23, Warrensburg exit of the Northway): From exit 23 turn left on Diamond Point Rd - ~.25 mile to NY9. Turn right on NY9 and continue north through Warrensburg for ~ 4 miles to NY 28.Turn left on NY 28 and continue for ~5 miles to CR8/Friends Lake Road. Turn right and follow CR8/Friends Lake Rd for ~4.5 miles to Murphy Rd on the right (just past Friends Lake Inn). Turn right and follow Murphy Rd to the parking area at the lake shore. For directions from the North – please contact Tom- total distance from Exit 25 is less than 5 miles.

September 17   #15.1573   Blue Mountain Hike   Peter Fedorick   893-2629  
It has been a while since we scheduled this hike and what better time than the fall to enjoy the views from its 3,760 summit or the panoramic vista from top its firetower! The trailhead is located at a large parking lot on the east side of NY30/28N, just north of the Adirondack Museum in the hamlet of Blue Mountain Lake. From there we follow a well marked and well used trail, generally easterly, for 2 miles and nearly 1,550 gain to the flat topped summit. If you check out the referenced website you will see that the trail is a steady climb, but without any great obstacles. Meet at the WCMC at 8:45 for a 9:00 departure or the Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:30. We plan on making a short pit stop at Stewart s in Indian Lake at 10:15 before proceeding to the trailhead.

September 17   #15.1573 A-TEAM   Dean Farm Heritage Trail Hike    Tom Gibbs    583-1550    First EVER A-TEAM! Outing
An alternative to the Blue Mountain Hike, with options! The 1.3 mile Dean Farm Heritage Trail meanders across an open meadow, over bridged streams, through a tall timbered woodland, and to a restful overlook on Stony Creek. There are benches and tables on this easily accessible, primarily packed gravel, trail. While considered short compared to our normal hikes this trail encourages lingering and a slow pace. For those that have extra time and energy an exploration of the longer trail immediately across from the parking lot may be a consideration. It is a bit rougher terrain as it winds through more forest, hills, and crosses a tumbling brook three times and both skirts and climbs rock ledges. From this trail one can also view a large pond and areas of marsh. Maybe explore a portion and then head for the Up River Café in Lake Luzerne for a treat. Meet at the Town of Greenfield Community Center at the intersection of Rt 9N and Wilton Rd/CR36 at 9:45 or at the Hadley Train Station at 10:30. Please check this linkfor additional info.   Call Tom at 583-1550 or email to let him know you are planning to attend. Directions to the trailhead from the Town of Stony Creek Offices located on the Hadley Road/CR12 just south of the Historical Stony Creek Inn: Continue N on the Hadley/Harrisburg Rd for ~ ½ mile and turn right on Lanfear Rd. In less than a ¼ mile turn left on to Murray Rd/CR76 and continue a short distance to the parking lot on the left.

BONUS September 21    Ampersand Mountain Hike   Kurt Wisell   796-5495
A 5.3 mile round trip, 2,100' ascent hike starting on Route 3 at Middle Saranac Lake, 2 hours from Lake George. After about 1.8 miles of walking on easy trail in beautiful woods, the trail becomes a very reasonable climb for another 0.3 miles. Where there is much pitch rocks have been placed  into nearly endless stairs making ascent very, very easy.  The next 0.2 miles is significantly rougher, steeper, more work, no stairs and requires more attention. At the top of that short rough section, the trail is alternately easy to moderate for another 0.35 miles to a large summit area with plenty of room to roam and explore the 360 degree view. Meet WCMC at 7.05, leaving at 7.10 am - or - Lake George (Exit 22, stay right, go left at stop sign on Rt. 9, parking lot just after passing under Northway on right) at 7.25 am, departure at 7.30 am - or- Wevertown  at 7.55, leaving at 8.00 am.

September 24   #15.1574  Moxham Mountain Hike   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D. 796-1993   K. 796-5495  
This is a roughly 6 mile round trip hike to a mountain in Minerva NY's "Fourteenth Country." Foliage should be peaking. A total ascent of 1800 feet to the summit and back. A relatively easy trail with good views that has uphill and downhill sections both going to the summit and returning. Meet at WCMC at 8:45 am, departing at 9.00 am or meet at the Black Bear Restaurant, Northway Exit 26 at 9:30.

October 1   #15.1575   Black Mountain Hike   Diane and Kurt Wisell   796-5495
Black Mountain, near Huletts Landing is a hike that has not been on the Crooked Canes schedule since June 4, 1998 when Irv Boyle s trip description read as follows:  At an elevation of 2,646 feet, Black Mountain is the highest mountain in the Lake George area. No hiker should miss the awesome views from the top of the mountain.”  The hike is very close to 6.6 miles, round trip with a rise of 1,180 feet and total vertical ascent of around 1, feet.  It is a nice woodsy walk with some nice views of Lake George, some beaver flows and pretty woods.  WCMC at 8.45, departure at 9.00.  Drive time is about 50 minutes each way.   Educated guesstimate on our return to WCMC is 4.00 pm.

October 1   #15.1575 A-TEAM   Flake Graphite Mine Hike Tom Gibbs    583-1550    Don McMahon      227-1047   
An alternative to the Bird Mountain Hike, this hike does not have in distance is more than made up for with interesting things to see. From Coy Road near Lake Desolation, roughly 10 miles from downtown Saratoga, we will hike a little under 3 miles and explore around the old Flake Graphite Mine, also known as the Greenfield Graphite Mine. A video of the hike with pictures of the ruins (rather long but very inclusive is HERE. Our meeting place will be the parking lot in back of the Town of Greenfield Community Center at the corner of Rt 9N and Wilton Rd/CR36. Meet 9.45, depart at 10.00.

BONUS October 6   A Paddle On Fall Stream   Ray Bouchard
Fall Stream is one of my favorite places to paddle because of the sense of remoteness that I feel soon after launching. Unlike the Kunjamuk there aren’t any cabins along the way, just pure peace and quiet. This is a leisurely paddle on a slow meandering stream that begins near the northern end of Piseco Lake. Following a 300’ carry from the parking lot we’ll paddle against the current into Fall Lake and then continue on to a lovely picnic spot on Vly Lake for a one way distance of about 5 miles (Round Trip ~10 mi.). Last year there was only one beaver dam that blocked my path, but I can’t make any promises. In short, be prepared for wet feet. Hornbecks are fine, but scuffing the finish on a submerged rock is a possibility. The water is likely to be cold so I would suggest that everyone wear a PFD. The expected High for the day is 62ºF coming off a low of 37°F so dress in layers, including a wind breaker, hat and perhaps gloves. A pair of sunglasses and sunscreen would offer both comfort and protection. Remember “Cotton Kills” so rely on synthetics and/or wool. The forecast at the moment is 0% chance of rain, mostly sunny skies and winds under 8 mph but you might consider bringing a warm beverage and have a spare set of clothes in a sealed plastic bag in your vessel just in case. You might also want to leave a spare set of shoes and socks in your car.

October 8   #15.1576   Rock River Trail Hike   Lenore and Jack Reber   L.859-8555 J.223-3632  
Another new hike! The trailhead for the Rock River Trail is located on the north side of NY28/30, 4.6 miles west of the hamlet of Indian Lake. From the trailhead we will hike 3 miles, nearly due north, past Rock Lake to the shore of Rock River and our lunch spot, returning via the same route. There is a 150 elevation gain on the way to the river and 480 on the return hardly noticeable. WCMC* or the Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 10:00. We plan a short pit stop at Stewart s in Indian Lake at 10:45 before proceeding to the trailhead. 
**The current trail is used by snowmobiles in the winter and the first 2 miles of the trail were once the stage coach road from North Creek to Blue Mt Lake. Please see CNY Hiking for additional information.

October 15   #15.1577   New York / Sandgate Vt. Bike   Ken Gericke   683-8420  
An 18 mile bike beginning at the SR 313 NY/VT canoe access on the Battenkill River, and continuing in a clockwise loop to Sandgate Vermont. Lunch will be in the scenic hamlet of Sandgate VT (specific location TBD). The route continues, mostly downhill, returning to SR 313, crossing the Arlington Covered Bridge to East River Rd, then back to SR 313 and to our start in NY. Meet at McDonalds in Greenwich at 9:15.
**This is a beautiful ride through some rural valleys of Washington County, NY and Vermont, quite remote with approximately 1/2 of the route on hard packed dirt roads. While the route can be pedaled with a touring/ narrow-wheeled bike, a hybrid or even a mountain bike might be more appropriate. There are some hills, with a gradual elevation gain of approx. 700'....then a long well-earned downhill to Sandgate.

BONUS October 19    Mount Equinox   Diane & Kurt Wisell    796-5495 or 796-1993
Starting at the Equinox Preservation Trust Trail Head, at the end of West Union Street in Manchester, VT, we climb 2,840 feet over 3.1 miles to the summit of Mount Equinox then north about 0.2 to an overlook. We will return via the same route for a total of about 6.6 miles. Two great lunch spots to choose from, the overlook or the new Saint Bruno Scenic Viewing Center that Diane and I are eager to see, located in the footprint of the old Skyline Hotel. Though the vertical may sound bad, the trail is very nice and for the most part easy walking. None of it is super steep and there are no rock scrambles. The views from the summit are outstanding. About half way up is a terrific spring with water so good that Guinness (owner of the Equinox Hotel) once contemplated piping it to a bottling plant in the village. As of Thursday afternoon, foliage in the area was at about peak. Depart WCMC at 8.30.

October 22   #15.1578   Crane Mountain Hike   Fran Herve   899-3216 
From the trailhead at the end of Ski Hi Road, NW of Warrensburg, we will hike a counterclockwise route of approximately 4 miles and a gain of ~1,400 with some steep sections (1,200 gain in the first mile). There are spectacular views in all directions from the many open areas on top the 3,250 foot high summit. From the summit we descend to picturesque Crane Mt. Pond and return to the trailhead. WCMC* or contact Fran for additional meeting locations. Additional Information: http://www.offonadventure.com/2012/01/crane-mountain-1211.html *Please note the distance in the blog is not the identical planned route of ours.

October 22   #15.1578 A -TEAM Two Easy Pieces: Pinnacle & Sagamore    Diane Wisell    796-1993   
An alternative to the Crane Mountain Hike, we will do an approximately 1.4 mile round trip hike to The Pinnacle, a recent acquisition by the Lake George Land Conservancy which was more recently purchased by the town of Bolton. It has a nice parking lot and trail. It is about a 450' climb over the 0.7 mile ascent to a nicely cleared, large overlook where we'll enjoy a leisurely lunch with a "Carl Heilman eat-your-heart-out" view. It provides, without question, the premier view of the Lake George Narrows. The panorama extends from the Narrows south along the lake to Diamond Island with Prospect Mountain, Hickory Hill, West Mountain and Moreau State Park in the background. From the Pinnacle, for those interested, we will go to the Sagamore and enjoy an approximately 1 mile stroll around Green Island to include the Sagamore's beautiful grounds and excellent nature trail along the lake shore. WCMC at 10.00, departure at 10.15, or the Pinnacle trail head at about 10.45.

October 29   #15.1579   Rock & Clear Pond Loop Hikes   Ray Bouchard   893-7314  
My plan is to follow the east shore of Putnam Pond, heading north through the campground, until we reach the yellow hiking trail that goes around the top of North Pond.   Once we reach the shore of Rock Pond we will follow the north end of it until we spot a large cylindrical steel cylinder up on the hill.  It is said to be a boiler that was used in the mining operation.   A short walk on the trail will bring us to the adit, or entrance of an abandoned iron mine hewn.
**Continued from the Schedule page.........into the rock. If you are interested in history, try Googling "Rock Pond Iron Mine". I suspect we'll also have time to visit the open pit graphite mine located a few hundred feet uphill from the iron mine. Kurt and I recently explored all 100+ feet of the horizontal shaft, balancing ourselves on logs that had been strategically placed. A headlamp and 2 trekking poles helped to keep us from slipping into ~6" of orange ooze, consisting mostly of non-corrosive, non-toxic Iron Hydroxide. The frogs seemed quite at home in it. From here we will continue on to Clear Pond and Mud Pond, eventually reaching Putnam Pond and our cars. The total distance is about 7 miles with many ups and downs on trails that consist of rocks, roots and occasionally down right pleasant duff. There may only be a 200' change in elevation, but some of the hills will provide you with a good workout. Note: It may be close to 5:30 before we return to WCMC. Meet at WCMC at 8:45, depart at 9:00.

October 29    #15.1579   A -TEAM  SHIPPEE'S LEDGE    Tom Gibbs    583-1550    Don McMahon    227-1047
Shippee’s Ledge is located ~7 miles west of the Village of Corinth.    An old logging road and short trail gradually rises ~250’ over the mile long wood’s walk to an open area where there are expansive views of the east end of the Great Sacandaga Lake and the surrounding mountains.  The trail and overlook are on private property so please respect the property owner’s land. It is hunting season so be sure to wear bright clothing! Meet at the Greenfield Community Center at the intersection of  SR 9N and CR 36 (Wilton Road) at 9.45 or at the Corinth public parking lot, also at 9.45, across from the Corinth Beach on SR 9N at the north end of town.

November 5   #15.1580   Tirrell Pond Through Hike   Lenore and Jack Reber    L 859-8555  J 223-3632  
A new hike for the Canes!  Our adventure will begin at the Blue Mountain trailhead located at a large parking lot on the east side of NY30/28N, just north of the Adirondack Museum in the hamlet of Blue Mountain Lake.  Prior to our start we will have spotted cars at the southern end of our route at a parking pull-off on Route 28/30 just west of the entrance to the Lake Durant State Campground.  The 8+/- miles distance is nearly flat except for the first 2 miles where we gain a modest 400+/- feet and in the next mile lose it.  The trail then becomes the Northville Lake Placid trail (NPT), reaching the Tirrell Pond lean-to in .3 miles, with its secluded beach, where we will have lunch.  After lunch we will continue in a southerly direction on the NPT for the remaining 4.5 +/- miles, passing the O'Neil Flow lean-to and skirting the O'Neil Flow for about a mile before arriving at our cars.  Meet at the WCMC at 8:45 for a 9:00 departure or the Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:30.  We plan on making a short pit stop at Stewart s in Indian Lake at 10ish before proceeding to the trailhead.

November 5    #1580   A -TEAM  MOREAU STATE PARK - LAKE ANN HIKE   Tom Gibbs    583-1550    Don McMahon    227-1047   
Starting from the “Spring" trailhead on the NW corner of Moreau Lake State Park on Spier Falls Rd, we will hike over the shoulder of Grant Mtn to a small pond called Lake Ann returning using the same route. Total distance of 4.0 +/- miles with a gain of 800’ +/-. Meet at Moreau Lake State Park parking lot at the entrance near Northway Exit 17 at 9:45 or at the Spring TH at 10:10.

November 12   #15.1581   Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob   Fran Herve   899-3216 
The Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob is owned and maintained by the Lake George Land Conservancy (LGLC) and offers the visitor a couple of options of hikes totaling 3.5 miles.  From the trailhead, located ~.7 miles north on Pilot Knob Rd from its intersection with NY 9L, we will hike the orange trail ~1 mile and a nearly 700 gain to a Gazebo with fine views of the southern basin of Lake George.  From the Gazebo we will hike the blue trail another ~1 mile and an additional 400 gain to the waterfall loop trail and visit both the bottom and top of the falls before retracing our steps to the Gazebo and returning to our cars via the longer, meandering portion of the orange loop trail.  WCMC* or meet at the trailhead at 9:50.  The existing parking lot is being expanded and improved and construction may still be in progress during our scheduled outing.  The LGLC indicated that the parking lot will continue to be usable during this time; however, please use caution when you arrive or consider carpooling from the WCMC instead.

November 19   #15.1582   Marcy Dam (NOT!)  Hike/Snowshoe   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D 796-1993   K 796-5495  
Shown as NOT! above because Marcy Dam washed out during hurricane Irene and the remains are now being removed.  Nonetheless, the hike is a beautiful, easy and on a major trail. About 4.5 miles RT from Adirondack Loj to the dam and back.  ADK members, bring your cards for the parking discount!  Depending on time and our inclination after the dam, we could hike Mount Jo, a roughly 2.5 mile, 730' vertical climb from the Loj.  WCMC 8.45 for a 9.00 departure or the Black Bear in Pottersville at about 9.30.

November 19    #15.1582A -TEAM     Saratoga Battlefield    Tom Gibbs    583-1550    Don McMahon    227-1047
Beginning at the Saratoga Battlefield Visitor Center we will hike the Wilkinson Trail over gentle slopes around the northern section of the battlefield for a total distance of about 4.2 miles (length came from the NPS trail description). Meet at the Battlefield's Visitor Center at 10.00.

BONUS November 20    Sleeping Beauty   Linda & Peter Fedorick    893-2629
Starting from Dacy Clearing we climb Sleeping Beauty Mt which offers wonderful views to the south and west. After lunch we return via Bumps Pond for a total distance of ~5 miles and a total elevation gain of 1000’. WCMC at 9:15 for a 9:30 departure. If you have any questions please email or call Peter 893-2629.

BONUS November 23    Pilot Knob Ridge   Diane & Kurt Wisell   796-5495  or 796-1993 
Leaving the Buck Mountain trail head on Pilot Knob Road at 10.00. The hike is 4.5 miles in length with a vertical rise of 1,609 feet and total vertical ascent of about 1,800 feet. It’s pretty much up all the way to the top and down all the way back. There is a half mile bushwhack on the way up in open forest. From the top, the views of southern Lake George are “in your face” terrific most of the way down. Meet at the trailhead but if you’d rather carpool from my house a mile north of Lake George Village, give me a call.

November 26   Thanksgiving   No Outing Scheduled

BONUS November 27    Burn Off The Calories Berry Pond Hike  Diane & Kurt Wisell   796-5495  or 796-1993
Meet at the Lake George Rec Center at 10.00 for a 5.6 mile round trip hike with 1,100’ total vertical ascent. We’ll go from the parking lot to the overlook, around the pond and down, stopping for lunch at either the overlook or Berry Pond, whichever one works out the best timewise. Hiking boots without micro spikes will be fine. You don’t need to let us know you’re coming for this one, just show up. If you need directions, get in touch. There is rain in the forecast for late day Friday but right now it looks like we're good until at least 4.00.

BONUS November 29   Jay Mountain Hike   Diane & Kurt Wisell   796-5495  or 796-1993
This is a really nice hike!  8 miles round trip with a 2,150 foot rise, a 2,800’ total vertical ascent and it takes an hour and 20 minutes to get to the trail head from Exit 22 in Lake George.  We did this in October last year as part of Peter Fedoricks Fall Foliage Tour.  From his trip description:  “…this should be a real treat if the weather cooperates. This is a relatively new trail as well, being opened in October of 2012. From the trailhead near Upper Jay the trail will lead us 4 miles to the summit with spectacular views along the way.Please check out this link for a detailed description .”   Peter’s phrase “… a real treat if the weather cooperates” is key.  Presently, the weather looks good.  Bring micro spikes as Jay is pretty far north and pretty high. Meet for an 8.00 am departure at the parking lot off I87 Exit 22, immediately adjacent to the I87 entrance ramp from Route 9 at the north end of Lake George Village.  Please do let us know if you plan to go.  Other meeting points farther north are possible.

December 3   #15.1583   Schaefer Trail Hike   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D 796-1993  K 796-5495  
The Schaefer trail was moved a couple of years ago to follow a picturesque brook up from the "ski bowl".   We follow the trail to a reservoir where we will have lunch. The trail is about 4 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 1000 ft.   WCMC* or meet at the Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 10:00.

December 10   #15.1584   Cat and Thomas Mts. Thru Hike   Peter Fedorick   893-2629  
Starting at Edgecomb Pond we hike ~2 mi and ~900 gain to the summit of Cat Mt.  The panoramic views of Lake George from the summit make this an ideal lunch spot.  After a leisurely lunch we would return to Edgecomb Pond.  For those that would like to add some adventure to the hike we would delay lunch, selecting a spot on the way, and hike over the ridge to the cabin on Thomas Mt. and continue to the Thomas Mt. parking lot where we spotted cars earlier.  This option would add ~2.5 mi and ~800 additional gain for a total of ~6.5 mi.   WCMC* or meet at Northway Exit 24 at 9:50. Please contact the trip leader if you would like to hike the thru hike in order to plan for spotting cars.

December 17   #15.1585   Cook Mt Hike/Snowshoe   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D 796-1993   K 796-5495  
A very pretty 2.8 mile (round trip) hike on very nice trail to the 1,215 foot summit of Cook Mountain in Ticonderoga on the west shore of Lake George.  Cook Mountain is located on a 172 acre parcel owned by the Lake George Land Conservancy. From the summit are views of northern Lake George including Anthony's Nose, Rogers Rock. The Champlain Valley and the Green Mountains in Vermont are also visible.  WCMC at 8.45, departure at 9.00 or Exit 24 at 9.20.

December 24   #15.1586   Berry Pond Snowshoe/Hike (substituted for Darling Mt.)   Ken Gericke     683-8420  
A 5.6 mile round trip snowshoe or hike, depending on conditions, with 1,100 total vertical ascent and some lovely mountain and pond views. We ll probably go from the parking lot to the overlook, around the pond and down, stopping for lunch at either the overlook or Berry Pond, whichever one works out the best. Depending on conditions, like 2 feet of snow on unbroken trail, we may leave out either the pond or the overlook loop. WCMC* or meet at the Lake George Rec Center at 9.45.

December 31   #15.1587   Spruce Mt Fire Tower New Year's Eve Hike/Snowshoe   Peter Fedorick  893-2629  
While not a new hike for the Canes this will be first time the hike has been offered in decades with the ability to climb the fire tower.  After many years of haggling with the various owners of the property surrounding the tower an agreement was recently reached to allow legal access to the tower with a new trail and the restoration of the tower was completed on October 7, 2015.  What better way to celebrate New Year s Eve than to schedule a hike to the “new” tower! The trailhead/parking area is located at the end of Fire Tower Road in the hamlet of South Corinth.  From the trailhead we will hike ~2.5 miles RT with a gain ~1,000 .  Meet at 9:45 at either the municipal parking lot in Corinth opposite the town beach or the Senior Center in Greenfield Center on the south side of Wilton Rd just off Rt 9N. For those of you who would like to go directly to the trailhead parking we should be there at 10:15.   North - from Corinth, take 9N south for ~3 miles, take a right onto Wells Rd and proceed for 2 miles. At the “T” take a right onto Fire Tower Rd.  South - from the intersection of Rt 9N and Wilton/Greenfield Rd continue north on 9N for ~4.75 miles, take a left onto Chapman St and then a left onto Miner Rd.  Proceed on Miner Rd for ~1.4 miles, take a right onto Fire Tower Rd.

January 7   #16.1588   Spectacle and Gull Ponds   Peter Fedorick   893-2629  
It has been a while since we scheduled a hike to Spectacle and Gull Ponds so why not a snowshoe?  Both of these are easy and wonderful woods trails with picturesque destinations.  Scheduling two separate destinations on an outing is usually not advised but the trails are less than a mile from one another and the trek to Gull Pond can be done without packs at the end of the day.  The trailheads for these two ponds are located on East Shore Rd (a.k.a. Adirondack Rd) ~2.5 miles south of Alder Brook Rd in Schroon Lake.  Spectacle Pond We begin our day traveling 1.7 miles to a campsite on the shore of Spectacle Pond for lunch.  The trail follows Spectacle Brook most of the way to the pond, crossing it several times.  It is generally a woods trail along an old tote road but with nice views of Pharaoh Mt from the shore of the pond with a gain of less than 400.  After lunch we will return to our cars and drive one mile north to the trailhead and a nice parking lot.  It is only about .5 miles to Gull pond and less than a 100 gain so you can do it with or without your pack but definitely bring your camera.  The pond is small but picturesque and will invite you back for future visits.   WCMC* or Stewarts in Schroon Lake via exit 27 at 10:10.  Alternate points by request.

January 14   #16.1589   Santanoni Ski & More   Fran Herve   899-3216  
We will ski in to the Great Camp Santanoni which lies at the east end of Newcomb Lake. This camp, one of the largest of its kind built more than a century ago by Robert Pruyn, has been reconstructed as a historical site. The trip into the camp is gently uphill most of the way and then downhill to the camp for a RT of 10 miles.  WCMC at 8:45 for a departure at 9:00 or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:30.   The outing is scheduled as a ski.  However, for those who do not ski there may be an option offered to snowshoe the nearly 4 miles of trails of the Adirondack Interpretive Center located nearby on Rich and Harris Lakes. Details will be made available as the date approaches.  More information  and current conditions at ESF and DEC  web sites.

January 21   #16.1590   Rooster Comb Snowshoe   Karen Burka    494-2217  
We begin and end our 5 mile RT snowshoe of Rooster Comb at the large hiker s parking lot just south of the hamlet of Keene Valley off Rt. 73.  The trail leads us through a beautiful forest over easy to moderate terrain with a few steep sections to its summit with a gain of ~1,600 .  Views from the summit and nearby Valley View lookout complete a 360-degree panorama of Mt. Marcy, the Johns Brook Valley, Giant Mt. and the Ausable Valley.  WCMC at 8:15 for a departure of 8:30 or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:30.

January 21  #16.1590 A -TEAM    Moreau SP / Stonewall Trail Sam Lantz    583-2493   

A new outing for the Canes!  Sam recently laid out a trail, known as the Stonewall Trail, in the Hawk Road area of Moreau State Park and has most graciously agreed to lead an A-TEAM! outing there. With luck, it will be a snowshoe. It is the newest trail in the park and appropriately named for the large number of stone walls and foundations located nearby. The trail is 3.2 miles round trip (4 miles if the gate is locked) of rolling terrain, will take us by a large beaver pond and will include views of the Hudson from a number of vantage points. Some interesting HISTORY of Sherman Island Dam that we've been to and will have a view of onthis outing.  We will meet at the Town of Queensbury Park &Ride at Exit 18  at 9.15 for a 9.30 departure.    There are two Park & Ride locations close to one another, both on Media Drive.  We will meet at the north end of Media Drive next to the fire house. Click  Meet Here!!!"  for a printable map.  An alternative meeting location is at the Corinth Town Beach. Call or email Peter Fedorick at 893-2629 if you want to meet there.

January 28   #16.1591   Ben Wood Mountain Snowshoe   Donna and Peter Wood   494-2874  
We will start from the Wood's house on 457 Potter Brook Rd and snowshoe along an old jeep trail to the top of Ben Wood Mtn., returning over a slightly different route, for a total distance of ~4.5 mi with an elevation change of about 300 . After the trip everyone is invited to have hot chocolate at the Wood's house. WCMC* or meet at the Wood s house at 10:00.

February 4   #16.1592   Pashley Falls   Lenore and Jack Reber   L.859-8555; J.223-3632  
A new outing and a relatively easy one.  We'll snowshoe from the Reber s home on the shore of Adirondack Lake across the lake and connect with a snowmobile/cross-country ski trail. We will follow the trail northerly for ~2 miles to the banks of the Cedar River and Pashley Falls where we will have lunch.  Pashley Falls is a small cascade in a picturesque gorge and popular with the locals.  We will complete our loop via a trail that will take us along the banks of the Cedar River with plenty of views of this wide and shallow part of the river.   The total estimated distance of this loop is ~4.5 miles with ~400 gain.  WCMC at 8:45 for a departure at 9:00 or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:30.  We plan on making a short pit stop at Stewart s in Indian Lake at 10:15 before proceeding to the trailhead.

February 11   #16.1593   Pharoah Lake Ski   Fran Herve  
We will begin from Pharaoh Rd., north of Brant Lake, and ski to the southern shores of Pharaoh Lake and return for a total of 7-8 mi. The trail is fairly level except for one long hill near the beginning.  WCMC* or meet at Horicon Town Hall off Northway Exit 25, east on Route 8, at about 9:50.

February 18  #16.1594   Brookhaven Golf Course Ski and More   Tom Gibbs   583-1550  
Three or four miles of skiing or snowshoeing over gentle hills. Meet at 9:45 at the municipal parking lot in Corinth opposite the town beach or the Senior Center in Greenfield Center on the south side of Wilton Rd just off Rt 9N (yes two locations at the same time).   Plan on bringing lunch.  However, if conditions are good, with lots of snow, The Haven Tee Room may be open for lunch and would allow for the option to have lunch there and support a local business.  Details will be made available as the date approaches.

February 25   #16.1595  CANCELLED Pinnacle Mountain Ice Walls   Peter Fedorick   893-2629  
Back by popular demand! The Pinnacle Mtn. Ice Walls are located on the northwest side of Pinnacle Mountain in-between County Line and Chase Lakes, along Pinnacle Creek, in the Town of Bleecker, Fulton County.  We will follow the marked trail to County Line Lake for a short distance before bushwhacking through mixed hardwoods and crossing a couple of frozen vlies to the three locations of the Ice Walls each unique in their colors for a total distance of ~5 miles RT.  The trailhead is located on Pinnacle Rd about 20 miles from the Visitor's Center located on the NE corner of NY 29 and 30.   Meet at the Amtrak station in Saratoga Springs at 9:00 or at the Visitor's Center on the NE corner of NY 29 & 30 at 9:45.

March 3   #16.1597    CHANGED TO MOREAU SP  Santanoni Ski & More   Nancy Kimball   668-0115  
We will ski in to the Great Camp Santanoni which lies at the east end of Newcomb Lake. This camp, one of the largest of its kind built more than a century ago by Robert Pruyn, has been reconstructed as a historical site. The trip into the camp is gently uphill most of the way and then downhill to the camp for a RT of 10 miles. WCMC at 8:45 for a departure at 9:00 or meet at the Black Bear Restaurant in Pottersville at 9:30. The outing is scheduled as a ski. However, for those who do not ski there may be an option offered to snowshoe the nearly 4 miles of trails of the AdirondackInterpretive Center located nearby on Rich and Harris Lakes. Details will be made available as the date approaches.

March 10   #16.1598   Chase Lake Snowshoe   Peter Fedorick  893-2629  
Chase Lake is located in the Town of Bleecker, Fulton County. Its trailhead is at the end of Pinnacle Rd 11 +/- miles west of NY 30 off the Benson-Bleecker Rd. or ~6.5 miles west of the entrance to Lapland Lake for you XC skiers. From the trailhead we will follow a well marked but infrequently used trail for 2.7 miles thru a forest of mixed hardwoods, with some ups and downs, to a lean-to on the lake s north shore for lunch. There are a few stream crossings but this has not presented a problem in the past. Depending on conditions we may either return the same way we came in or perhaps cross the lake to the site of the old lean-to and use the old trail back to the main trail for an additional .5 miles. Meet at the Amtrak station in Saratoga Springs at 9:00 or at the Visitor's Center on the NE corner of NY 29 & 30 at 9:45. The trailhead is ~20 miles from the VC.

March 17   #16.1599   Owls Head Lookout Snowshoe   Karen Burka   494-2217  
Owl s Head Lookout (not to be confused with Owls Head in Keene) is part of the Giant Mountain Wilderness area. The trailhead is located off Route 9N (south of Keene & 5.75 miles from the intersection with Route 73). From the parking area, we'll follow a dirt road for a few hundred yards, then turn left into the woods. The trail climbs gradually through a stand of hemlocks and comes to the state-land boundary at 0.4 miles. It continues to be level, with small ups and downs, to Slide Brook at 1.0 mile, climbs to a small cliff on the left, and crosses the tributary again at 1.5 miles. After a few more crossings of the tributary, it resumes climbing through open woods, reaching a short steep 0.2 mile spur trail that leads to the rocky summit. The lookout offers views in nearly every direction. Peaks in the immediate neighborhood include Giant Mountain, Rocky Peak Ridge, Green, Knob Lock, and Hurricane Mountain (the one with the fire tower). The open ledges offer one of the best views of huge slides on the east face of Giant Mountain. Looking east, you can see the Champlain Valley and the Green Mountains of Vermont. Total of 5.2 miles RT, easy to moderate, Elevation 2530', Ascent 1257'. WCMC at 8:15 for a departure of 8:30 or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:30.

March 24   #16.1600   Second Pond Snowshoe   Peter Fedorick   893-2629  
The trailhead is on Chatiemac Road off Route 8 a few miles west of Wevertown. The trail leads through nice woods with some small hills to Second Pond, unspoiled and remote in the Siamese Wilderness with a not often seen view of the west side Gore Mountain. Round trip 5.5 mi. with ~400 gain on the way in and ~450 on the way out. WCMC* or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 10:00 or trailhead at 10:15.

March 31   #16.1601   Mount Van Hoevenburg SS/Hike?   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D 796-1993   K 796-5495  
Starting from the Adirondack Loj road, a very pretty trail ascends about 800 feet over a 2.2 miles through a red pine plantation, open hardwoods and spruce forest to the summit of Mount Van Hoevenburg. From the summit, we'll proceed about a half mile down the easterly side of the mountain to the Olympic Sports Complex and walk approximately a mile to our cars along the 2000 bobsled/luge/skeleton track and the 1932 bobsled run. If you've never seen these tracks, you'll be awed! Total distance is 4.3 miles, total ascent about 800 feet.   Meet at WCMC at 8.30, departure at 8.45. Travel time is just under 2 hours to the trail head at the intersection of Adirondack Loj Road and South Meadows Road, including spotting cars at the Sports Complex. Meet, on request, at Pottersville (Black Bear) at 9.15, or the Sports Complex at 10.10, or the trail head at 10.30.

March 31  #16.1601 A -TEAM   Bonita Lake To Spring Through Moreau Park   Don McMahon    633-4214   Tom Gibbs   523-1550  

This is a 4 mile hike with about 500 ft elevation change up and about 900 ft elevation change down with about a half mile bushwhack. Starting from gate on Wilton Road opposite Clothier Rd, we walk on the access road to Lake Bonita dam then enter woods climbing NE up about 250 ft to a ridge line, continue SE 1/2 mile along north edge of ridge, the briefly dip 100 ft through a gap and ascend the opposite side going NE about 1/2 mile to the Lake Ann lean-to where we eat lunch. After lunch use Moreau Park trails to hike about 2 miles out to the Spring trail head. We meet at the “Spring” Parking lot of Moreau State Park (west end of park on Spier Falls Rd) at 9:45 am where we will leave some cars and load everyone in remaining cars to travel to the start point.

April 7   #16.1602   Gooley Club to Cedar River Snowshoe/Hike   Lenore and Jack Reber   L 859-8555 J 223-3632  
Another new outing for the Canes! Our hike begins at the end of the Chain Lakes Road a dead-end road located just north of where NY 28 crosses Lake Abanakee. From NY 28 the road heads NNE following Lake Abanakee and the Indian River downstream for ~3.5 miles to the Gooley Clubhouse, a locked gate, a kiosk and a trail register. From the locked gate we will follow the old Gooley Club Road (referred to as the Cedar River Trail until a permanent name is chosen) to the banks of the Cedar River a total of about 3.5 miles one way with little elevation gain. Along the way we will have the opportunity to view the Cedar River and Mud Pond. There are additional destinations possible along this trail that will have to wait for another time. WCMC at 8:45 for a departure at 9:00 or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:30. We plan on meeting at and making a short pit stop at Byron Park in Indian Lake at 10:15 before proceeding to the trailhead. Those who prefer to do a 4 mile round trip can go as far as the always lovely Clear pond, then return to their cars.

April 14   #16.1603   Dean Farm Heritage Trail Hike   Diane and Kurt Wisell   796-5495  
A very nice loop hike in Stony Creek of about 2.5 miles with a 500 foot total ascent through fields, around bogs, along a ridge (a picnic table at the top is the lunch spot) and through open conifer and hard wood forest with some interesting geology.  Plenty of options for doing less mileage and vertical on VERY nicely manicured pathways. Meet at WCMC 9.30, depart 9.45 or the Warrensburg Price Chopper, north end of parking lot at 10.00, OR, the Town of Greenfield Community Center at the intersection of Rt 9N and Wilton Rd/CR36 at 9:40 for departure at 9:50, OR, the trailhead: from the Town of Stony Creek Offices located on the Hadley Road/CR12 just south of the Historical Stony Creek Inn: Continue N on the Hadley/Harrisburg Rd for about a half mile and turn right on Lanfear Rd. In less than a quarter mile turn left on to Murray Rd/CR76 and continue a short distance to the parking lot on the left.   Lots of links to info here.

April 21   #16.1604   Indian Kill Preserve Hike   Jim and Jan Bornheim   885-9792  
Another new outing for the Canes! From the trailhead at the parking lot off of Hetcheltown Rd. in the Town of Glenville we will hike 5 +/- miles over fairly level trails with a few ups and downs, first along the Indian Kill, past three waterfalls, then returning along the high trail. A short section of the trail on the east side of the stream requires a stream crossing which will be dependent on the water level at the crossing. WCMC* or Exit 12 Park and Ride at 10:00 or the Indian Kill parking lot at 10:15.
**The location of the Indian Kill Preserve is located centrally to many of the Canes affording a number of different approaches – the directions below are only a couple of suggestions:
1.) For those meeting at the Exit 12 Park and Ride – please use the parking lot to the right as you enter the perimeter road to Malta Commons.  2.) Via Rt 50 from the north and for those coming from exit 12 of the Northway: Proceed south on Rt 50, turn left on Hetcheltown Rd (Foggs used car dealer on corner). Continue 1.9 miles to Preserve parking and TH on right. 3.) Via the Northway from the south: Exit 9W at Clifton Park to Rt 146 W. Continue on Rt 146 for 6 miles. Where Rt 146 turns left, continue straight into Glenridge Rd. Continue on Glenridge Rd for .8 miles to a roundabout – taking first exit on to Maple Ave Ext. Continue .3 miles to parking and trailhead on left. 4.) For those using a GPS: use 24 Hetcheltown Rd, Schenectady as the address – Indian Kill Preserve is across the street.

April 28   #16.1605   Pole Hill Pond and Walnut Ridge Hike   Ray Bouchard   893-7314  
This hike will be a first for most of the Canes. There are two trails located in the Pole Hill Pond Preserve, both served by a parking area on the West side of Rt. 9N, just south of the Clay Meadow. The trails are maintained by the LGLC, but owned by New York State. There is sufficient parking for approx. 6 AWD vehicles plus a couple of regular autos next to the road so car-pooling will be necessary. We will be following the Blue Trail most of the way, which based on my recent experience, measures 5.8 miles with a total ascent of 1500 (Elevation Change: 1200 ). A fairly challenging hike. I m certainly looking forward to checking out the wildflowers, but be aware that the trail could be wet at this time of year, especially near the pond. Meet at WCMC at 9:00 with a 9:15 departure or at Exit 24 by prior arrangement.

April 28  #16.1605 A -TEAM Montcalm Point Hike    Don McMahon    633-4214  

Starting at Clay Meadows, we will hike south along the Lake George shore roughly 2.5 miles, have lunch on the shore at one of the clearings, then return to Clay Meadows.  This is a scenic hike through some terrific open hemlock forest and with nice views of Northwest Bay from the shore. WCMC at the regular time, meeting at 9.15, departing at 9.30.

May 5   #16.1606   Mt. Jo Hike  Diane & Kurt Wisell   D. 796-1993   K 796-5495  
Mount Jo, adjacent to the Adirondack Loj in Keene, is an approximately 3 mile hike, including circumnavigation of Heart Lake. Vertical rise is about 800 feet.  Huge bang-for-the-buck views of the High Peaks area.  Concurrently, Don McMahon will lead anyone preferring a shorter hike to include only Mt. Jo. Parking at ADK Loj is $5 for members, $10 for non-members, so bring your ADK cards!  Meet at WCMC at 8.30 for an 8.45 departure or at the Black Bear in Pottersville at 9.15 or at ADK Loj at 10.20.

May 12   #16.1607   Peebles Island and Erie Canal Lock Hike   Denis Foley   330-8479  
The first part will be a two mile walk around the outer trail on Peebles Island near the junction of the Hudson and Mohawk rivers. The second part is along the "Northside" trail in the southernmost section of Waterford to Cohoes Falls for a total of ~5 miles. Additionally, we may be able to stop and visit the Waterford Museum as part of our walk and perhaps even do a short hike to see the Cohoes Falls close-up from the Waterford side of the Mohawk at the end of the day. Meet at the Park and Ride just east and south of Northway Exit 12 at 9:15 or at the Waterford Canal Visitors Center parking lot at 10:00.

May 19   #16.1608   Stevens and First Brother Mts. Hike   Karen Burka   494-2217  
I thought we could combine two short hikes and enjoy seldom-seen views of beautiful Brant Lake and surrounding areas. We've received permission from Camp Read Boy Scout Reservation to access the Stevens trailhead from the camp. After a moderately steep 1 mile climb, we'll reach the large open-rock summit of Stevens with an elevation of 2,162 (ascent 1,650'). After our return to the camp, we'll have the option of either traveling a short distance to the First Brother trailhead or heading home. For those hiking First Brother (ascent 580' and a 1.4 RT), we'll climb to the lookout areas on the western shoulder and won't actually reach the 1,667-foot summit (views are best at lookout areas). WCMC at 8:45 or meet at the Horicon Community Center at 9:30 (Northway Exit 25; right onto Route 8 east for 1.7 miles; make right at the Community Center entrance and park behind the building at the west end of the lot.)

May 19  #16.1608 A -TEAM   Feeder & Old Champlain Canal Towpath Hike   Tom Gibbs   583-1550  
A new A-Team hike for the Canes! Starting at the Martindale Basin parking lot off of Martindale Ave. in Hudson Falls we will hike ~1.5 miles southeastwardly along the Glens Falls Feeder Canal Towpath to where the feeder canal flows into the Old Champlain Canal - passing the area known as the Five Combines (a set of five locks) on the way. From this t-junction with the Old Champlain Canal Towpath we will first hike north for ~1/2 mile, retrace our steps, then hike ~1/2 mile south along the towpath and back to the junction for lunch. After lunch we will return to the Martindale Basin on the same route as in the morning. The towpath is used by walkers, runners and bicyclists and is generally a hard packed fine-graveled surface with only a 200’ gain over our route – considered easy but we will have to watch for bicyclists. Meet at the Ft. Edward McDonald’s at 9:45 or at the Martindale Basin parking lot at 10:00. There are a number of ways to reach the Ft Edward McDonald’s or Martindale Basin parking lot, however, for convenience the following are directions from exit 17 of the Northway (coming from either direction on the Northway): Take US 9 north for ~1.25 miles; turn right on to SR 197 east and continue for ~4.75 miles to US 4 (Broadway) in Ft. Edward; turn left on to US 4 and continue north for ~1 mile to McDonald’s on your right; continue on US 4 north for ~1.5 miles, bearing right at traffic circle in Hudson Falls; continue for ~.4 miles and turn right on to Martindale Ave; Martindale Basin parking lot will be on your left in a short distance.

May 26   #16.1609   Sleeping Beauty Mt Hike   Fran Herve   899-3216  
Starting from Dacy Clearing we climb Sleeping Beauty Mt. which offers wonderful views to the south and west. Spring flowers and especially lady s slippers should be in full bloom. After lunch we return via Bumps Pond for a total distance of ~4.5 miles and a total elevation gain of 1000 . WCMC*

June 2   #16.1610   Rooster Comb and Snow Mts. Through Hike  Karen Burka   494-2217  
This will be a moderate thru hike in the beautiful Keene Valley area (approx. 5.5 miles total & 1,800 total ascent). We'll spot a car or two and then drive to the Rooster Comb parking lot just south of the hamlet of Keene Valley off Rt. 73. The trail leads us through a beautiful forest over easy to moderate terrain with a few steep sections to the summit (2,762 ) where we will have lunch. Views from the summit and nearby Valley View Lookout complete a 360-degree panorama of Mt. Marcy, the Johns Brook Valley, Giant Mt. and the Ausable Valley. After lunch we retrace our steps to the trail to Snow Mt (summit 2,370 ) for some more beautiful views in several directions before descending along Deer Brook to complete our thru hike. WCMC at 8:15 for a departure of 8:30 or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:30.

June 2  #16.1610 A -TEAM  13th Lake Paddle   Don McMahon    633-4214  
As an alternative to the Rooster Comb / Snow Mountain hike, we will paddle the two mile long Thirteenth Lake, its shoreline mostly state owned and which gives you a sense of remoteness as it is surrounded with heavily wooded mountains. From our starting point at the boat launch located on the northern end of the lake, ~150 yards down a wide smooth trail to the water,  we will explore the lake at a leisurely pace, stopping for lunch and a swim at a picturesque picnic spot known as Elizabeth Point before returning to paddle and explore more of the lake. Canoe/Kayak wheels may be helpful. WCMC* or the Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 10:00.

June 9   #16.1611   Treadway Mt. Hike   Fran Herve   899-3216  
From the trailhead parking lot in the Putnam Pond State Campground, located west of the hamlet of Ticonderoga, we will follow the south shore of Putnam Pond for ~1.8 miles through mostly rolling terrain before turning west and completing the ascent to the summit. If we are lucky we may be able to enjoy the numerous patches of lady slippers which the mountain is known for. The hike round-trip is 7.8 miles with ~1,000 gain with super views from the summit. Some might choose to bring their boats and paddle instead and even bring their tent and camp at this quiet campground.  Campground will be open and there is an entrance fee which is waved for those that are seniors.   WCMC at 8:45 for a departure of 9:00 or meet at Northway exit 28 around 9:45.

June 9  #16.1611 A -TEAM   Pinnacle Mt. Hike  Don McMahon    633-4214    Tom Gibbs  583-1550   
As an alternative to the Treadway Mountain Hike, we will do an approximately 1.4 mile round trip hike to The Pinnacle, a recent acquisition by the Lake George Land Conservancy which was more recently purchased by the town of Bolton. It has a nice parking lot and trail. It is about a 450' climb over the 0.7 mile ascent to a nicely cleared, large overlook where we'll enjoy a leisurely lunch with a "Carl Heilman" view. It provides, without question, the premier view of the Lake George Narrows viewed from the south. The panorama extends from the Narrows south along the lake to Diamond Island with Prospect Mountain, Hickory Hill, West Mountain and Moreau State Park in the background. From the Pinnacle, for those interested, we will go to the Sagamore and enjoy an approximately 1 mile stroll around Green Island to include the Sagamore's beautiful grounds and excellent nature trail along the lake shore. WCMC at 10.00, departure at 10.15, or the Pinnacle trail head at about 10.45.

June 16   #16.1612    Vanderwhacker Mt. Hike   Peter Fedorick   893-2629  
Scheduled by special request - a moderate hike to a remote mountain with wonderful views from its firetower and one of the qualifying towers of the ADK Fire Tower Challenge. The access road to Vanderwhacker Mountain is located ~16 miles north of North Creek off of NY 28N, just after you cross the Boreas River. After driving ~2.5 miles on a gravel woods road we reach the trailhead parking and begin the 2.5 mile and ~1,700 ascent to the summit. In the first half of the hike we gain ~500 but then the hike becomes a steady climb until the summit is reached. Views are limited from the base of the fire tower but you are rewarded with ever increasing views as you climb each level of the tower until the cab is reached where you are treated to a panoramic view of the High Peaks to the north and northeast, Blue Mountain, Goodnow Flow and the Essex Chain of Lakes to the west and mountain silhouettes in other directions. Meet at the WCMC at 8:45 for a departure of 9:00 or at the Black Bear restaurant in Pottersville at 9:30.

June 16  #16.1612 A -TEAM   Archer's Vly Paddle   Tom Gibbs   583-1550   
Details will follow.

June 23   #1613   Zim Smith Bike Ride   Ken Gericke   683-8420  
A repeat of a route introduced just last year to the Canes. Beginning at Shenantaha Creek Park we will pedal south on the Zim Smith Trail to meet the new Luther Forest spur. With several miles of paved bike path we will explore Luther Forest and stop for lunch at Malta Community Park (picnic tables/pavilion, rest rooms). Reversing our route, we head back to the ZS trail and bike south to Round Lake with a stop at Leah s Cakery....delicious pastries, etc. Then north again to the start at Shenantaha Creek Park for a round trip of ~ 20 mostly flat miles. We will meet at 10:00 at Shenantaha Creek Park....from exit 12 of the Northway west on Rt 67 for 1.5 miles...turn left on Eastline Rd....then go 1/4 mile and turn left into Shenantaha Park.

June 30   #16.1614  Lake Abanakee Paddle   Lenore & Jack Reber   L 859-8555   J 223-3632  
Back by popular demand! We'll meet at the large parking area before that Abanakee Bridge, then proceed to the put in on Chain Lakes Road. (A-Team could launch at the bridge and save about 1 mile rt.) We'll paddle to the inflow of Indian River for lunch, then back to the put-in. Plan on about 7 miles. WCMC at 8:30 for 8:45 departure, Wevertown at 9:15. The Rebers will meet the caravan at the Abanakee parking lot.

July 7   #16.1615   Chimney Mountain Hike   Diane & Kurt Wisell   D.796-1993   K.796-5495  
It's been a while since the Canes did this one! From Peter Fedorick's July 30, 2009 outing description: "A 3 mile round trip mile hike with a steep 800 ft elevation change to the top of a mountain with two summits." We will eat lunch on the summit that has open views in all directions. The other summit has interesting rock formations that resemble chimneys and caves to explore.  ;This is a very popular hike with its 360 degree view from the summit. There are plenty of terrific geologic formations including the famous chimney amid a maze of caves and crevices. WCMC or meet in Wevertown at 10:00. There is a parking fee of about $2.00 per car.

July 14   #16.1616   Lens Lake Paddle   Fran Herve   899-3216  
Lens Lake is a small lake ~6 miles west of the hamlet of Stony Creek in Warren County. There is a nice launch area with adequate parking for our group. Our plan is to explore the lake and its irregular shoreline at a leisurely pace and have lunch at the launch area before returning for more exploring if desired. Meet at the parking lot across from the Lake Luzerne High School on Rt 9N at 9:15. Of course you can plan on stopping at the Up River Café (formerly Papa s Ice Cream Parlor) on the way home! MORE: Meeting at the parking lot across from the Hadley-Luzerne High School is recommended for all except those coming from Warrensburg and points north (in which case we would make arrangements to meet at the Town of Stony Creek offices) if you are from Warrensburg or points north you already know the back way to Stony Creek. However, for the adventurous you could also go directly to the launch area if you are so inclined, email and we will send you directions.

July 21   #16.1617   La Chute River Paddle   #1617   Diane & Kurt Wisell   D.796-1993 K.796-5495  
The La Chute River connects Lake George to Lake Champlain and is located entirely within the town of Ticonderoga. We will paddle from the downtown park 2 miles into Lake Champlain. Then, with favorable conditions on Lake Champlain, paddle 1.9 miles north, passing Fort Ticonderoga, to a park and picnic area. After lunch we'll paddle back to Ticonderoga. The round trip is a very scenic 8 miles. The La Chute is flat water with minimal current, paddle-friendly in both directions. WCMC at 8.45, departure at 9.00, or Exit 24 at 9.20, arrival at Ti about 10:10.
**Our early departure from WCMC DOES NOT mean we'll be back at WCMC early! With two + hours of drive time and an 8 mile paddle, figure our return to WCMC will be 5.00-ish, maybe a little later. The put in is on the opposite side of the river from Bicentennial Park at coordinates 43.849745 73.419400. .  Pit Stops: After leaving WCMC (meeting time 8.45, departure by 9.00), we will make a pit stop at the Ticonderoga McDonalds before proceeding to the put in. Alternatively, restrooms are available at the Ticonderoga Heritage Museum & Visitor Center at 137 Montcalm Street which opens at 10.00 am. It’s right on the southwest corner of Bicentennial Park. Routes and Trip Length: Two options are available. Take your pick: (1) The scheduled trip is about 8 miles round trip from the put in to the park at the ferry landing on the lake and back to the put in; (2) A-TEAM OPTION: Some paddlers may wish to run the La Chute down to the lake then head back to the put in which can involve paddling a minimum 2 miles. At their option, several more miles and lots of scenery are easily possible in the marsh and bay area before the main part of the lake. It is likely that a sub-group leader will be appointed for the short paddle to keep track of that group as the group going to the ferry landing will have no way to keep track of the A-TEAM! folks; (3) When deciding who to car pool with, try to do it with someone going on the same trip you are, either long or A-TEAM!. Certainly, if you do not mind a little idle time in Ti or on the water waiting for your ride, don’t worry about that. Boats: Any of the boats routinely used on flat water CC paddles are fine for the La Chute portion of the trip and on Lake Champlain. If you plan to do the longer trip and if you have a choice of boats, whichever one you have that is better suited for a little wind and some waves would be the better choice. In any case, Swifts, Hornbecks, Placids, Wenonas and others of that ilk are just fine for anything on this trip.

July 28   #16.1618  Stewart s Bridge Reservoir Paddle   Peter Fedorick   893-2629  
We will paddle on Stewart's Bridge Reservoir which stretches between Stewart's Dam downstream and the Conklingville Dam upstream. Bald eagles have been observed in the past so bring a camera and binoculars. Meet at the parking lot across from the Lake Luzerne High School on Rt. 9N at 9:45 or at the launch. Stewart s Bridge Reservoir, impounded waters of the Sacandaga River, lies between Stewart s Dam, Hadley, downstream and the Conklingville Dam, Edinburg, upstream. Its irregular shoreline lends itself to exploring and the launch area a perfect place for lunch, swimming or just chilling out. For those of you opting to go directly to the launch site its access is on a marked side-road, on the left, 4 miles +/- west along CR4/N Shore Rd from the main intersection in the Hamlet of Hadley (near the RR Station). Continue on the access road to the end at the shore of the reservoir where there is plenty of parking. We should arrive between 10:00-10:15.

BONUS August 3    Lake George Paddle  Jim Israel   229-7080
A leisurely paddle beginning at 9:30.  If you would like to join me for a few hours just show up at the Million Dollar Beach.  There is no particular destination and lunch is not needed.  The weather forecast is calling for partly cloudy skies and a high temp of 81 with winds S, 5-10mph.

August 4   #16.1619   Black Mountain Hike & Boat Ride   Ed Valla   796-1235  
A new outing for the Canes and one that is sure to please and also includes an A-Team option!  Both the regular and A-TEAM! hikes begin at the Pike Brook Road (PBR) trailhead and end at Black Mountain Point (BMP) with a boat ride taking participants to the Huletts Landing Marina at the end of each hike.  Meet at the WCMC at 8:30 for departure at 8:45.
**It will be necessary to drop off cars at the TH and at the WCB – the logistics for this will be decided upon once we know how many people will be attending. There will be a $5 contribution requested for each boat rider to defray the costs for fuel to those providing boats - in addition to any contribution for carpooling. Ed has requested that you contact him by email (with a cc to Peter) if you plan on attending this outing and which hike you will participate in or if you have any questions. This is not a commitment but will be used to get an idea of how many people he will need to arrange boat transport. Boat transport has been arranged by Ed for the trip to the Huletts Landing Marina. Capacity, however, is limited and it may be necessary to wait up to 40 minutes for the next shuttle before returning to Huletts Landing depending on how many people choose each hike. It is anticipated, despite both groups starting at the same time from the PBR TH, that the A-Team group will arrive at BMP ahead of the group going to the summit in sufficient amount of time that this will not be a problem. The boats used for transport will be power boats typically used on Lake George waters by their owners who are familiar with the lake and the route back to the marina. You can expect a safe ride with all safety concerns considered. Life jackets will be provided.
   Over the Mountain Route – Starting at the PBR trailhead we will hike ~1 mile gaining ~200’, before turning right onto the trail to the summit. The trail remains relatively flat for the next ½ mile before bumping the steepness up a bit, gaining nearly 1000’ in the next ¾ mile to the summit and lunch. From the summit there are outstanding views of Lake George to the north and west – the Narrows, mountains of the Tongue Mt. Range, Anthony’s Nose and the slide on Rogers Rock. After our stay on top we will descend the switchbacking trail southwesterly towards the lake. We lose ~900’ in the first ¾ mile to an intersection with the trail coming in from Lapland and Black Mountain Ponds. Here we will continue our descent west for an additional 1.5 miles and another 1,350’ loss to the lakeshore at BMP – a total distance of ~4.7 miles. Peter has agreed to lead this group.
   Lapland and Black Mountain Ponds Route (A-Team) – For those that would like a less vigorous route to BMP but still look forward to a boat ride we will begin our hike at the PBR trailhead, and follow the same trail as in the above description for the first mile. However, we will bear left at the intersection with the trail to the summit and continue, with little gain over the next mile, past Lapland Pond, to an intersection with the trail coming in from Millman Pond. We continue west for the next mile, nearly flat, past Black Mountain Ponds, where we will stop for lunch at the lean-to at the larger pond, to the intersection of the switchbacking trail coming from the summit. From this intersection we follow the route noted above to the lakeshore at BMP – a total distance of ~4.5 miles. We are looking for someone to volunteer as the leader for this group.
    Non-hikers – For those of you who would like to enjoy a day out but not hike, the Washington County Beach (WCB) may be just what you are looking for. It is located within walking distance to the Huletts Landing Marina - parking is free (and where we will park all our cars), restrooms, picnic tables and fireplaces and a free launch area for canoes/kayaks are available. If all you do is read books then come and enjoy reading under the shade trees at the beach, just bring a comfortable chair. The store at the marina has refreshments and the WCB property has a pavilion in case of rain after the boat ride. Bring your own food and drinks if you plan on spending the day at the beach. Swim or just lounge – spend time with Ed while he awaits the signal to pick up the hikers. You can either carpool with one of the hikers or make the trip on your own (directions available upon request).

August 11   #16.1620   White Rocks Hike   Diane & Kurt Wisell   D.796-1993 K.796-5495  
A new hike for the Canes and it's a REALLY GOOD ONE!  White Rocks is a VERY scenic, well known and interesting geologic formation just east of Wallingford, VT, about an hour and a half from WCMC. We'll hike the Ice Beds trail and the White Rocks Cliffs trail for a total of about 4.5 miles with a total vertical ascent of about 1,500 feet.  The trail is terrific and there is nothing very steep. WCMC 8.15 for an 8.30 departure.

August 11   #16.1620 A -TEAM  Hudson River Paddle  Don McMahon    633-4214    Tom Gibbs   583-1550   
Don and Tom are planning to paddle the Hudson River at Schuylerville.  You are welcome to join them on this A-Team event for a ~4 mile paddle on the Hudson River.  From the boat launch, on the northern end of Fort Hardy Park, the plan is to first paddle upstream to the confluence with the Battenkill before heading back downstream, around Schuyler Island, and return to the cars.  Lunch will be at a location to be selected during the paddle.  Meet at 10:00 at the boat launch on the northern end of Fort Hardy Town Park (access road opposite the post office) on the north side of Rt 29 just before going over the Hudson River.  There is very little current in this section of the Hudson and any boat is suitable to use.  Contact Tom with any questions. See a detailed map.

August 18   #16.1621   Cascade Pond Loop Hike   Lenore and Jack Reber   L.859-8555 J.223-3632  
The hike begins at the Cascade Pond trailhead at the western end of Lake Durant, just east of the hamlet of Blue Mountain Lake. From the Cascade Pond TH we will proceed in a southerly direction to the shore of Cascade Pond for a bite to eat and a possible swim before continuing to the intersection with the Northville-Lake Placid Trail (NPT). Here we will decide whether to continue south on the NPT to Stephens Pond for a swim and another bite to eat, a one mile RT, or continue in a northeasterly direction on the NPT to the Lake Durant Campground where we have previously spotted cars for the return to the Cascade Pond TH. A final swim at the Lake Durant Beach is also a possibility. The entire hike is 7 +/- miles of gentle ups and downs through mostly deciduous forest. Meet at WCMC at 8:45 (the Fedoricks will lead the caravan from WCMC), the Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:30, or meet Lenore at BYRON PARK, just east of the dam on ADK Lake at 10.00. The bathrooms will be open for a pit stop before preceding to the trailhead. There are several places to swim during the hike, so be prepared. For those that would like to go directly to the trailhead we should arrive there by 10:30. From the Hamlet of Indian Lake, continue west on NY 30/28 towards Blue Mountain Lake for ~10.5 miles. Turn left on Durant Rd/CR19 and in ~1/4 mile turn left on a dirt road to the trailhead.

August 25   #16.1622   Henderson Lake Paddle   Diane & Kurt Wisell   D.796-1993 K.796-5495  
Not a new paddle for the Canes, but it's been a while! Getting a boat onto the very scenic, mile and three quarters long, Henderson Lake requires an hour and forty five minute drive from WCMC and a carry from the Upper Works trail head. From Marianne Vernon's July 16, 2009 trip description: "We will canoe around Lake Henderson, have lunch at the Lean-to at the northwest end of the lake and explore the swamps at the inlet on the south end of the lake. There is a 1/2 mile carry so some form of carrier is essential to get to the put in." WCMC at 8.15 for 8.30 departure or Black Bear Pottersville at 9.00 or Henderson Lake 10.15.

BONUS September & October     Peter Fedorick's 2016 Foliage Tour (P3FT)  An update on 9/18/16 is shown below the announcement.
Hi everyone,
     September 26 Whiteface Mountain Hike-up, Drive or Bike Down  That’s right - a one-way hike with options on the return. Whiteface Mt is the 5th highest peak in NY with an elevation of 4,867’ with panoramic views from it rocky summit – and is a landmark from many of the places we visit. There are a number of hiking trails that lead to the top and also the Veteran’s Memorial Highway. We will start our hike at the SUNY Atmospheric Sciences Research Center at the end of Marble Mt Rd – part way up the mountain near North Pole - Santa’s Workshop for those of you who remember! While there is no marked trail from this starting point the herd path is well traveled and should be easy to follow until we connect with the marked trail in ~1 mi. This route will have us hike the old Marble Mt ski slopes, past the herd path to Esther Mt and eventually to the summit – a distance of ~4 mi and close to a 3,000’ gain. Plan on a lengthy lunch on top as your reward.
Now for the options for the return. Linda has volunteered to join us as a driver only and will drive one of our cars with a 2-place bike carrier to the parking lot just below the summit (she plans on spending a few hours visiting the Adirondack Wildlife Refuge in Wilmington while we hike http://adirondackwildlife.org/ ). If you would like, you could ride down in the car or bike down – you decide. We are also offering a second car with a 2-place bike carrier but need a volunteer to drive the car from the trailhead to the top. The volunteer would join Linda on her visit of the Wildlife Refuge for a couple of hours before driving the Veteran’s Memorial Highway to the parking lot near the top. From there you would either climb the stairs/trail the final 200’ or take the elevator to the top and enjoy the views. That person could either drive or bike down. With the two cars we would be able to accommodate up to 10 persons – 8 hikers, and 2 drivers with a maximum of 4 bikers from the group. Since this is a day trip there will be other options depending on the response. I promise you that it will work out – trust me! Meet at the WCMC at 7:00 for a departure at 7:15 or at the High Peaks Rest Area at 8:15 or another location upon request.
     October 3 - 4 St. Regis Mountain and Pitchoff Ridge Thru Hike
This outing is scheduled as an overnight but could be done as one or two day hikes if you choose - you would be responsible for you own transportation.
     St. Regis Mountain will be our destination on the first day. St. Regis Mountain is located ~15 mi west of the Village of Saranac Lake with the trailhead off of Keese Mills Rd. It has a fire tower and is part of ADK’s Fire Tower Challenge. The tower is being restored as we speak and may even be open but the views are terrific without the need to climb it. The hike is considered easy to moderate and is 6.8 mi in total with an elevation gain of ~1,250’. It is nearly a 2 ½ hour drive from the WCMC so it will be an early start – say 8ish – details forthcoming to those who are interested in attending. Of course it would be nice to carpool and we would determine the best overnight parking location for those that would like to ride rather than drive. After the hike we have a short drive to Saranac Lake where we will stay the night. Again – details of the motel choices will be made available to those who decide to attend. For the most ambitious of us we may hike up nearby Mount Baker – overlooking the village before dinner – just a short hike!
     Pitchoff Ridge will be our destination for the second day of our adventure. The trailhead is located just across the road from the Cascade Mt in the town of Keene – we would be hiking west to east. It is less than 4 mi one way with a gain of nearly 1,800’ counting the 5 bumps. I think the highest elevation is 3,600’ – the descent is somewhat steep. Plan on a nice breakfast in Saranac Lake before driving the 16 mi and 30 minutes to the trailhead where we will shuttle a car to the eastern end since this is a thru hike. It shouldn’t be an all day hike so we will be able to return home at a reasonable time.
     Catskill Outings
     October 17 - 18 Rochester Hollow Hike and Hunter Mountain Loop Hike
This outing is scheduled as an overnight but could be done as one or two day hikes if you choose - you would be responsible for you own transportation.
Rochester Hollow will be our destination for our first day. Rochester Hollow is located near Big Indian, NY in Ulster County, not too far from the Belleayre Ski Center for those of you who downhill ski. I guess I could explain just what there is to see and do at Rochester Hollow but I would rather that you check out the very informative link above that does a much better job than I would. Plan on about a 7 mi hike gaining ~850’. Considered an easy hike but filled with history and lots of stone walls and old foundations – a real treat! We will have to decide on a central meeting place and one that you would be able to park your car overnight – perhaps the Amtrak Station in Saratoga Springs. From there it is slightly less than a 2 ½ hour drive but will take longer if we stop a couple of times. There is also the dreaded Northway traffic traveling south but if we start about 7:00 we should do fine (negotiable). After the hike we will drive for about 40 minutes and 30 mi north to a motel near Windham, NY in preparation for our hike of Hunter Mt.
     Hunter Mountain Loop Hike will be our goal for the second day. Hunter mountain is the second highest peak in the Catskills behind Slide Mountain and is just over 4,000’ in elevation. For our hike I have decided on a loop hike starting at the end of Spruceton Rd, following the Spruceton Trail to the summit but descending via several trails including the Hunter Mt, Devil’s Path and Diamond Notch. This is a 9 mi hike (when you include the side trips to the overlooks) with ~2000’ gain with the promise of spectacular views. Hunter Mt is also a required if you are trying to complete the ADK Fire Tower Challenge. Please view the excellent information found at the link above that summarizes the route that we will be taking. As with the hike of Pitchoff Ridge plan on a nice breakfast close to where we spent the night, before driving the 18 mi and 35 minutes to the trailhead – we should plan on an early start though. It won’t be the shortest day but a most enjoyable one. There is no way around the 2 ½ hour drive back to our starting point.
So that's it for the first draft of the 2016 Fall Foliage Tour. ***Please be honest with yourself when deciding whether these hikes are within your capabilities. Do not hesitate to contact me with questions regarding any of these hikes. Reminder – if you would like to continue receiving information about these outings please email me and if possible, indicate which outing you would like to participate in. Happy Trails! Peter

Update, 9/18/16
     Hello all, as promised I am updating you on the Fall Foliage Tour so that you can better plan your schedules. I have broken down the information into the three scheduled outings to simplify the process. To better plan these outings on my end I would like you to indicate which outing you are serious about attending and any questions/concerns you may have – not a commitment just if you are seriously considering attending. As I indicated in the original announcement ALL dates are tentative and subject to the cooperation of Mother Nature. Those of you who are out and about on an adventure – please do not make this a priority – get back to me when you can.
Reservations for overnights may be advisable but cancelation of a reservation is subject to the policy of the motel and it needs to be considered if you decide to book a room in advance. You will be responsible for both reserving a room and canceling if needed. Consideration of who you will be driving with should also be considered for logistics. All of these outings may be done as day trips; however, travel arrangements will be up to you.
Whiteface Mt Hike
     The tentative date is scheduled for Monday, September 26th. However, the weather forecast has been inconsistent – yesterday, rain was predicted for Monday and Tuesday next week; earlier this morning the forecast was for sun. The current forecast is back to rain for Monday and Tuesday. I know that it is still more than a week away but I just wanted everyone to be aware of a possible change. Joanne has volunteered to be an extra driver from the ARSC to the summit and plans on biking down (Linda will be a driver). Jack indicated that he would also be able to drive up the mountain if needed and provide an additional four spaces for bikes with Lenore hiking up and possibly biking down. These offers may change depending on whether the volunteers to drive are able to attend if a change in the date is needed. Right now the change for the best weather would be Sunday the 25th. Please let me know if you plan on attending this specific outing and whether Sunday would be acceptable and if you would like to bike down. Also, we may need to “pass the hat” for a small donation to cover the costs of the tolls for the vehicles driving to the summit.
     St. Regis Mt and Pitchoff Ridge Hikes
The tentative dates for this overnight outing are Monday/Tuesday – October 3rd and 4th. Thank goodness the meteorologist’s haven’t tried to forecast that far in advance so those dates are still planned. However, plans on staying in Saranac Lake may need to be reconsidered. The availability of inexpensive and acceptable motels in SL has proven to be a challenge but doable.
Here are a few examples:
Adirondack Motel - nice older motel on the lake offering 2 double beds per room at $99/n;
Mountain Lake Inn/Best Western - A very nice motel across the street from the lake offering a wide variety of rooms at $116.10 with discounts for AAA/seniors etc. They have a very nice cancelation policy (the best actually) – 4pm on the day of your arrival.
Gauthiers Saranac Lake Inn - nice older motel/hotel complex offering a wide variety of room choices starting at $89/n. Please check out their website for details. Their cancelation policy is 3 days prior to arrival.
For your consideration we could stay in Lake Placid. Without listing the many choices here are a few examples:
Quality Inn on Lake Placid - Very nice motel (formerly HoJo’s) offering a variety of rooms from $76/n with AAA/senior discount. Please check out their website for details. ****NOTE – I checked today and they are accepting reservations for rooms for October 3rd with only a 24 hour cancellation notice – must be booked by motel. I like this motel when compared to all others for value.
Econo Lodge - Nice motel offering a variety of rooms from $99/n with AAA/senior discount. Please check out their website for details. ****NOTE – I checked today and they are accepting reservations for rooms for October 3rd with a 48 cancelation notice – must be booked by motel. I don’t understand the difference in policy between the Econo Lodge and the Quality Inn since both are Choice Hotels. Also, the Quality Inn is a nicer motel and is $23 cheaper – go figure!
Carriage House Motor Inn - Nice, older motel offering queen rooms at $99/n with AAA/senior discount and a 48 hr cancelation policy.
Cascade Inn - Older motel ~5 miles SE of LP on Rt 73 – a few minutes from the Pitchoff TH. Older motel offering double beds at $70/n.
     Rochester Hollow and Hunter Mountain Hike
This overnight outing was originally scheduled for Monday, October 17th over Tuesday, October 18th. However, I have a commitment on the 18th and we need to change the dates - most likely to Sunday the 16th to Monday the 17th. Other than the change in dates everything remains the same with plans to stay in the Hunter area.The last time we hiked Hunter we stayed in a very nice, older motel less than 2 miles west of Windham. Cave Mountain Motel - Comfortable rooms with 2 double beds at $85/n taxes included.

September 1   #16.1623   Hudson River Paddle  Peter Fedorick   893-2629  
Spier Falls Dam to Corinth. This paddle will be on the portion of the Hudson River between Corinth and the Spier Falls Dam with the put-in/take-out located just a short distance upstream from the Spring trailhead of Moreau Lake State Park on Spier Falls Rd. There is room for about five vehicles so it may be necessary to unload your boat and park at the trailhead to make room for everyone. The plan for the day is to first paddle upstream towards Corinth to the hydro dam, then head downstream to a picturesque lunch spot at the foot of Beaver dam Brook. After lunch we will continue our paddle downstream, returning to the take-out for those who wish to depart or continue our paddle to the Spier Falls Dam and back. The total distance could be up to 10 miles depending on the groups wishes. This is a flat river paddle and Hornbeck “compaddleable”. Meet at the Moreau Lake State Park parking lot off of Old Saratoga Rd near exit 17 of the Northway at 9:15 or at the launch site at ~9:40.

BONUS September 6    CANCELLED   Grout Pond Paddle   Betty Beatty  854-3541   Marianne Vernon  677-2254
Betty and Marianne are offering  a paddle on Grout Pond on Tuesday, September 6th. Grout Pond is a small pond in the Green Mountain National Forest located due east of Arlington, Vt.  . Plan on lunch at a location to be determined – perhaps at one of the many campsites, with swimming available at the beach adjacent to the launch site. Meet at Marianne’s house, 6 Kennedy Rd, Cambridge, at 9:00 for a departure at 9:15. You are welcome to join them at Marianne’s for wine after the paddle. Please let either Betty or Marianne  know if you plan on attending by Sept. 1st. A rain date will be set if needed. Directions to Marianne’s house from McDonald’s in Greenwich: Continue E on NY 29 for ~5 mi and turn R on to CR 61. Continue on CR 61 for ~3 mi to NY 22 and turn L (CR 61 from NY 29 is winding and has a couple of sharp turns so be observant). In a short distance turn L on to Kennedy Rd - #6 will be on your L.

September 8   #16.1624   Adirondack Lake Paddle and Reunion   Jack & Lenore Reber   L. 859-8555  J. 223-3632  
Our annual September get together is at the Reber s on Adirondack Lake instead of at the Gibb s on Friends Lake. Bring an appetizer, salad or dessert to share and whatever you would like to drink. Non-paddlers are free to arrive anytime with lunch planned for 12.00 noon. Please bring chairs if possible. The Rebers will provide plates and utensils, hot dogs, rolls and condiments. Parking is limited at the Reber s camp so paddlers will proceed directly to the boat launch at Byron Park where they will be met by one of the Rebers for a tour of the lake before heading to their camp, arriving by water feel free to take advantage of paddling during the day as well. At the parking lot, food will be transferred to the Reber s vehicle and shuttled to their camp. There are bathrooms at Byron Park and should be open. Non-paddlers will proceed directly to the Reber s camp. Meet at WCMC*, or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 10:15, or Byron Park 10:45. In order to plan for the number of hot dogs/rolls to have on hand RSVP to the Rebers by September 1st. Adirondack Lake is located ~.5 miles east of the hamlet of Indian Lake on the right side of NY 28 if coming from the south/east. The entrance to Byron Park and its boat launch is located ~.75 miles past the causeway over Lake Abanakee - turn right into the Byron Park driveway. The Rebers will meet you at the boat launch. Non-paddlers will continue on NY 28, past the dam and moose sign on your right, go up the hill, and turn right on Bennett Rd. (it's near a Rt 30 sign). They are the last house on the right, #200. Park on the cul de sac and walk down the driveway between the big rock and the telephone pole. (If you get to Stewarts, you have gone too far.) About 50 minutes from Exit 23.

September 15   #16.1625   Goodnow Mountain Hike   Lynn Mayack   H 899-6410   C 312-0608  
Goodnow is a fire tower mountain with excellent views from the summit, located just south of the high peaks, near Newcomb. It is also one of the qualifying towers of the ADK Fire Tower Challenge. Round trip is about 4 miles, with an elevation gain of ~1,050 . Meet at the WCMC at 8:45, departing at 9:00 or at the Black Bear Restaurant, Northway Exit 26 at 9:30.

September 22   #16.1626   Spruce Mountain-Lens Lake Overlook Hike   Ed Valla   796-1235  
A new hike for the Canes! Starting near the east end of Lens Lake Rd in the Town of Stony Creek, we will hike along a marked trail for ~1.25 miles and a ~800 gain, to the nearly open ridge of Spruce Mountain. On the ridge we will continue westerly for ~.5 miles across open bedrock, dotted with spruce and small oaks, to the actual summit for lunch. Here we will enjoy views to the east of Hadley Mt., its twin sister with the same elevation of ~2,650 , and Round Mt. After lunch we will head west a short distance to an overlook where we will have westerly views of Lens and Livingston Lakes, Middle Flow and the surrounding mountains including, Thompson, Wheeler, Slip and Tenant. As we head down the mountain we travel through more mixed hardwood and spruce forest to the westerly end of Lens Lake Rd. where we had spotted cars earlier. Total hiking distance of ~4 miles. Meet at WCMC* or the Warrensburg Price Chopper, north end of parking lot at 10.00, OR, the Town of Greenfield Community Center at the intersection of Rt 9N and Wilton Rd/CR36 at 9:30 for departure at 9:40. In case some of you want to meet at the train station in Hadley we should pass through there at ~10.10. We will all meet at the Town of Stony Creek Offices at ~10.25 (right side before the Stony Creek Inn if coming from the South).

BONUS September 27   CANCELLED   Henderson Lake Paddle   Marianne Vernon   677-2254
The paddle of Henderson Lake a few weeks ago impressed a lot of people and some of them said they would like to return when the leaves started changing color. Well now is your chance – Marianne is offering to lead a fall paddle of Lake Henderson on Tuesday, September 27th! Getting a boat onto the very scenic, mile and three quarters long Lake Henderson requires an hour and forty five minute drive from the WCMC and a carry from the Upper Works trail head but your reward is worth it. Once on the lake Marianne plans on heading for the lean-to at the northwest end of the lake for lunch. After lunch plan on paddling to the southern end of the lake to explore some of the marsh at the inlet before returning to the launch area. There is a ½ mile carry from the Upper Works parking area along a well maintained gravel access road so some form of wheeled carrier is essential to get to the put in. WCMC at 8:30 for departure at 8:45 or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:15. Check out the journal entry for some additional information.

September 29   #16.1627   Poke-O-Moonshine Hike   Diane & Kurt Wisell   D.796-1993  K.796-5495  
If you cringe at seeing this posting you're not aware of the new trail that opened about two years ago.  Diane and I hiked it last fall and can say you REALLY don't want to miss this hike!  The very user friendly trail starts 0.8 miles south of the state park and includes numerous stunning views on the way up to the fire tower at the top. 5 very nice round trip miles rising 1,300 feet. WCMC at 8.30 for departure at 8.45 or upon request only, Pottersville.

September 29   #16.1627 A -TEAM  Dippikill Hike   Nancy Kimball   668-0115  
Dippikill is a wilderness retreat facility owned by the Student Association of the University at Albany with a number of hiking trails, located near The Glen in the Town of Thurman http://www.dippikill.com/index.shtml . We will walk a ridge to the summit of Dippikill Mt and have lunch at a lookout with views of the Hudson River and surrounding mountains. We will then descend to Dippikill Pond, returning to the parking area along the east side trail with nice views of the pond, stopping at a lean-to on the way. Total distance is a little over 4 miles with ~700’ gain. Restrooms are available at the trailhead. WCMC at 9:00 for a departure of 9:15 or meet at the Dippikill Parking lot at 10:00. If you would like to volunteer to lead the caravan to the Dippikill Parking Lot for Nancy please contact her.

October 6  #16.1628  Giant's Nubble and Roaring Brook Falls Hike   Peter Fedorick   893-2629
Giant s Nubble is a rocky knob off the ridge trail to its namesake, providing a close-up view of Giant Mt to the north and expansive views of the High Peaks to the south and west. This will be a thru hike of ~4 miles beginning at the Chapel Pond trailhead and returning via the Roaring Brook trail. WCMC at 8:15 for 8:30 departure, High Peaks Rest Area at 9:20 or at Chapel Pond TH at 10:00. While total distance may be on the short side, the views cause visitors to linger and a leisurely lunch is planned. Total gain on the ascent is ~1350 in 1.2 miles and total loss on the descent is ~1700 in 1.5 miles. We will have the opportunity to explore the area beneath Roaring Brook Falls at the end of the hike. Bring a camera!

October 13   #16.1629   New York/Sandgate Vt Bike   Ken Gericke   683-8420 
An 18 mile bike beginning at the SR 313 NY/VT canoe access on the Battenkill River, and continuing in a clockwise loop to Sandgate Vermont. Lunch will be in the scenic hamlet of Sandgate (specific location TBD). The route continues, mostly downhill, returning to SR 313, crossing the Arlington Covered Bridge to East River Rd, then back to SR 313 and to our start in NY. Meet at McDonalds in Greenwich at 9:15. This is a beautiful ride through some rural valleys of Washington County, NY and Vermont, quite remote with approximately 1/2 of the route on hard packed dirt roads. While the route can be pedaled with a touring/narrow-wheeled bike, a hybrid or even a mountain bike might be more appropriate. There are some hills, with a gradual elevation gain of approx. 700' then a long well-earned downhill to Sandgate.

October 13  #16.1629 A -TEAM   Lake Bonita Hike    Don McMahon   633-4214   Tom Gibbs  
We will hike around Lake Bonita with a significant side trip to a point of historic interest which has good views to the east and where we will have lunch. We will see the Lake Bonita end of the trail that goes over to the Lake Ann Lean-to but will likely leave that trip extension for another day. Expect 4 or 5 miles of walking with mostly level walking, but numerous little ups and downs - likely not more that 200 ft total elevation increase. Meet at the new Lake Bonita parking lot of Moreau State Park located exactly2.0 miles west of Rt. 9 on the north side of Wilton Corinth Road or 3.8 miles west of Scotties (Ballard Rd Northway Exit 16) at the height of land at 10 am.

October 6  #16.1628A   Inman Pond Hike   Don McMahon  633-4214   Tom Gibbs  
A walk of 4 miles round trip through the woods with about 500 ft. elevation change to the rock outcrop overlooking Inman Pond with views of the mountains to the east. After lunch we go north from the outcrop to cross the stream that feeds into Inman Pond and then return via the north shore of the pond. Meet at WCMC at the usual time (9:15 am) to leave there at 9:30 am.

October 19   #16.1630 A -TEAM   Spruce Mt Fire Tower   Don McMahon  633-4214   Tom Gibbs  583-1550  
From the trailhead, located at the end of Fire Tower Road in the hamlet of South Corinth, we will hike ~2.5 miles RT with a gain ~1,000’ to the fire tower on top of Spruce Mt. Spruce Mountain has no views from the summit so you'll need to climb the fire tower to enjoy the panoramic vista. Meet at 9:15 at either the municipal parking lot in Corinth opposite the town beach or the Senior Center in Greenfield Center on the south side of Wilton Rd just off Rt 9N. For those of you who would like to go directly to the trailhead parking we should be there at 9:45. North - from Corinth, take 9N south for ~3 miles, take a right onto Wells Rd and proceed for 2 miles. At the “T” take a right onto Fire Tower Rd. South - from the intersection of Rt 9N and Wilton/Greenfield Rd continue north on 9N for ~4.75 miles, take a left onto Chapman St and then a left onto Miner Rd. Proceed on Miner Rd for ~1.4 miles, take a right onto Fire Tower Rd.

October 20  #16.1630    Hurricane Mountain Hike   Karen Burka  494-2217   
Enjoy some of the best views in the High Peaks from a wonderful open summit at 3694 with a fire tower recently opened to the public. The 360-degree view includes many of the High Peaks, as well as Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains. We will start from the trail head at the end of O Toole Rd (trailhead begins at the Crow s Clearing parking area).  The trail ascends ~1,600 along the 2.8 mile trail to the summit, with moderate grades throughout. WCMC at 8:15 for a departure of 8:30 or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:20.

October 27   #16.1631  Postponed until June 2017   Rogers Rock  Diane & Kurt Wisell    D.796-1993  K.796-5495  
Another "if you cringe at seeing this posting" trip, this one made possible by the graciousness of the Densmore family, owners of Valley View Farm, 3.5 miles south of the circle in Ticonderoga on Route 9N.  Diane describes this 3.1 mile trail with 582 feet of rise starting and ending at Valley View Farm on Rt. 9N, 3.5 miles south of the circle in Ticonderoga at the location of the famous Battle On Snowshoes, as "very scenic, with a nice grade, not too long and sure to be a ladies' favorite."  WCMC* or, by advance arrangement, at the north end of the Price Chopper parking lot.

November 3   #16.1632   Beaver Meadow Falls Hike   Gail Stauble   636-3504  
Beginning at the large hikers parking lot across from the Roaring Brook Trail to Giant on Rt 73, we will hike 6-7 miles RT and a 700 elevation gain to beautiful Beaver Meadow Falls. After a ½ mile walk along the gravel road that takes you past the Ausable Club s golf course we reach the club s gatehouse where the actual trail begins. At this point we will decide if some will walk the Lake Road towards Lower Ausable Lake to access the falls or hike the West River Trail to the falls, returning on the East River Trail. With a little luck there will be lots of water flowing. OPTIONAL HIKE EXTENSION:  An option for anyone who would like to go is to continue from Beaver Meadow Falls along the trail on the west side of the stream to Rainbow Falls and Lower Ausable Lake then return to the Ausable Club via the road, an addition of about 2.5 miles / 2 hours with another 80 +/- feet of vertical ascent. If you plan on doing this extension, make arrangements with like-minded Canes for carpooling as our return to WCMC will be later than the rest of the group. This extension is, of course, weather dependent.  CTL at 8:30 for departure at 8:45 or meet at the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:30. Alternate meeting places along the Northway can be arranged.

November 3   #16.1632 A -TEAM   Palmer Pond Hike  Don McMahon  633-4214   Tom Gibbs  583-1550 
The last time the Crooked Canes went on this pretty woods hike to the lovely Palmer Pond in Chestertown with its approximately 4 mile length and about 300 feet of elevation change was on August  4, 1995. It's time to do it again.  Meet at CTL, or at Tom's camp on Friends Lake at 10.00.

BONUS November 14    View the Super Moon from Cat Mountain  Linda & Peter Fedorick   893-2629
You have been carrying headlamps in your pack for quite some time now – this is a good hike to test them out (please check them out before hand also). Our SUPER Moon hike of Cat Mountain will begin at the Edgecomb Pond parking area at 5:15 tomorrow evening. With moonrise scheduled for 5:10 the 2 mile long hike with an elevation gain of 900’ should place us on top at about 6 – when the moon should be in perfect position to reflect off the surface of Lake George and outline the mountains on the east side of the lake. I know it is dinner time for most but this super moon will be the largest since 1948 with the next one of this size scheduled for 2034! You can bring snacks, dinner or perhaps go out for pizza afterwards but don’t pass up this opportunity. Meet at CTL at 4:20 for departure at 4:30 or the trailhead at 5:00. The weather forecast for tomorrow evening is clear with temps in the mid 40’s. Please contact me if you plan on attending.

November 10   #16.1633    Little Buck Mountain Through Hikewhack   Lenore & Jack Reber  L.859-8555   J.223-3632  
Okay, so what's a hikewack? It's not really a whack, as about 2/3 is a walk in the woods that requires navigation (as in no trail, but mostly nice open woods) and 1/3 or more is hiking on super nice trail. We begin on Shelving Rock Road about a mile west of the Buck Mountain trail, head up Little Buck where, for a half mile the footing is a bit soft and uneven and there is a short section of blow down that is easily navigated, then descend along a ridge to Shelving Rock, a total distance of just over 3 miles with a moderate total vertical ascent of around 900 feet. Great views of Lake George from Bolton to the Village. Pictures from a 'scouting mission' are HERE. After Little Buck, one can 'stay after school' and walk another mile +/- along Shelving rock to explore the beautiful points and bays or walk to Shelving Rock Falls or Shelving Rock Mountain. Meet: CTL

November 17   #16.1634 Berrymill Pond Hike   Karen Burka   494-2217
We did this hike in 2013, and I thought it might be nice to do it again. Located in the Pharaoh Lakes Wilderness Area, this is a 6.2 RT mostly moderate-grade hike with an ascent of 760 feet. We'll take the southern approach to Berrymill Pond from the parking lot off West Hague Road. (The northern approach starts near Putnam Pond Campground.) There's a lean-to near the pond and a nice rock outcropping on the pond for lunch. CTL at 8:45 for a departure of 9:00 or meet at the Horicon Community Center at 9:30 (Northway Exit 25, right on Route 8 for 1.7 miles, make a right at the Community Center entrance. Park behind the building at the west end of the lot.) The Powells have just built a new home in Hague, 10 minutes from the trail head and have invited us to a snacks and beverage gathering after our hike, possibly including a short walk from their house to a great Lake George overlook.

November 17  #16.1634 A -TEAM  Pole Hill Pond Hike   Nancy Kimball   668-0115   

From the trailhead on Rt 9N in the town of Bolton we hike 5 miles round trip with a 700' elevation change to a lovely little pond where we will have lunch. It is hunting season so wear bright color clothing. The trailhead is 2.8 miles north on Rt 9N from County Rt 11 but I do not want to encourage people to drive there!  Meet at CTL at 9:15 or meet at the Exit 24 parking lot at 9:45. There is only a small parking lot at the Pole Hill Pond trail head, so we should consolidate at Exit 24 into as few cars as possible. Don McMahon (633-4214) will meet people at CTL.

November 24   No Outing Scheduled  Happy Thanksgiving

BONUS November 25   Canceled: Weather    Un-Turkey Trot   Diane & Kurt Wisell   D 796-1993  K 796-5495
There are lots of "Turkey Trot" races before Thanksgiving and here's a  twist on that old theme.  We'll do an "Un-Turkey Trot" the day after Thanksgiving to undo flab put on the day before and is an outing that also serves as the perfect excuse to avoid having anything to do with Black Friday.  A relaxed 5 mile hike with about 1,100 feet total vertical ascent to Berry Pond from the Lake George Rec Area.  We can opt to do more in that area afterward if there's desire. Meet at the Rec Area at 10.00 am for a 10.15 am departure.

BONUS November 29   Ballston Spa History Tour  Lynn Mayak   H 899-6410  C 312-0608
Interested in History? Join me for a Ballston Spa History Walking tour based on David Fiske’s guide to historic places and interesting people. We will meet at 10 am at Wiswall Park on the corner of Low Street and Front St., Ballston Spa. Parking is available on the street or in the adjacent Augie’s Restaurant lot which is closed on Tuesdays. Most of the 1 ½-2mile, 1-2 hour walk will be on sidewalks in the village. The last half mile is on the Jim Tedisco Fitness trail which follows the old railroad bed from Prospect St. to the Old Iron Spring. After the tour you may want to consider lunch at The Whistling Tea kettle, Coffee planet, Alaturco Mediterranean Grill, or a picnic at Kelly Park. You also may want to check out Brookside Museum or the Stone Soup Antiques gallery. (There are Stewarts Stores north and south of the village on Rt. 50 (Milton Ave.) for restrooms). Please contact me at least a day in advance if you plan to attend.

December 1   #16.1635  CANCELLED: Conditions   Berlin Mountain Hike   Shelly Nevard   461-8656  MORE    
A new hike for the Canes and one that will provide a change of pace from our regular Adirondack hikes. The hike follows the Taconic Crest Trail, which follows the entire length of the Taconic Range for about 35 miles, from Hancock, MA in the south to Petersburgh, NY in the north. We will be hiking on a 2.8 mile section of the trail from Petersburg Pass on Rt. 2 until we reach Berlin Mountain, the highest point on the crest trail (2,818 ) for a total of 5.6 miles with an accumulated gain of ~1,000 . There are views of Mt. Greylock from the summit. We will have the option to include Mt Raimer, an abandoned ski area, which will add an additional 200 gain (no additional length) but provide us with an opportunity to explore. Meet at the Exit 9 Park and Ride on Fire Rd. at 9:15 and a 9:30 departure for the ~45 minute ride to Petersburg Pass or the trailhead at 10:15.

December 1   #16.1635  Substituted for Berlin Mtn    Tenant Creek Falls Hike    Peter Fedorick & Friends    893-2629
It has been a while since we've seen a lot of water in Tenant Creek flowing over its series of three waterfalls and now we have an excellent opportunity to see in peak form and to try out the new trail section leading from the road to the lower falls.  The new trail to the falls starts 0.4 miles before the old TH at end of Hope Falls Rd in the Town of Hope, Hamilton County due north of the Village of Northville.  From the trailhead it's 0.9 miles to the first falls, another 1.2 miles to the next two falls, so about 4.2 miles round trip.  Folks who have been there say there is a bit more vertical than on the original trail which we have hiked, but it's still not a lot.  Trees may be dripping and there is the chance of a shower, so bring rain gear just in case.  Meet at the Amtrak station in Saratoga Springs at 9:00 or at the Visitor's Center on the NE corner of NY 29 & 30 at 9:45.

December 1   #16.1635 A -TEAM    Bear Slide   Tom Gibbs   583-1550   Don McMahon  633-4214  

A pleasant 2 - 2.5 ish mile loop on nice trail with 300 - 400 feet total vertical ascent along a stream with one cascade after another, running into the Hudson River just north of Lake Luzerne. Pretty under any circumstances, with the rain we have recently had it should make our viewing very nice. Though the forecast does look favorable, trees may be dripping and there is a slight chance for a shower. Bring rain gear just in case. Meet at the Lake Luzerne Municipal Center at 10.00 for 10.15 departure. The Municipal Center, on State Route 9N, is on the right 8.6 miles from Northway Exit 21 or for those coming north on 9N, on the left 1.2 miles past the Lake Luzerne school.

December 8   #16.1636   Moxham Mountain Hike   Barbara Drake   573-4670  
This is a roughly 6 mile round trip hike to a mountain in Minerva NY's wild and wooly "Fourteenth Country." A total ascent of 1,800 feet to the summit and back. A relatively easy trail with good views that has uphill and downhill sections both going to the summit and returning. CTL at 8:45 am, departing at 9.00 am or meet at the Black Bear Restaurant, Northway Exit 26 at 9:30.

December 8   #1636 A -TEAM Saratoga Spa State Park   Tom Gibbs   583-1550   Don McMahon  633-4214  

A gentle walk-about of the “5 Mile Trail” at the Saratoga Spa State Park. This trail allows you to explore some of the many features of the park. Meet at the Saratoga Spa State Park Roosevelt Parking Lot at 10.00.

December 15   #16.1637 CANCELLED: Weather   Wilson Pond Hike/Spike/Snow Shoe  Lenore & Jack Reber  L. 859-8555   J. 223-3632  
Wilson Pond is a small, remote pond in the Blue Ridge Wilderness, west of the hamlet of Blue Mountain Lake off of NY 28. The trailhead is located on the south side of the road, across from Eagle Lake, ~2.8 miles from the intersection of NY 30 & NY 28 in the hamlet. Our hike will take us through a nice variety of forest and terrain, passing Grassy Pond and crossing some streams to a lean-to near the shore of Wilson Pond. The trail is considered easy to moderate over the 6 mile round trip distance with an accumulated gain of just over 900 . CTL at 8:45 for a departure at 9:00, the Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:30 or the trailhead at 10:30.

December 14  #16.1637   Substitute for Wilson Pond   Amy's Park Hike  Lenore & Jack Reber  L. 859-8555   J. 223-3632  
The Reber-led hike will be around North and South Ponds in Amy's Park, a Lake George Land Conservancy preserve. It is about 4 miles of mostly gentle ups and downs, through varied forest and several stream crossings on bridges. We did not use microspikes in the 3 inches of snow, but thought maybe we should. Near the end some may want to hike the mile up the Godwin Preserve trail to a west facing overlook ledge. Thank you for your patience, finding the right hike for weather and snow conditions was tough. Meet at CTL at 9:00, leave at 9:15; Exit 24, Riverbank at 9:45; Godwin Preserve parking lot at 10:00. Microspikes recommended.

December 15  #16.1637 A -TEAM Champlain Canalway Hike   Tom Gibbs   583-1550   Don McMahon   633-4214  
In Schuylerville, from the General Philip Schuyler House we will hike north along the Champlain Canal Towpath for ~2 miles to the north end of the Hudson Crossing Park, known as Eagle Point. We will then begin our return via the River Walk Sensory Trail, stopping at the Picnic Pavilion for lunch. After lunch we will continue our hike south, rejoining the Canal Towpath and back to the Philip Schuyler House. Total distance ~4.5 miles over a level trail. Meet at the Philip Schuyler House, Schuylerville, NY at 10. From the southern intersection of NY 29 and NY 4 (Broad St. & Ferry St) in the Village of Schuylerville, continue south on NY 4 for 0.4 mile and turn left into the entrance to the General Philip Schuyler House. The entrance looks like THIS. Note: directions shown in the Champlain Canalway Hike link above are for where we will hike to, NOT where we start from!

BONUS December 20    Walk Amongst The Tupelos, Lincoln Mountain State ForestTom Gibbs   583-1550   Don McMahon   633-4214
An outing on snowshoes to visit the “Ancients” – no, not some of your relatives but the Tupelo trees of Lincoln Mountain State Forest. These trees are some of the oldest in New Your State with a few over 600 years old and located just outside of Saratoga Springs in the Town of Greenfield. Meet at the Town of Greenfield Community Center at the intersection of Rt 9N and Wilton Rd/CR36 at 10:00 for a 10:15 departure. Parking is limited at the trailhead so we need to carpool as much as possible. Not a long day but should bring lunch or a snack and don't forget your snowshoes!

December 22   #16.1638   Moved To Friday 12/23   Peaked Mountain Pond and Peaked Mountain   Hike/Snowshoe  
Rich Elton   H-798-8102   C-832-0521   Rich Zuccaro   H 792-6799   C 491-8240
Welcome and THANK YOU to our newest leaders, Rich & Rich!  From the trailhead at the northern end of Thirteenth Lake, not far from the Garnet Hill Lodge, we will follow a relatively flat trail for .9 miles to Peaked Mt. Brook. From here we will continue on the marked trail northwest along the brook for an additional gradual ascent passing several wild marshy areas. At 1.8 miles, gaining 600 we reach the shore of scenic Peaked Mt. Pond, offering good views of the mountain. This will be the destination and turnaround point for the A-Teamers and a good place for everyone to have lunch. For those who have chosen to go on to Peaked Mt. it is an additional .5 mile, gaining an additional 650 fairly steep in places. However, efforts are rewarded at the summit with spectacular views in all directions. CTL at 8:30 for a departure at 8:45 for both groups. If anyone wishes to meet up with us in Warrensburg at the north end of the Price Chopper lot, please let us know ahead of time.

December 22  #16.1638 A -TEAM   Peaked Mountain Pond and Peaked Mountain Hike/Snowshoe   Rich Elton H-798-8102 C-832-0521  Rich Zuccaro H-792-6799 C-491-8240
See outing description on the Nov / Dec CC schedule

December 23  #16.1638 A -TEAM   Don McMahon   633-4214  
The plan is to cross country ski at Pack Forest Friday Dec 23. The CCs have not done a ski trip here for some years - so a treat to be back there again! We meet at WCMC (the parking lot is still OK!) at 9:15 to leave there at 9:30 or meet at the Pack Forest parking lot at 9:50 am. We can ski the loop by the "grandmother" tree and/or ski on the road that goes around the lake. It might be a good idea to bring hiking boots and micro spikes in case the snow is "sticky", and, of course, bring lunch unless you're on a diet!

December 29   #16.1639  Moved To Wednesday, 12/28  Hennig Preserve Hike/ Snowshoe   Fran Herve   899-3216   
A nice woods walk on the trails of Saratoga PLAN's Hennig Preserve and adjacent Homestead County Forest, located in the Town of Providence, Saratoga County. Depending on which trails we choose to explore we may pass old stone walls, mill sites, old foundations and maybe walk along the ridge of an Esker. Plan on a total of 4-6 miles, route TBD, with options for people to hike a shorter route. Most trails have some ups and downs but nothing difficult. Meet at the Amtrak Rail Station in Saratoga Springs at 9:15 for departure at 9:30 or at the Hennig Preserve sign at 10:00.
**There are a number of ways to reach the Hennig Preserve but from the Amtrak Station here is the shortest [for those using a GPS navigator try using 200 Centerline Rd., Middle Grove, NY (or Galway if Middle Grove doesn’t work)] - that will get you close.  Turn right on to West Ave from Station Lane; continue ~.25 miles to NY 29 and turn right; continue on NY 29 for ~9.7 miles and turn right on to Antioch Rd (just after the East Galway sign – the road makes a sharp bend back); continue on Antioch Rd to the end, ~3.5 miles and turn right on to Wileytown Rd; continue on Wileytown for ~1 mi and turn left on to Centerline Rd; continue on Centerline Rd for ~1.25 miles to the sign on the left.

2016

 BONUS January 1    New Year's Day Snowshoe   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D 796-1993    K 796-5495
Add celebrating the new year at the top of Hackensack Mountain in Warrensburg to your holiday calendar! Hopefully it will be a snowshoe but it might be a hike/spike. We'll let you know on New Year's Eve. An easy 2.8 mile through trip with 700' elevation change and 800' total vertical on really nice trail. Views of Greater Metro Warrensburg, its suburbs and surrounding mountains. We plan to begin at the Prospect Street trail head -subject to plowing - and end at the Hackensack Avenue trail head. Meet at the north end of the Warrensburg Price Chopper parking lot at 10.30 for a 10.35 departure or the Prospect Street trail head at 10.45.  If the Prospect St. TH is not plowed out, we'll meet at the Warrensburg HS parking lot. Get a printable map HERE.

January 5   #17.1640  Berlin Mountain Hike/Spike/Snowshoe   Shelly Nevard   461-8656    
A new hike for the Canes and one that will provide a change of pace from our regular Adirondack hikes. This hike was canceled from December so let's give another try. The hike follows the Taconic Crest Trail, which follows the entire length of the Taconic Range for about 35 miles, from Hancock, MA in the south to Petersburgh, NY in the north. We will be hiking on a 2.8 mile section of the trail from Petersburg Pass on Rt. 2 until we reach Berlin Mountain, the highest point on the crest trail (2,818 ) for a total of 5.6 miles with an accumulated gain of ~1,000 . There are views of Mt. Greylock from the summit. We will have the option to include Mt Raimer, an abandoned ski area, which will add an additional 200 gain (no additional length) but provide us with an opportunity to explore. Meet at the Exit 9 Park and Ride on Fire Road (from the South take Exit 9 to Rt 146 remain straight, cross Rt 146 lot is on the left. From the North take Exit 9E to Rt 146, go under the Northway and turn left onto Fire Rd lot is on the left. For people with a GPS Navigator the address is 21 Fire Rd., Clifton Park, NY 12065. Pete s cell 281-3834 if you run into trouble.) at 9:15 and a 9:30 departure for the ~45 minute ride to Petersburg Pass or the trailhead at 10:15.

January 5  #17.1640 A -TEAM   Wilton Preserve   Tom Gibbs   583-1550   Don McMahon   633-4214  
Tom and I are proposing to hike at the Wilton Preserve on Thursday. Although Wednesday looks warmer and sunnier, the opinion is that the snow might be sludgy just after Tuesday's rain, so Thursday it is. The Thursday prediction is for a max of 30 deg with a possibility of snow showers. There are a lot of trails and other preserves nearby so we have not yet determined exactly what we will do, but it will involve 3 or 4 miles of micro spiking over relatively flat terrain. The main meeting area for car consolidation will be the Park And Ride next to Dick's Sporting Goods in the Route 50 mall at 9:45 am. The other option (limited parking!) is to go to the main parking lot for the Preserve, which is where people park for skiing (not likely competition Thursday!) and is on the opposite of Scout road from the lake - to be there by 10:15 am. The excessively prepared might want to have snow shoes but that is an unlikely option. Any sane person will have brought lunch. Hope to see you there. I will meet anyone coming from the north at Moreau State Park parking lot to car pool from there, but you have to call to let me know in advance!

January 12   1641  Originally scheduled as shown for #1642, moved to 1/19.

January 13  #17.1641 A -TEAM  Shipee's Ledge   Tom Gibbs   583-1550   Don McMahon   633-4214  
From Shippee's Ledge there is a beautiful view of the east end of the Great Sacandaga Lake. The walk is about 2.5 miles round trip, mostly on old logging roads with rolling terrain and about 300 feet of total vertical ascent. Due to a mixed bag of
 forecast on the days immediately preceding our outing, it is impossible to know for sure whether snowshoes or spikes will be appropriate, so bring both and we will decide what to use at the trail head.  At 9.45, we will meet at (simultaneously at two locations): the Corinth Town Beach and the Greenfield Senior Center.  Click HERE for a map and directions to each of the meeting spots.

January 19   #17.1642 Stewart and Indian Lakes Snowshoe    Lenore and Jack Reber   L 859-8555 J 223-3632   
This trail to two lakes makes a nice snowshoe in winter to avoid some wet areas. Five miles round-trip with some moderate uphills. Firetower baggers can do nearby Kane Mountain afterwards adding 1 mile round-trip and ~600 gain. The trailhead is in the Canada Lake-Green Lake area of Fulton County. ADK Central Trail guide calls them "two interesting and charming destinations." See pages 224-225 of the ADK Central Trails book. Meet at the Amtrak station in Saratoga Springs at 8:45 or at the Visitor's Center on the NE corner of NY 29 and 30 at 9:30.

January 19  #17.1642 A -TEAM   Saratoga Battlefield Park   Don McMahon  633-4214  Tom Gibbs   583-1550 
Thursday Jan 19th is looking like a good day. Tom and I are offering an A-Team hike at the Saratoga Battlefield Park. We meet at the visitors' center at 9:45 to leave there at 10 am to hike the Wilkinson trail. The trail is 5 miles long with a few hill of less than 50 ft elevation. Depending on conditions we could use snowshoes or micro spikes. The present thought is that we would have lunch at the end of the hike at the visitor's center. Hope to see some of you there!

January 26  Postponed to March 2nd. See replacement outing description below  Spruce Mountain Lens Lake Overlook Snowshoe   Ed Valla    796-1235  
We did this hike back in September and thought it would be an enjoyable snowshoe so let s go for it. From our start, near the east end of Lens Lake Rd in the Town of Stony Creek, we will hike along a marked trail for ~1.25 miles and a ~800 gain, to the nearly open ridge of Spruce Mountain. Once on the ridge we will continue westerly for ~.5 miles across open bedrock, dotted with spruce and small oaks, to the actual summit for lunch. Here we will enjoy views to the east of Hadley Mt., its twin sister with the same elevation of ~2,650 , and Round Mt. After lunch we will head west a short distance to an overlook where we will have westerly views of Lens and Livingston Lakes, Middle Flow and the surrounding mountains including, Thompson, Wheeler, Slip and Tenant. As we head down the mountain we travel through more mixed hardwood and spruce forest to the westerly end of Lens Lake Rd. where we had spotted cars earlier. Total hiking distance of ~4 miles. Meet at CTL at 8:45 for departure at 9:00 OR Warrensburg Price Chopper, north end of parking lot at 9:20; OR the Town of Greenfield Community Center at the intersection of Rt 9N and Wilton Rd/CR36 at 8:50 for departure at 9:00 OR the train station in Hadley about 9:30. We will all meet at the Town of Stony Creek Offices at ~9:45 (right side before the Stony Creek Inn if coming from the S.

January 26   #17.1643   Anchor Diamond Park at Hawkwood Preserve   Karen & Leon Barnish  
Join Karen and Leon on this new Canes adventure and explore the recently opened town park just south of Ballston Spa. Opened this past October, the park was made possible by a generous donation of a town resident for the creation of a town park for passive recreation. The creation of the park and the construction of the trails were made possible through the combined efforts of Saratoga PLAN who secured a conservation easement and volunteers who developed the trails last November. At this time there are nearly 5 miles of hiking trails, considered gentle walking, that will take us through the mixed hardwood and evergreen forest of the 246 acre park, past old stone walls, the ruins of the old Hawkwood estate and much more. A Tailgate lunch is planned at the end of the hike with a short snack break along the walk rumor has it there will be brownies! Please check your email on Wednesday evening for an update on trail conditions. Meet at the Amtrak station in Saratoga Springs at 9:15 for a 9:30 departure or at the trailhead at 9:45. The park is located on Middleline Road (CR59) just north of its intersection with Route 50, ~4.5m south of the Village of Ballston Spa. There is a large sign at the park s parking lot. For those of you using a GPS navigation device you might try the address 5 Middleline Rd., Ballston Spa, NY that should get you close.

February 2   #17.1644    Lake Bonita to Spier Falls Road Snowshoe and a Treat    Gail Stauble    636-3504    
From the new trailhead at the Lake Bonita parking lot we will first hike the access trail a short distance to the Lake Bonita Loop Trail on the southern shore of the lake. We continue on the Loop Trail east, along the southern shore of the lake to the junction with the Lake Ann Trail. We then hike generally in a NE direction, with some minor ups and downs, through mixed forest to the lean-to at Lake Ann for lunch, a total of ~2 miles with ~200 gain. For lunch you can enjoy hot dogs grilled on an open campfire or pack your own. Gail is providing the hot dogs and Linda and Peter the condiments, buns and firewood. After lunch we will continue on the Lake Ann Trail to the junction with the Eastern Ridge Trail where we will decide whether to head directly for our cars at the Spring trailhead, where we have spotted cars earlier, or lengthen our hike by taking the White Birch Trail to the Western Ridge Trail and visit a couple of overlooks. Total distance of ~4 miles hiking the direct route or ~5 miles hiking the longer route. For those of you focused on elevation gains Tom says it is nearly all downhill. Meet at the Moreau Lake State Park parking lot off of Old Saratoga Rd near exit 17 of the Northway at 9:00 or at the Lake Bonita parking lot, located exactly 2 miles west of Rt 9 on the north side of Wilton-Corinth Rd at 9:30. A selection of maps are HERE.  RSVP to Gail if you plan on enjoying a hot dog or two at lunch so she can purchase the proper amount.

February 9   #17.1745    Ben Wood Mountain Snowshoe    Donna and Peter Wood   494-2874  
We will start from the Wood's house on 457 Potter Brook Rd and snowshoe along an old jeep trail to the top of Ben Wood Mtn., returning over a slightly different route, for a total distance of ~4.5 mi with an elevation change of about 300 . After the trip everyone is invited to have hot chocolate at the Wood's house. CTL or meet at the Wood s house at 10:00.

February 16   #17.1646   Brookhaven Golf Course Ski and More   Tom Gibbs   583-1550  Snow Report  
Three or four miles of skiing or snowshoeing over gentle hills. Meet at 9:45 at the municipal parking lot in Corinth opposite the town beach or the Senior Center in Greenfield Center on the south side of Wilton Rd just off Rt 9N. Plan on bringing lunch. However, if conditions are good, with lots of snow, The Haven Tee Room may be open for lunch and would allow for the option to have lunch there and support a local business . Details will be made available as the date approaches.

BONUS February 21    Garnet Hill X-C Ski   Joanne Armstong   310-948-822
Snow conditions and grooming up at Garnet Hill have been excellent the past few weeks. And GREAT news: The Red Fox run down to School House van pick-up is back open this year (after having been off limits for a few years). They also have a new van to pick us up so we don't have to do the long uphill climb. Group rates (20 people) for X-C skiing: Seniors 65+ $15 (non-group rate is $18); Adult; 65 $17 (non-group rate is $22). Once at Garnet Hill we will ski at will - no "leader"...people can group up as they choose, pick their own trails, etc. Bring your lunch or buy it at the ski shop. Meet at 9:15 at CTL for 9:30 a.m. departure or meet at Garnet Hill Ski Shop at 10:30 a.m. PLEASE let me know if you plan to attend so I can arrange for the bus pick-up for our group and so that others will know if we qualify for the group rate.

February 23   #17.1647  CANCELLED - Conditions   Santanoni Ski & More    Fran Herve   899-3216
We will ski in to the Great Camp Santanoni which lies at the east end of Newcomb Lake. This camp, one of the largest of its kind built more than a century ago by Robert Pruyn, has been reconstructed as a historical site. The trip into the camp is gently uphill most of the way and then downhill to the camp for a RT of 10 miles. CTL at 8:45 for a departure at 9:00 or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:30. The outing is scheduled as a ski. However, for those who do not ski there may be an option offered to snowshoe the nearly 4 miles of trails of the Adirondack Interpretive Center located nearby on Rich and Harris Lakes. Details will be made available as the date approaches. For snow conditions call 502-2000.

February 23  #17.1647 A -TEAM   Kalabus-Perry Preserve    Lenore and Jack Reber   L.859-8555  J.223-3632 

We are offering a hike at the Kalabus-Perry preserve in Wilton near Homestead Road off route 29. It's about 3.5 miles round trip with a few small hills. Meet at the Wilton Mall parking lot on Route 50 one mile east of Northway exit 15 in front of Dick's at 9:45.

March 2   #17.1648    Moved To Friday 3/3 - Conditions    Spruce Mountain Lens Lake Overlook Snowshoe   Ed Valla   796-1235  
We did this hike back in September and thought it would be an enjoyable snowshoe so let s go for it. From our start, near the east end of Lens Lake Rd in the Town of Stony Creek, we will hike along a marked trail for ~1.25 miles and a ~800 gain, to the nearly open ridge of Spruce Mountain. Once on the ridge we will continue westerly for ~.5 miles across open bedrock, dotted with spruce and small oaks, to the actual summit for lunch. Here we will enjoy views to the east of Hadley Mt., its twin sister with the same elevation of ~2,650 , and Round Mt. After lunch we will head west a short distance to an overlook where we will have westerly views of Lens and Livingston Lakes, Middle Flow and the surrounding mountains including, Thompson, Wheeler, Slip and Tenant. As we head down the mountain we travel through more mixed hardwood and spruce forest to the westerly end of Lens Lake Rd. where we had spotted cars earlier. Total hiking distance of ~4 miles. Meet at CTL at 8:45 for departure at 9:00 OR Warrensburg Price Chopper, north end of parking lot at 9:20; OR the Town of Greenfield Community Center at the intersection of Rt 9N and Wilton Rd/CR36 at 8:50 for departure at 9:00 OR the train station in Hadley about 9:30. We will all meet at the Town of Stony Creek Offices at ~9:45 (right side before the Stony Creek Inn if coming from the S).

March 3   #17.1648 A -TEAM   Corinth Reservoir Recreation Area   Don McMahon  633-4214  Tom Gibbs   583-1550 
Through Bonnie Whitman we now know about the Corinth Reservoir Recreation Area and here's a MAP . Tomorrow looks a bit iffy so Tom and I are planning to hike at the Corinth Reservoir Recreation Area on Friday March 3rd. There are a lot of trails there, but because of all the rain and not being able to ford the fast running streams, we plan on hiking up the Bald Mtn trail and take Wilson Pass to get to the Redmond overlook where we will have lunch. After lunch we return via a jeep trail (perhaps an old town road!) via the Wilson Farm Historic Site back to the upper reservoir.  The trip is about 3.5 miles round trip with an extra half mile if we walk the perimeter of the upper reservoir. The climb up the hill to the overlook is about a 600 ft elevation change. We will meet at the Greenfield Senior Center and at the Corinth Municipal Town Beach Parking lot at 9:45 to leave there at 10 am,  to meet at the trailhead parking about 10:15 am. Please join us to explore this new area!

March 9   #17.1649   Black Mountain Loop Hike   Ray Bouchard   893-7314 (H)  258-4882 (C)    
Leader changed to Peter Fedorick   893-2629
According to the Cane s Journal this will be the first winter ascent of Black Mt., at least since the online version began in 2011. Trail conditions are hard to predict so I would recommend that you bring both Micro spikes & snowshoes. My plan is to take the direct route to the summit, a distance of 2.8 mi., and an elevation change of 1046 . The summit has great views of the northern end of Lake George, which makes it a great place to catch our breath and have lunch. At 2646 above sea level you are at the highest point on this lake, so if the weather cooperates we should be able to see beyond the Tongue Mt. Range to Gore & Crane Mts, as well as the High Peaks. After lunch I d like to continue hiking counterclockwise, following the Blue trail down to Black Mt. Ponds, and eventually reconnect with the Red trail which will bring us back to our cars for a total distance of about 6.7 miles. Meet at CTL at 8:45, depart at 9:00. It will probably be close to 4:00 PM before we reach our cars and close to 5:00 before we arrive back at CTL.

March 9  #17.1649 A -TEAM   A Hike To The Butler Pond Area   Tom Gibbs   583-1550   Don McMahon   633-4214  

Tom and I are going to lead a hike from the end of the Lake George Dump Road to the Butler Pond area via snowmobile trails to the Butler Pond area. The elevation gain is 500 ft and the round trip distance is 3.5 miles. There is some ice on the trails so bring micro spikes. Because of limited parking at the end of the dump road, we meet at CTL at 9:45 am to consolidate cars. A open date for an A-TEAM Outing!

March 16  #17.1650   Chester Challenge Trails   Katie Henrikson   H 533-7441  Camp 494-7405  
This outing consists of two easy pieces.  First, we will hike about 2.75 RT miles with about a 250 foot rise on the Cougar Trails to an excellent view point. Next, depending upon trail conditions, we will hike about two miles on mostly level ground over the Chester Creek trails, or if wet, will go to Kipp Mountain, 11 minutes away for a 1.8 mile RT hike with about a 500' rise on excellent trail, rewarded at the top by a view of the majority of Loon Lake and Gore Mountain.  Trail and trailhead location info is on the Chester Challenge brochure.  Meet at the regular time at CTL or 10.00 at the Cougar Trail TH near I87, Exit 25.  Turn west on Rt. 8, at 0.1 past Stewarts turn left into North Warren HS and go to the far end of the parking lot. Parking is limited on school days, so carpooling is essential  If you want to participate only in the afternoon hike, you can try calling Katie at 596-4901 or Diane at 796-1993 around noon for an estimate of where and when you could catch up with us.  Beware that cell service in C'town is spotty and you very well may not be able to contact us!

March 23   Cancelled: Conditions   See Substitute Below
 Wilson Pond Hike/Spike   Lenore and Jack Reber   L.859-8555  J.223-3632 
Rescheduled from December 2016 - Wilson Pond is a small, remote pond in the Blue Ridge Wilderness, west of the hamlet of Blue Mountain Lake off of NY 28. The trailhead is located on the south side of the road, across from Eagle Lake, ~2.8 miles from the intersection of NY 30&NY 28 in the hamlet. Our hike will take us through a nice variety of forest and terrain, passing Grassy Pond and crossing some streams to a lean-to near the shore of Wilson Pond. The trail is considered easy to moderate over the 6 mile round trip distance with an accumulated gain of just over 900 . CTL at 8:45 for a departure at 9:00, the Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:30 or the trailhead at 10:30

March 23   #17.1651  Moreau State Park   Lenore and Jack Reber   L. 859-8555   J. 223-3632  
Substituted Outing For Wilson Pond: Ah, Wilson Pond, so lovely, so elusive, SO IMPOSSIBLE TO SCHEDULE. Once again, Mother Nature has foiled our plans to lead a hike to Wilson Pond. With so much snow in Blue Mt. Lake, we feel that the 6 miles RT would not be enjoyable. Instead, we are planning to reprise the Figure Eight hike that we led in April of 2014. It's about 5.5 miles RT, not much elevation. The A Team could join us for some or all of it. Meet at the park office parking lot at 9:45.

March 30  #17.1652   OK Slip Fall Hike/Snowshoe   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D.796-1933  K.796-5495  
An approximately 6 mile RT hike with 600-800 gentle vertical to OK Slip Falls starting from the trail head a few miles north of North Creek. The falls should have a pretty good stream. With any luck it will be sunny and we will see rainbows dancing in the mist.  CTL or meet at Wevertown at 10:00 or the trail head at about 10:30.

March 30  #17.1652 A -TEAM  Moreau Waterfalls  Tom Gibbs   583-1550   Don McMahon   633-4214  

Tom and I plan on hiking up the Waterfalls trail at Moreau State Park on Thursday. This is the trail that goes from the Spring on Spier Falls Rd. to the Lake Bonita Dam. From there, if walking conditions are good, the plan is to use the trail on the north side of Lake Bonita to arrive at the prison access road and take that to Grant's Cottage where we have lunch. Then we return to the Lake Bonita parking lot. However, for poor walking conditions, we can hike directly to the Lake Bonita parking lot from the dam or go the long way around Lake Bonita to the parking lot. The hike is mostly level except for the 1.3 mile trip up from the Spring to the Dam that has a 400 ft. elevation change. Bring your micro spikes. Meet at the Lake Bonita parking lot at 9:45 am (EXACTLT two miles up RT. 101/Corinth Mtn. Rd./Wilton Rd. from its intersection with Rt.9 and Ballard Road) where we consolidate cars and drive to the Spring where the hike starts.

April 4   #17.1653   Leon Steves Big Bay + Hudson Point Preserves   Bonnie Whitman  636-8432    Don McMahon  633-4214  
Another offering where hardly any of us have been before. The two Preserves are connected by an unmarked trail allowing a figure hike of 3 to 4 miles through both preserves. There are a few small but steep inclines. Microspikes are probably not needed but expect muddy trails. We meet at the West Glens Falls Emergency Squad parking lot on north east end of Media Drive at 9:45 am. Go east on Corinth Rd. at Northway Exit 18 and turn left at first traffic light to get on Media Drive. Parking lot is on east (right) side of Media Drive before the Emergency Squad building wich is the last buiding before the end of Media Drive at Luzerne Rd.

April 6   #17.1653   Cancelled  Merck Forest & Farmland Center Hike   Ray Bouchard   H. 893-7314   C.258-4882  
After visiting the farm (Elev. 1800'), plan on hiking up Mt. Antone (2600') followed by some of the interior trails for a total distance of 6-7 miles and 1500' elevation change. The area is typical Vermont countryside so there is very little level ground, but nothing terribly steep either. The primary meeting place is Dick's parking lot (left of store entrance) at Wilton Mall, Exit 15. Please be there at 8:45 for a 9:00 departure. We will make a brief stop at the Greenwich McDonald's at ~9:30. If you wish to drive directly to the trail head, plan on meeting us at the Visitor Center parking lot around 10:15. Merck Forest & Farmland Center is located in Rupert, Vt., about an hour drive from Exit 15. I expect to visit the farm area first to see the animals, which typically includes, chickens, pigs, sheep and horses. If you just happen to pack a few carrots or chunks of apple you will endear yourself to the horses. Feel free to come even if all you want to do is visit the farm and walk around the area on your own. It would also be worth your while to check out their Visitor Center which features a Russian style fireplace (One hot fire in the AM heats up the brick work, which warms the building all day), books, clothes plus home grown root vegetables and meat. Special Note: The Merck Forest & Farmland is holding their annual pancake breakfast at their Sugar Shack on March 25 & 26 from 9:00 2:00. The cost is reasonable and the food, which features their home made maple syrup, is delicious. The pork sausage is usually comes from their own pigs if they butchered enough last fall. As an added bonus, if the sap is running, they will be making maple syrup in the same building. Horse drawn wagons are usually waiting to take you from the parking lot to the Sugar Shack for breakfast, plus there will be maple tree tapping demonstrations throughout the day.

April 13   #17.1654   Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob   Margie Litwin   928-0600 
The Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob is owned and maintained by the Lake George Land Conservancy (LGLC) and offers a couple of options of hikes totaling 3.5 miles. From the trailhead, located ~.7 miles north on Pilot Knob Rd from its intersection with NY 9L, we will hike the orange trail ~1 mile and a nearly 700 gain to a Gazebo with fine views of the southern basin of Lake George. Anyone who wishes may opt for a relaxing stay and lunch at the Gazebo enjoying the sweeping view of the lake and mountains. Others will hike from the Gazebo along the blue trail another ~1 mile and an additional 400 gain to the waterfall loop trail. There we will have lunch and visit both the bottom and top of the falls before retracing our steps to the Gazebo and returning to our cars via the longer, meandering portion of the orange loop trail. CTL or meet at the trailhead at 9:50.

BONUS April 18    Pilot Knob Ridge   Kurt Wisell    796-5495
We will meet the trolley stop at the north end of Lake George Village at 9.15 (Directions) for immediate departure, or at the Buck Mountain trail head on Pilot Knob Road at 9.45. This hike is strenuous: 4.5 miles in length with a vertical rise of 1,609 feet and total vertical ascent of about 1,800 feet. It’s pretty much up all the way to the top and down all the way back. Some of it is pitchy. There is a half mile herd path on the way up in open forest. From the top, the views of southern Lake George are “in your face” terrific most of the way down. There may be a couple of isolated pockets of ice and or snow, so bring your microspikes.

April 20   #17.1655   Dippikill   Joanne Armstrong   310-948-8221  
Dippikill is a wilderness retreat facility owned by the Student Association of the University at Albany with a number of hiking trails, located near The Glen in the Town of Thurman . We will walk a ridge to the summit of Dippikill Mt and have lunch at a lookout with views of the Hudson River and surrounding mountains. We will then descend to Dippikill Pond, returning to the parking area along the east side trail with nice views of the pond, stopping at a lean-to on the way. Total distance is a little over 4 miles with ~700 gain. Restrooms are available at the trailhead. CTL or meet at the Dippikill Parking lot at 10:00.

April 27  #17.1656   Lye Brook Falls Hike  Diane and Kurt Wisell   D.796-1933 K.796-5495
Okay, so ya think we've done Lye Brook way too many times recently?  We've not been there since Sir Thomas led the last trip on April 14, 2011.  It was scheduled one time after that, but the outing was cancelled.  Lye Brook Falls is in the Green Mountains of southern Vermont on a gentle trail through lovely woods to a scenic cascade falling about 300 feet down the mountain. The longest cascade in Vermont. Irene changed the topography a bit from what may be remembered by veteran Canes.  The summer parking lot should be passable by the end of April and from that parking lot, the hike is 4.4 miles RT with 985 feet total vertical ascent. CTL at 8.15 for 8.30 departure or meet at McDonalds in Greenwich at 9:20, or at the trail head at about 10.30, ALSO, Peter has agreed to make a brief stop at Dick's parking lot (left of store entrance) at Wilton Mall, Exit 15 for those that would like to carpool from the Saratoga area, stopping at the Greenwich McDonald s. Please be there at 8:40 for an 8:50 departure.

April 27  #17.1656 A -TEAM  Ballston Spa History Tour   Lynn Mayack   H. 899-6410  C. 321-0608
Interested in History? For those of you who missed the bonus hike last November I am offering a repeat. Join me for a Ballston Spa History Walking Tour based on David Fiske’s guide to historic places and interesting people. We will meet at 9:45 am at Wiswall Park on the corner of Low Street and Front St., Ballston Spa. Parking is available on the street or in the adjacent Augie’s Restaurant lot (opens at 4 pm). Most of the 1 ½-2 mile, 2 hour walk will be on sidewalks in the village. The last half mile is on the Jim Tedisco Fitness Trail which follows the old railroad bed from Prospect St. to the Old Iron Spring. After the tour you may want to consider lunch at The Whistling Tea kettle, Coffee planet, Alaturco Mediterranean Grill, or a picnic at Kelly Park. You also may want to check out Brookside Museum, National Bottle Museum, or the Stone Soup Antiques gallery. Since there is very limited access to restrooms in downtown Balston Spa, I strongly recommend your stopping at either of the two Stewarts stores, one north and one south of the village on Rt. 50 (Milton Ave.) for restrooms.

May 4   #17.1657  Wilson Pond Hike, 3rd Try   Lenore and Jack Reber   L 859-8555   J 223-3632 
This is a test of the saying “third time's a charm - rescheduled from December 2016 and March 2017 - Wilson Pond is a small, remote pond in the Blue Ridge Wilderness, west of the hamlet of Blue Mountain Lake off of NY 28. The trailhead is located on the south side of the road, across from Eagle Lake, ~2.8 miles from the intersection of NY 30&NY 28 in the hamlet. Our hike will take us through a nice variety of forest and terrain, passing Grassy Pond and crossing some streams to a lean-to near the shore of Wilson Pond. The trail is considered easy to moderate over the 6 mile round trip distance with an accumulated gain of just over 900 . CTL at 8:45 for a departure at 9:00, the Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:30 or the trailhead at 10:30.

May 4  #17.1657 A -TEAM   Shelving Rock Falls & Shore   Tom Gibbs   583-1550   Don McMahon   633-4214
Conditions permitting, Tom and Don are offering an A-Team hike to Shelving Rock Falls and the scenic shore trail along Lake George. There are several elevation changes are of the order of 100 ft. and the distance for the above is about 2 miles. However after lunch there is the option of climbing Shelving Rock Mountain, which adds another 500 ft elevation change and 2 extra miles. We meet at CTL at 9:15 to leave there at 9:30 am.

May 11   #17.1658   Plotter Kill Preserve Hike   Margie Litwin   928-0600  
The last time this hike was scheduled was back in 2001 so this could be considered a new outing for us. The 632 acre Plotter Kill Preserve (see photos HERE) is located off Mariaville Rd. in the town of Rotterdam, Schenectady County and offers a variety of hiking trails to choose from, ranging from 4-7 miles in length and varying levels of difficulty. The trails of the preserve encompass both sides of the Plotter Kill Gorge with its 3 waterfalls of 40- 60 feet in height passing through the sandstone and shale formations. Some areas are steep and can be muddy so hiking poles are a good idea. If we are lucky, water flow will be high and we will be treated to a spectacular waterfall show and when in bloom the trout lilies are profuse. Our route will be determined after a scout of the trails is made and will be chosen to offer the best view of the falls along the gorge while also selecting the best location for water crossings. The trip description will be updated to include the length and elevation gain of the selected route as soon as it is known.  Meet at the Fire Rd. Park and Ride at exit 9 of the Northway at 9:15 for a 9:30 departure or the Target store at the intersection of Glenridge Rd and NY 50 at 9:45 or the trailhead on Mariaville Rd (just north of the Maple Ski Ridge ski area at 10:30. Detailed driving directions will be available in case drivers are separated from the caravan.
**The A-Team hike, being led by Jim Bornheim, would be about 3 miles, mostly easy with a couple of gradual slopes (can be extended if desired). The rest of the group will continue another few miles (TBD by the group with our guidance). If the water allows we will rock hop the creek and go upstream to the base of the falls, then back and on to another couple of falls. We will only be hiking the western portion of the preserve. Plan to bring extra socks, boots that can get muddy and a hiking pole or 2 for water crossings as well as precautions for black flies if they visit. Elevation change about 200’ for the A-Team and 500’ max. for the rest - under 5 miles total. Be sure to check the schedule for meeting times and locations. Cell 928-0600 Margie or 281-4425 Peter.  Please note – meeting locations/times for A-team participants are the same as for the regular outing. However, A-Team attendees must provide their own transportation for the return trip since Jim will not be departing directly after the hike. If you plan on meeting Margie at the Glenville Target Store she will be located near the main entrance off of Rt 50, driving a reddish Subaru Forester with yellow canoe rack bumpers. For those with a GPS navigator the address is either 8 Glenridge Rd. or 204 Saratoga Rd., Glenville. If entering the Plaza from Glenridge Rd proceed across the parking lot to the main entrance off of Rt 50.  Directions to Fire Road Park & Ride, Exit 9 of the Northway, Clifton Park, NY:  From the South take Exit 9 to Rt 146 – remain straight, cross Rt 146 – lot is on the Left; From the North take Exit 9E to Rt 146, go under the Northway and turn Left on to Fire Rd – lot is on the Left; For people with a GPS Navigator the address is 21 Fire Rd., Clifton Park, NY 12065.

May 11  #17.1658 A -TEAM  Plotter Kill Preserve Hike   Jim & Jan Bornheim  H. 518-885-9792 C. 518-265-3247
There will be an A-TEAM! version of the Plotterkill outing. Details may be found on the regular schedule, above.

May 18   #17.1659   Moose Mountain Pond Hike   Gail Stauble   636-3504  
The trailhead for Moose Mountain Pond is located ~6 miles north of North Hudson, exit 29 of the Northway, off of Ensign Pond Rd (CR 4). It is shared with trails leading to Hammond Pond and Bass Lake. The trail to Moose Mt. Pond is flat to gradual up to Berrymill Flow at 1.7 miles. Here there's a junction with a trail to Bass Lake (R) and a trail to Moose Mountain Pond (L). We'll continue left, cross a brook and begin a steady, mostly gradual climb to Moose Mountain Pond at 3.2 miles. The trail continues along the shore to a lean-to at 3.5 miles where we'll have lunch and a view of Moose Mountain! CTL at 8:30 or Frontier Town parking lot, exit 29, at 9:30. Please contact me if other meeting locations are desired.

May 18  #17.1659 A -TEAM  Hudson River Paddle At Sherman Island   Tom Gibbs   583-1550  Don McMahon   633-4214
Tom and Don invite you to go paddling on the Hudson, starting from the Sherman Island take out at 10.30

BONUS May 23    Hudson River Paddle   Tom Gibbs   583-1550 
We will start at Snake Rock near Warrensburg and paddle downstream, to Stony Creek Ranch Resort (Previously 1000 Acres Ranch Resort) for a total distance of 6 miles. CTL or meet at the Thurman train station, Route 418 just beyond the bridge at 10.00.  Please contact Tom by Monday if you plan to attend.

May 25   #17.1660  CANCELLED Lake George Bike    Ken Gericke   683-8420  
This trip begins at the Warren County Bikeway parking lot on Country Club Rd. From Northway exit 19, travel east on Aviation Rd, cross Rt 9, continue for ½ mile, then turn left onto Country Club Rd. Parking is on left just after crossing bike path. We bike to Lake George Village, where we have lunch, and then return for a total of 15 miles. Meet at Country Club Rd parking lot at 9:45.

June 1   #17.1661   Ice Cream Man Bike Ride   Lenore and Jack Reber    L 859-8555   J 223-3632  
We'll ride about 18 hilly and flat miles along the east side of the Hudson River and mostly quiet back roads. We will stop at the "Ice Cream Man" for lunch or BYO, then take a short hike to a waterfall on the Battenkill, and return downhill to the cars. Meet at the Schuyler s Canal Park visitor s center (across from the Schuylerville Post Office just west of the Rt 29 bridge, corner of Reds Rd & Ferry St.) at 9:45.

June 1  #17.1661 A -TEAM   Chester Challenge Trails      Katie Henrikson   533-7441  Camp 494-7405  C 596-4901
The Cougar Trail of the Chester challenge was offered in March – and turned into a fairly strenuous snowshoe hike, which involved breaking trail in two feet of snow. This time will be different, even if it snows in May, there won’t be much and Diane promised she will break trail if necessary!  We will go up the trail, to a minimal view from the top and a three mile round trip with about 500 ft of ascent. After lunch, we can drive to the Kipp mountain trail, about ten minutes away, and climb another 300-400 ft to lovely views of Loon Lake and Gore Mountain, a two mile round trip. Meet at the Price Chopper parking lot in Warrensburg at 9:15 or at the trail head at 10:00. To find the trail head, turn west at Exit 25 from the Northway, and turn left into the North Warren School 0.1 miles past Stewarts. Continue to the far end of the parking lot to find the trail head. Parking is somewhat limited and car pooling is encouraged. If you want to participate only in the afternoon hike, you can try calling my cell phone around noon for an estimate of where and when you could catch up with us. Beware that cell service in C'town is spotty and you very well may not be able to contact me during the day!

June 8   #17.1662   Sleeping Beauty Mtn Hike   Fran Herve   899-3216  
Starting from Dacy Clearing we climb Sleeping Beauty Mtn which offers wonderful views to the south and west. Spring flowers and especially lady s slippers should be in full bloom. After lunch we return via Bumps Pond for a total distance of 4 miles and a total elevation change of 1000 . CTL.

BONUS June 12    Pyramid Life Center   Margie Litwin  518-928-0600
The weather report at this time is favorable for the coming Monday. If you are interested and available, join me for a day at the beautiful pristine Pyramid Life Center, a private retreat center adjoining the Pharaoh Mt Wilderness Area near Paradox Lake. We will take a short paddle across the lake and hike the mostly flat, wooded (likely buggy) 1.3 mile round trip to Crane Pond for lunch. The director, Sr. Monica Murphy, has given permission for us spend the day at the facility. You may use a boat/ life preserver (kayak, canoe, rowboat) belonging to the camp if you choose. There are paddles, but some may wish to bring their own. As time and preference allow we can then explore a short slightly steep trail to the waterfall and perhaps take a peek at the camp. Be warned that the location tends to incite lingering (carpool with someone who is like-minded). You may want to bring an after paddle snack to be enjoyed in the "tree house" over the stream, wander in the quiet of property or even take a swim. For a glimpse see the CC journal for Sept 23, 2014.  Meet at CTL at 915, leaving at 930 or at the Pyramid Life Center at 1015. Directions: Northway Exit 28 to East on Route 74 about 6.2 miles to a right at the sign for Pyramid Life Center/Pyramid Road just past Letsonville Road on the left. The dirt road leads ~a mile to the only settlement. There is plenty of parking (if you bring a boat drive it up the hill past the building on the right to the lake and please wash it thoroughly there as well as wiping your paddle! The first building (dining hall) will be open with restrooms, water. For this outing I will ask that each participant donate $5 to be collected there for the Center, as it is self-sustaining.

June 15   #17.1663  Camp Santanoni Mountain Bike Shelly Nevard   461-8656  
A new Canes adventure. Not a new destination just a new way of getting there! Great Camp Santanoni lies at the east end of Newcomb Lake in the town of Newcomb off NY 28N. The Great Camp, one of the largest of its kind built more than a century ago by Robert Pruyn, has been reconstructed as a historical site. Some of you have skied or hiked to it, or perhaps you were one of the lucky ones who took advantage of the horse-drawn carriage ride and paddling adventure last July - this time we will give mountain biking a try. From the Gate Lodge parking lot we will bike the gravel former carriage road gently uphill, passing the Farm Complex, for ~3 miles and gaining 500 before biking downhill for ~2 miles to the Great Camp complex on the shores of Newcomb Lake, losing 250 . Our anticipated arrival time will allow us a few hours to either just chill out, explore the buildings of the camp complex or, for those with spare energy to burn, paddle Newcomb Lake or Lower and Upper Duck Hole using the boats available at the boat house. Lunch will be wherever you choose. At a designated meeting time we will regroup and return via the same route. The preferred type of bike for this adventure is a mountain bike; however, a hybrid bike is acceptable since the carriage road is primarily gravel. We realize that not everyone owns either type. If you would like to attend this outing and are proficient at riding a bike, but do not own either type, Cloudsplitter Outfitters, located 1-1 ½ miles east of the entrance to the Santanoni Preserve, rents mountain bikes for $27 for the day, inch tax. Additionally, for those of you who would like to paddle your own boat instead of using one from the boat house they will rent a boat trailer for your bike for an additional $27 that will accommodate canoes or kayaks such a deal! If you would like to rent a bike, trailer or both please let Shelly know a week ahead of time so that arrangements can be made with the outfitters to set enough aside. There is extra time required to fit the bike to the rider so arrival times will need to be adjusted for those renting equipment. You would ride from the outfitters the short distance to the Gate Lodge parking lot. Of course helmets are mandatory and it is suggested that you bring a spare tube or patch kit for your bike and either know how to use it or become close friends with someone who does. CTL at 8:30 for an 8:45 departure or at the Black Bear restaurant in Pottersville at 9:15 or at the Santanoni Gate Lodge parking lot at 10:00.

June 15  #17.1663 A -TEAM  Kayadeross Creek Paddle   Mary Knutson   587-8105
I am sorry for the late post but since I can not make the bike trip I am looking for some people that might like to paddle the Kayadeross. My plan is to leave from the Waterfront Park, 622 Crescent Ave, Saratoga Springs, at 9:30am, paddle up the Kayadeross where it enters Saratoga Lake and return to the park no later than 2pm. I am not sure how things look on the Kayadeross but will try it out. There is no charge to launch from the Park and there are restrooms and lots of parking. You can call me tonight or in the morning of you have questions. Hope to see some people Thursday at 9.30!

June 22   #17.1664  Rogers Rock    Diane & Kurt Wisell   D.796-1993  K.796-5495  
If you cringe at seeing this trip posted, not to worry!, This one is made possible and EASY by the graciousness of the Densmore family, owners of Valley View Farm, 3.5 miles south of the circle in Ticonderoga on Route 9N.NOT nasty like the hike up from the campground, Diane describes this 3.1 mile trail with 582 feet of rise starting and ending at Valley View Farm on Rt. 9N, 3.5 miles south of the circle in Ticonderoga at the location of the famous Battle On Snowshoes, as very scenic, with a nice grade, not too long and sure to be a ladies favorite.   It is very likely to win the coveted LCF Approved rating!  Strawberries should be ripe at the farm, so plan on staying after the hike to pick a few baskets. CTL or, by advance arrangement, at the north end of the Warrensburg Price Chopper parking lot.

June 29   #17.1665   Colonie Bike   Peter Fedorick   893-2629 
This bike trip hasn t been done since 2011 and is scheduled by request. From our start at the Colonie Town Park we will bike west on the paved Mohawk-Hudson Bike/Hike Trail to Lock 7 and return to the Park for lunch. After lunch we will bike east to visit the Cohoes Falls, Falls View Park and return. It is fairly flat terrain and we will bike approximately 20 miles. Meet at the Park and Ride just east and south of Northway Exit 12, across from Panera s, at 9:15 for a 9:30 departure or meet at the Colonie Town Park Parking Lot at 10:00. The Colonie Park is located at 71 Schermerhorn Rd, Cohoes for those with a GPS. Access to Schermerhorn Rd is gained from Old Loudon Rd which is ~2 miles south on Rt 9 from the south side of the Crescent Bridge.

July 6   #17.1666   Lens Lake Paddle   Fran Herve   518-899-3216  
Lens Lake is a small lake ~6 miles west of the hamlet of Stony Creek in Warren County. There is a nice launch area with adequate parking for our group. Our plan is to explore the lake and its irregular shoreline at a leisurely pace and have lunch at the launch area before returning for more exploring if desired. Meet at the parking lot across from the Lake Luzerne High School on Rt 9N at 9:15. Of course you can plan on stopping at the Up River Café (formerly Papa s Ice Cream Parlor) on the way home! Meeting at the parking lot across from the Hadley-Luzerne High School is recommended for all except those coming from Warrensburg and points north (in which case we would make arrangements to meet at the Town of Stony Creek offices) if you are from Warrensburg or points north you already know the back way to Stony Creek. However, for the adventurous you could also go directly to the launch area if you are so inclined, email and we will send you directions.

July 13   #17.1667   Brant Lake Bike Ride   Neal Van Dorsten  518-644-7034  
We will meet at the parking area off Exit 24 of the Northway at 9:00 or 9:45 at the Hub located at 27 Market St. in Brant Lake depending on the length of ride you wish to do. From Exit 24 we will take a leisurely ride along the scenic Schroon River to Brant Lake. Then we will ride around Brant Lake, returning along Rt. 8 to The Hub, where we will stop for a break and lunch. The Hub serves lunch, if you do not want to carry. This is a very beautiful and scenic ride, offering two distance options. Those starting at Exit 24 will do roughly 26 miles, and starting from The Hub roughly 16 miles. We do not leave anyone behind, and mostly ride at an easy pace. There are a few small hills, but mostly easy biking. Call or email to confirm your attendance.

July 20   #17.1668   Northwest Bay Paddle  Gail Stauble    518-636-3504  
We haven t scheduled a paddle of Northwest Bay since 2010 so you may want to take advantage of this offer. From our put-in at the DEC car-top launch area located ~4 miles north of the hamlet of Bolton Landing we will paddle south on Northwest Bay Brook before entering the main body of Northwest Bay. From here we will paddle along the east side of the bay along the Tongue Mt range for nearly 3 miles to Montcalm Pt. at the end of the range. We will continue around the point for short distance to the dock area for lunch and perhaps a swim or find a secluded spot if available. Depending on the time, wind conditions and peoples preferences we may be able to paddle some in the Narrows before retracing our route back to the launch area. CTL or exit 24 of the Northway at 9:45 or at the launch area at 10:00.

July 27   #17.1669   Chimney Mt Hike   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D. 518-796-1933  K. 518-796-5495  
Back by popular demand a 3 mile round trip mile hike with a steep 800 ft elevation change to the top of a mountain with two summits. We will eat lunch on the summit that has open views in all directions. The other summit has interesting rock formations that resemble chimneys and caves to explore. This is a very popular hike with its 360 degree view from the summit. There are plenty of terrific geologic formations including the famous chimney amid a maze of caves and crevices. CTL or meet in Wevertown at 10:00. There is a parking fee of about $2.00 per car.

August 3   #17.1670   CHANGED TO LAKE ST. CATHERINE, SEE DESCRIPTION BELOW   Henderson Lake Paddle   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D. 518-796-1933  K. 518-796-5495  
Last year, this paddle was so well received that Canes individually kept going back for weeks!  Getting a boat onto the very scenic, mile and three quarters long, Henderson Lake requires an hour and forty five minute drive from CTL followed by a 1,705 foot (0.3229 mile) carry with a total vertical ascent of 51 feet from the Upper Works trail head. It's worth bringing a set of wheels for this carry on a nice gravel road. From Marianne Vernon's July 16, 2009 trip description: We will canoe around Lake Henderson, have lunch at the Lean-to at the northwest end of the lake and explore the swamps at the inlet on the south end of the lake. We'll be doing something like that but may have lunch at one of the SUPERB swimming / diving locations. CTL at 8.15 for 8.30 departure or Black Bear Pottersville at 9.00 or Henderson Lake 10.15

August 3   #17.1670  Lake St. Catherine "Bayou" Paddle   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D. 518-796-1933  K. 518-796-5495  
Lake St. Catherine is a lovely 7 mile long lake a few miles east of Granville, NY.  We will paddle a 3.6 to 4.3 mile route on the lake's quiet southern end from the VT State Fishing Access south through a channel flanked by marsh to the "Little Lake" then through another channel to the dam at the lake's south end in Wells. Then we'll return to the fishing access.  We'll be passing by the relatively new Wells Town Beach both coming and going and will stop there for lunch. Not too sure about swimming at the beach as this area of the lake is shallow and weedy. But bring your swimsuit anyway.  For anyone wanting to paddle more, there's another five or so miles of lake to the north and a short paddle from the fishing access will yield a good view of the main (and often very busy) part of the lake. A marina adjacent to the fishing access has a store. CTL at 8.45 for a 9.00 departure.

August 10    #17.1671    White Rocks Hike    Diane and Kurt Wisell    D. 518-796-1933  K. 518-796-5495   
Last year this was new hike for the Canes and was definately a day to remember. White Rocks is a VERY scenic, well known and interesting geologic formation just east of Wallingford, VT, about an hour and a half from CTL. We'll hike the White Rocks cliffs trail, then if time and interest are on our side, the ice Beds trail for a total of about 4.5 miles with a total vertical ascent of about 1,500 feet. Both trail s are terrific and there is nothing very steep. It's likely we will meet a number of through hikers on this trail, part of the AT, and conversation with them is always fun.  Feeding these bears is welcome and appreciated so bring some extra snacks.  After our hike, conditions permitting, we'll head to a really nice, very scenic, swimming hole in the nearby Clarendon Gorge where last year we met the Latvian Swim Team. CTL 8.15 for an 8.30 departure.

August 10  #17.1671 A -TEAM  Moreau Lake Paddle   Linda Plante   518-587-1827
With a nice
 forecast for tomorrow why not join Linda Plante for a paddle of Moreau Lake – her first lead of an outing!  Nothing complicated – just a few hours of a leisurely paddle on a beautiful local lake.  Meet at the Moreau Lake State Park boat launch, past the entrance kiosk, opposite the warming hut at 10:00 – bring lunch – swimming available for those that linger after the paddle.

August 17    #17.1672    Stewart s Bridge Reservoir     Peter Fedorick   518-893-2629  
We will paddle on Stewart's Bridge Reservoir - the impounded waters of the Sacandaga River, lying between Stewart s Dam, Hadley, downstream and the Conklingville Dam, Edinburg, upstream. Its irregular shoreline lends itself to exploring and the launch area a perfect place for lunch, swimming or just chilling out. Bald eagles have been observed in the past so bring a camera and binoculars. Meet at the parking lot across from the Lake Luzerne High School on Rt. 9N at 9:45 or at the launch area around 10:15. For those of you opting to go directly to the launch site its access is on a marked side-road, on the left, 4 miles +/- west along CR4/N Shore Rd from the main intersection in the Hamlet of Hadley (near the RR Station). Continue on the access road to the end at the shore of the reservoir. Plenty of parking.

August 24   #17.1673    Mohawk Towpath Byway Bike Shelly Nevard   518-461-8656  
A new outing for the Canes! Starting at the Terminal Road access to the Byway, located at the NE corner of the Crescent Bridge in Halfmoon on Route 9, we will bike west a distance of approximately 7 miles to the hamlet of Vischer Ferry. Along the route there are views of the old canal, the Mohawk, an old lock and several historic signs and a historic bridge that has been rebuilt. Depending on the time we will have the option to continue an additional 1.5 miles to the Lock 7 Overlook or end our westward travel here. In any case we will have lunch at the Vischer Ferry General Store or bring your own. After lunch we can return the way we came or ride on the road a little way through the hamlet of Vischer Ferry and rejoin the Byway by crossing the historic Whipple Bridge. The section of the Byway we will be biking is a windy but generally flat, well maintained stone dust path suitable for all types of bikes with an estimated total of 14-17 miles. We will meet at the Terminal Road access at 10:00 where there is good parking and a short walk to Stewart s to pick up something you forgot or use the restrooms.
**The access to the Towpath that we will use is easily reached from the Northway and has adequate parking; therefore no additional meeting places are planned. If you have the capacity to carry additional bikes and would like to carpool with someone please feel free to send an email to arrange an additional meeting place. The Terminal Rd access point can be reached from the Northway from the south by using exit 7 to Rt 9. Continue north on Rt 9 for ~4.7 miles and turn R on terminal Rd immediately after crossing the Crescent Bridge. Those traveling from the north can use either exit 8a or 8. From exit 8a turn L off the ramp and continue on CR 91(Grooms Rd) for ~1.4 miles to Rt 9. Turn R on Rt 9 and continue south for ~1 mile and turn L on to Terminal Rd. From exit 8 turn L off the ramp and continue on Vischer Ferry Rd for ~1.75 miles to Rt 9 – cross to Terminal Rd.

August 24  #17.1673 A -TEAM   Moreau Park  Tom Gibbs   583-1550     Don McMahon   633-4214
Tom Gibbs and I are leading an A-Team hike at Moreau Park on the north side of the Hudson River. The idea is to hike the Stone Wall trail clockwise. The trail is about 3 miles long with about 400 ft of elevation change. We meet at the West Glens Falls Emergency Center on Media Road at 9:15 am and will drive from there to the Moreau Park parking lot at the far end of Hawk Road beyond the access gate (which is open). Going east from Northway Exit 18, turn left onto Media Drive (the first traffic light) and drive north. The Emergency Center is the last building on the right side just before the end of the road at Luzerne Rd.

August 31   #17.1674  ; Cedar River Flow Paddle   Rondack Ray Bouchard     518-893-7314  
The Cedar River and associated Flow (lake) is located in the Moose River Plains Wild Forest Area near Indian Lake. From Wakely Dam we will paddle the length of the Flow, continuing upstream on the Cedar River for an additional mile to a lean-to where we will have lunch and then return for a total distance of 9-10 miles. Folks are welcome to come along and just paddle the Flow on their own, hopefully with a friend or two. The pace will be leisurely, so we ll have plenty of time to explore the shoreline and look for wildlife. The flow is home to waterfowl and other birds so bring your binoculars and camera who knows, we may even see a moose. Wind, when it does blow, tends to follow the length of the Flow so it can be an issue, especially if you are paddling a tandem canoe with high sides. Solo canoes and kayaks should fare well. The drive is a little longer than we are used to so we will depart from CTL at 8:30, with a brief stop at the Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:00 and a pit stop at Stewart s in Indian Lake at 10:00. The last 10 miles is on an unimproved dirt road but passable with almost any vehicle.

August 24  #17.1674 A -TEAM   Buttermilk Brook / Bearslide Hike  Tom Gibbs   583-1550     Don McMahon   633-4214
Tom and Don  will lead a hike starting on the East River Road at the mouth of Buttermilk Brook, we hike north along the Hudson to the north end of the road (the canoe take out), then hike up a jeep road to the upper end of the Buttermilk Brook trail and then return on the brook trail, i.e. along the north side of the brook. Along the way we pass "Bear Slide", a long tilted smooth rock section of the brook. The hike is 3 3/4 miles long with a 300 ft. elevation increase. Meet at the high school parking lot on route 9N in Lake Luzerne at 9:15 am.

September 7   #17.1675   Pyramid Lake Paddle and Picnic   Margie Litwin    H. 518-384-0412 C. 928-0600  
Our annual September get-together is at the Pyramid Life Center on Pyramid Lake. Bring an appetizer, salad or dessert to share and whatever you would like to drink. Plates and utensils, hot dogs, rolls and condiments will be provided and donations accepted. A $5 per person donation for support of the Center is requested that day. You are free to arrive anytime with lunch planned for 12:00 noon and may explore the camp, relax, paddle on your own or swim for the day, enjoy the peace of a deck, porch or treehouse gazebo over the stream. The camp has boats, PFD's, paddles you may use. Please wipe down all boats brought onto the property with the supplied bleach solution to protect the lake. We will plan a group paddle of the lake leaving the camp beach at 10:30. Parking is plentiful as you arrive at camp. Meet at CTL unless you plan your own early arrival. If anyone desires to linger after lunch we can hike the short climb to the Marion Ledge overlook or to the waterfall. In order to plan for the number of hot dogs/rolls to have on hand RSVP t o Margie by September 1st.   **Pyramid Lake is located 6.2 miles east of Northway Exit 28 heading east on Route 74. The dirt entry road is on the Right with a small Pyramid Life Center sign just after Letsonville Road on the Left. If you get to Eagle Lake you are too far. Address: 1 Pyramid Road, Paradox, NY 12858. The entry road leads in a bit over a mile to the only settlement on the lake. You may pull up past the first building on the right (dining hall) to unload at the beach area beyond, use restroom inside and return your car to the parking lot below. About 45 minutes from CTL.
   OVERNIGHT OPTION: An overnight stay at Pyramid Life Center is offered for Wednesday Sept. 6 to Thursday Sept. 7. We are organizing a day's activities at the camp to be determined with the group, an evening slide presentation of Peter's wonderful “Adventures In and Around the Adirondacks” and viewing the full moon rise as weather allows. Peaceful awakening to loons, breezes on the porch, early morning swim? We will stay in a building and have access to the dining hall to heat, refrigerate, and serve meals. The cost is $30 payable to Pyramid Life Center when you arrive and we will furnish our own linens and food (to be planned with those involved along with arrival and outing times). For more information, food planning, accommodations, packing suggestions, questions, etc. and to reserve your space please contact Margie directly by August 25th.

September 14    #17.1676   Watch Hill and the Holey Boulders Hike  Lenore and Jack Reber   L. 518-859-855 J. 518-223-3632  
A new outing for the Canes! We'll begin our hike at the Watch Hill trailhead, located on the east side of NY30, 1 mile south of the Snowy Mountain trailhead/parking lot or 7.7 miles south from its intersection with NY28 in the hamlet of Indian Lake. From the trailhead we will hike along a short section of new trail to an old forest road and follow this for a bit to the foot trail that will come in on the right. This trail will take us to the ridgeline and an overlook where we will have lunch and enjoy the outstanding views of Snowy Mountain and Indian Lake a hike of 3 miles RT, with +/- 500 elevation gain. Retracing our steps to the parking lot we will walk .2 miles along NY30 to the unmarked trailhead for the Snowy Mountain Boulders, referred to by some as the Holey Boulders. After a .5 mile walk, we can explore the dozen or more huge pock-marked boulders popular with rock climbers specializing in bouldering. Don t forget to bring your camera! Meet at CTL; or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 10; or Byron Park, Indian Lake, at 10:30 (entrance on right side of NY28 +/- .75 miles past the causeway over Lake Abanakee); or the Watch Hill trailhead at 10:45.

September 21   #17.1677   Bass Lake Thru Hike   Peter Fedorick   518-893-2629  
Last done back in May 2015 I thought it would be nice to check it out in the fall with hopes that there would be some color change in the leaves and maybe less snakes at our lunch spot. Beginning at the same trailhead recently used on our hike to Moose Mountain Pond we will instead do a thru hike of +/- 4.5 miles and a total gain of +/- 600 to a lovely open area on the shore of Bass Lake in the Hammond Pond Wild Forest. After leaving the trailhead, we'll go 1.7 miles and turn right at the junction (left goes to Moose Mountain Pond). There's a steady, mostly gradual climb which will take us to the beginning of the lake. We'll continue around the lake to a nice rock outcropping for lunch and finish with an easy 2-mile walk to the other end of our journey. CTL at 8:45 for a 9:00 departure or the Frontier Town parking lot, exit 29, at 9:45. Other locations upon request.

September 21  #17.1677 A -TEAM   Inman Pond Hike   Don McMahon   518-633-4214
From the Sly Pond Road trailhead we follow a trail and logging road to our lunch spot at the top of a promontory at the west end of Inman Pond with nice views of the pond and surrounding hills. After lunch we bushwhack north, crossing a small stream to get to the north shore, which we follow east to a junction with the marked trail and retrace our steps to the parking lot. Total distance is approximately 3 miles with a gain of 600. CTL

BONUS September 26    Henderson Lake Paddle  Tom Gibbs   518-583-1550   Peter Fedorick  518-893-2629
Tom has decided to take advantage of the extended summer-like weather and is offering to lead a paddle of Henderson Lake on Tuesday, September 26th. Getting a boat onto the very scenic, mile and three quarters long, Henderson Lake requires a 90-plus minute drive from CTL and a carry from the Upper Works trailhead. Your reward though is being able to paddle one of the most beautiful lakes in the Adirondacks – wild, remote with mountain views in all directions. The plan is to paddle to one of the super swimming/diving locations for lunch where non-swimmers can be entertained by those that choose to swim or wade and take advantage of the expected 80 degree temperature. After a leisurely lunch we will continue to explore the lake until we decide to say good-bye for the season and make our way back to the take-out. There is a 1/3 mile carry on a logging road so some form of carrier is essential to get to the put in. CTL at 8.15 for 8.30 departure or Black Bear Restaurant in Pottersville at 9.00 or Henderson Lake 10.15.

September 28   #17.1678    Wolf Pond Hike   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D.518-796-1933  K. 518-796-5495   
A new outing for the Canes on a new trail.  Wolf Pond, near Tahawus, is one of 15 Wolf Ponds in NY, so if you decide to check it out, pick the right one!  The link above will take you to Mike Arthur's description, written before the trail was completed.  A more recent stroll in the area revealed a finished trail with a lean-to near the end.  The trail is an easy, 6 mile round trip and nice walk in the woods with a pretty pond at the end.  Much of it along very scenic Wolf Brook. Elevation gain is 200', but it's over rolling terrrain so total vertical ascent is more like 600' but spread evenly over the trail's length.  CTL at 8.45 for 9.00 departure or, by request, the Black Bear in Pottersville.

October 5   #17.1679   Puffer Pond Loop Hike    Peter Fedorick   518-893-2629   
Not a new Cane s hike but the last time it was done was in August 2000, led by Irv Boyle! Puffer Pond is located in the Siamese Ponds Wilderness, almost due south of the hamlet of Indian Lake. The trailhead that we will start from is shared with that of Chimney Mt, which most of you are familiar with, located at the end of Big Brook Road at the Cabins of Kings Flow parking area. From the trailhead we will travel in a clockwise direction, first relatively flat but then climbing moderately to a height of land at +/- 1.8 miles, gaining +/- 650 . From here we will descend +/- 200 to the shore of Puffer Pond at +/- 2 miles and stop at a lean-to for lunch. After lunch we will continue our clockwise direction heading almost due west along Puffer Pond Brook on an old carriage road, descending slightly until the trail levels out before turning north at 3.6 miles. From here we continue with a slight descent before the trail levels off and we follow the eastern shore of Kings Flow for 1.7 miles to the grassy parking area where we started. Meet at CTL; or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 10; or the trailhead at +/- 10:50. There is a parking fee of $2.00 per car.

October 5  #17.1679 A -TEAM   MEADE MOUNTAIN AND BECKMAN MOUNTAIN   Don McMahon   519 633-4214
This moderate, 2.1 mile, 2 1/2 hour hike has several long, steep sections leading to one of the best views of Gore Mountain. Continue on and make a short descent followed by an ascent as you travel from Meade to Beckman Mountain. This leads to several views of Loon Lake other mountains to the east and north, and a view of Blythewood Island, home of a former six story resort hotel. Parking is on Igerna Road about 3/4 mile west of Route 9. CTL at 9:15 am the trailhead at 10.00 am. Trailhead parking is very limited so best to consolidate at CTL!

October 12   #17.1680    Rooster Comb Hike   Gail Stauble   518-636-3504  
We begin and end our 5 mile RT hike of Rooster Comb at the large hiker s parking lot just south of the hamlet of Keene Valley off Rt. 73. The trail leads us through a beautiful forest over easy to moderate terrain with a few steep sections to its summit with a gain of +/- 1,600 . Views from the summit and nearby Valley View lookout complete a 360-degree panorama of Mt. Marcy, the Johns Brook Valley, Giant Mt. and the Ausable Valley. It should be peak at this time so bring your camera! CTL at 8:15 for a departure of 8:30 or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:30.

October 12  #17.1680 A -TEAM  Spruce Mountain Hike   Tom Gibbs   583-1550     Don McMahon   633-4214
Tom and I are leading an A-Team hike up Spruce Mtn which is about 4 miles SW of Corinth. The hike is 3 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 1000 ft over a well graded trail. The fall colors should be good and the views from the top of the fire tower should be excellent. We meet at either the Greenfield Senior Center or at the Corinth municipal parking lot (opposite town beach) at 9:15 am, and we should arrive at the trailhead (end of Spruce Mtn road) by about 9:45.

BONUS October 17    Pinnacle (Bolton) Hike  Don McMahon   518-633-4217 
Pinnacle is an easy hike that offers a splendid view. Less than 2 miles rt and about 400 ft of elevation. And fall color season as to be taken advantage of. So Tom and I will hike up Pinnicle tomorrow (Tuesday Oct 17) because it is fall color season and the weather is cooperating. If interested, we meet at CTL at 9:15 to leave there at 9:30, which means we should be at the trailhead by 10 am. If you bring a lunch we probably will be at the summit by about 10:30!

October 19    #17.1681   New York/Sandgate Vt Bike     Ken Gericke   518-683-8420  
An 18 mile bike beginning at the SR 313 NY/VT canoe access on the Battenkill River, and continuing in a clockwise loop to Sandgate Vermont. Lunch will be in the scenic hamlet of Sandgate (specific location TBD). The route continues, mostly downhill, returning to SR 313, crossing the Arlington Covered Bridge to East River Rd, then back to SR 313 and to our start in NY. Meet at McDonalds in Greenwich at 9:15. This is a beautiful ride through some rural valleys of Washington County, NY and Vermont, quite remote with approximately 1/2 of the route on hard packed dirt roads. While the route can be pedaled with a touring/narrow-wheeled bike, a hybrid or even a mountain bike might be more appropriate. There are some hills, with a gradual elevation gain of approx. 700' then a long well-earned downhill to Sandgate.

October 19  #17.1681 A -TEAM   Corinth Reservoir Hike   Tom Gibbs   583-1550    Don McMahon   633-4214
Tom and I are planning on climbing to the outlook at the Corinth Reservoir on Thursday. From the parking lot we will take the trail that goes gradually up 600 ft. up to a point adjacent to Bald Mtn, then traverses back to the jeep trail, crosses it, and then continues uphill another 200 ft to a terrific outlook offering views to the north and east. After lunch at the outlook, we take trails, mostly downhill and north to a small beaver pond at the north end of the Preserve. Finally there is about a 400 foot descent back to the parking lot. The total distance is about a 5 miles loop and the total elevation is about 1000 ft. We meet both at the Greenfield Senior Center and the Corinth municipal parking lot at 9:15 and will be at the Corinth Preserve parking lot about 9:45 am.

October 26    #17.1682   Haystack Mountain Hike    Diane and Kurt Wisell   D.518-796-1933  K.518-796-5495   
Haystack Mtn, one of the Three Sisters, a group of peaks in the northern Taconic M ountains, near Granville, NY and Wells, VT, is distinctive with sheer cliffs and dramatic outcrops of slate and quartzite. From this modest 1900 summit you can see as far west as Glens Falls and as far south as Equinox Mtn. The hike is 3 miles RT with +/- 500 elevation gain - HOWEVER! - there are ups and downs to total vertical ascent is more like 1,200'. CTL at 8.45 for 9.00 departure or Price Chopper in Granville at 9.40 ish.

October 27  #17.1682 A -TEAM   Rattlesnake Cobble Hike   Tom Gibbs   518-583-1550    Don McMahon   518-633-4214
Tom and I will climb Rattlesnake Cobble Friday Oct 27. With a 800 ft climb of slightly over a mile, it is slightly higher than the Pinnacle climb and looks down on Lake George Village and the surrounding territory. The idea is to get back early to do yard work in the afternoon. However we are locally in peak fall color mode so it is worth while to spend at least part of the day taking advantage. We use the Smith street trail up to the Prospect Mountain highway, go south on the highway for 1/5 of a mile then cross through a scenic parking lot to reach the summit. Meet at CTL at 9:15 am to consolidate cars. In case you are worried, I have never seen any rattle snakes there!

November 2   #17.1683   Little and Big Pisgah Hike   Lenore and Jack Reber   L 859-8555 
The hike begins with about a one and a half mile walk along Chain Lakes Road from the outer Gooley Club house. We then do a gradual uphill bushwhack through open forest and some rock formations to the mossy top of Little Pisgah. After retracing our steps down to the col, we do a similar bushwhack up slightly bigger Big Pisgah, and enjoy open views to the south. After a mostly gentle scramble down, we rejoin Chain Lakes road closer to the Gooley Club. Four and a half miles RT with 1100' elevation gain. CTL or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 10.00 or the Lake Abanakee parking lot at 10:30 (on the left of NY 28 immediately before crossing the causeway over Lake Abanakee).

November 9   #17.1684  CANCELLED - See replacement below Fifth Peak Lean-To   Scott Anderson    518-696-2588  
Our 5.2 mile RT hike begins at the popular Clay Meadows parking lot located approximately 6 miles north of the hamlet of Bolton Landing on the east side of NY 9N. From the trailhead we will hike on a relatively flat trail for the first 1/2 mile before beginning a somewhat steep and continuous climb for the next mile, gaining 1000 . At this point the trail becomes less steep but still climbs in the final 1.1 mile, gaining another 500 to the top of Fifth Peak and a lean-to. With the leaves off the trees we should have excellent views of the Narrows of Lake George, portions of Northwest Bay, the southern end of the Tongue Mountain Range and the mountains that surround the southern end of Lake George. Meet at CTL at 8:45 for departure at 9:00 or at the Clay Meadows parking lot at 9:30. For those of you aspiring to obtain the Lake George 12ster patch this is your chance to reach the top of one of the required mountains.

November 9   #17.1684   Buck Mountain From Hogtown   Scott Anderson   518-696-2588  
Starting at the Hogtown Trailhead on Shelving Rock road we will climb to the lofty summit of Buck Mountain, elevation 2,330 , gaining 1,130 in the 2.3 mile one-way route. The trail is level for some time and follows a stream for nearly the first mile. At about 1.5 miles the trail begins to climb steeply until the rocky summit is reached, affording panoramic views of Lake George and beyond. Hopefully, we will have some sunshine on top, and maybe spend some time exploring the open rock areas just below the summit. The weather forecast includes below freezing temperatures each night this week and with all the wet weather recently we may encounter icy areas. Microspikes or equivalent should be carried, just in case. Meet at CTL at 8:45 for departure at 9:00 or at the Buck Mtn. trailhead on Shelving Rock Rd at 9:45. For those of you aspiring to obtain the Lake George 12ster patch this is your chance to reach the top of one of the required mountains.

November 16   #17.1685   Dean Farm Heritage Trails Hike   Fran Herve   518-899-3216 
Hike two trails from the same location! Across from the kiosk and parking lot at the trailhead in Stony Creek we will hike a nice loop trail of about 2.6 miles with a 500 foot total ascent through fields, around bogs, along a ridge and through open conifer and hardwood forest with some interesting geology. There is even a picnic table located at the top of the ridge for a snack or early lunch. Near the top there is a very steep section that includes a ladder and some steps that may difficult for some to ascend/decend, especially if wet or icy; however, this section can be avoided by retracing our steps back to the nearest trail junction. Once back at the kiosk we will hike another loop trail, this time staying on the west side of the road, totaling about a mile. This trail is Handicap Accessible with long stretches of wide boardwalks that wind through this very pretty section of the old Dean Farm. The trail is mostly level and winds through fields, woods and wetlands with another lunch spot option at a picnic table overlooking Stony Creek. There are plenty of options for doing less mileage and vertical on VERY nicely manicured pathways. Meet at the Exit 16 Commuter Park at 9:15 for 9:30 departure or at the trailhead at 10:00 (from the 4 way intersection in Stony Creek located on the Hadley Road/CR12 continue North on the Hadley/Harrisburg Rd for about a half mile and turn right on Lanfear Rd. In less than a quarter mile turn left on to Murray Rd/CR76 and continue a short distance to the parking lot on the left.

November 16   #17.1685 A -TEAM  Dean Farm Heritage Trails Hike  Tom Gibbs   518-583-1550   Don McMahon   518-633-4214
Tom and I are leading a hike on some of the trails at the Dean Farm Heritage Trails located in Stoney Creek, in conjunction with the regularly scheduled outing. The specific route TBD but will most likely be from 3-4 miles in length over relatively flat terrain. Please refer to the current schedule for additional details.

November 23  Thanksgiving Day   No Outing

BONUS November 24   Undo-The-Turkey Trot   Diane & Kurt Wisell  D 518-796-5495  K 518-796-5495
To burn off the previous day's feasting, we'll do a trot (meaning, of course, to "muck along at our usual pace!") from the Lake George Rec Center to the top of Prospect Mountain and down Big Hollow Road.  Going up is 2.6 miles with a 1,290' climb.  Coming down is 2.8 miles with a 1,450' drop. Total mileage is 5.4. The trail goes to the top of the Lake George Rec Area cross country ski trail area then continues through the woods on a pretty nice "occasionally, maybe" marked, easily followed trail with only one fairly pitchy section a quarter mile long. Lunch at the top of Prospect is a pretty good prospect before we follow Big Hollow Road (yup, a road that's wide, gentle and perfect for chattin' 'n trottin') back to Route 9 just north of Lake George Village where we'll have a couple vehicles spotted to bring drivers back to the Rec Area.  Meet at the Lake George Rec Area at 10.00.

November 30   #17.1686   Schaefer Trail   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D.796-1933   K.796-5495  
The Schaefer Trail rises about 2,500 feet over about 4.5 miles one way from the North Creek Ski Bowl to the fire tower at the summit of Gore Mountain.  A great hike, but we're not going to do that. What we will do is follow our 2014 route from the Ski Bowl to Gore's snowmaking reservoir, which is 1.9 miles (one way) with around 1,050 feet of vertical ascent through pretty woods generally following a very nice stream with numerous cascades and a few waterfalls. Once at the reservoir, depending upon the day and conditions (hike? spike? snowshoe?), we can opt to return the way we came (3.8 miles total for the day) or return via a northerly route passing by Rabbit Pond and some beaver ponds over quite gentle terrain adding no elevation gain but is a mile longer (5.0 miles total for the day) as we did in 2014. And there is another option possible with some great views, an easy walk down (much of it on ski trail) with a distance of 4.5 miles total for the day. CTL 8.45 for  9.00 departure, the TH at 10.00, Weavertown (by request) at 9.45.

December 7   #17.1687   Moxham Mountain   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D.796-1933   K.796-5495
Kurt celebrates 5 years of retirement with another early December trip to Moxham Mountain. This is a roughly 6 mile round trip hike to a mountain in Minerva NY's wild and wooly "Fourteenth Country." A total ascent of 1,800 feet to the summit and back. A relatively easy trail with good views that has uphill and downhill sections both going to the summit and returning. CTL at 8:45 am, departing at 9.00 am or meet at the Black Bear Restaurant, Northway Exit 26 at 9:30.

Decmber 14   #17.1688   A Mine, Cook Mountain and Cookies   Sandy and Bob Powell    H 518-543-6290  C 518-538-8758  
We'll start with a very pretty 2.8 mile (round trip) hike/spike/snowshoe on very nice trail to the 1,215 foot summit (625' vertical rise) of Cook Mountain in Ticonderoga on the west shore of Lake George. Cook Mountain is located on a 172 acre parcel owned by the Lake George Land Conservancy. From the summit are views of northern Lake George including Anthony's Nose and Rogers Rock. The Champlain Valley and the Green Mountains in Vermont are also visible. From there, we'll venture to the Powell's home in Hague for cookies and cheer (bring cookies and cheer!) and then, time and energy permitting, we'll take a short walk from the Powell's home to a great overlook of Lake George's north basin and a nearby abandoned graphite mine. CTL at 8.15, departure at 8.30 or, by advance arrangement, Exit 24 at 8.46 or the trail head at about 9.40.

December 21   #17.1689   Holiday Hike at the Hennig Preserve Peter Fedorick   518-893-2629   
A nice woods walk on the trails of Saratoga PLAN's Hennig Preserve and the adjoining lands of the Homestead County Forest located in Town of Providence, Saratoga County. There are no panoramic views or lakes, just old fashioned woods with some minor ups and downs. The trails pass old stone walls, mill sites, and old foundations with one of the trails traversing a glacial esker. The plan is to do an approximately 2 mile walk on the north side trails with a possible visit to Round Pond, then cross Centerline Road to do an additional 3 miles of walks on the south side trails, including the Homestead County Forest. Lunch will be along Cadman Creek. Meet at the Amtrak rail station in Saratoga Springs at 9:15 for departure at 9:30 or the main kiosk at the Hennig Preserve sign on Centerline Road at 10:00. This is a combined Regular and A-Team Hike with Don and Tom leading the A-Team hike on a route to be determined on the day of the hike. Directions from Amtrak Rail Station in Saratoga Springs: There are a number of ways to reach the Hennig Preserve but from the Amtrak Station here is the shortest [for those using a GPS navigator try using 200 Centerline Rd., Middle Grove, NY (or Galway if Middle Grove doesn t work)] - that will get you close. Turn right on to West Ave from Station Lane; continue ~.25 miles to NY 29 and turn right; continue on NY 29 for ~9.7 miles and turn right on to Antioch Rd (just after the East Galway sign the road makes a sharp bend back); continue on Antioch Rd to the end, ~3.5 miles and turn right on to Wileytown Rd; continue on Wileytown for ~1 mi and turn left on to Centerline Rd; continue on Centerline Rd for ~1.25 miles to the sign on the left.

December 21   #17.1689 A -TEAM   Holiday Hike at the Hennig Preserve   Tom Gibbs   518-583-1550   Don McMahon   518-633-4214
Tom and I are leading a hike on some of the trails at the Hennig Preserve located in the Town of Providence, Saratoga County in conjunction with the regularly scheduled outing. The specific route TBD but will most likely be from 3-4 miles in length over relatively flat terrain. Please refer to the current schedule for additional details.

December 28   #17.1690   No outing scheduled.
If you would like to volunteer to lead an outing on this date please contact Peter or use our handy Outing Scheduler. Check out what we did this week a couple years ago. The Spectacle and Gull Ponds hike originally scheduled on this date has been moved to February 22.

2018

 January 4   #18.1691 Saratoga Spa State Park New Year's Resolution Hike/Spike/Snowshoe    Karen & Leon    H 518-886-1991  C 518-441-0483
Join Karen & Leon on our first regular outing for 2018 for a hike along the Park s Five Mile Spa Trail up, around, over and through the Park much of the route in pretty woods! We will meet at 10:15 in the parking lot behind the Roosevelt Baths as we have in the past for a start at 10:30. From here we will pick up the trail and proceed in a counter-clockwise direction following it to the Island Spouter, along Geyser Creek and up to the Orenda Spring. Continuing, we will pass by the marsh area with views of the pond on our way to lunch at the Polaris Pavilion at mile 3. After lunch we continue along Geyser Creek passing the Columbia and Ferndell Pavilions and return to our cars. For those preferring a shorter hike you may choose to retrace your steps at any time or, if you are familiar with the Park, you may combine portions of the trail and some of the many connector roads back to your car. Unfortunately, the restrooms are closed along the route. Be prepared to use snowshoes and/or spikes - an email will be sent out informing you of the expected trail conditions as the day of the hike gets closer.

January 11   #18.1692   Berry Pond Hike/Snowshoe   Sandy and Bob Powell    H 518-543-6290  C 515-538-8758 
This week s outing will be a hike/snowshoe to Berry Pond. From the Lake George Recreation Area parking lot, located at the end of Transfer Road on the north side of NY 9N, slightly over ½ mile west of Exit 21 of the Northway. Map with directions HERE . We will follow the blue trail to an overlook that has views of Darling Mt. and Berry Pond to the south and Lake George to the north. Depending on the time of day this may be our lunch spot. From the overlook we will descend following old logging roads to the spur trail that will take us around Berry Pond and return downhill to our starting point. If conditions permit we will complete a 5.6 mile round trip hike with 1,100 total vertical ascent. If conditions prove too difficult due to fresh snow we will shorten the hike and only visit the pond. Meet at the Lake George Rec Area parking lot at 9:45.

January 18  #18.1693   Potash Mountain Hike/Snowshoe   Steve Mackey   518-793-6484
Please join Steve Mackey on his first lead for the Canes on a wonderful hike of Potash Mountain. Potash Mountain, located just west of NY 9N in the Town of Lake Luzerne is not a very high mountain at only 1700 but what it lacks in height it makes up with character. It is a dome shaped mountain with southern facing cliffs - an eye catcher that can be identified from many of the higher mountains in the area with super views from the expansive open rock ledges above the cliffs. The Canes have climbed it a few times in the past and although the summit area is state owned it is landlocked and permission had to be obtained from private property owners to cross their lands. That all changed earlier this year when the estate of the late Alice Harris donated 107 acres, at the base of the mountain, to the Hadley-Luzerne School District, creating the Harris Nature Preserve and allowing public access. Adjoining property owners, Richard and Joanne Sehlmeyer, donated a 6.4 acre portion of their land to make the connection to the state lands. With volunteers, a grant from NYS and cooperation with DEC.
**..... a trail has been cut and flagged from a new parking lot to the summit. While still a work in progress it is easy to follow.
     From the parking lot on Potash Mountain Rd. the trail begins a moderate climb for the first ¼ mile before leveling off for the next nearly ½ mile and then becoming steep all the way to the summit with switchbacks attempting to provide some relief, most appreciated as the trail meanders through what appears to be an impassable route amongst the cliffs. Just below the summit, after hiking 1 ½ miles and gaining about 1100’, we will bear left to the open rock ledges for lunch and enjoy the expansive views. The true summit, sans views, is a short distance farther and a bit higher - marked by a tall cairn. Plan on stopping at the nearby Harris Grocery and visit with Jungle and Becky Mosher after the hike. Jungle is the main person behind the Harris Nature Preserve and would appreciate any feedback from you.
     Meet at CTL at 9:30 for departure at 9:45; OR, Town of Greenfield Community Center at the intersection of Rt 9N and Wilton Rd/CR36 at 9:15 for departure at 9:30, OR, the trailhead at 10:00: Parking lot located on the right on Potash Rd. just past its junction with Dunkley Rd., ½ mile North from where Potash Rd. intersects Rt 9N, directly across from the entrance to Luzerne State Campground, 7 miles south of Exit 21 of the Northway.

January 18   #18.1693 A -TEAM   BIG! Ice at Hudson River Recreation Area   Diane Wisell   518-796-5495
We'll explore trails in the Lake George Wild Forest/Hudson River Recreation Area and probably some of Cronin's Golf course a couple miles north of centre ville in Warrensburg. What's exciting about this is that the cold
 preceeding the recent January thaw allowed the river to create some REALLY special ice sculptures, comprised of frazil ice which is pretty interesting stuff that you can read about HERE. We'll snowshoe or spike a couple of miles, stop back at the parking lot around noonish and decide if we'd like to have lunch then explore some more or head for home. We will meet at CTL at 9.30 for a 9.45 departure, the same place and time as folks headed to Potash with Steve Mackey. Alternatively, folks can meet us at the trail head at about 10.05. I'll let you know on Wednesday evening whether the best footwear choice is spikes, snowshoes or either/or.

January 25   #18.1694   Ben Wood Mountain Snowshoe    Donna and Peter Wood    518-494-2874  
We will start from the Wood's house on 457 Potter Brook Rd and snowshoe along an old jeep trail to the top of Ben Wood Mtn., returning over a slightly different route, for a total distance of ~4.5 mi with an elevation change of about 300 . After the hike everyone is invited to have hot chocolate at the Wood's house. CTL; or meet at the Wood s house at 10:00

February 1  #18.1695   East Shore Lake George Walk on Water Hike/Snowshoe   Tim Ward   518-415-9172  
A new outing for the Canes and one that will get your attention! Tim Ward, a new Caner, will lead us on a hike on the ice along the east shore of Lake George from just south of Huletts Landing to a point approximately 3 miles south, passing the islands Saint Sacrament, Coopers, Sagamore and Floating Battery, just to name a few. At a point only known to him, Tim will lead us inland a short distance to a rock face with Native American drawings painted on it. These are not ancient paintings but those painted by descendants of Abanakee Indians beginning in 1994. Tim promises a sunny location for lunch before returning our walk north through the forest on easy grades before returning via ice to Lands End, approximately 6 miles round trip. Despite the best attempts to avoid wind there may be times that we will experience some while on the ice - coupled with cold temperatures be prepared for the possible effects of wind chill. Snowshoes and Microspikes will be required. Currently there is over 11” of clear ice along the intended route with an inspection and update planned as the date gets closer. Meet at CTL at 8:45 for a 9:00 departure OR at the NYS DEC Boat Launch on NY 22 on the north side of the causeway crossing South Bay at 9:40 OR at the Clemons Post Office at the intersection of NY 22 and CR 6 at 9:45.  Contact by email is preferred.

February 1  #18.1695 A -TEAM Wilton Preserve   Tom Gibbs   518-583-1550   Don McMahon  518-633-4214
Tom and I are hiking in the Wilton Preserve this Thursday, Feb 1st. The plan is do the outer-loop blue trail. The first mile is on the south side of Scout Road and the next two miles are on the north side of Scout Road. There are side trails to add to this if there is any interest. Except for one brook it is a woods walk with a few little steep sections. We meet at the main parking lot on the north side Scout Road located at the east end of the preserve at 9:45 am to start walking at 10 am. The trails are icy and microspikes are required. The
 indicates the possibility of a few light snow showers, so no problem there!

February 8   #18.1696   Lake George Recreation Area Ski   Fran Herve    518-899-3216  

Fran is offering a cross country ski of the trails located at the Lake George Recreation Area. She hasn t skied these trails before so the exploration will be a group effort. The 4 miles of groomed ski trails are located adjacent to the Rec Area parking lot, located at the end of Transfer Road on the north side of NY 9N, slightly over ½ mile west of Exit 21 of the Northway, which we have been using as a meeting place for hikes to Berry Pond and Prospect Mountain for years. If Mother Nature cooperates that is what we will do on this outing. Plan on meeting at the Lake George Recreation Area parking lot at 10:00 where we will test our skiing skills on the adjacent trails. Since there are only 4 miles of trails we may want to repeat some of our favorites...lunch at the lean-to?

February 15   #18.1697   POSTPONED UNTIL APRIL, SEE SUBSTITUTION BELOW John and Clear Pond Loop Hike/Snowshoe Lenore and Jack Reber  L 518-859-8555  J 518-223-3632  
A new outing for the Canes! The Canes have only been to John Pond a total of 4 times since 1988 and never to Clear Pond. However, DEC has marked a new connector trail between the two, creating a wonderful five mile loop trail, avoiding a traverse of a steep ridge or a bushwhack between the two ponds. Our plan is to explore the new 5 mile loop, visiting these two ponds near Chimney Mt. in Indian Lake. There is a moderate elevation gain at the beginning of the hike, then a long gentle downhill back to the cars. Lunch will be at the lean-to on the shore of John Pond. Conditions will dictate the type of footwear but you should be prepared for snowshoes/Microspikes. Parking at the trailhead is limited so please plan to meet only at the scheduled locations, not the trailhead. We will update everyone on the trail conditions as the day of the hike approaches and provide an alternate outing if the conditions are unfavorable. Meet at CTL at 8:30 for departure at 8:45 or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:15 or the Lake Abanakee parking lot at 9:45 (on the left of NY 28 immediately before crossing the causeway over Lake Abanakee).

February 15   #18.1697   Lake Bonita to Spier Falls Road Snowshoe with a Twist   Lenore and Jack Reber    L 859-8555 J 223-3632  
From the trailhead at the Lake Bonita parking lot we will first hike the access trail a short distance to the Lake Bonita Loop Trail on the southern shore of the lake. We continue on the Loop Trail east, along the southern shore of the lake to the junction with the Lake Ann Trail. We then hike generally in a NE direction, with some minor ups and downs, through mixed forest to the lean-to at Lake Ann for lunch a total of ~2 miles with ~200 gain. After lunch we will continue on the Lake Ann Trail to the junction with a brand new trail and proceed NE along the ridge on this trail to the Eastern Ridge Trail (ER). From here we will proceed W on the ER to the Western Ridge Trail and to our cars, spotted earlier at the Spring trailhead on Spier Falls Rd. Total distance of ~5 miles. Meet at the Moreau Lake State Park parking lot off of Old Saratoga Rd near exit 17 of the Northway at 9:00 or at the Lake Bonita parking lot, located exactly 2 miles west of Rt 9 on the north side of Wilton-Corinth Rd at 9:30. Don and Tom will be offering an A-Team version of this snowshoe with details to be announced in the near future.

February 22   #18.1698  Spectacle and Gull Ponds Hike/Snowshoe   Peter Fedorick    518-893-2629  
Both of these are easy and wonderful woods trails with picturesque destinations perfect for an outing in-between Christmas and New Years. Scheduling two separate destinations on an outing is usually not advised but the trails are less than a mile from one another and the trek to Gull Pond can be done without packs at the end of the day. The trailheads for these two ponds are located on East Shore Rd (a.k.a. Adirondack Rd) ~2.5 miles south of Alder Brook Rd in Schroon Lake. Spectacle Pond - We begin our day traveling 1.7 miles to a campsite on the shore of Spectacle Pond for lunch. The trail follows Spectacle Brook most of the way to the pond, crossing it several times. It is generally a woods trail along an old tote road but with nice views of Pharaoh Mt from the shore of the pond with a gain of less than 400 . Gull Pond After lunch we will return to our cars and drive one mile north to the trailhead and a nice parking lot. It is only about .5 miles to the pond and less than a 100 gain so you can do it with or without your pack but definitely bring your camera. The pond is small but picturesque and will invite you back for future visits. I most likely will not scout the trails ahead of time but will provide details regarding appropriate footwear as we get closer to the date. CTL; or Stewart s in Schroon Lake via exit 27 at 10:10. Alternate points by request.

March 1   #18.1699  Pack Forest Ski/Hike/Snowshoe     Fran Herve    518-899-3216 
Pack Forest is a 2500 acre demonstration forest maintained by SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry located just north of Warrensburg. While its primary purpose is for forest research the lands are open to the public for a variety of outdoor activities. In addition to the many trails within its boundaries it also includes an 85 acre lake. We will hike or ski approximately 5 miles on a combination of wood s roads and trails on a route to be determined prior to the scheduled date. An email will be sent out with trail conditions as we get closer to the date with a suggestion of proper footwear for hikers or if conditions will allow for us to ski. Most of the trails are relatively flat so this outing will lend itself well for an A-Team outing. CTL; or Pack Forest parking lot at 9:45. Don and Tom plan to offer an A-Team hike in combination with Fran with the same meeting locations and times. The specifics of the A-Team route will be determined on the day of the outing but since the terrain is relatively flat both groups may find themselves together most of the time which would be a nice treat! If you have any questions regarding the A-Team plans please contact either Don 518-633-4214 or Tom 518-583-1550.

March 1  #18.1699 A -TEAM  Pack Forest   Tom Gibbs   518-583-1550   Don McMahon  518-633-4214
This outing will be in combination with Fran's regular outing at Pack Forest.

March 8   #18.1700   Postponed to March 22nd   Owls Head Lookout Snowshoe/Hike/Spike   Peter Fedorick    518-893-2629

March 9   #18.1700A   Gurney Lane Rec Area Snowshoe Hike   Don McMahon,   518-633-4214    Tom Gibbs   518-583-1550
Don and Tom are offering a SNOWSHOE hike of the trails at Gurney Lane Recreation Area tomorrow, March 9th. This will be a combined A-Team and Regular hike and yes – snowshoes will be required! The plan is to explore up to 4 miles of marked trails of varying difficulty but mostly flat, on old logging roads. Meet at CTL 9:45 – plan on lunch.

March 15   #18.1701   Peaked Mountain Pond and Mountain Hike/Snowshoe   Scott Anderson   518-696-2588  
From the trailhead at the northern end of Thirteenth Lake, not far from the Garnet Hill Lodge, we will follow a relatively flat trail for .9 miles to Peaked Mt. Brook. From here we will continue on the marked trail northwest along the brook for an additional gradual ascent passing several wild marshy areas. At 1.8 miles, gaining 600 we reach the shore of scenic Peaked Mt. Pond, offering good views of the cliff faced mountain the pond was named after. This will be the destination and turnaround point for those not going to Peaked Mt. and a good place for everyone to have lunch. For those who have chosen to go on to Peaked Mt. it is an additional .5 miles, gaining an additional 650 fairly steep in places with potentially icy conditions. However, efforts are rewarded at the summit with spectacular views in all directions. Scott hiked to the pond this past Sunday and reports perfect winter conditions with a well packed trail. The brook alongside the trail is particularly beautiful with many ice formations and bridges. Snow is forecast for both Tuesday and Wednesday so trail conditions will have changed so bring snowshoes and Microspikes to cover all bases. The current forecast for Thursday is calling for winds WNW between 10-20mph with a high temp of 32 degrees. CTL at 8:45 for a departure at 9:00 for both groups please plan carpooling according to whether or not you will climb Peaked Mt. If anyone wishes to meet up with us in Warrensburg at the north end of the Price Chopper lot, please let us know ahead of time. A short pit stop at Stewart s in North Creek is also planned.

March 15   #18.1701 A -TEAM   Inman Pond Snowshoe/Spike  Don McMahon   518-633-4214
For any of you interested in a easier event that is nearby I am offering to lead a hike to Inman Pond from Lower Hogtown Parking. It will be a little less than 4 miles round trip with several hundred feet elevation increase. Lunch, as usual, will be on the large rock promontory at the west end of the pond. Given the snow storm, snowshoes are likely to be required, but bring microspikes just in case. Meet at CTL at 9:15 am. I am hoping for the same magic snow conditions as we had for Gurney Lane last week.

March 22   #18.1702  Rescheduled from March 8   Owls Head Lookout Snowshoe/Hike/Spike   Peter Fedorick    518-893-2629  
Owls Head Lookout (not to be confused with Owls Head in Keene) is part of the Giant Mountain Wilderness area. The trailhead is located off Route 9N, south of Keene & 5.75 miles from the intersection with Route 73. From the parking area, we'll follow a dirt road for a few hundred yards, then turn left into the woods. The trail climbs gradually through a stand of hemlocks and comes to the state-land boundary at 0.4 miles. It continues to be level, with small ups and downs, to Slide Brook at 1.0 mile, climbs to a small cliff on the left, and crosses the tributary again at 1.5 miles. After a few more crossings of the tributary, it resumes climbing through open woods, reaching a short steep 0.2 mile spur trail that leads to the rocky summit. The lookout offers views in nearly every direction. Peaks in the immediate neighborhood include Giant Mountain, Rocky Peak Ridge, Green, Knob Lock, and Hurricane Mountain (the one with the fire tower). The open ledges offer one of the best views of huge slides on the east face of Giant Mountain. Looking east, you can see the Champlain Valley and the Green Mountains of Vermont. Total of 5.2 miles RT, easy to moderate, Elevation 2530', Ascent 1260'. CTL at 8:15 for a departure of 8:30 or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:15 or the trailhead at 10:00.

March 22   #18.1702 A -TEAM   Stewarts Ledge Spike   Bonnie Whitman   518-636-8432   Tom Gibbs 518-583-1550
Bonnie will be your guide for this week’s A-Team adventure to Stewart’s Ledge. Located off the Buck Mountain Trail this little “bump” on a lower shoulder of Buck Mountain may only be 1 mile from the trailhead on Pilot Knob Rd. and only a 300’ gain but what it doesn’t have in hiking challenges it makes up in the spectacular view of the southeastern basin of Lake George from its rocky ledge. Tom will meet at CTL at 9:45 for departure at 10:00 or meet Bonnie at the Buck Mtn. TH at 1750 Pilot Knob Rd., Fort Ann at 10:25. The trail is well packed with some icy sections so just Microspikes should be adequate. Temperature will be between 34-40 degrees but it may feel much colder with winds out of the north at 10-20 mph. Bring a lunch for those who like to eat early or just a snack – perhaps a stop at Stewart’s, not to be confused with the destination of the hike, for a treat afterwards.

March 29   #18.1703   Victory Woods and Hudson Crossing Hike   Don McMahon   518-633-4214   Tom Gibbs   518-583-1550  
I talked to Kurt who says that Mount Van Hovenberg is definitely out of consideration, and that an alternate, Thomas Mtn that he explored, is problematic - not packed snow. He agreed that all the CCers could do the same event as follows:  The weather presently says rain late Thursday - presumably later than the usual "A-Team" event. So as to avoid uncertain snow conditions, Tom and Don will lead a hike in the Schuylerville area. There are at least two options, 1), a walk through "Victory Woods", just east down from the monument, a pretty boardwalk area, offering a walk totaling at most a mile round trip , 2) a walk north from the visitor's center about 1 1/2 mile one way, through a park, to the dam across the Hudson River and back, with lunch in the park. We meet on Rt. 29 at the "visitors" parking lot across from the post office at 9:45 am. Play safe and bring microspikes, although not likely they will be necessary!

BONUS April 2    Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob   Bonnie Whitman   518-636-8432
For a day-after-Easter outing why not join Bonnie on a Regular and A-Team! combo hike of the Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob. The Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob is owned and maintained by the Lake George Land Conservancy (LGLC) and offers a couple of options of hikes totaling 3.5 miles. From the trailhead, located ~.7 miles north on Pilot Knob Rd from its intersection with NY 9L, we will hike the orange trail ~1 mile and a nearly 700’ gain to a Gazebo with fine views of the southern basin of Lake George. Anyone who wishes may opt for a relaxing stay and lunch at the Gazebo enjoying the sweeping view of the lake and mountains. Others will hike from the Gazebo along the blue trail another ~1 mile and an additional 400’ gain to the waterfall loop trail. There we will have lunch and visit both the bottom and top of the falls before retracing our steps to the Gazebo and returning to our cars via the longer, meandering portion of the orange loop trail. CTL or meet at the trailhead at 9:50. The current trail conditions do not require the use of Microspikes; however, temperatures are forecast to be below freezing Sunday night so having them in your pack may not be a bad idea.

April 5   #18.1704 Substituted For Hopkins Through Hike  Mount Van Hoevenburg SS/Spike/Hike   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D 796-1993   K 796-5495  
The delay of this outing from March 29 to April 5th may have some significant merit for this outing, sort of repeated from last year though it will be different as we will not be doing Mount Van Hoevenburg as a through hike so no lost time spotting cars.  Last year we had the pleasure of meeting the Chinese bobsled team who were again here this year at the Olympic Sports Complex but who have already left or are leaving soon.  This year, it looks like we'll get to meet the famous Jamaican bobsled team and folks from a number of other nations, including Nigeria.  Training runs start at about 10:00 am, timed to begin at about the time we arrive.  We'll watch bobsledding until noon (or earlier, depending upon what everyone wants to do) then hike up along the 1932 bobsled run and continue to the top of Mount Van Ho with its panoramic views including Heart Lake and Adirondack Loj. The round trip is about 3.25 miles with a 900' rise.  We should be back at CTL around 5.15. CTL at 8.00, departure at 8.15  or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:00.

April 4  #18.1704 A -TEAM   Shippee's Ledge Hike   Don McMahon   518-227-1047    Tom Gibbs   518-583-1550
Tom and I will lead an A-Team hike to Shippee's Ledge on Thursday April 4. The hike is about 3 miles round trip with 300 feet elevation with an excelent overlook of Sacandaga Lake. There is packed snow and ice on the trail now but may be much less after two days of rain. There is also a wet area where a small stream crosses the trail, which no doubt will be wetter yet by Thursday. Water proof boots and microspikes are recommended. We meet both at Greenfield Senior Center and Corinth municipal parking lot at 9:15 a.m. so as to minimize the number of cars parked on the side of the road at the trailhead.

April 12   #18.1705  Indian Head and Fish Hawk Cliffs Hike   Steve Mackey   518-793-6484  
It is about an hour drive north of CTL to the St. Huberts Parking area a few miles south of Keene Valley. From the parking area it is 3.3 miles on a gently sloping uphill woods road (no traffic) to our trail. The trail then climbs .8 miles (750 elevation) to Indian Head It is a big cliff with an awesome view of the Ausable Lakes. We will have lunch there. From there (if you wish) it is another .2 miles to Fish Hawk Cliffs. We will be coming back the same way, so if you want to hang out on Indian Head and enjoy the view that will work. We will probably go back the same way, but there is an option to return via the Gill Brook Trail if we desire. The website I looked at, estimated a total hiking time of 5-6 hours. We did this as an ADK hike a couple of years ago and lost a couple of people for a little while, so we want to make sure to wait for each other at all intersections. If you have never been here, it is a classic Adirondack view. The Indian Head can be seen when you are on Fish Hawk Cliffs looking back. It is a little bit like the Old Man of the Mountain that used to be in New Hampshire. Approximately 10.5 miles total for the day. CTL at 8:00 departing at 8:15; or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:00; or the St. Huberts parking lot at 9:30ish.

April 19  POSTPONED! See Substitution Below
New To Old At MLSP  Judy Halstead    518-583-2504  
We'll hike the New Trail to the Old Lake Lookout Trail at Moreau Lake State Park. How many of us remember the “old” MLSP lake lookout? When was the trail rerouted? Let s explore the new trail to the old lookout! (Got that?) We ll go to 3 lookouts (one river, two lake) in a loop of about 4 ½ to 5 miles. We ll start with a moderately steep ascent from the Sherman Island parking area via the Cottage Park trail to the Western Ridge trail and a river lookout (#1), then take the Ridge Run trail over to a lake lookout (#2). We ll continue on the Ridge Run trail and then take the Baker trail to the new black trail to the new-old lookout (#3). We ll return by taking the Western Ridge trail to the Connector trail and back to the Sherman Island parking area via the Cottage Park trail. Meet at the MLSP office area parking lot at 9:45 or the Sherman Island parking area at 10:00.

April 11   #18.1705 A -TEAM  Old Gick Farm Hike    Don McMahon  518-227-1047
The
 for Thursday and Friday calls for rain. Wednesday's  is cloudy with no rain. The A-Team is offering an easier hike, closer to home consisting of walks through the Old Gick Farm Preserve before lunch and the Fox Farm Preserve after lunch. There are a couple of miles of trails on each preserve and the walking is fairly level. Hopefully, because it consists mostly open fields, there will be little snow. To get to the trailhead from Northway Exit 16, take Ballard Rd. east to the traffic light at Rt. 50. Then go south on Rt. 50 for 0.7 miles to the “Saratoga Sandplains” trailhead parking lot located on the west side of Rt. 50. Both preserves are accessed from the same parking lot. We meet there at 9:45 am. Hope to see a few folks there!

April 19   #18.1706   Substituted For Above Thomas and Cat Mountains Through Hike   Diane & Kurt Wisell    D 518-796-1993   K 518-796-5495
Starting at the Valley Woods Road TH off County Rt. 11 north of Bolton Landing  we hike to the summit of Thomas Mountain, the site of an idyllic cabin - NOT!  for snack time before continuing on to the mostly open summit of Cat mountain with its panoramic 300-ish degree views of Lake George and the Adirondacks.  From Cat's summit we'll head down to the Edgecomb Pond TH where we'll have previously spotted some cars. The total hike is 6.4 miles with about 1,800' total vertical ascent. CTL or, at 10.00, the Valley Woods Road TH (87 exit 24, 2 miles east on Rt. 11 to right on Valley Woods Road, 200' to TH on right).

April 19   #18.1706 A -TEAM  Thomas Mountain   Tom Gibbs   518-583-1550
We will be joining the regular group on the Thomas and Cat Mountains outing.  However, the A-TEAM! will be hiking Thomas only, and at our own pace then returning to the trailhead we started from on Valley Woods Road. 3.5 miles round trip, 750' vertical. Meeting time and location the same as for the regular group:CTL or, at 10.00, the Valley Woods Road TH (87 exit 24, 2 miles east on Rt. 11 to right on Valley Woods Road, 200' to TH on right).

April 26   #18.1707  Shelving Rock Falls & Mountain Hike   Don McMahon    518-227-1047   Tom Gibbs   518-583-1550  
Just as it worked out last week, the A-TEAM! along with everyone else, will begin this week's outing from the same location. This time we'll start at Parking Lot #1 on Shelving Rock Road and hike along the stream passing Shelving Rock Falls and on down to the lake then along the lakeshore for a total distance of 2 miles, ending our hike at Parking Lot #9 where we will have spotted some cars for our return to Lot #1. For those who are game to extend their day (accompanied by a highly trained leader) it is a very short jaunt from Lot # 1 to the Shelving Rock Mountain TH from where an enjoyable ascent on a carriage road to the spectacular view point atop Shelving Rock Mountain awaits. This outing extension is 3.5 miles or a little less, RT with 650' of vertical. CTL.

April 26   #18.1707A   Shelving Rock Falls & Mountain Hike
See above for details shown on the Current Schedule.

May 3    #1708    The Saddles State Forest Thru Hike    Tim Ward    518-415-9172   
A new hike for the Canes and one that will surely satisfy those asking that we include new places to explore in our schedule. The Saddles State Forest is comprised of ~2,500 acres of forest land located in the towns of Fort Ann and Whitehall between NY 4 and the east shore of South Bay. The trailhead and parking lot are located at the end of an access road south of the Village of Whitehall. Land for this new state forest was acquired back in 2012 and much of the infrastructure and trails is a work in progress. However, this is the backyard of Tim, who lives with his wife Mary in their homestead adjacent to the forest on the shore of South Bay. Tim is quite familiar with the blazed trails and wood roads that crisscross the forest and has promised to take us to visit some of his favorite places including North Saddle, West Mountain, a waterfall and the shore of South Bay. Some of the views that can be expected are Black and Sugarloaf Mtns., some of the High Peaks, mountains of Vermont, South Bay and the cliffs of the Diameter at its outlet. Also, he and Mary have invited us to stop by at their place before we begin our return trek to our cars, a nice gesture indeed. Plan on a leisurely pace over the ~7.5 mile hike (1/3 of the distance on an unimproved dirt/gravel road) with a cumulative elevation gain of ~1000 . An earlier start time is required to accommodate the extra time needed to spot cars at the end of our route. Meet at CTL at 8:45 for departure at 9:00 OR at the NYS DEC Boat Launch on NY 22 on the north side of the causeway crossing South Bay at 9:35. Contact by email is preferred.

May 2  #18.1708 A -TEAM  Glen Lake Paddle   Bonnie Whitman   518-636-8432
In anticipation of this week's regular outing being moved to Wednesday, this A-TEAM! outing is scheduled for Wednesday. But of course, everyone is welcome regardless of how the entire schedule shakes out. Bonnie Whitman originally proposed a canoe trip on Glen Lake and the inlet on Wednesday for a few friends, but welcoms others to join in the event. The day is forecast to be sunny and 80 degrees. Because of limited parking at the take out (6 - 8 cars), we meet at CTL at 9:45 am to try to limit the number of cars by putting two canoes or kayaks on a single car.

May 10    #18.1709    Hopkins Mountain Thru Hike    Peter Fedorick    518-893-2629    
The Canes have climbed this mountain before but never as a thru hike. We begin by dropping off hikers at the Mossy Cascade Brook trailhead and then spot cars at the Rooster Comb parking lot 2 miles north on Rt 73. From the trailhead we will follow Mossy Cascade Brook for a good portion of the way in an “upward” direction ascending about 2,100 in the nearly 3 miles to the summit, with hopes that the snow and ice has melted. After a leisurely lunch and exploring the bare, rocky top trying to get a glimpse of just one more mountain we backtrack approximately .9 miles to the junction with the Ranney Trail, bearing right and descending an additional 1.7 miles along Hopkins Brook to our cars for a total of 5.5 miles for the day. CTL at 8:15 for a departure of 8:30 or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:15 or the Mossy Cascade Brook TH at 9:45.

BONUS May 10    Hudson River Paddle   Don McMahon   518-227-1047
The rain looks like it will hold off until late in the day and Tom is not available on Wednesday. So Tom and Don will lead a Kayak/Canoe paddle from the Sherman Island take out of the Hudson River. This is a pretty and wilderness section of the Hudson River with interesting sheltered inlets. We meet at the take out, located on Spier Falls Road at 9:45 am. To get to the take out, go west on Spier Falls Road from Rt. 9 through a large reverse S turn and over the hill to the take out, located on the right at the bottom of the hill.

May 31   #18.1710  Bromley Mountain Hike   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D 796-1993 K 796-5495  
A repeat outing, but it has not been done by the Canes since May 1987. From VT Rt 11 & 30 between Manchester and Bromley Mountain, we will hike the Appalachian / Long Trail to the summit of Bromley Mountain. The grassy, open summit of Bromley Mountain has a gorgeous 360 degree view taking in the Taconics, Greens, Adirondacks and either or both of the Presidentials and Whites in NH.  Not sure which. The route is 6 miles RT with 1,420' of vertical on a very nice trail with fairly consistent, easy to moderate pitch. Nothing is steep.  CTL at 8:15 for an 8:30 departure or Granville Price Chopper at 9.15 ish or the trail head at 10.10-ish.  Or, meet Mr. Fedorick at the Greenwich McDonald's at 9.00 for a 9.10 departure.

May 17 #18.1710 A -TEAMPalmer Pond and Stewart's Mountain  Don McMahon  518-227-1047 and Tom Gibbs
Another near by, less strenuous, A-Team hike! Tom and I will lead a hike around Palmer Pond and, optionally Stewart's Mountain. Palmer Pond is one of the Chestertown challenge hikes. It is a 2.2 mile round trip hike in, around the pond, and out, with ups and downs totalling a couple hundred feet of elevation. However there are many pretty spots along the shore to stop and enjoy the scenery. But it is an easy hike. So, after that, we can drive about 10 minutes to Stewart's mountain, another Chestertown challenge, that consists of a 200 ft. climb over a half mile to a summit that has a good view. Meet on Thursday at CTL at 9:15 am.

May 24    #18.1711 &  A -TEAM  Moxham Mountain Hike    Bonnie Whitman    518-636-8432    
This is a roughly a 6 mile round trip hike to a very beautiful mountain near Minerva, NY. A moderately easy hike with a number of ups and downs with a cumulative gain of ~1,800 and expansive views from its rocky summit. The A-TEAM! will be joining us on this hike! A few more details to follow.  CTL at 8:45 for a departure at 9:00 or meet at the Black Bear Restaurant, Northway exit 26 at 9:30.

May 31   #18.1712  Blueberry Hill Trails & Hill 617 Hike   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D 796-1993 K 796-5495  
Another new hike for the Canes, this one in Elizabethtown The views are outstanding from the summit of Hill 617 and two lower overlooks, one with a nice granite bench and solar powered Christmas lights. Our planned hike totals 4.6 miles with around 1300' of elevation change.  Of the 4.6 miles total distance,3.4 is on a real nice walking / mountain bike trail,  a half mile is easy bushwhack through open hardwood forest and 0.7 is nice trail in the woods.   CTL at 8:15 for an 8:30 departure or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:15.

May 31   #18.1712 A -TEAM   Moreau Park Stone Wall Trail  Don McMahon   518-227-1047   Sam Lantz
Sam Lantz is leading a 3 mile hike on the Stone Wall Trail, a trail that he helped create and maintains. It is a 3 mile loop from the inner parking lot that leads down to the Hudson River where there are pretty views south and west, then back along a ridge overlooking the Hudson. Elevation change is less than 500 ft. Tom can only get to the trailhead at 10 am, so the schedule is changed slightly to allow for that. Don will meet people at the Emergency Squad parking lot that is located on the east side of Media Drive just south of Luzerne Road (where Media Drive ends) at 9:30 am so that we leave from there at 9:30. To get to Media Drive, go east from Northway Exit 18 and make immediate left turn at the first traffic light. Sam says the black flies are out in abundance so bring head nets and lots of bug spray. (I still have red welts from Moxham!)

June 7   #18.1713 &  A -TEAM   Sleeping Beauty Mountain Hike   Fran Herve    899-3216   
Starting from Dacy Clearing we climb Sleeping Beauty Mtn. which offers wonderful views to the south and west. Spring flowers and especially lady s slippers should be in full bloom. After lunch we return via Bumps Pond for a total distance of 4 miles and a total elevation change of 1000 . Don and Tom have offered to lead the A-TEAM! at Sleeping Beauty concurrent with the regular outing. They will hike at a slower pace to the top of Sleeping Beauty Mtn. and retrace their route rather than continue to Bumps Pond. CTL

June 14   #18.1714   Gore Mountain Hike   Diane and Kurt Wisell    D 796-1993 K 796-5495   
A partially new hiking route on Gore Mountain.  From the base area we'll head around the southern side of the ski area on a mountain bike path in the woods through nice open hardwood forest, then climb through a beautiful ravine full of glacial erratics that, with some imagination, will bring Colorado's Garden Of The Gods to mind. .  From there we'll proceed north, then downhill passing another terrific overlook before heading along a pretty path taking us back to our cars. We'll stop for lunch at one of a number of vantage points along the way, depending upon where we are at lunch time. Total distance about 5 miles, total vertical ascent about 1850 feet. CTL at 8.30 for an 8.45 departure or by prior arrangement, Warrensburg Price Chopper.

June 14   #18.1714 A -TEAM   Pinnacle Mountain   Tom Gibbs  518-583-1550
This week's A-Team main hike, led by Tom Gibbs, will be to hike up Pinnacle mountain, a 300 ft climb in a distance of less than 1 mile. However the view of the southern part of Lake George is spectacular and well worth the effort. Because it is a short hike, afterwards we will translate to and make a tour of Green Island. Green Island is interesting by itself but also offers excellent views across Lake George. Meet at CTL at 9:15 am.

June 21   #18.1715   Mohawk Towpath Byway Bike  Shelly Nevard    518-461-8656   
Starting at the Terminal Road access to the Byway, located at the NE corner of the Crescent Bridge in Halfmoon on Route 9, we will bike west a distance of approximately 7 miles to the hamlet of Vischer Ferry. Along the route there are views of the old canal, the Mohawk, an old lock and several historic signs and a historic bridge that has been rebuilt. Depending on the time we will have the option to continue an additional 1.5 miles to the Lock 7 Overlook or end our westward travel here. In any case we will have lunch at the Vischer Ferry General Store or bring your own. After lunch we can return the way we came or ride on the road a little way through the hamlet of Vischer Ferry and rejoin the Byway by crossing the historic Whipple Bridge. The section of the Byway we will be biking is a windy but generally flat, well maintained stone dust path suitable for all types of bikes with an estimated total of 14-17 miles. We will meet at the Terminal Road access at 10:00 where there is good parking and a short walk to Stewart s to pick up something you forgot or use the restrooms.
**The access to the Towpath that we will use is easily reached from the Northway and has adequate parking; therefore no additional meeting places are planned. If you have the capacity to carry additional bikes and would like to carpool with someone please feel free to send an email to arrange an additional meeting place. The Terminal Rd access point can be reached from the Northway from the south by using exit 7 to Rt. 9. Continue north on Rt. 9 for ~4.7 miles and turn R on terminal Rd immediately after crossing the Crescent Bridge. Those traveling from the north can use either exit 8A or 8. From exit 8A turn L off the ramp and continue on CR 91(Grooms Rd) for ~1.4 miles to Rt. 9. Turn R on Rt. 9 and continue south for ~1 mile and turn L on to Terminal Rd. From exit 8 turn L off the ramp and continue on Vischer Ferry Rd for ~1.75 miles to Rt. 9 – cross to Terminal Rd.

June 21   #18.1715 A -TEAM Hudson River Paddle   Tom Gibbs   518-583-1550
Tom is offering a Hudson River paddle as the A-Team! outing for Thursday, June 21st. Tom will meet paddlers at the public boat launch at the end of Nolan Road in South Glens Falls at 10:00, directions below. Specifics of the route will be determined by those attending and will be either an upstream paddle and return or a downstream paddle to the Feeder Canal Park and return – please bring lunch. Tom estimates that the paddle will finish at around 2:00. If you have any questions, call Tom, phone number above. Directions to the Nolan Road boat launch: From Northway Exit 17 take US 9 North for 3.4 miles and turn left on Nolan Rd. Continue to the end of Nolan Rd to the parking lot and launch.

June 28   #18.1716    Clear and John Pond Loop Hike    Lenore and Jack Reber    L 518-859-8555  J 518-223-3632   
A new outing for the Canes!  The Canes have only been to John Pond a total of 4 times since 1988 and never to Clear Pond. However, DEC has marked a new connector trail between the two, creating a wonderful five mile loop trail, avoiding a traverse of a steep ridge or a bushwhack between the two ponds. Our plan is to explore the new 5 mile loop, visiting these two ponds near Chimney Mt. in Indian Lake. There is a moderate elevation gain at the beginning of the hike, then a long gentle downhill back to the cars. Lunch will be at the lean-to on the shore of John Pond. Parking at the trailhead is limited so please plan to meet only at the designated locations, not the trailhead. Meet at CTL at 8:30 for departure at 8:45 or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:15 or the Lake Abanakee parking lot at 9:45, on the left.

June 29  #18.1716 A -TEAM-ish Northwest Bay Paddle   Commodore Tom Gibbs   518-583-1550
So you thought you didn’t have enough paddling choices this week - here is another. Tom will lead an A-Team! paddle of Northwest Bay on Lake George on Friday, June 29th. You read it correctly - this is a replay of the paddle Katie and Ray are leading tomorrow and in addition to their paddle of the Schroon River on Friday. From our put-in at the DEC car-top launch area located ~6 miles north of the hamlet of Bolton Landing we will paddle south on Northwest Bay Brook before entering the main body of Northwest Bay. From here we will paddle along the east side of the bay along the Tongue Mt range for nearly 3 miles to Montcalm Pt. at the end of the range where we will have lunch or continue around the point for a short distance to the dock area and find a secluded spot if available – Tom is flexible as to the length of the paddle. Meet at the launch site at 10.00, ready to launch. Directions: Northway exit 24. Drive east on Rt 11 to Rt 9N. Go about 4 miles north to the fishing access point. There is a short carry to the water.

July 5   #18.1717  Lens Lake Paddle   Fran Herve   518-899-3216 
Lens Lake is a small lake ~6 miles west of the hamlet of Stony Creek in Warren County. There is a nice launch area with adequate parking for our group. Our plan is to explore the lake and its irregular shoreline at a leisurely pace and have lunch at the launch area before returning for more exploring if desired. Meet at the parking lot across from the Lake Luzerne High School on Rt 9N at 9.15. Of course you can plan on stopping at the Up River Café on the way home! Meeting at the parking lot across from the Hadley-Luzerne High School is recommended for all except those coming from Warrensburg and points north (in which case we would make arrangements to meet at the Town of Stony Creek offices) if you are from Warrensburg or points north you already know the back way to Stony Creek. However, for the adventurous you could also go directly to the launch area if you are so inclined, email and we will send you directions.

July 12   #18.1718   Blue Ledges Hike  Bonnie Whitman   518-636-8432   
From the trailhead on the Northwoods Club Road in the Town of Minerva we will hike to the Hudson River Gorge where slate-blue cliffs tower above the river. It is about 5 mile RT with 900 ft total ascent. Great swimming hole!  CTL or meet at the Black Bear Restaurant, Northway Exit 26 at 10:00.

July 12   #18.1718 A -TEAM  Spier Falls Paddle   Tom Gibbs   518-583-1550
The A-TEAM! will paddle on the Hudson from Spier Falls to Corinth.  It will be 4 miles round trip. Meeting at 10:00 at the Spier Falls Boat Launch (exit 17N, Spier Falls Rd- about 7 miles to the boat launch).  

July 19   #18.1719  Stewart's Bridge Reservoir   Peter Fedorick    518-893-2629   
We will paddle on Stewart's Bridge Reservoir - the impounded waters of the Sacandaga River, lying between Stewart s Dam, Hadley, downstream and the Conklingville Dam, Edinburg, upstream. Its irregular shoreline lends itself to exploring and the launch area a perfect place for lunch, swimming or just chilling out. Bald eagles have been observed in the past so bring a camera and binoculars. Meet at the parking lot across from the Lake Luzerne High School on Rt. 9N at 9.45 or at the launch area around 10.15. For those of you opting to go directly to the launch site its access is on a marked side-road, on the left, 4 miles +/- west along CR4/N Shore Rd from the main intersection in the Hamlet of Hadley (near the RR Station). Continue on the access road to the end at the shore of the reservoir where there's plenty of parking.

BONUS Paddles in June With Ray and Katie Henrikson
We have scheduled four paddles for 6/25, 6/26, 6/27 and 6/29 the details of which are below. We will be at the launch sites at 10:00 AM, ready to launch. No need to sign up, just show up. If you wish to contact us by email just click our name. However, after Sunday noon, June 24, call us at camp, at 518 494-7405. Do NOT email as there is no internet connection there. If rain or high winds (above 10 mph) are forecast, we will cancel.
     Monday, June 25 (Monday)  Loon Lake   Ray and Katie Henrikson
We will start from our camp, paddle to the town beach for lunch, and return to our camp in the afternoon. About an 8 mile trip. Directions to the camp: Exit 25. Turn left (west) on Rt 8. After 3-4 miles, Rt 9 joins at the traffic light. Continue 3-4 miles till Rts 8 and 9 split. Follow Rt 9 north (right turn). Continue for EXACTLY 1.8 miles. Notice Hine Rd on the right. Our driveway is 50 ft further, on the right. It is not conspicuous. If you see Sonoma Point Rd, you’ve gone too far.There is room for 1-2 cars down the driveway.others can park at the top and ferry boats to the water, a 50-75 ft walk.
     June 26 (Tuesday) 13th Lake  Ray and Katie Henrikson
The lake is about 2 miles long, we will circumnavigate it. Directions: Rt 28 to North River, left on 13th Lake Rd, toward Garnet Hill Lodge, turn right at 3.5 miles and go to the end of the road. There is about a 200 yard carry to the water.
     June 27 (Wednesday) Northwest Bay of Lake George  Ray and Katie Henrikson
We will paddle out into Lake George, north to a lunch spot. The route will be determined by the wind and the traffic on the lake. Directions: Exit 24. Drive east on Rt 11 to Lake George and Rt 9N. Go about 4 miles north to a fishing access point. There will be a short carry to the water.
     June 29 (Friday) Schroon River to Schroon Lake   Ray and Katie Henrikson
We will start at the Starbuckville dam and paddle up to the lake, to the boat launch, for lunch, then paddle back down to the dam in the afternoon . About a 10 mile round trip. Directions: Exit 25 of the Northway. Turn right (east) on Rt 8. Take the first left, drive about 0.2-0.3 miles to the bridge over the Schroon River. There is a parking area across the bridge. There is a 200 yard carry to the water. We launch just above the dam and continue north.

July 26    #18.1720   Gore Mountain Fire Tower Moved to August 9th

BONUS July 28    Little Lake Paddle  Thora and Charlie   518-863-2788    
Although there might not be an official CC outing this week there is a “special” bonus outing being offered by Thora and Charlie – actually their annual Moonlight Paddle of Little Lake in Northville. Please let her know if you plan on attending so that she can contact you if there are any changes. Rather than rewrite the information here is what Thora wrote: Just to let you know in case any of the Canes are interested, Charlie & I are leading a full moon paddle on Northville’s Little Lake on Sat., 7/28. There will be a picnic in Northville’s Waterfront Park at 7:00 (bring food for yourselves, some bring a dish to share but it’s not necessary) followed by the paddle. Launch in Little Lake by the spillway approx. 8:30. It is a lighted launch area. Leisurely paddle, bring headlamps & battery operated lights for your boats if you can. There are no motor boats on this lake. This event is weather permitting and so far is sounds good. Alternate date is 7/27, which is actually when the full moon occurs. This is a Mohawk Valley Alpiner’s event but all are welcome. Hope to see you!   So there you go – just in case you were sad about not having anything to do this week because of all the wet weather.

August 2    #18.1721    Lake Abanakee Paddle    Lenore and Jack Reber    518-859-8555   
We will launch on Chain Lakes Road and paddle south under the Lake Abanakee bridge, under the Big Brook Rd. causeway and on to the Indian River rapids. Lunch will be at the spot where the Indian River meets the lake. About 7 miles RT. Paddlers are invited back to the Reber s place in Indian Lake for an edible treat and swim afterwards. Meet at CTL at 9.00, depart at 9.15; Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown 9.45; Abanakee parking lot at 10.15. The Abanakee parking lot is located on the south side of Rt 28 just before you go over the bridge crossing Lake Abanakee. The launch site is located on Chain Lakes Rd., the first R turn after crossing the bridge over Lake Abanakee and adjacent to the Town of Indian Lake beach where there are bathroom facilities.

August 2   #18.1721 A -TEAM   Stillwater Riverfront Town Park   Joy Munro and Tom Gibbs   J. 518-692-9523  T. 518-583-1550
If the
 holds out, Tom and I are leading an A-team paddle tomorrow at the fairly new Stillwater riverfront town park. We will meet at the park at 10AM. Here’s where it is located: if you’re coming from Saratoga on route 29, take a right onto route 4. From where you turn onto route 4 from route 29, go 8 miles south on 4 and the park will be on the left. It’s not far past the entrance to the battlefield. If you’re coming from the south, it is 4.7 miles up route 4 from the Blockhouse in Stillwater. There’s a pavilion with picnic tables where we can have lunch, and then if the weather holds out, those that want to can paddle some more. Because the forecast is a little uncertain, Tom and I are going to check in with each other tomorrow morning at 8 and will make a decision about whether to cancel or not. I will send a message out tomorrow morning confirming either way.

August 16   #18.1723   White Rocks Hike  D. 518-796-1933  K. 518-796-5495   
White Rocks is a VERY scenic, well known and interesting geologic formation just east of Wallingford, VT, about an hour and a half from CTL. We'll hike the White Rocks cliffs trail, then if time and interest are on our side, the Ice Beds trail for a total of about 4.5 miles with a total vertical ascent of about 1,500 feet. Both trails are terrific and there is nothing very steep. It's likely we will meet a number of through hikers on this trail, part of the AT, and conversation with them is always fun. Feeding these bears is welcome and appreciated so bring some extra snacks. After our hike, conditions permitting, we'll head to a really nice, very scenic, swimming hole in the nearby Clarendon Gorge. CTL 8.15 for an 8.30 departure.

August 23   #18.1724   Camp Santanoni Mountain Bike   Shelly Nevard   518-461-8656    
Great Camp Santanoni lies at the east end of Newcomb Lake in the Town of Newcomb off NY 28N. The Great Camp, one of the largest of its kind built more than a century ago by Robert Pruyn, has been reconstructed as a historical site. Some of you have skied or hiked to it, or perhaps you were one of the lucky ones who took advantage of the horse-drawn carriage ride and paddling adventure in the past how about giving mountain biking a try? From the Gate Lodge parking lot we will bike the gravel former carriage road gently uphill, passing the Farm Complex, for ~3 miles and gaining 500 before biking downhill for ~2 miles to the Great Camp complex on the shores of Newcomb Lake, losing 250 . Our anticipated arrival time will allow us a few hours to either just chill out, explore the buildings of the camp complex or, for those with spare energy to burn, paddle Newcomb Lake or Lower and Upper Duck Hole using the boats available at the boat house. Lunch will be wherever you choose. At a designated meeting time we will regroup and return via the same route. The preferred type of bike for this adventure is a mountain bike; however, a hybrid bike is acceptable since the carriage road is primarily gravel. We realize that not everyone owns either type. If you would like to attend this outing and are proficient at riding a bike, but do not own either type, Cloudsplitter Outfitters, located 1-1 ½ miles east of the entrance to the Santanoni Preserve, rents mountain bikes for $27 for the day, incl tax. Additionally, for those of you who would like to paddle your own boat instead of using one from the boat house they will rent a boat trailer for your bike for an additional $27 that will accommodate canoes or kayaks such a deal! There is extra time required to fit the bike to the rider so arrival times will need to be adjusted for those renting equipment. You would ride from the outfitters the short distance to the Gate Lodge parking lot. Please contact them ahead of time if you plan on renting equipment, 518-582-2583. Of course helmets are mandatory and it is suggested that you bring a spare tube or patch kit for your bike and either know how to use it or become close friends with someone who does. CTL at 8.30 for an 8.45 departure or at the Black Bear restaurant in Pottersville at 9.15 or at the Santanoni Gate Lodge parking lot at 10.00.

August 23   #18.1724 A -TEAM  Schuylervill Hudson River Paddle   Joy Munro and Sir Thomas Gibbs   J. 518 692-9523  T. 518 583-1550 
Sir Thomas and I are going to lead a paddle in Schuylerville Thursday. We are not using the boat launch; we will launch from the grassy area near the bridge on route 29 (near the bathrooms). If you are coming from Schuylerville, when you turn off of Broadway onto Ferry St (route 29), you will go 0.2 miles to the last driveway on the left before the bridge--it is immediately after 6 Ferry Street if you’re using GPS. It is across from the driveway into the Yacht Basin and the new Clark’s Steakhouse. If you’re coming from Greenwich it is the first driveway on the right after the bridge. The plan is to paddle upstream, explore the bottom end of the Battenkill and then go up past lock 5 and to the right of Hardy Park. We will come back to the launch site for lunch, and if anyone wants to paddle more we can explore downstream around the island and into the lower end of Fish Creek. Please arrive by 9:45 so you can be off-loaded, on the water, and ready to set sail at 10 AM. See you then!

August 30  #18.1725   Irv Boyle Memorial Paddle   Lenore and Jack Reber  518-859-8555   
Lewey Lake is a small lake located off NY 30, midway between the Village of Speculator and the Hamlet of Indian Lake about 12 miles from each and adjacent to the Lewey Lake Campground and Day Use Area. Although a small lake, paddlers are afforded extra distance and a remote feeling by exploring the winding, slow moving Miami River which feeds the lake from the south a time to linger. There is a beach launch site located within the campground and a parking lot, restrooms are also available. There is a day use fee but this is waived if you are 62 or older during non-holiday weekdays. Mason Lake is a very small lake located about 5 miles south of Lewey Lake with a hand launch site and small parking area off the Perkins Clearing Rd., on your right, going south. From the beach launch site at the campground we will paddle Lewey Lake and explore the Miami River for a total of 5 miles, lunch location to be decided upon. The Canes have only paddled Lewey Lake once, led by Irv in 2003. We'll lead this paddle in remembrance of Irv's many Crooked Canes adventures. For those interested in paddling a little more after the Lewey Lake adventure there is the option to paddle Mason Lake. Meet at CTL at 8.30 for departure at 8.45; or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9.15; or Lake Abanakee parking lot, Indian Lake, at 9.45 (entrance on left side of NY28 immediately before the causeway over Lake Abanakee); or the Lewey Lake Campground boat launch at 10ish.

September 6   #18.1726    Johns Brook Lodge (or...)   Diane and Kurt Wisell   D. 518-796-1993 K. 518-796-5495      
Johns Brook Lodge is an ADK facility accessed from The Garden trail head in Keene Valley. The hike will be roughly 7 miles RT with a total vertical ascent of about 800'. There is a $10 charge to park at The Garden, so plan accordingly. Carpooling could be important, depending upon availability of spaces at the very popular TH. Alternatives are available and if needed we will try to take advantage of them.  ALTERNATIVELY! In the unlikely event that there is no parking at The Garden and other options don't work when we get there, we'll do a similar hike, Marcy Dam, a 5-ish mile round trip stroll with 500' or less total vertical ascent accessed from the ADK Loj trail head where parking is $5 for ADK Members, $10 for non-members. CTL at 8.15 for 8.30 departure or, by prior arrangement, the Black Bear in Pottersville at about 9.00 or, no prearrangement necessary, High Peaks Rest Area at about 9.20.

BONUS September 7    Cedar River Flow Paddle  Fran Herve   518-899-3216 or 518-522-3998  
If we can believe meteorologists, Friday 7th will be a much cooler day (high temp. 71) and winds will be low so that is when I am going to paddle the Cedar River Flow. I can't say that I can really lead the trip but I have been there twice before and several others have also.The Cedar River and associated Flow (lake) is located in the Moose River Plains Wild Forest Area near Indian Lake. We will launch at Wakely Dam and paddle the length of the Flow until we reach a lean-to at the junction with the Northville-Lake Placid Trail near the Cedar River. This will serve as our lunch spot and turn around point. The round trip distance is about 9 - 10 miles, but folks are welcome to come along and just paddle the Flow on their own, hopefully with a friend or two. The flow is home to waterfowl and other birds so bring your binoculars and camera. It will be an early start: meeting at 8:15 at CTL and 8:30 departure. We will drive to the village of Indian Lake on route 30 and will make a stop at Stewart's ( around 9:40 - you can meet us there also). At the end of the village we will take a left at the cemetery and drive 10-12 miles on a dirt road (with occasional pot holes and protruding rocks) to Wakely Dam (arrival 10ish). Other meeting spots by prior arrangement. Let me know if you are interested.

September 20   #18.1728   Clear and John Pond Loop Hike  Take Three!    Lenore and Jack Reber   L. 518-859-8555   J. 518-223-3632    
A new outing for the Canes! The Canes have only been to John Pond a total of 4 times since 1988 and never to Clear Pond. However, DEC has marked a new connector trail between the two, creating a wonderful five mile loop trail, avoiding a traverse of a steep ridge or a bushwhack between the two ponds. This hike has been postponed twice this year so let's hope the saying the "Third Times a Charm" has some meaning.Our plan is to explore the new 5 mile loop, visiting these two ponds near Chimney Mt. in Indian Lake. There is a moderate elevation gain at the beginning of the hike, then a long gentle downhill back to the cars. Lunch will be at the lean-to on the shore of John Pond. Parking at the trailhead is limited so please plan to meet only at the designated locations, not the trailhead. Meet at CTL at 8:30 for departure at 8:45 or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:15 or the Lake Abanakee parking lot at 9:45, on the left of NY 28 immediately before crossing the causeway over Lake Abanakee.

September 27   #18.1729   Mount Van Hoevenberg Thru Hike     Pat Desbiens and Jayne Bouder   P. 518-813-7946  J. 518-636-3352   
This hike was done earlier this year starting from the Mt. Van Hoevenberg Olympic Sports Complex (OSC) - this time we would like to do it as a through hike, spotting a couple of cars at the OSC and then driving over and starting the hike from South Meadows Road. It will be about 3.8 miles total with a little less than 800 ft. of elevation gain. The trail begins with the first 0.9 mile flat into a swampy area which in the spring is home to a number of nesting birds; from this point the climbing begins but never really steep followed by the reward of spectacular views of the High Peaks and Lake Placid on the summit (2.2 miles from the start) - we can hope that the foliage will also be spectacular but can't give a guarantee on this one. From the summit we ll proceed about .5 miles down the easterly side of the mountain to the OSC and continue our descent for an additional mile to our cars along the 2000 bobsled/luge/skeleton track and 1932 bobsled run. CTL at 8:15, departure at 8:30 or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:15. Travel time is just under 2 hours to the trail head at the intersection of Adirondack Loj Road and South Meadows Road, including spotting cars at the OSC.

September 27   #18.1729 A -TEAM  Schuman Preserve Hike Bonnie Whitman & Don McMahon B 518 636-8432 D 518 227-1047
Thursday looks like a good day so Bonnie and Don are offering to lead a hike at Schumann Preserve, hopefully via the gazebo through to the waterfalls and back. An approximate estimate is less than 1000 ft. elevation with a total round distance of less than 5 miles. We meet at CTL at 9:15 am.

October 4   #18.1730   Blueberry Cobbles   Peter Fedorick   518-893-2629   
A new hike for the Canes! From the New Russia trailhead to Rocky Peak Ridge and Giant Mt., located about 8 miles N on NY 9 from exit 30 of the Northway, we will hike 2.2 miles and climb ~1500 to the ledges of Blueberry Cobbles over easy to moderate terrain. Blueberry Cobbles is one of the “knobs” on the way to Rocky Peak Ridge and from its overlooks offer splendid views of the Champlain Valley, the Boquet River Valley, the Dix Range and surrounding lesser peaks without the effort of hiking a High Peak. For those with extra energy and ambition we may add an additional .5 mile climb of 300 to Mason Mt. for added views. Some of you may be familiar with this route and ask why we don t go on to Bald Peak but that involves additional distance and elevation gain that we will save for another day. I anticipate at least some fall color so don t forget your camera! CTL at 8:15 for an 8:30 departure, the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:20 or the trailhead at 9:40ish.

BONUS October 30    Dean Farm Hike In Stony Creek    Bonnie Whitman & Don McMahon   B 518 636-8432   D 518 227-1047
Tomorrow looks like the only decent day this week and it's still Fall color season. Bonnie and I are going to hike at Dean Farm tomorrow and we invite anyone else who wants to come to join us. There are some hilly trails in the woods on the north side of the road that will be very pretty about now.. I also hear there is a new trail in that area. We meet at CTL at 9:15 to leave there at 9:30. You can also go directly to the Dean Farm Preserve parking lot and we should be there about 10 am.

October 11   #18.1731   Giant's Nubble and Roaring Brook Falls Hike   Peter Fedorick   518-893-2629   
Giant's Nubble is a rocky knob off the ridge trail to its namesake, providing a close-up view of Giant Mt to the north and expansive views of the High Peaks to the south and west. This will be a thru hike of ~4 miles beginning at the Chapel Pond trailhead and returning via the Roaring Brook trail. While total distance may be on the short side, the views cause visitors to linger and a leisurely lunch is planned. Total gain on the ascent is ~1350 in 1.2 miles and total loss on the descent is ~1700 in 1.5 miles. We will have the opportunity to explore the area beneath Roaring Brook Falls at the end of the hike. Bring a camera! CTL at 8:15 for 8:30 departure, High Peaks Rest Area at 9:20 or at Chapel Pond TH at 10:00ish, allowing a few minutes extra to spot cars.

October 11   #18.1731 A -TEAM   Sherman Island Paddle  Bonnie Whitman & Don McMahon B 518 636-8432 D 518 227-1047
This may be your last chance to paddle for the year - a warm, hopefully sunny, day is forecast. Bonnie and Don will lead the paddle. The plan, as usual, is to paddle downstream past an island where there are many pretty inlets to the Sherman Island portage and back. We will have lunch at the portage. Some fall color is expected even though the season is early here. Meet at the Sherman Island take out at 10:45 am. To get to the take out, go west on Spier Falls Road from Rt 9, and go over the hill. Take out is on the right at the bottom of the hill.

October 18   #18.1732   Dippikill   Peter Fedorick   518-893-2629     
Dippikill is a wilderness retreat facility owned by the Student Association of the University at Albany with a number of hiking trails, located near The Glen in the Town of Thurman. We will walk a ridge to the summit of Dippikill Mt and have lunch at a lookout with views of the Hudson River and surrounding mountains. We will then descend to Dippikill Pond, returning to the parking area along the west side trail with nice views of the pond. Total distance is a little over 4 miles with about 700 elevation gain. Restrooms are available at the trailhead. CTL or meet at the Dippikill Parking lot at 10:00.

October 25   #18.1733   TOO COLD - REPLACED WITH OUTING BELOW   New York/Sandgate Vt Bike    Ken Gericke   518-683-8420   
What would October be without the Sandgate Bike an annual favorite! An 18 mile bike beginning at the SR 313 NY/VT canoe access on the Battenkill River, and continuing in a clockwise loop to Sandgate Vermont. Lunch will be in the scenic hamlet of Sandgate (specific location TBD). The route continues, mostly downhill, returning to SR 313, crossing the Arlington Covered Bridge to East River Rd, then back to SR 313 and to our start in NY. Meet at McDonalds in Greenwich at 9:15. This is a beautiful ride through some rural valleys of Washington County, NY and Vermont, quite remote with approximately 1/2 of the route on hard packed dirt roads. While the route can be pedaled with a touring/narrow-wheeled bike, a hybrid or even a mountain bike might be more appropriate. There are some hills, with a gradual elevation gain of approx. 700' then a long well-earned downhill to Sandgate.

October 25   #18.1733  Karen & Leon   518-866-1991     
With cool temperatures forecast for the Sandgate, VT area for this Thursday, October 25th, our annual Sandgate bike ride is canceled for this year. Instead, a hike at the Saratoga National Historic Park, located in Stillwater, is planned. After gathering at the Park s visitor center at 10:00, Karen & Leon will take us on a walk-about of about 5 miles on the Wilkinson Trail, and perhaps include some of the adjoining ski-trails on their route - a final decision of the route TBD. The Wilkinson Trail is a lollipop shaped trail that follows the same path where soldiers marched to and from battle, named after British Lieutenant William Wilkinson who mapped the path in 1777. The path itself is a little over 4 miles long with some small hills and a number of interpretive stations on the way, allowing for a slow pace and lots of time to visit and contemplate the history of the area. Lunch is planned on the patio of the visitor center where there are restrooms. This will be a combined regular and A-Team hike.

November 8    #18.1733 A -TEAM    Moreau Hike    Tom, Bonnie & Don    B 518 636-8432    D 518 227-1047
For a more relaxed, easy day, Tom, Bonnie and Don will hike in Moreau Park this Thursday. You are welcome to join us. The proposed route is from the Lake Bonita parking lot the long way around Lake Bonita and walk down the waterfall trail to the Spring trailhead. There are a couple of options in the middle to make the hike 2 miles longer. Between the still peak fall colors in the area and the unusual amount of water going over the falls should make this a super day. Meet at Lake Bonita parking lot at 9:45 to leave there at 10 am. We will spot cars at the Spring parking lot to get everyone back to the start point.

A Note On The November / December Schedule: No Outing on November 1 because of lousy weather. Tim's originally scheduled Hill No. 8 Hike moves to November 8, replacing Margie's Good Luck Cliffs and Kane Mt. Hike which will make another appearance in 2019.

November 8  #18.1734   Hill No. 8 Through Hike     Tim Ward    518-415-9172  
A new hike for the Canes! Hill No. 8, not to be confused with nearby Number 8 Mountain, is not a tall mountain by High Peak standards; however, what it doesn t have in its 1,900 height, it makes up with views from its partially treed, rocky summit or from overlooks just below its top. Close-up views of Pharaoh Mountain and its cliffs, Brant Lake, Hoffman Mtn. and the High Peaks in the distance can all be seen. Most of the leaves will be off of the trees by then adding to what we will be able to see. Of course there is a reason why this hike hasn t been included in past schedules part of it is a bushwhack; but don t be alarmed, the majority of the route is on marked trails and the bushwhack takes us through open forest. We begin our adventure by visiting the North Brant Lake Cemetery for a history lesson and because Tim wanted to throw in a little Halloween flavor. After a short visit we will spot a car or two at the Pharaoh Lake trailhead and then head for the Sucker Brook trailhead (a designated horse trail), a few miles away. From here we hike mostly on the flat until we pass through the remains of a small farm community known as Gregoryville (a ghost town of sorts) at about 1.5 miles. The stone walls, foundations and remnants of old buildings date from the 1850 s - perhaps we will have time to explore the area before continuing an additional 2 miles to a point where we will leave the trail and bushwhack approximately .8 miles and gain 600 to the top of Hill No. 8. Here we will take in the views and have lunch there is even a memorial plaque on top that you can try and figure out why it is there. After lunch we will follow Tim as he guides us on the second part of the bushwhack, descending into the Desolate Brook Valley and crossing the brook at a convenient place, to the Pharaoh Lake Trail and back to our cars. The total distance is estimated to be a tad over 7 miles with an accumulated gain of 1,100 . Meet at CTL at 8:15 for an 8:30 departure or at the Horicon Community Center at 9:00 (Northway Exit 25; right onto Route 8 east for 1.7 miles; make right at the Community Center entrance and park behind the building at the west end of the lot.)

November 15   #18.1735   Berlin Mountain Hike   Shelly Nevard  518-461-8656   
The first and only time we hiked Berlin Mountain was back in January 2017. When we reached the top we found everything encapsulated in ice a most spectacular and “magical wonderland” as the ghost writer proclaimed in the journal. It is highly unlikely that those same conditions will present themselves but we are all adventurers so we will see it in a new season. The hike follows the Taconic Crest Trail, which follows the entire length of the Taconic Range for about 35 miles, from Hancock, MA in the south to Petersburgh, NY in the north. We will be hiking on a 2.8 mile section of the trail from Petersburg Pass on Rt. 2 until we reach Berlin Mountain, the highest point on the crest trail (2,818 ) for a total of 5.6 miles with an accumulated gain of ~1,000 . From the summit there are views of Mt. Greylock and more of the Taconic Range. We will have the option to include Mt. Raimer, an abandoned ski area, which will add an additional 200 gain (no additional length) but provide us with an opportunity to explore. Meet at the Exit 9 Park and Ride on Fire Road at 9:15 for a 9:30 departure for the ~ 45 minute ride to Petersburg Pass or the trailhead at 10:15. Park and Ride directions - from the South take Exit 9 to Rt 146 remain straight, cross Rt 146 lot is on the left. From the North take Exit 9E to Rt 146, go under the Northway and turn left onto Fire Rd lot is on the left. For people with a GPS Navigator the address is 21 Fire Rd., Clifton Park, NY 12065. Pete's cell 518-419-7528 if you run into trouble.

November 15    #18.1735 A -TEAM   Leon Steves and Hudson Point Preserves Hike    Bonnie Whitman    518 636-8432
Another more local, easy hike at the Leon Steves and Hudson Point Preserves. Bonnie will be the leader and Tom and Don will try to help out. Meet at 9:45 am at the West Glens Falls Emergency Squad parking, which is located on the right or east side at the north end of Media Drive where Media Drive ends at Luzerne Road. Go east from Northway Exit 18 and turn Left onto Media Drive, which is the 1st traffic light and a very short distance from Exit 18. We will car pool from there since the Preserve parking lot is rather small.

BONUS November 20    Sucker Brook Trail Hike   Lenore and Jack Reber   518-859-8555  

Due to conditions, changed to Moreau SP then due to low Attendee response, cancelled.
A new woods walk for the Canes! From the trailhead at the entrance to the Lewey Lake campground gate on Rt. 30, just north of the Lewey Lake-Indian Lake bridge, we'll hike the Sucker Brook Trail. We'll travel a gradual uphill trail through old-growth forests of hemlock and beech groves, encountering several easy stream and quagmire crossings on the way. We'll hear Sucker Brook more than we'll see it, but there are occasional viewpoints. Round trip is about 5.5 miles and 900' total elevation gain. Adventurous hikers can do the 13 miles RT to the Colvin Brook lean-to. The trailhead is not visible from the road, but is only about 20' up the campground road. We'll park on Rt. 30 or in the campsites across the road (if we can get approval). Meet at CTL at 8:15, depart at 8:30 or Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown 9:00 or at the Lewey Lake Campground entrance at 9:45ish.

November 22  No outing this week. Happy Thanksgiving!

November 29   #18.1736   Silver Bay Trails: Lake George Overlooks, A Waterfall, Cookies and A Mine    Sandy and Bob Powell   H 518-543-6290    C 518-538-8758  
A new and unique hike for the Canes! Silver Bay YMCA has graciously given the Powell s permission to lead this hike on their private trails located about 5 miles south of Hague on Lake George. We will do a 4.5 mile loop that meanders up and down outcroppings and ledges that overlook Lake George with views towards Gull Bay to the north and Huletts Landing to the south; and to Uncas Falls on Lake George Land Conservancy property (Terzian Woodlot). Although our highest point is only 700 feet above our starting point we will be ascending about 1,300 feet. After the hike we will venture to the Powell home in Hague for cookies and cheer (bring cookies and cheer!). If time and daylight permits we will take a short walk from the Powell s home to a nice overlook of the lake and a nearby abandoned graphite mine. CTL at 8:30, departure at 8:45 or, by advance arrangement, Exit 24 at 9:00.

December 6  CHANGED TO BELOW DUE TO SKETCHY ACCESS AND PARKING!!!   Moxham Mountain Hike/Spike/???   Diane & Kurt Wisell
Kurt celebrates 6 all-to-short years of retirement with another early December trip to Moxham Mountain, a roughly 6 mile round trip hike to a mountain in Minerva NY's wild and wooly "Fourteenth Country." A total ascent of 1,800 feet to the summit and back. A relatively easy trail with good views that has uphill and downhill sections both going to the summit and returning. CTL at 8:45 am, departing at 9.00 am or meet at the Black Bear Restaurant, Northway Exit 26 at 9:30.

November 28   #18.1736 A -TEAM   We'll Have An Outing Somewhere!   Don McMahon   518-227-1047
Tom and I will do some sort of hike event. The hike is expected to be Pinnacle Mtn - short, steep climb with spectacular views. We will meet at CTL at 9:45 to decide, but it will be a shorter, easier hike. Other possiblities include Gurney Lane, Van Dusen, Rush Pond, Stewart's Ledge and Pinnacle. Please bring snowshoes and microspikes.

December 6    #18.1737    OK Slip Falls    Diane & Kurt Wisell   D. 518-796-1993   K. 518-796-5495   
Due to TONS of snow at Moxham, access and parking are very difficult to impossible so we'll go back to a favorite we have not done since March 30, 2017.  There's TONS of snow at the OK Slip trail head as well but parking and access are not an issue. An approximately 6 mile RT hike with 600-800 gentle vertical to OK Slip Falls starting from the trail head a few miles north of North Creek. The falls should have a pretty good stream and with the snow, be very pretty.  We have good assurance that the trail has been broken, is well packed and firm so only spikes will be required.  Leave your snowshoes home.  CTL 8.45 for 9.00 departure or at Wevertown at 9.30 or the trail head at about 9.50 - 10:00 ish.

December 6 #18.1737 A -TEAM    Corinth Reservoir Hike     Tom Gibbs  and  Don McMahon
The plan is to follow the green trail loop counter clockwise. The first and easiest option however is to go to the beaver dam pond and back which will be about 2 miles with 300 ft. of ascent. Following the green trail loop is a little more challenging - 3 miles with 400 ft. ascent, and ends up at the upper reservoir. Tom will meet attendees at the senior center in Greenfield and Don will meet attendees at the municipal parking lot in Corinth (opposite town beach) at 9:45 am.

December 13   #18.1738   Cook Mountain Hike   Margie Litwin  518-384-0412   and   Jack Whitney  518--793-9210   
Cook Mountain Preserve is located just south of the hamlet of Ticonderoga on the west shore of Lake Champlain. The 192 acre preserve is owned by the Lake George Land Conservancy and is one of many properties owned or maintained by them. From the sign-in register at the trailhead on Baldwin Road we begin our hike on a wide flat path and continue for .5 miles, past an abandoned beaver pond, now a pretty wetland. From here we join the trail that will take us to the top - climbing steeply for the next .5 miles, gaining nearly 700 , to the mountain s ridge where it flattens out. Before continuing to the end of the ridge and our lunch spot, we will take a short spur trail to an overlook where we will are able to see Lake George, Lake Champlain and the Vermont Mountains. After a short stay we continue to the end of the ridge for more expansive views of Lake George including Record Hill, Anthony s Nose and Rogers Rock. This is an out-and-back trail but before arriving back at our cars we will take another spur trail near the trailhead to visit an old cemetery dating back to 1848. Total distance is estimated to be about 3 miles with a gain of 900 . CTL at 8:45 for departure at 9:00 or, by advance arrangement, Exit 24 at 9:20 or the trailhead at about 10:10. A short bathroom stop at McDonald s in Ticonderoga is also planned.

December 13   #18.1738 A -TEAM   Lenore and Jack Reber   518-859-8555
We will be leading the A-Team! hike this week, a walk around the North Woods at Skidmore College. We will meet at Skidmore's North Woods parking lot at 10 AM. Turn left at the second Skidmore entrance from North Broadway and then turn right. Shortly make another right turn onto the lot. After we have finished exploring the woods, we will have lunch at the Skidmore dining hall. This is a food court with many food options for about $10. While we haven't scouted it, there isn't much snow down here, so you shouldn't need spikes or snowshoes.

December 20   REPLACED WITH THE BELOW OUTING DUE TO "TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES"
December 20 #1739   French Mountain Hike  Steve Mackey
We will meet at CTL at 9:15 and then carpool to the pull-off for the Colonel Williams Monument, on US 9 in Lake George. We will descend to the bike trail and then head NE and climb the southern slopes of French Mountain. From the height of land we will continue for ~ 1 mile to a couple of picturesque overlooks before making a northerly loop to Bear Pond and then returning SW and back to our cars. The approximate gain over this 5 mile RT is 1,400 . Bring snowshoes or micro spikes if it looks like we will need them.

December 20   #18.1739   Inman Pond Hike   Steve Mackey  518-793-6484   
Due to "Technical Difficulties-DO Adjust Your TV!” The originally scheduled hike of French Mountain has been changed to a combined regular and A-Team hike to Inman Pond. From the Lower Hogtown Parking / Trailhead on Sly Pond Road we will snowshoe/spike west on a trail to the eastern end of Inman Pond. We will then follow the southern shore of the pond to a large rock promontory on its westernmost end for lunch with a nice view of the pond and surrounding mountains. After lunch we will continue the circumnavigation of the pond, before rejoining our original trail and returning to our cars. The total distance is 3-ish miles RT with about a 500 gain. We recognize that this is a short hike so in order to accommodate those that would like to extend the hiking we will be offering an optional hike to either Shelving Rock Falls or to the shore of Lake George from the end of Shelving Rock Road, depending on road conditions and the desire of those attending. CTL or meet at the Lower Hogtown trailhead at 10-ish.

December 27  #18.1740   Prospect Mountain Thru-Spikeshoe   Diane & Kurt Wisell  D. 518-796-1993   K. 518-796-5495   
For all of us recovering from holiday #1 and preparing for #2, something fairly easy, familiar and (for many of us) relatively close to home.  DO BRING YOUR HOLIDAY GUESTS!  Depending on weather, this could be a hike, spike or snowshoe. We hoof it to the top of the Lake George Rec Area cross country ski trails then through woods on a pretty nice, easily followed trail with one mildly pitchy quarter mile section and stop at Prospect's summit for a clean-out the-leftovers-lunch.  Then we waddle down Big Hollow Road to where we've spotted some cars a half mile north of LG Village to bring us back to the Rec Area.  Up: 2.6 miles with 1,290' vert. down; 2.8 miles with 1,450' drop.  Meet at the Lake George Rec Area at 10.00.

December 27   #18.1740 A -TEAM   Moreau SP Hike   Tom Gibbs   518-583-1550   and   Don McMahon   518-227-1047
We are offering an easier, more local hike at Moreau State Park on Thursday December 27. We start at the height of land on Spier Falls Road, hike up the green trail to the outlook over Moreau Lake. This part is a graded trail of 1 1/2 miles with an altitude increase of 500 feet. There are 3 possible return routes, go back the way we came, use the red trail - an extra 1/2 mile loop to the west, and the blue-white-yellow loop trails to the east - also an extra half mile, however with ups and downs and at least another 100 foot elevation increase. We will try to do the last choice if conditions are suitable. Expect not much snow depth so microspikes should be suitable. Meet at the Moreau State Park entrance parking lot at 10 am to consolidate into as few cars as possible since there is very limited parking at the trail head (chain across entrance!).