~ Outings Archive 2023-2026 ~
January 5, 2023 Regular Saratoga Spa State Park Walk-About Lenore and Jack Reber Rating: Easy to moderate.
Following the 5-mile trail, we will explore our local park's varied features. The trails offer ups and downs with lots of flat parts. The warm weather has melted the icy spots, so you won't need spikes. The current forecast is a bit cooler, high of 31 degrees and some sun later. Bring a cup to sample water from the five springs nearby to compliment Lenore's cookies. We will meet at the Geyser Picnic Area parking lot adjacent to the Creekside Classroom Environmental Education Center (CCEEC) at 10:00; alternative meeting places for carpooling purposes will be left to the discretion of those attending. Directions: The Geyser Picnic Area parking lot is located on the Geyser Loop Road which is located off the East-West Road of the Park. The East-West Road is the southernmost road into the Park and can be accessed from either Route 50 on the west or Route 9 on the east. From Rt 50: Travel E on the E-W Rd for .2 mi and turn L onto the Geyser Loop Rd; continue on the Geyser Loop Rd. for .6 mi, the parking lot will be on your R. From Rt 9: Travel W on the E-W Rd. for .8 mi and turn R onto Geyser Loop Rd; continue on the Geyser Loop Rd. for.4 mi, the parking lot will be on your left. Please contact the Rebers with any questions.
January 15, 2023 Bonus Hurricane Mountain Hike Scott Anderson and Kim Brown Rating: Moderate/Difficult.
Hurricane Mountain is located north of Rt. 9N between Keene and Elizabethtown. Although not a High Peak, from its bald summit at 3,694', the views are expansive in all directions - from Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains of Vermont to the east, the High Peaks to the west, Whiteface Mtn. to the northwest and Giant Mtn. due south. It also has a restored fire tower on its summit but you don’t need to climb it for great views. It is one of the mountains included in the ADK Fire Tower Challenge so if you aspire to complete the Challenge this is a great mountain to include. There are three trails to the summit, but for this hike we will take the trail starting on Rt 9N which begins 3.5 miles E of the junction of Route 9N and Route 73, south of Keene. The hike is advertised at 6.8 miles RT and an elevation gain of ~2,000'. Meet at the Warren County Municipal Center Park and Ride at 8:15 for a departure of 8:30; or the High Peaks Welcome Center, north of Exit 29, at 9:20; or the Rt. 9N trailhead at 10ish. The weather forecast for Sunday is sunny, a high of 25 and winds at 10mph. You will NOT need snowshoes but “You will need spikes!” Scott was there last Sunday and it was Microspikes all the way to the top. It can be cold up there, so please bring adequate warm clothing. Please email Scott if you plan to attend or have any questions. Hope to see you Sunday!
January 27, 2023 Regular Spruce Mountain Lake George Snowshoe Tim Ward Rating: Moderate/Difficult
This hike on Spruce Mtn. in Huletts Landing on Lake George is a little different. First it's quite a workout though it's only about 4.5 miles. Second, it has great views in several places but you will have earned them. We'll start on Lake George Conservancy land and then quickly enter State land on a trail marked by Richard Hayes Phillips, the guy who placed the trail up Cat Mountain in Bolton. He's a master in building picturesque routes. After about 1.5 miles we'll reach the ridge trail junction. We'll hike this north/south trail to the top of Spruce in about 1.25 miles. The hike down will be a straight forward open woods bushwhack back to the trailhead. We're talking a total of about 4.5 miles with an ascent of 1800 feet. With nearly a foot of new snow, plan to use poles and snowshoes. No cliffs have to be scaled, but the slopes are often steep. Meet at CTL at 9:00 for departure at 9:15; or at the NYS DEC Boat Launch on NY 22 on the north side of the causeway crossing South Bay at 9:50. Please email Tim if you have any questions.
February 2, 2023 Regular Hennig Preserve-South Trails Spike Gail Stauble Rating: Easy/Moderate.
The Hennig Preserve is owned by Saratoga PLAN and is located on Centerline Rd. in the Town of Providence, about 13 miles west of Saratoga Springs. There are over 10 miles of trails, including the trails in the adjacent Homestead County Forest owned by Saratoga County. Our hike will be limited to between 4-5 miles in length over generally flat terrain with some ups and downs. For those of you who are familiar with the preserve we will be hiking on the south side of the preserve and include portions of the yellow, blue (Esker) and green trails and the Homestead County Forest with views of Cadman Creek. The specific route will be determined on Wednesday. These particular trails are considered a wood's walk with no panoramic views or lakes but we will pass old stone walls, cellar holes of old homesteads and pretty streams, our pace will be leisurely. Our lunch location will be decided during the hike. 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. If you have any questions please email or call. Directions: There are a number of ways to reach the Hennig Preserve but from the Amtrak Station here is the shortest: Turn right on to West Ave. from Station Lane; continue about .25 miles to NY 29 and turn right; continue on NY 29 for about 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, about 3.5 miles, and turn right on to Wileytown Rd; continue on Wileytown for about 1 mi and turn left on to Centerline Rd; continue on Centerline Rd for about 1.25 miles to the sign on the left. 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.
February 8, 2023 Bonus LeVine Preserve Spike Gail Stauble Rating: Easy
This is a wonderful hike with lots of options as to the length with a maximum of 3+ miles of rolling terrain, two creeks to follow, view of an old sawmill along Cadman Creek and even a hike on an esker. Lunch will be at the old homestead (circa 1920s?) with its well-preserved foundation and hand-dug well — there is even a picnic bench. The LeVine Nature Preserve is owned and maintained by Saratoga PLAN and is just down the road from its big sister — the Hennig Preserve. There are essentially four loop trails within the 177-acre preserve plus Taber Road Trail, an old abandoned dirt town road that bisects the preserve. The specific route TBD on the day of the hike. Meet at the LeVine Preserve sign at 10:30. Directions: There are a number of ways to reach the preserve but for those of you using a GPS navigator try using 303 Centerline Rd., Middle Grove, NY (or Galway if Middle Grove doesn't work) — that will get you close. Alternatively, Gail will meet at the Saratoga Amtrak Station at 10:00 to carpool/caravan to the trailhead. From there turn R on to West Ave from Station Lane; continue about 0.25 miles to NY 29 and turn R; continue on NY 29 for 12 miles to Barkersville Road. (You should see the Waterwheel Village Store on the far right corner). Turn R here and stay on Barkersville Road for 2.7 miles. The road will take several sharp turns, but stay on Barkersville Road (Route 16) until it intersects with Glenwild Road. Turn L on Glenwild Road, and after driving 1.4 miles, turn L on Centerline Road. In approximately 0.8 miles, you will see the kiosk for the LeVine Preserve on the L side of Centerline Road. As an option, if you are familiar with getting to the Hennig Preserve just continue W on Centerline for an additional 1.3 miles to LeVine. Please contact Gail with any questions.
February 11, 2023 Bonus Marcy Dam Ski From South Meadows Steve Mackey Rating: Moderate.
Licia and I have skied many times into Marcy Dam on the old truck trail from South Meadows. It is 5.5 miles (round trip) with about 500 feet of elevation gain. We plan on going this Saturday and thought we would lead it as a Canes outing. It is usually tracked from other skiers (not groomed). You want to be of at least intermediate ability. When I first did it, I thought it was kind of hard. Now that I’ve skied it many times, I consider it fairly easy. There is a very good chance that we will be able to feed wild chickadees out of our hands. (Bring some bird seed or nuts). Meet at CTL at 8:30 for an 8:45 departure; or the High Peaks Welcome Center, north of Exit 29, at about 9:35. Email Steve if you have any questions.
February 15, 2023 Regular Gull and Spectacle Ponds Thru Hike Eric Potter Rating: Easy/Moderate.
Instead of doing two separate hikes and a car ride covering the 1 mile between trailheads, we now have a new route going to both ponds in one hike, easy, only possible in midwinter. The trailheads for these two ponds are located on Adirondack Rd. approximately 2.5 miles south of Alder Meadow Rd. on the east side of Schroon Lake. From the Gull Pond trailhead we hike 0.6 miles to lovely Gull Pond, then over the pond on the ice and down a gentle wooded draw to Harrison Marsh (actually a pond with wetland margins), across the Marsh and thence south along Shanty Bottom Creek - a gorgeous easy wooded route - to connect with the Spectacle Pond trail near its midpoint. We've come about 1.7 miles so far, all flat or gently downhill. We then take the regular trail SE to Spectacle Pond and our lunch spot, a very wild spot with (we hope) stellar views of nearby Pharaoh Mountain. Then back to a couple of cars we've previously spotted at the Spectacle Pond Trailhead, for drivers to retrieve their cars from the Gull Pond trailhead, a mile away. Total distance, about 4 miles, with only small elevation gains of maybe 400 ft total. Meet at CTL at 9:15 for a 9:30 departure; or Stewarts in Schroon Lake via Exit 27 at 10:10; or the Gull Pond trailhead at 10:30. Contact Eric if you have any questions. Also, please consider offering a XCS as an Alternate (ALT) outing for those that would like to ski instead – just contact the Outings Coordinator.
February 22, 2023 Regular Great Camp Santanoni Cross-Country Ski Steve Mackey Rating: Moderate.
A cross-country ski to Great Camp Santanoni. Most of us have been in here, hiking, biking, or skiing. (Good chance, we aren't going to take the boats out, this trip). It's 9 miles round trip, with a gain of 700 feet. It's not hard to ski, but it is pretty far. You want to be at least an intermediate skier. I just checked "All Trails", and the conditions are excellent right now. Let's hope that it doesn't get too warm between now and then. Meet at CTL at 8:30 for departure at 8:45; or at the Black Bear Restaurant, Northway Exit 26 at 9:15; or at the Santanoni Gate Lodge parking lot at 10:00ish. Please take advantage of the Mobil Station just off the Northway at Exit 26 to pick up something you may have forgotten or use the restroom before meeting at the Black Bear. We will also stop at the Town of Newcomb’s High Peaks Overlook Park before proceeding to the trailhead for a short pit stop. Please email Steve if you have any questions
March 3, 2023 Bonus Potash Mountain Hike Steve Mackey Rating: Moderate.
Potash Mountain is located just west of NY 9N in the Town of Lake Luzerne. It isn’t a very high mountain at only 1700’ but what it lacks in height it makes up in character. It is dome shaped 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 hike, including the nature trail, is slightly less than 4 miles in total with a 1000’ gain, steep in places but the route has received a great deal of trail improvements including stone steps and stairways in the steepest sections, all built by Steve! Lunch will be at the overlook near the summit. CTL at 9:30 for departure at 9:45; or the trailhead at 10:00ish. Trailhead parking is located on the R on Potash Rd. just past its junction with Dunkley Rd., .5 mile N from where Potash Rd. intersects Rt. 9N, directly across from the entrance to Luzerne State Campground, 7 miles S of Exit 21 of the Northway or about 3 mi N of Hadley-Luzerne High School. If you have any questions please email Steve.
March 9, 2023 Regular Hoffman Notch Snowshoe/Ski Steve Mackey Rating: Moderate.
The trail basically goes from Loch Muller, just west of Schroon Lake, to the Blue Ridge Rd. near the Buffalo Farm west of North Hudson. It is 7.5 miles one way, so I figured it was a good hike to do as a key swap since it would require nearly a 50 mile drive to spot cars otherwise. A group will start from each direction, we will exchange car keys when we meet, and then drive each other’s cars, to Stewarts in Schroon Lake. If you hike from south to north, there is about a 500’ drop in elevation. Obviously, we have no idea what conditions will be, so it could be skis, snowshoes, or spikes. I might try skiing it with my very slow skis, but this shouldn't have any bearing, on whether you are thinking of attending. They are basically snowshoes with a little glide. I’m willing to go either north or south, so the rest of the group can go whichever way they feel comfortable doing. This is mainly a walk in the woods, but we follow streams almost the whole way, and we go through a marsh in the middle. During different times of year, it could be buggy, and/or muddy, so March is a nice time of year. The 46'ers cleared all the blowdown on the trail this fall, and the group that went last year really enjoyed it.
My best guess is that we want to carry snowshoes and spikes regardless if you decide to ski. We also might be able to bare boot, but it’s good to have snowshoes, worse case. I don’t think standing water or mud will be a problem and I don’t think stream crossings will be a problem. All the big streams have bridges.
Meet at CTL at 9:00 for departure at 9:15. Here we will break into the north and south bound groups. Based on our trip last year we should finish around 4:00ish and rendezvous at Stewart’s in Schroon Lake to switch cars. Email me if you have any questions or are interested in going, so we know we have enough people, and we can cancel if conditions or the weather is bad.
March 16, 2023 Regular Lake Bonita/Lake Ann Snowshoe Diane Selin Rating: Easy/Moderate.
Since we expect to receive significant snow prior to this hike we’ll make this hike shorter and easier for everyone with a snowshoe of about 4 miles RT from Lake Bonita to Lake Ann. We will stop for lunch at the Lake Ann lean-to and return by retracing our route and finish with a walk around Lake Bonita. Snowshoes will be required. Terrain is considered rolling, through mixed forest and probably not more than 300 or 400 ft. of elevation gain. Meet at 10:30 at the Lake Bonita parking lot of Moreau Lake State Park located 2.0 miles west of Rt. 9 on the north side of Wilton-Corinth Road at the height of land or about 4 miles west of Northway Exit 16. Please contact Diane with any questions. Also, she would like anyone that is interested in attending to contact her. This is not a commitment on your part but a way for her to be able to contact you if circumstances change.
March 22, 2023 OK Slip Falls Hike Steve Mackey Rating: Moderate
OK Slip Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in the Adirondacks with over a 200' free fall. The trailhead is located on the north side of Rt 28, about 10 miles west of the hamlet of North Creek with excellent parking available on the south side, before the trailhead. From the trailhead the well marked trail takes us through a variety of woods of mixed hardwoods and evergreens. There are some ups and downs, for a total of slightly over 3 miles one-way and a gain of about 800 feet to two overlooks with great views of the falls and our lunch spot. The falls should be really full with all the snow melt, framed by beautiful ice formations. CTL at 8:30 for an 8:45 departure; or the North Creek Stewart’s at 9:30; or the trailhead at 10:00-ish.
March 30, 2023 Regular Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob Spike Diane Selin Rating: Easy/Moderate.
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 3.7 miles. From the trailhead, located 0.7 miles north on Pilot Knob Rd. from its intersection with NY 9L, we will hike the orange trail 0.7 mile with about a 620’ gain to a Gazebo with fine views of the southern basin of Lake George. Anyone who wishes may opt for a relaxing stay and an early lunch at the Gazebo enjoying the sweeping view of the lake and mountains before returning to their car. 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. It is anticipated that there will be snow to contend with but this is a popular hike and the trail will be hard-packed. Ice will also be encountered in sections so spikes will be required but snowshoes will not be needed. The current NOAA weather forecast for the Lake George area for Thursday is calling for a mostly sunny day with a high temp near 40 degrees. CTL at 9:15 for a 9:30 departure or meet at the trailhead at 9:50. Please contact Diane with any questions.
April 7, 2023 Bonus Hadley Mountain Hike Gail Stauble Rating: Moderate.
Hadley Mountain is a popular hike to a summit with excellent views and a restored fire tower; one that is included in the ADK Fire Tower Challenge. From its large parking lot off of Tower Road it is a moderately steep climb of 1.8 miles and slightly over a 1,500 ft. gain to its mostly open and rocky summit area. Views are expansive and include the Great Sacandaga Lake, the Mohawk Valley and distant views of Vermont, the Catskills and the High Peaks. Rain is forecast for several days before the hike. However, nighttime temps are expected to fall below freezing causing parts of the trail, especially the bare rock sections, to be icy so spikes are required. Meet at the trailhead at 10:15. Please contact me with any questions.
April 20, 2023 Alternate Vischer Ferry Hike Lenore and Jack Reber Rating: Easy
To get a jump on spring, we will walk on the towpath and other trails through woods, wet meadows, and by the Mohawk River, on trails from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. Trails are flat and easy and will total about 5 miles. We will eat lunch along the route. Those coming from the north or south, meet at the Exit 8 Park and Ride at 9:30. Please meet there, not at the Vischer Ferry lots. Drivers may organize a meetup at the Exit 12 Park and Ride if they wish. Those coming from the west can meet us at the end of Ferry Drive in the hamlet of Vischer Ferry at 10:00. Please contact either Lenore or Jack with any questions.
April 22, 2023 Bonus Rathbun's Sugar House Bike Ride Steve Mackey Rating: Moderate.
The plan is to bicycle to Rathbun's Sugar House from Fort Anne and back. Rathbun's is a popular maple sugar house serving homemade breakfasts with real maple syrup and selling maple products. It is located about 7 miles SE of the Village of Whitehall at 1208 Hatch Hill Rd. They are only open on weekends so we will plan it for a Sunday April 23rd. For a rain date, we might move it forward to Saturday April 22nd. We will have breakfast/brunch there and then ride back. It is an awesome breakfast, and you probably won’t need lunch. It’s around 12 miles each way, on rural roads with some pretty big hills. We have done this ride maybe 10 times, so we are pretty familiar with it. Licia will ride her Ebike, so that is a great option, if you own one. Sometimes we have met spouses and friends at the restaurant and loaded our bikes, so only ridden one way. That is an option, but you have to make personal arrangements. If there are a large number of us, we might leave different times, so we don’t overwhelm the restaurant. Any change in meeting/departure times will be included in an email once we determine how many bikers we have. We will meet at the Champlain Canal Park in Fort Anne. When you are driving to Fort Anne on route 149, there is a major intersection (Route 4) with a traffic light and a Cumberland Farms on the right. Go straight at the light, down a hill (Clay Hill Rd.), and the Park is on your left before you go across the bridge over the Champlain Canal. We will meet there at 8:30 AM. Email me if you are coming, or if you have any questions.
April 27, 2023 Alternate Crab Pond Hike Steve Mackey Rating: Easy Link
There is a new Warren County website that lists most of the hikes that you can do in Warren County. There are a few that I have never done or never heard of, so I thought it would be a good source of new ideas. I picked Crab Pond (not to be confused with the one near Crane Pond) for a starter and one that would be a first for the Canes. It is sort of on the way to Pharaoh Lake. It’s a 5.6 mile round trip, with almost no climb, rated as easy. I’ve never been there, and it sounds like the first turn may be a little tricky, but I’m sure we will figure it out. It’s probably a little muddy, so wear appropriate footwear. There is a good chance that wildflowers will be out and about. Meet at CTL at 9:30 for a 9:45 departure or the rear parking lot of the Town of Horicon Community Center on NY8 at 10:15 for a quick pit stop and a chance to carpool the short distance to the trailhead. The Horicon Community Center is located east of I87 off exit 25, about 2 miles on the right, across from Mill Pond. Please email if you have any questions.
May 11, 2023 Alternate Crown Point Bird Banding Observation with Lunch at The Bridge Restaurant Barbara Zuccaro Rating: Easy
The Crown Point Banding Station will be opening for their 48th consecutive year on Saturday May 5th and close at noon on Saturday May 20th. This area has been designated as a Bird Conservation Area by NYS for its value to migrating songbirds and the diversity of species found here as well. They collect birds, take down information, fit them with a band, and hand them over to a visitor to hold briefly and release. Master bander Gordon Howard will explain the process and answer all questions. We will then wander among the ruins of the British and French forts before heading to the picnic tables for lunch or the Bridge Restaurant. The grounds of the historic site are open from sunrise to sunset, year-round, free of charge. Meet at CTL at 7:15 for a 7:30 departure; or at McDonalds at 1148 Wicker St., Ticonderoga at 8:30. Please email me no later than Sunday May 7th if you are attending since I need to let Gordon know our numbers on Monday May 8th and I will send you more detailed information regarding the banding station.
May 18, 2023 Regular Peaked Mountain Hike Steve Mackey Rating: Moderate
This outing is being offered as a combo-outing - one for those wanting to hike to a beautiful remote pond as their destination and the other to go a bit farther, visit the pond and climb the nearby peak. From the trailhead at the northern end of Thirteenth Lake we will follow a relatively flat trail for .9 miles to Peaked Mtn. 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, after gaining 600 feet, we reach the shore of scenic Peaked Mtn. 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 Mtn. and a good place for everyone to have lunch. For those who have chosen to go on to Peaked Mtn. it is an additional .5 miles, gaining an additional 650 feet, fairly steep in places. However, efforts are rewarded at the 2919 ft. summit with spectacular views in all directions. The total RT mileage is 5.4 miles for those going to the pond with a gain of 600 feet and 6.4 miles and a 1250 feet gain for those climbing the mountain. Note – it is that time of the year when we may see the arrival of those pesky flying insects so be prepared! Meet at CTL at 8:30 for a departure at 8:45 for both groups (please plan carpooling according to whether or not you will climb Peaked Mtn.); or at Stewart’s in North Creek at 9:25; or the Thirteenth Lake trailhead at the end of Beach Rd. at 10:00ish. Please email me with any questions.
May 25, 2023 Regular Rooster Comb & Snow Mtns Loop Hike Diane Selin Rating: Moderate
We'll begin our hike at 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 of Rooster Comb (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 Mtn. and the Ausable Valley. After lunch we retrace our steps to the trail to Snow Mtn. (2,370’) for more beautiful views in several directions. For our return we again retrace our steps to a connecting trail that will take us back to the parking lot, completing the loop – about 5.5 miles & 2,000’ gain for the day. CTL at 8:00 for a departure of 8:15; or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:10; or the trailhead at 9:30ish. If you have any questions please contact me.
Jun 1, 2023 Regular Gore Mountain Combo Hike Kim Brown and Steve Mackey Rating: Moderate/Difficult
Another combo outing!! Kim will lead to the waterfalls and Steve will lead for those who want to do the entire fire tower hike. Great opportunity for anyone working on their ADK Fire Tower Challenge!
Gore Mtn Waterfalls: We will follow the Schaefer Trail to where the waterfalls start at about 1 mile and continue along the falls almost all the way to the reservoir another .8 miles. We will stop somewhere between where the two ski road bridges are for lunch/snack. (Fire tower folks may or may not have lunch depending on timing at the falls.) We will go out the way we came. I went up to the waterfalls on May 10th and they were running strong, so I'm hoping we will still have some nice water running. The trail has a lot of loose leaves covering rocks etc. so very uneven or unsteady footing. Several places we will have steep steps up or down, so this hike may not be for everyone depending upon how your knees/hips are doing! Stats: 3.6 miles r/t with approx 1,250 feet gain.
Gore Mtn Fire Tower: At the 1.8 mile the trail moves away from the reservoir and stream and continues north and west. You come to the Rabbit Trail junction at 2 mi. and at 2.5 miles cross a power line as you continue a gentle ascent. The trail eventually comes to large clearing at 3.2 mi. known as Ives Dam where it crosses Roaring Brook (now a very, very small stream) and enters the woods again heading southeast. At 3.4 mi. the trail crosses Woods Out Ski Trail and proceeds again into the forest between ski trails to cross Lower Wood In Ski Trail, eventually exiting the woods before coming to a summer maintenance road and very steep sections. The trail continues on the maintenance road passing a chairlift and reaches the summit at 4.7 miles. The tower is closed as it serves as a mounting platform for communications, but views are excellent to the High Peaks and mountains of Lake George. This is a long hike with significant gain and intermittent steep sections. Stats: 9.4 miles r/t with approx 2,560 feet gain.
Meet at CTL at 8:30 for a departure at 8:45; or at Stewart's in North Creek at 9:25; or the trailhead at 9:45. The trailhead is located on the right, a short distance on Dump Rd. just off of Ski Bowl Rd. (1 mi N of Stewart’s – large DEC sign for TH). We will park at the trailhead next to the fence that leads into the Johnsburg Transfer station. Please email Kim or Steve with any questions.
Jun 9 2023 Bonus Potash Mountain Hike Steve Mackey Rating: Moderate
We haven’t been up Potash since late winter, so let’s do it again in late spring. I’ve heard that the bugs aren’t a problem (but bring some bug dope and a head net just in case). We will hike the nature trail on the way in. Some of the descriptive signs were put up in November so we will check them out and make sure what they are describing is close by. We will move the signs if necessary. I know at least one that needs to be moved. The hike is around 3.5 miles with about 1,000 feet of climbing. Lunch will be at the overlook near the summit. CTL at 9:30 for departure at 9:45; or the trailhead at 10:00ish. Trailhead parking is located on the R on Potash Rd. just past its junction with Dunkley Rd., .5 mile N from where Potash Rd. intersects Rt. 9N, directly across from the entrance to Luzerne State Campground, 7 miles S of Exit 21 of the Northway or about 3 mi N of Hadley-Luzerne High School. If you have any questions please email Steve.
Jun 15, 2023 Regular Watch Hill and the Holey Boulders Hike Lenore and Jack Reber Rating: Moderate
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 a well marked 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 3.5 miles RT, with around a 900 feet elevation gain. Retracing our steps to the parking lot we will walk 0.2 miles along NY30 to the unmarked trailhead for the Snowy Mountain Boulders, referred to by some as the Holey Boulders. After a 0.5 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 at 9:00 for a departure at 9:15; or the North Creek Stewart’s at 10:00; or the Indian Lake Stewart’s at 10:30; or the Watch Hill trailhead at 10:45. For those of you who are traveling from the south or west in our area, you may want to consider arranging a convenient meeting place to carpool/caravan (such as the Fulton County Visitor Center located at the intersection of NY 29 and NY 30 in Broadalbin and taking NY 30 N through Speculator and continuing N approximately 17 miles to the Watch Hill Trailhead). Please contact us with any questions.
Jun 22, 2023 Regular Pilot Knob Ridge Hike Scott Anderson Rating: Moderate/Difficult
This moderate to strenuous hike is approx 4 miles long with an accumulated gain of around 1,600 feet. It starts out on the marked state trail to Buck Mt. and Inman Pond and veers SE onto an unmarked herd path. It’s pretty much up all the way to the top where we will have several overlooks, then the false summit, before getting to the top of the ridge. Views of Lake George are spectacular! We will return the way we came up. All down! Meet at CTL at 9:00 for departure at 9:15 or the trailhead at 9:45. Trailhead directions: From exit 20, I-87, follow route 9 north for .3m to NY 149. Turn right and continue on NY149 for 4.3m and turn left onto NY9L (Ridge Rd) by Stewart's for an additional 4.6m, turning right onto CR32/Pilot Knob Rd. Continue for 3.3m to the DEC parking lot/trailhead on the right. [Please note this is NOT the Schumann Preserve for the Pilot Knob Preserve/Gazebo owned by the LGLC]. Please contact Kim with any questions.
Jun 22, 2023 Alternate Saratoga Battlefield Historical Walk-About Denis Foley Rating: Easy
Beginning at the Saratoga National Battlefield Visitor Center we will hike the Wilkinson Trail at a leisurely pace over gentle slopes around the northern section of the battlefield for a total distance of around 4 miles. Along the way we will make stops at various interpretive stations. We should be back at the visitor center by 1pm where we will have lunch. Tom Gibbs, who served as our outings coordinator for many years, plans to join us for lunch. After lunch, depending on the wishes of the group, we could opt to visit the Saratoga Monument, about a ten minute drive from the Battlefield. Meet at the Saratoga Battlefield Visitor Center at 10am. For information on the Wilkinson Trail and directions to the Battlefield please click on the Info link above. If you have any questions, please contact me.
Jul 6, 2023 Regular Stewart’s Bridge Reservoir Paddle Fran Herve Rating: Easy/Moderate
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 hamlet of Hadley’s train station at the intersection of Rockwell St./Stony Creek Rd. (CR1) 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, about 4 miles west along CR4/N. Shore Rd from the train station noted above. Continue on the access road to the end at the shore of the reservoir where there's plenty of parking. Please contact me with any questions.
Jul 13, 2023 Regular Boreas Ponds Paddle Steve Mackey Rating: Moderate
A new paddle for the Canes to a remote and pristine location! This paddle was scheduled last year but had to be canceled due to construction on its access road so let’s try it again. Boreas Ponds are located about 8 miles west of North Hudson, north of Blue Ridge Rd. The Boreas Ponds Tract, as it is known, was added to the Forest Preserve back in 2016. This addition to the High Peaks Wilderness made it the largest Wilderness Area in the Northeastern US. Gulf Brook Road (the road in) is currently open to the Four Corners Parking Area where we will park. From here we will have to portage our boats about a half mile to the pond, so you either need to have wheels to transport your boat, or a light weight boat, like a Hornbeck, etc. This paddle is a lot like our trip into Henderson Lake near the Tahawus trailhead, you don't want to carry a heavy boat that far. I've been into the Boreas Ponds several times, biking, skiing, and kayaking, and it is very pristine, uncrowded, and the view of the Great Range is spectacular. Hopefully, the black flies have all departed. If all goes according to plan, this is a very special place. Meet at CTL at 8:15 for an 8:30 departure or the Frontier Town parking lot, just E of Exit 29 of the Northway, at 9:15ish. Please contact me with any questions.
Jul 20, 2023 Regular Blue Mountain Hike Diane Selin Rating: Moderate
The Canes typically hike Blue Mountain in the winter so why not try hiking it in the summer for a change of pace! For an added treat, plan on stopping by my camp after the hike for an ice cream social - ice cream, brownies, whipped cream and chocolate syrup - only a five minute drive from the trailhead! Blue Mountain is located NE of the hamlet of Blue Mountain Lake in Hamilton County. At 3,760 feet it is one of the taller peaks in the Adirondacks but shy of qualifying as one of the High Peaks. Nonetheless, the views from its flat summit are expansive and from the fire tower - panoramic! It is also one of the qualifying towers of the ADK Fire Tower Challenge. The trailhead is located at a large parking lot on the east side of NY30/28N, just north of Adirondack Experience, the museum above Blue Mountain Lake. From there we follow a moderately steep trail, with the steepest pitches near the top, for 2.2 miles (4.4 mi rt) with a 1,550 feet elevation gain to the flat-topped summit and its tower.
Meet at CTL at 8:15 for departure at 8:30; or the North Creek Stewart’s at 9:00; or at trailhead at 10:00. We plan on making a short pit stop at Stewart’s in Indian Lake at 9:45 before proceeding to the trailhead. Overnight option: For those of you who would like to add some fun to this adventure you may want to consider tent camping at my camp property (or stay in the camp if there are only a couple of people). Perhaps bring a kayak or canoe or just chill out - bathroom, fire pit, and gas grill available. Please contact me if you plan on staying over or have any questions.
Aug 3, 2023 Regular Bike Ride on Harlem Valley Rail Trail Rich and Barbara Zuccaro Rating: Easy/Moderate WX Map
The Harlem Valley Rail Trail is a flat mostly paved bike trail with many good views of the surrounding hills, farms, water and flowers along the way. We will start at the parking lot at 96 Orphan Farm, Copake Falls, NY (see embedded link above for map) and take the trail south to Millerton where there is an area, Veterans Park, with picnic tables where we will stop for lunch. There is a takeout sandwich shop (Irving Farm) across the street or you can bring your own lunch. In Millerton is Harney Tea, offering many different teas for the tea lovers in the group (make sure you have some space in your bike bag if you want to take some home). There are some restrooms in Millerton. After lunch and the tea shop stop, we will head back to Copake Falls. The ride is about 13 miles in each direction for a total of 26 miles. On the way to the parking lot, there is a Stewart’s on Route 22 just south of Route 23, about 5-10 minutes from the parking lot. This is a good place for a pit stop.
We will meet at the parking lot ready to ride at 10:30. Please contact us with any questions.
Aug 9, 2023 Bonus Crab Pond Overnight Steve Mackey Rating: Moderate WX Link
Crab Pond is a small, remote pond located a few miles NNE of Brant Lake on a trail off of the Pharaoh Lake Trail (see link above). We did that hike into Crab Pond a couple of months ago, and after I was thinking at the time, it might be a good overnight destination this summer. This is a nice opportunity to dig out some of your old backpacking gear that you haven't used in a long time. We used to go up Buck Mountain every summer for an overnight for years, so I thought we could incorporate a lot of the things we learned. First, if we leave around 4:15 PM you can have an early dinner (at home or on the road), and consequently not have to carry food and equipment to cook dinner. We used to pick wild blueberries on Buck, and have blueberry pancakes for breakfast. Instead, I'll just carry in some store bought blueberries, and do a group breakfast. So as far as equipment, you will need a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, warm clothes (maybe), snacks, bug repellent, a beverage and don’t forget a headlamp! If you have a fishing license, you are welcome to bring your fishing gear. I'll bring all the stuff for our breakfast, including coffee. We'll have a little campfire, and probably make s’mores and/or popcorn. I have some extra gear that I can lend, if you need it. Give me a heads-up if you are coming so I bring enough food. At the moment I'm planning on August 9th (Smokey Bear's Birthday). We'll move the date, if the weather is sketchy. The hike is 5.3 miles round trip, with a gain of 426 feet. From what I saw on the previous hike, it gets very little use, and we should have it all to ourselves.
We'll meet at CTL August 9th at 4:00 PM. We'll stop at the Stewart's in Chestertown, if you want a sub, pizza, hot dogs, etc. We'll probably get back to our cars around noon, the next day. Note: The destination was switched to Buck Mtn.
Aug 11 2023 Regular Lake Abanakee Paddle Lenore and Jack Reber Rating: Moderate WX
We will launch on Chain Lakes Road and paddle south under the Lake Abanakee bridge and under the Big Brook Rd. causeway, continuing our exploration of the lake. Lunch will be at a location to be determined. About 7 miles RT. Meet at CTL at 8:30 for departure at 8:45; or Stewart’s in North Creek at 9:30; or 10:00 at the launch site, located on Chain Lakes Rd., the first R turn on Rt 28 after crossing the bridge over Lake Abanakee. Lake Abanakee is suitable for all types of boats. Contact us with any questions.
Aug 17, 2023 Regular Prospect Mountain Hike Steve Mackey Rating: Moderate WX
We will hike from the Lake George Recreation Area. The round trip distance is 5.2 miles with a 1,430 ft. vertical climb. The first part of the trail is a little confusing, but you mainly keep your eye on the stream and for the first half of the hike, you are never more than a stone’s throw away from it. For some reason this trail has never been officially marked, but once you have hiked it a time or two, it is kind of a hidden gem. It's the easiest and most pleasant hike up Prospect. We threw around a few ideas to make this a loop hike, but in the end we decided to keep it simple and just do an out and back. There are a couple of muddy spots from all the rain and be prepared for mosquitoes.
Meet at the Lake George Recreation Center parking lot at 10:00 - 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. Please contact me with any questions.
Aug 23, 2023 Regular Trails of the Corinth Cooperator Area Hike Leo Demers Rating: Moderate WX
The Corinth Cooperator Area (aka Corinth Reservoir Recreation Area) is the watershed for the Village of Corinth and offers a variety of lengths in hikes with combinations that would allow you to hike perhaps 9 miles if desired. I am offering a hike of about 5 miles in length with a total gain of about 1200 ft. that will include visits to a few of its more popular destinations such as the Wilson Farm Historic Site, Redmond's Overlook and Wilson Pass. Along our route we will pass some Old Growth white pines. The actual route will be decided on the day of the hike. The trailhead is located on CR 10 (aka Mosher Rd. and West Mountain Rd.) about 1.5 mi. due west of the Village as the crow flies.
Meet at the trailhead at 9:45; hike begins at 10:00. Directions to the CCA trailhead: For those arriving from the S take Rt 9N N from the Saratoga Springs area and turn L on CR 10 (a short distance N of the Corinth Veterinary Clinic); remain on CR 10 for ~1.75 mi. to the TH on L. For those arriving from the N or E - from the Stewart's Shop at the corner of Main St. and Maple Ave. (both Rt 9N) continue S for a short distance and turn R on Hamilton St. (White's Ace Hardware on R); continue on Hamilton St. for ~1.25 mi. and turn R on CR 10; continue on CR 10 for ~.35 mi to TH on L. Please contact me with any questions.
Aug 31, 2023 Regular Potash Mountain Hike and Swim Linda Frees Rating: Moderate WX
Potash Mountain is located just west of NY 9N in the Town of Lake Luzerne. It isn’t a very high mountain at only 1700 feet but what it lacks in height it makes up in character. It is dome shaped 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 hike, including the nature trail, is slightly less than 4 miles in total with a 1000 feet gain, steep in places but the route has received a great deal of trail improvements including stone steps and stairways in the steepest sections. Lunch will be at the overlook near the summit. After lunch we will retrace our steps and visit the nature trail on our way down. For those that would like to add a post-hike swim we will drive about .5 miles to the Luzerne Campground and Day Use Area. Entrance to the campground and day use area is free to drivers over the age of 62 so be sure you carpool with someone that will allow you to gain free entrance.
Meet at the trailhead at 10:00. Trailhead parking is located on the R on Potash Rd. just past its junction with Dunkley Rd., .5 mile N from where Potash Rd. intersects Rt. 9N, directly across from the entrance to Luzerne State Campground, 7 miles S of Exit 21 of the Northway or about 3 mi N of Hadley-Luzerne High School. If you have any questions please contact me.
Aug 31, 2023 Alternate Hudson River Paddle in Schuylerville Sharon Gavitt Rating: Easy WX
As part of the 200th Anniversary of the Champlain Canal I am offering an easy paddle of the Hudson River in Schuylerville. We will begin and end our paddle at the Village of Schuylerville’s beach located at the SE corner of Fort Hardy Park. From the put-in the plan is to paddle downstream on the Hudson River for forty-five minutes to one hour depending on the group, return to Hardy Park and have lunch. The total estimated distance for this paddle is less than three miles. You may bring your own lunch or visit one of the food and coffee vendors within walking distance of the launch. There is very little current in this section of the Hudson so any boat is suitable to use. As an option, paddlers may continue their exploration of the Hudson after lunch by paddling upstream or walk a bit on the Champlain Canalway Trail or visit the nearby Champlain Canal Region Gateway Visitors’ Center.
Meet at 10:15 at the Village’s beach where there is parking, a pavilion and restrooms. Directions to the beach: From Broad St. (NY29/US4/NY32) in Schuylerville continue on Ferry St. (NY29) east towards Greenwich. The beach and launch area are accessed on an unnamed road on the N side of Ferry St. just before crossing the Hudson River, across from the Basin Grill. If you’re coming from Greenwich and other locations to the east it is the first road on the right after crossing the bridge over the Hudson on Rt 29. Please contact me with any questions.
Sep 7, 2023 Regular Rock Pond Hike/Swim/Picnic Scott Anderson Rating: Easy/Moderate WX
For this hike our destination is Rock Pond in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area. Specifically, a large, exposed rock outcropping on its northern shore where there is an unofficial campsite. For those of you who have visited the pond you know what a beautiful location this is, affording a great view of the pond and allowing direct access to the water for those of you who would like to swim. There is lots of shade available nearby for those who would like to avoid the sun. If the weather forecast of temps in the mid to upper 80’s hold true a swim will be very appealing! We start our hike at the Putnam Pond campground day use area by first heading in a northerly direction along the east shore of Putnam Pond towards Heart Pond before heading west to Rock Pond. The trail is well marked and the terrain is considered rolling for the 2.3 miles to the outcropping. Here we will spend a leisurely lunch with plenty of time for visiting, swimming or exploring. We will retrace our route back to our cars.
Meet at CTL at 8:15 for a departure of 8:30; or at the Stewart’s in Schroon Lake via Exit 27 for a short pit stop at 9:10; or at the Putnam Pond trailhead parking lot around 9:45. Keep in mind there is a $6.00 fee for day use entry. This fee is waived during the week for those over 62 so pick your driver wisely. Please contact me with any questions.
Sep 19, 2023 Bonus Canes Picnic at Moreau Lake Join the fun – picnic begins at noonish, activities and start times as noted below! WX
This year we are returning to Moreau Lake State Park after a four year absence. Planned for the day is a variety of activities and of course the picnic. We have reserved the Fernwood pavilion with lots of convenient parking and restrooms close by. Hot dogs, rolls, condiments, plates and utensils, will be provided as well as coffee and hot water for tea or hot chocolate. If you prefer something other than hot dogs, the grill will be available for you to prepare your special meal. Bring a side dish, an appetizer, salad or dessert to share and whatever you would like to drink. Main dishes (chili, baked beans…) are also welcome. There will be a $6 fee collected to cover picnic costs [pavilion, $158; food, $85; supplies, $50; with 50 attendees expected (est.)]. Please sign in and pick up a name tag. We will also be providing a collection basket for contributions to cover website and email service costs for those of you who prefer to donate at the picnic rather than by mail. Jerry will be available to collect your contribution also. Contributions are voluntary with a suggested donation of $10 per member. Greater amounts are always welcome!
Planned Activities
Leo Demers has volunteered to lead a hike of about 3 miles that will include a visit to the Moreau Overlook timed to get you back in time for lunch. This hike is rated moderate. Meet at the parking lot adjacent to the Fernwood pavilion at 9:45. If you have any questions please contact Leo at 518-654-8042 or email him at leo46er@gmail.com.
While an easy paddle of Moreau Lake is still scheduled, we don't currently have a leader. Because the paddle is easy, we plan to paddle with or without an assigned leader, but if you would like to volunteer to lead, please contact one of the picnic team members. Meet at the boat launch area, across from the warming hut, at 10:30. This is a paddle that can be done by even a novice paddler.
Diane Selin has volunteered to lead a bike ride starting from the Park’s parking lot, adjacent to the entrance kiosk, departing at 10:00. Her newly created route will be on predominantly low traffic roads with short distances on busier roads with wide shoulders. The mostly flat route is 15 miles in length. If you have any questions please contact Diane at 518-487-8410 or email her at dandeselin@gmail.com.
Last, but certainly not least, we have a special event being offered this year. Nancy Kimball, the Canes very own wildlife rehabilitator, has offered to take those of you who may not want to participate in the hike, paddle or bike on a tour of the Nature Center. During the tour she will provide a meet and greet of Justin, one of her non-releasable barred owls who is temporarily in residence there. Meet at the Fernwood pavilion at 10:30 and walk over to the Nature Center which is only 5 min. away.
For those of you that do not wish to join the organized activities please feel free to arrive early and go for a walk, a paddle, bike the park roads or just visit. BTW – there are many of you that haven’t participated in any of our outings in recent times - please use this opportunity to join your friends and catch up - we all want to know what you have been up to. Bring your stories and pictures to share! If you or someone you know may need assistance in getting to/from Moreau please contact Fran, Margie or Peter to see if we can help.
Moreau Lake State Park is located just off of exit 17 of the Adirondack Northway – at 605 Old Saratoga Road. The entrance kiosk is not staffed during the week so there is no need to stop. After going past the kiosk, keep left and proceed along the park road to the boat launch for those of you who are paddling or continue along the park road to the large parking area adjacent to the Fernwood pavilion for everyone else. Hope you can join us!
Weather: We will be monitoring the weather forecast so please check your email as the date gets closer in case there is a need to change the date. Do a sun dance for the 19th!
Wed, Sep 27, 2023 Bonus Chester Challenge Trails Katie Henrikson Rating: Easy WX
This outing consists of two easy pieces; both hikes are part of the Chester Challenge: Info link. First, we will hike Panther Mountain. This is a newly added hike to the Chester Challenge with an excellent view. It's 2.4 miles RT with 650 feet of ascent. The area is carpeted with snowmobile trails; the hiking trail goes on and off the snowmobile trails, so it requires paying attention to the signs. The trailhead is almost within sight of Stewart's at Exit 25, perhaps a good place for lunch. After lunch we will drive a short distance to hike about 2.75 miles RT with about a 250 feet gain on the Cougar Nature Trails to Cougar Hill. Parking is limited at the TH so carpooling may be necessary.
Meet at CTL at 9:15 for a departure at 9:30 or the Exit 25 Stewart's (0.5mi W of the exit on Rt. 8) at 10:00, where we will caravan to the Panther Mtn trailhead. Please contact me with any questions.
Fri, Sep 29, 2023 Bonus Blueberry Mountain Pete Fedorick Jr. Rating: Moderate/Difficult WX
A new hike for the Canes and the first official lead by me. Blueberry Mountain is frequently hiked by itself but it is probably better known as one of the mountains that you have to go over on your way to Porter and Cascade Mtns from Marcy Field or the last mountain on a through hike from the Cascade trailhead over Porter to Marcy Field. While not a very long hike it does have a significant gain - slightly more than 1900 feet over the approximately 5 mile round-trip from Marcy Field. Think of the hike as a slightly longer one of Hadley Mountain. The hike will be at a leisurely pace because I think my dad will be going, and there will be a lengthy lunch on top for Scott to take a nap. There are excellent views along the trail as well as from the summit. Apparently the trail is well marked, which will be handy since I won’t be able to do a pre-hike scout.
Meet at CTL at 8:00 for departure at 8:15; or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:10; or at the back of the Marcy Field Parking Area at 9:45ish. Please contact me via email if you have any questions.
Oct 5, 2023 Regular Wakely Pond - Square the Loop Hike Rating: Easy/Moderate Lenore and Jack Reber WX
Join us for a hike on October 5 to Square the Loop on Cedar River Road in Indian Lake. The square is completed by hiking one mile on the road (dirt), the NP trail, an old logging road, and the trail to Wakely fire tower, for a total of 4 miles. It includes gentle ups and downs, a stream crossing, and a short semi-bushwhack. We will also take a short trail which ends with some steep and uneven footing to visit the Cedar River gorge, where the gentle Cedar River briefly becomes a raging, roaring torrent. The parking spot for this is VERY small and will take some intricate parking plans.
Meet at 8:45 at CTL for a departure of 9:00; or 10:00 at the Indian Lake Stewarts; or 10:30 at the Wakely Mountain parking lot on Cedar River Road. Please contact us with any questions.
Oct 12, 2023 Regular Treadway Mountain Hike/Paddle Rating: Moderate Leo Demers Scott Anderson WX
Treadway is a unique mountain with large open spaces on top and great views of the surrounding mountains and of the High Peaks. The trailhead for Treadway Mtn is located at the Putnam Pond State Campground - at the far end of the parking lot adjacent to the boat launch. The campground is at the end of Putts Pond Rd (CR39), which is about 12 mi. east of Northway Exit 28 on NY74. There are two options for the ascent: The round trip hiking distance from the trailhead is around 7.8 miles with 1000 feet of gain. Alternatively, for those of you who would like to combine a paddle with a hike, the 0.9-mi RT paddle across Putnam Pond saves about 3.2 miles RT of hiking, making for a 0.9 mi paddle plus 4.6 mi hike RT. We have offered these options in the past with both groups meeting on the trail or at the summit for lunch. For those of you that would prefer just to paddle rather than hike, Putnam Pond is a nice body of water to explore. If you carpool make sure the riders are doing the same activity as you are. The campground closes on October 9th; however, access to the boat launch and parking lot is available.
Meet at CTL at 8:15 for a departure of 8:30; or at the Stewart’s in Schroon Lake via Exit 27 for a short pit stop at 9:10; or at the Putnam Pond Campground trailhead parking lot around 9:45. Please contact either one of us with any questions.
Oct 13, 2023 Bonus Pitchoff Ridge Thru Hike Rating: Difficult Chris Fedorick
This hike was last scheduled as a Cane's hike back in October 2016 and isn’t offered very often. We will begin our hike at the western trailhead for Pitchoff, across the road from the Cascade Mtn trailhead, and hike east along the ridge. The total hiking distance is less than 5 miles with a gain of around 1800 feet with some steep spots and lots of rock scrambles. We will first visit a glacial erratic area known as Balancing Rocks with great views towards Lake Placid and the High Peaks to the south. Continuing along the ridge our next stop will be the summit of Pitchoff Mtn at 3600 feet. There aren’t any views at the summit but as we continue along the ridge, outcroppings provide views south of the High Peaks. The next section has some ups and downs as we hike over four lesser summit knobs before beginning a steep, 1400 feet descent to the eastern trailhead.
The drive from CTL is about 1.5 hours and 80 miles. We will need at least two cars in order to drop one off at the western trailhead. Meet at CTL at 7:45 for departure at 8:00; or the High Peaks Rest Area at 8:55; or at the Cascade Mtn trailhead at 9:30. This hike is rated as difficult so please email either one of us if you plan on attending or have any questions.
Oct 19, 2023 Regular Picnic on the AT/LT – Danby, VT Rating: Moderate Tim Ward WX
A while back we had a nice day including a picnic and swim in a stream called Big Branch in Mt. Tabor near Danby, VT. We missed our opportunity to enjoy a swim in this mountain brook this year so how about just a hike and a picnic! We'll walk about two miles on the Long Trail, then take a side trail for about one mile to a picnic table recently upgraded by a few of us. I'll bring cider and a pie and others might bring something to share, otherwise please bring your own lunch. This is about a six mile walk with just a few hundred feet elevation change and contains many features with one exception: no views, but participants on a nice day will not be disappointed.
Meet at CTL 8:30 for departure at 8:45; or meet at the south end of the Price Chopper in Granville at 9:30 (located NE of the intersection of Rt 22 and 149 in back of RiteAid/Walgreens); or at the trailhead at 10:15. The Griffith Lake trailhead is located at the Big Branch parking area for the AT/LT on Brooklyn Rd/USFS 10, on the right, ~3 miles NE of the intersection of Rt 7 and Mt. Tabor Rd./Brooklyn Rd. in the hamlet of Danby/Mt. Tabor. If you are coming from the Capital District area and would like to avoid driving to CTL please meet at Panera Bread, located just off Exit 6 of the ADK Northway at 601 Troy-Schenectady Rd., at 8:30 for departure at 8:45. From there you will proceed directly to the trailhead noted above. If you have any questions please contact me.
Oct 26, 2023 Regular Saddles State Forest Hike Rating: Moderate Tim Ward WX
We'll again brave the snakes and Bigfoot in the Great Whitehall Wilderness Area otherwise called the Saddles State Forest. The Saddles State Forest comprises nearly 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. This will be a two group outing as before but this time we will not be completing the entire loop, cutting back on the demands of past hikes. Everyone will hike to the summit of North Saddle Mtn. which involves about an 1000 feet ascent and about 3 miles one-way. Here we will enjoy a leisurely lunch and take in the views. The recent rains will replenish the water in Diameter Falls, across South Bay, so bring your binoculars. Hopefully, the colors will be at peak. After lunch, hikers will decide whether they would like to remain at the summit of North Saddle and return to their cars when they want or opt for some additional exploration. Those electing to explore more would return to a previous intersection and descend the ridge towards South Bay for about one-half mile, enjoying additional views, adding about a mile to the total and some additional gain (7-mile total for the 2nd group). We would then retrace our route back to our cars.
Meet at CTL at 9:00 for departure at 9:15 or the Saddles State Forest trailhead off US 4, at around 9:45. The condition of the access road has not improved much over the years and a high clearance vehicle is recommended. Directions to the trailhead: For convenience sake directions are from the intersection of NY 149 and US 4 in the Village of Fort Ann. From the intersection proceed N on US 4 for ~9 miles to the Champlain Beef Co. on your L (or 1½ miles south of the Village of Whitehall). Immediately before their entrance you will see a large DEC sign for Saddles State Forest – proceed on the dirt access road for 2/3 mi. to the parking area. Please contact me with any questions, email preferred.
Oct 27, 2023 Bonus Hopkins Mountain Thru Hike Rating: Moderate Pete Fedorick Jr. WX
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 feet in the nearly 3 miles to the summit. After a leisurely lunch and exploring the bare, rocky top - trying to get a glimpse of just one more mountain - we backtrack approximately 0.9 miles to the junction with the Ranney Trail, bearing right and descending 1.7 miles along Hopkins Brook to our cars for a total of 5.5 miles for the day.
Meet at CTL at 7:45 for a departure at 8:00 or the High Peaks Rest Area at 8:55 or the Mossy Cascade Brook TH at 9:15ish. Please contact me if you have any questions.
Nov 2, 2023 Regular Return to Cedar River Gorge Hike Rating: Easy/Moderate Lenore and Jack Reber WX
Just last month, on our Square the Loop at Wakely Pond hike, we visited the Cedar River Gorge, where the gentle Cedar River briefly becomes a raging, roaring torrent. We had such a wonderful time that we thought we would return to the gorge before the snow flies, this time via a completely new route. From Wakely Dam, at the outlet of Cedar River Flow, we will follow a combination of old logging roads and a snowmobile trail easterly, undulating away from and then back to the river, for about 3 miles with some ups and downs for a total gain of about 650 feet, to a point where we will hike a short bushwhack to the gorge. Here, we will enjoy a leisurely lunch above the roaring water. The trail is in good condition and provides a sense of remoteness along the way. We return by retracing our route for a total of 6 miles.
Meet at CTL at 8:15 for a departure at 8:30; or 9:30 at the Indian Lake Stewart’s; or the Wakely Dam parking lot at 10:00. Please contact us with any questions.
Nov 8, 2023 Regular Fishbrook Lean-to Loop (around Erebus Mtn – not the pond!!) Rating: Moderate/Difficult Kim Brown and Scott Anderson WX
This is a new one for the Canes, not for the faint of heart - and only for those who enjoy a muddy trail, complete with rock hopping over the watery sections. Bring your sticks and heavy hiking boots, you will need them!! With all that loveliness why would one want to do this anyway? Well, haven't you ever wondered what sits between Sleeping Beauty/Bumps Pond and Black Mountain? Some of the very, very wild Lake George Forest at its best. All right, the leaves may not be in foliage either... so why go? Because we can!! Approximately 8.5 miles round trip with an overall elevation gain of about 1,800 feet. Our route is totally on marked trails. The section around Erebus Mtn is little used so it adds to the feeling of remoteness. The hike starts at Dacy Clearing with a slight grade up to an overlook and then to Bumps Pond. After leaving Bumps Pond we will continue to Fishbrook Pond visiting both lean-tos where we will have lunch at one or the other depending upon the wind/sun. Then we will continue around the back side of Erebus where we will experience most of the "gain" and very wild forest. We then return to Bumps Pond and out the way we came. *Reminder - the big game hunting season is in full swing so wear something bright (blaze orange if you have)! Please email Kim or Scott if you are interested in attending or if you have any questions.
Meet at CTL at 8:15 for a departure of 8:30, or Dacy Clearing at 9:15.
Nov 11, 2023 Bonus Roundtop Mtn via Hadley Mtn Rating: Moderate/Difficult Peter Fedorick WX
Only done once before as an official Canes hike and that was back in August of 2001 led by Pat Collier, so this is long overdue! You have a choice of hiking to Hadley's fire tower - a 4-mile round-trip with 1500 feet gain; continuing a quarter mile farther onto Hadley's lovely summit ridge with its interesting rock art and views to the north; or a more difficult bushwhack to Roundtop Mountain. Views from the large, rather flat, and open summit of Roundtop are expansive in all directions. The bushwhack to Roundtop Mtn. adds about 2.5 miles to the round-trip and 600 feet more in accumulated gain for a total of approximately 6.5 miles and 2100 feet in gain for those of you who elect to do the complete hike. If you intend to carpool please make sure that everyone in your group is on the same page.
Meet at the trailhead at 9:00 – the hike begins at 9:15! Carpool arrangements must be made on your own. Please contact me with any questions.
Nov 16, 2023 Regular Big Crow Mtn & Nun-da-ga-o Ridge Rating: Difficult Diane Selin WX
From the Crow Clearing parking area, we will hike in a clockwise direction and include a visit to Big Crow Mtn. before continuing along the ups and downs of the Soda Range, with its seemingly endless views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, to Weston Mountain. Foliage is past peak but the views are worth it in any season; who knows, the tops of the High Peaks may be crowned with snow for added beauty! From there we will descend to Lost Pond, then to the junction with the Hurricane Mtn. trail which we will follow W to the parking lot - completing a loop of about 6 miles and an accumulated gain of ~1700 feet (most trail descriptions say 1500 feet but there are lots of ups and downs that are not included in that number).
Meet at CTL at 7:30 for departure at 7:45; the High Peaks Welcome Center at 8:35; or the Keene Stewart’s at 9:05 for a short stop for those who may have forgotten something. The parking lot at the end of O’Toole Rd. is small - please do not plan on going directly to the trailhead unless you have a full car (we should be at the TH at 9:15ish). For those with less than a full car, plan on meeting at Stewart’s to carpool from one of the pull-offs on the way to the TH. This rating is rated as difficult so please email me if you plan to join me. Also, honestly assess your ability before you decide to attend. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me with any questions.
Nov 16, 2023 Alternate Pack Forest - Ben Wood Mtn Loop Hike Rating: Easy/Moderate Donna & Dana Westcott WX Pack Forest link
Pack Forest is a 2500-acre demonstration forest maintained by SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) located just north of Warrensburg. While its primary purpose is 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 along dirt logging trails to the top of Ben Wood Mtn. where we will have a leisurely lunch, enjoying the southerly views of the Forest and surrounding hills. After lunch, we will continue our loop by way of old Route 9 for a total of six and a half miles and about 500 feet of gain. Our route will be mostly flat but there are ups and downs with a steep three-quarter mile hike up Ben Wood Mtn., gaining about 350 feet of the total on our route.
Meet at CTL at 9:00 for departure at 9:15; or the Pack Forest parking lot at 9:45. Please visit the link above for a trail map and directions. For those using a GPS try 131 Pack Forest Rd., Warrensburg, NY 12885. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us with any questions.
Nov 24, 2023 Bonus Kalabus-Perry County Forest Hike Rating: Easy Lenore & Jack Reber WX
The Kalabus-Perry County Forest is owned by Saratoga County but managed by the Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park. It is located in the towns of Wilton and Northumberland, just outside of Saratoga Springs. It consists of generally flat trails, with a few small hills, totaling about 3.5 miles. Although much of the recent snow should be gone, the temp will be cold enough that there may be some ice on the trails, so please pack your spikes.
Meet at the Wilton Mall parking lot on Route 50, one mile east of Northway Exit 15, at Dick's Sporting Goods (left of store entrance) at 10:00. Please contact us with any questions.
Nov 30, 2023 Regular Stonewall Trail Hike Rating: Easy/Moderate Lenore & Jack Reber WX MLSP Trails Map
The Stonewall Trail is part of the trail system of Moreau Lake State Park (MLSP) situated across the Hudson River from what most people consider the main body of the park where Moreau Lake is located. The trail, appropriately named for the large number of stone walls and foundations located nearby, is 3+ miles long with about a 500-foot gain over rolling terrain. Along the way there will be views of the Hudson River and of the Spier Falls Dam from a new perspective for most of you. This will be a leisurely hike with lunch at a location to be determined on the day of the hike.
We will meet at the TH at 10:00. The trailhead is located at the end of Hawk Rd. which is a dead-end road off of Call St (CR 32/Corinth Rd.) about 4 miles east of the Village of Corinth. Directions via Corinth: From the intersection of Rt. 9N (Main St) and River St. (across from Tops) proceed E on River St., over the bridge crossing the Hudson, for .7 miles and turn R on CR32/Call St. Continue on CR32/Call St. for 3.2 miles and turn R on Hawk Rd. Continue on Hawk Rd. for .4 miles to the end of the pavement to the opened gate. Continue on the trailhead access road for .4 miles to the parking lot on the L and the TH. The dirt/stone road is a little rough but passable except by low-clearance vehicles. If you prefer, please make arrangements to park at the beginning of Hawk Road and carpool the remaining distance. Directions from Exit 18 of the Northway: From Exit 18 proceed W on Corinth Rd./CR28 for 6.4 miles and turn L on Hawk Road. Please contact us with any questions.
The Stonewall Trail hike was replaced in realtime due to ice on the access road. Instead the group hiked the trails of Hudson Pointe in Queensbury, led by Barbara Zuccaro.
Dec 7, 2023 Regular Shelving Rock Mountain and Falls Hike Rating: Moderate Diane Selin WX
These popular destinations are in the Lake George Wild Forest on the east side of the lake, with trailheads located along Shelving Rock Road (SRR). Parking is restricted along SRR to 9 numbered lots. We will start the day by spotting cars at Parking Lot #9, just before the gate to the Knapp Estate, where we will end the hike later in the day, while hikers prepare for the hike of Shelving Rock Mtn at Parking Lot #4. The 1.7-mile trail to the summit of Shelving Rock Mountain essentially follows an old carriage road, wide for most of the way, with switchbacks to ease the climb, gaining about 650 feet along the way. Over the years, trees have grown and now obstruct some of the views at the top but there are a couple of overlooks that make the hike a rewarding one. You should plan on an early lunch on top, with time to explore, before we retrace our steps back to our cars. For the second half of our hike, we will move cars to Parking Lot #1 to access the trailhead to the falls and lakeshore. The trail follows Shelving Rock Brook, passing closely to Shelving Rock Falls and on down to the lake. Once we reach the lake we continue our leisurely hike with lots of views of bays and mountains across the lake, for a total distance of 2 miles with little gain, ending our hike at Parking Lot #9 where we had previously spotted cars. While both of these hikes are on well-traveled trails the temperatures will be at or near freezing so please bring spikes to be on the safe side.
Meet at CTL at 8:45 for departure at 9:00 for an opportunity to carpool or caravan to the trailhead; or Parking Lot #4 on Shelving Rock Rd at around 9:45. Directions to the TH from CTL (distances are approximate): From CTL return to Rt 9 and turn L; continue N on Rt 9 for .75 mi and turn R on Rt 149; continue E on Rt 149 for 6 mi and turn L on Buttermilk Falls Rd; continue N on BF Rd for 3.1 mi and bear L on to Sly Pond Rd; continue N on SP Rd for 5.7 mi and bear L on to Shelving Rock Rd; continue on SR Rd for 5.9 mi to the TH at parking lot #4 on R. Please contact me if you have any questions.
Dec 14, 2023 Regular Mount Van Hoevenberg East Trail and Baxter Mountain (Owl's Head was substituted for Baxter due to late hour) Rating: Moderate Steve Mackey WX
We haven’t climbed Mount Van Hoevenberg in a while, so I thought it would be a good choice. Since it’s a fairly short hike and a long drive, we thought we would also throw in Baxter Mountain to make it worthwhile. Van Hoevenberg is a fairly new trail, with lots of rock steps and switchbacks, to make it pleasant and sustainable. It’s 3.2 miles round trip with an elevation gain of around 900 feet. It’s got a spectacular view of the High Peaks, but it can be windy. We will plan on lunch on top, but if it’s really cold, we’ll probably eat in the bobsled/luge visitor center. Baxter Mountain is on the drive home, only 15 minutes away. The trail is about 3 miles round trip, with around 800 feet of elevation gain. It again has an excellent view of the High Peaks from the summit, especially looking SW at the Johns Brook Valley, dominated by Mt. Marcy at the westernmost end. If everyone in your car just wants to climb one peak, you are welcome to do that. We will probably need spikes and might need snowshoes. Bring both with you, and we will decide at the trailhead what to wear, and to bring.
Meet at CTL at 7:45 for a departure at 8:00 or the Stewart’s in Keene at 9:15 for a pit stop and pick up items you may have forgotten or the Olympic Sports Complex (OSC) trailhead for Mt. Van Hoevenberg at 9:30ish. Trailhead parking for Mt. Van Hoevenberg is located on Bobsled Run Ln/Bob Run Rd off of NY 73. From the Stewart’s Shop in Keene continue WNW on NY 73 towards Lake Placid for ~8 miles and turn L onto Bob Run Road at the large sign for OSC. Follow signs to trailhead parking. We will caravan from the OSC to the Baxter Mtn. TH after the hike of Mt. Van Hoevenberg. Please contact me with any questions.
Dec 28, 2023 Regular Spruce Mountain Fire Tower Hike Rating: Moderate Steve Mackey WX
From the trailhead at the end of Fire Tower Road in the hamlet of South Corinth, we will hike about 3 miles RT and gain around 1,000 feet to the fire tower on top of Spruce Mtn, where we will have lunch. Spruce Mtn doesn't have any views from the summit, so you'll need to climb the tower to enjoy the panoramic vista. It is also one of the qualifying towers of the ADK Fire Tower Challenge and the tallest in the Adirondacks. The trail is void of snow but bring spikes just in case they are needed.
Meet at CTL at 9:15 for a departure of 9:30 or the trailhead at 10:00. For those of you who would like to go directly to the trailhead here are directions: From the North starting at Corinth - take 9N south for about 3 miles, turn right onto Wells Rd and continue for 2 miles. At the “T” intersection turn right onto Fire Tower Rd. to the TH. From the South starting from the intersection of Rt 9N and Wilton/Greenfield Rd (CR 36) continue north on 9N for about 4.75 miles, turn left onto Chapman St, and then a left onto Miner Rd. Proceed on Miner Rd for about 1.4 miles, and turn right onto Fire Tower Rd. to the TH. If you have any questions please email me.
2024
Jan 1, 2024 Bonus Cat Mountain First Day Hike Rating: Moderate Steve Mackey WX
Cat Mountain is part of the Cat and Thomas Mountain Preserve located west of Bolton Landing. Previously owned by the Lake George Land Conservancy the lands are now owned by the State of New York and part of the Adirondack Forest Preserve. The Lake George Land Conservancy maintains the trails of the preserve through DEC's volunteer stewardship agreement. From the Edgecomb Pond trailhead, we will follow the red trail (recently marked), with some steep sections, to the summit and panoramic views of Lake George and the surrounding mountains. After a leisurely lunch, we will return to the parking lot via the blue trail - a combination of an old logging road and a woods trail. The total RT distance is about 4.5 miles with a gain of 1050 feet. Weather will be a factor in the clothing and gear to bring. Spikes should be carried just in case there is ice. An updated forecast will be sent as the date gets closer. Note – this hike is offered as a NYS DEC First Day Hike with me as the leader. Dogs are welcome, but they need to be leashed, and obviously friendly. If you would like to register for these hikes or have any questions please email me.
Early hike: Meet at the Edgecomb Pond trailhead at 9:30. The trailhead is located off Edgecomb Pond Rd. in the Town of Bolton about 2 mi. NW of the hamlet of Bolton Landing. There are several ways to reach the trailhead - these directions are from Exit 24 of the Northway (Bolton Landing): From the exit take CR 11 (Bolton Landing-Riverbank Rd.) E for 2 mi to Valley Woods Rd. and turn R; continue on Valley Woods Rd. (passing the Thomas Mountain TH in a short distance) for 0.6 mi to Edgecomb Rd. and turn R; continue on Edgecomb Pond Rd. for ~1.5 mi to the TH parking area on the R.
Second hike: Meet at CTL at 9:30 for a 9:45 departure.
Jan 4, 2024 Regular Blue Ledges Hike Rating: Moderate Steve Mackey WX
I was looking for something “medium in difficulty”, that we hadn’t hiked in a while. I gave Peter a big list of possibilities, and he didn’t narrow it down like he usually does, so this is what I came up with. Blue Ledges, 4.8 miles, round trip, 965 feet elevation gain. Usually, this trail is rather muddy, and usually we go in the summer. (Probably no one is going to go swimming this time of year). Obviously, we don’t need to worry about mud, and obviously, we don’t need to worry about snowshoes. It probably wouldn’t hurt to throw your Micro-Spikes in your pack, just in case. We park on Northwood Club Road. Last year several of us cross-country skied the railroad that goes from North River to Tahawus. This is the first road crossing that you come to. I was thinking, if we ever get snow, to do a key swap trip with the Canes, one group starting at North River, the other at Northwood Club Road. If you might be interested, this is a good opportunity to check out one of the start/end spots. We’ll stop there, just to check it out. The weather for Thursday has a slight chance of snow, if it is more than flurries, we might move the trip to Friday, but most likely, we are going on Thursday. Right now, it looks like a high of 33, a low of 15, and cloudy.
Meet at CTL at 8:45 for a departure at 9:00; or at the Black Bear Restaurant, Northway Exit 26 at 9:30. Please take advantage of the Mobil Station just off the Northway at Exit 26 to pick up something you may have forgotten or use the restroom before meeting at the Black Bear. We should arrive at the TH at about 10:00; however, parking is limited so please meet at one of the designated meeting locations for carpooling unless you have a filled car. Please email me if you have any questions.
Jan 5, 2024 Bonus Graphite Range Community Forest Hike Rating: Moderate Linda Fedorick WX Trail map
A new hike on new trails! The Graphite Range Community Forest (GRCF) opened to the public on December 7th, so why not join me and become some of the first to explore this beautiful forest? Located just a few minutes outside of Saratoga Springs in the Towns of Wilton and Greenfield this multi-use, community-managed forest, owned by Saratoga County and maintained by the local land trust, Saratoga PLAN (Preserving Land and Nature), offers over 5 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, trail running, snowshoeing, and XC skiing. The majority of the trails are designed with a focus on mountain biking, but hiking on them is easy. If you like switchbacks you will love these trails. I’m not sure just how many switchbacks there are but enough to make every ascent a gradual one. The trails meander like a snake throughout the 200 acres with a couple of them following the roads used to access the processed graphite during the mining back in the early 1900’s, like Old Mine Road and Upper Mine Works Road. While there aren’t any grand vistas you will enjoy views of the ruggedness of the area with lots of rock formations, two streams, and the beautiful mixed forest plus seeing some of the abandoned mining operations. Our route will cover between 4-5 miles total and an estimated gain of 1200 feet, with lunch at the old mine entrance a little past noon. The afternoon hike will be much shorter than the morning one so you may even have time to do some shopping after the hike. Peter will join us and will offer an optional mile of hiking to those who have the energy and desire. Note – this hike will be a leisurely paced one! If you are a fast hiker consider skipping this hike unless you are willing to slow down significantly. The current weather forecast calls for a sunny day with increasing clouds and temps in the low-30s. However, with all the wet weather and freezing temps during the night there may be some ice to contend with so bring spikes!
Meet at the GRCF parking lot on the West side of Route 9 at 9:45; located about 3.3 miles North of its intersection with Rt 50; or 3.0 miles South of the intersection of Ballard Rd (CR33) and Rt 9 (Ballard Rd is at Exit 16 of the Northway). Please contact me with any questions.
Jan 11, 2024 Regular Potash Mountain Snowshoe Rating: Moderate Steve Mackey WX
With the weather a little sketchy this week I thought I would schedule something close to the Saratoga-Glens Falls area and Potash fits the bill, always a good backup. For those of you who aren’t familiar with it, Potash Mountain is located just west of NY 9N in the Town of Lake Luzerne. It isn’t a very high mountain at only 1700 feet but what it lacks in height it makes up in character. It is dome-shaped 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 hike, including the nature trail, is slightly less than 4 miles in total with a 1000-foot gain, steep in places but the route has received a great deal of trail improvements including stone steps and stairways in the steepest sections. Lunch will be at the overlook near the summit. It is scheduled as a snowshoe but a mixed bag of snow and rain is predicted for Tuesday followed by rain and warm temps on Wednesday so the snowpack may be affected. Thursday’s weather calls for a partly cloudy day with temps in the low to mid-30s. Plan to bring snowshoes and we will determine what to wear at the trailhead. Regardless, bring spikes. If it is necessary to move the hike to Friday an email will be sent out.
Meet at CTL at 9:30 for departure at 9:45; or the trailhead at 10:00ish. Trailhead parking is located on the R on Potash Rd just past its junction with Dunkley Rd, 0.5 mile N from where Potash Rd intersects Rt. 9N, directly across from the entrance to Luzerne State Campground, 7 miles S of Exit 21 of the Northway or about 3 mi N of Hadley-Luzerne High School. If you have any questions please email me.
Jan 18, 2024 Regular Kalabus-Perry County Forest Hike Rating: Easy/Moderate Lenore and Jack Reber WX Kalabus-Perry (County Forest) Link
After two failed attempts to come up with a new hike for the Canes and time running out for a timely posting to the schedule, we decided to offer a hike that anyone could participate in. The Kalabus-Perry County Forest is owned by Saratoga County but managed by the Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park. It is located in the Towns of Wilton and Northumberland, just outside Saratoga Springs. It consists of generally flat trails, with a few small hills, totaling about 3.5 miles. We are currently receiving some long-awaited snow from Mother Nature but the total amount won’t be known until the end of the day on Tuesday. We anticipate that there will be enough to require the use of snowshoes but bring your spikes just in case and we will decide on what is needed at the trailhead. Our route will be determined on the day of the hike but should include all of the trails and a side trip to the ponds. Lunch will be along the way.
Meet at the Wilton Mall parking lot on Route 50, one mile east of Northway Exit 15, at Dick's Sporting Goods (left of store entrance) at 10:00. Please contact us with any questions.
Jan 22, 2024 Bonus Boreas Ponds Ski Rating: Moderate/Difficult Steve Mackey WX
We were driving up near Newcomb on Sunday, and it was full-blown winter, with plenty of snow on the ground. That means it should be good cross-country skiing in the general area. My first choice is to ski into Boreas Ponds. It’s a 14-mile round-trip ski, so it is pretty far. The terrain is rolling hills. As long as it isn’t icy, the hills are reasonable to navigate. It appears that the weather is going to be cold, so snow conditions should be good. There is a great lean-to by the ponds, we’ll have lunch there. The long-range forecast has reasonable temperatures, but a cold start. Be sure to bring some backup clothing, in case you get sweaty on the way in. Several Canes have done this trip with me before so it isn’t ridiculously hard, but you want to be at least an intermediate skier, and in pretty good shape. If for some reason the conditions aren’t great or we have to break trail, we will continue driving a little farther and ski into Great Camp Santanoni.
Meet at CTL at 8:30 for a departure at 8:45. Email me if you have any questions.
Feb 1, 2024 Regular Round Mountain Snowshoe Rating: Moderate/Difficult Diane Selin and Steve Mackey WX
Round Mountain has always taken a backseat to its nearest neighbor, Noonmark Mtn. It is curious as to why that is because the summit is dotted with open rock overlooks and great mountain vistas. Although it has been climbed privately by some of the Canes and included as an option when Noonmark is scheduled, it has not been completed; perhaps because it adds a bit more than hikers want to do at the end of the day. We have teamed up to change that and are offering it as a stand-alone hike. The plan is to climb it as an out-and-back hike via the Weston Trail starting from the AMR/St. Huberts parking lot off of NY 73. This route totals about 4.2 miles with a gain of around 1800 feet. There is a possibility that it will become a loop by continuing off the summit to the Old Dix Trail and returning to the parking lot but that would be decided on the day of the hike. That option would add about .5 miles distance but no additional gain. It is anticipated that this will be a snowshoe but that will depend on Mother Nature. A determination will be made at the trailhead on what will be required so bring your spikes as well, a given during the winter anyway.
Meet at CTL at 8:15 for an 8:30 departure or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:20ish or the AMR/St. Huberts parking lot at 10:00ish. Please contact either one of us if you have any questions.Feb 5, 2024 Bonus Catamount Mountain Hike Rating: Difficult Steve Mackey WX
Fellow Cane, Diane Selin, is working on her Lake Placid 9’er challenge and wanted to hike Catamount Mountain on Monday so maybe you would like to join us? Catamount Mtn. is located in the Town of Black Brook, Clinton County, about 5 miles north of the hamlet of Wilmington. At just under 3,170 feet in elevation it isn’t a High Peak but don’t underestimate it when it comes to climbing it, especially this time of the year. The views from its false summit are super nice, only to be surpassed by the views from the actual one. The weather on Monday is going to be sunny with temps in the mid to upper 20s so we should be able to see some of the mountains of Vermont, views of the lakes to the north and west, and a unique view of Esther and Whiteface to the south. Some of us are thinking that it might be a good place to watch the eclipse, so this is a good opportunity to check it out. It’s kind of medium difficulty distance-wise, but has lots of open rock, which could make it very difficult. It’s around 4.5 miles round trip with around 1,500 elevation gain (although the DEC sign at the trailhead indicates a 2,362 foot gain). This time of year it may not be doable. Ideally, you want bare rock or a fair amount of snow. We don’t know exactly what we will find until we get there. It probably wouldn’t hurt to bring crampons, if you own them - also, spikes and snowshoes. I’m going to bring a rope too. We probably will climb Bear Den (near Whiteface as a plan B), it is another of the LP 9.
Meet at CTL at 7:45 for a departure at 8:00. Please contact me if you would like to join us or have any questions.
Feb 8, 2024 Regular Wolf Pond Snowshoe Rating: Moderate Gail Stauble WX
Wolf Pond is a small pond located in the Town of North Hudson, with its trailhead located ~12 miles W of Exit 29 of the Northway on the north side of Blue Ridge Road, immediately before crossing the Boreas River. The total round-trip distance is about 5 miles with an elevation gain of around 600 feet, evenly spread out along the winding route. It is anticipated that conditions will allow us to walk onto the pond for great views of some of the High Peaks and surrounding mountains. There is a nice lean-to at the pond where we can sit and have lunch. BTW – a little birdie told me that it is Peter’s birthday so maybe bring some treats to share and celebrate. Perhaps someone will bring some firewood for a small campfire.
Meet at CTL at 8:45 for a 9:00 departure or at the trailhead at 10:00ish. We will stop at the Sunoco gas station, diagonally across from Exit 29, for a short pit stop and an opportunity for you to pick up something you forgot at about 9:45. Please contact me with any questions. Feel free to offer a ski as an Alternate on this date.Feb 15, 2024 Regular Godwin Preserve and Pole Hill Pond Preserve Hike Rating: Moderate Leo Demers and Kim Brown WX Godwin Preserve Link
The Isabel La Roche Godwin Preserve (GP) is a beautiful property of forests and vernal pools in the uplands of Bolton Landing. It was purchased by the Lake George Land Conservancy (LGLC) in June 2016 and its nearly 2 miles of hiking trails were officially opened to the public in July of the same year. It is part of a large, unfragmented forest that adjoins Pole Hill Pond Preserve (PHPP) which allows visitors to visit both preserves from two trailheads. The PHPP property was purchased by LGLC in 2000 and subsequently sold to NYS in 2004. It is now part of the Adirondack Forest Preserve; however, its 4 miles of trails are maintained by LGLC. While the two preserves can be accessed from Rt 9N, the parking lot is tiny and not regularly plowed so we will begin our hike at the GP parking lot off of Padanarum Rd (see directions below). From the trailhead we will proceed on a well-marked trail on the GP to the PHPP, taking a spur trail to a viewpoint on the way. There is some gain to the viewpoint but nothing a Cane can’t handle. After a short visit, we return to the intersection and continue to Pole Hill Pond (PHP), less than a half-mile farther. The Pond is quite beautiful in all seasons so we will stop for a short visit before continuing our hike to Walnut Ridge, also part of the PHPP. The hike to Walnut Ridge is steep in sections, gaining around 600 feet in 0.7 miles, with several ledges with views. We’ll select the best one for our leisurely lunch. After lunch, we will retrace our steps back to our cars. The total estimated hike distance is 4 miles with around a 700-foot gain. It is not known what the snow conditions will be on hike day; however, bring both snowshoes and spikes and we will determine what will be required at the trailhead.
Meet at CTL at 9:00 for a departure at 9:15. The parking lot on Padanarum Rd is small so we are encouraging carpooling but if you plan on going directly to the trailhead please let us know - we should be at the TH at around 9:50ish. Directions to the trailhead on Padanarum Rd from the Northway (I-87): Note – the traditional route from CTL uses Exit 24 of the Northway; however, Riverbank Rd/CR 11 is closed East of Valley View Rd until further notice due to construction. The following directions are provided as one of several alternatives. Take Exit 22, Lake George, Bolton Landing, US 9, NY 9N, - keep Left for about 1 mile, and turn Left onto Lake Shore Dr/NY 9N. Continue on NY 9N for 10.9 miles, through the Hamlet of Bolton Landing, and turn Left onto Bolton Landing-Riverbank Rd/CR 11. Continue a short distance and turn Right onto North Bolton Rd/CR 41. Continue for 1.7 miles and keep Right onto Padanarum Rd. Continue for another 1.9 miles to a "Y" where Trout Falls Road breaks off to the Left and Padanarum continues to the Right. Continue on Padanarum Rd for 0.2 miles to the parking lot on the Right. If you are coming from another location please contact either one of us for directions or if you have any questions.
Feb 21, 2024 Bonus Gull and Spectacle Ponds Snowshoe Rating: Easy/Moderate Eric Potter WX
Instead of doing two separate hikes and a car ride covering the 1 mile between trailheads, we now have a route going to both ponds in one hike, easy, only possible in midwinter. The trailheads for these two ponds are located on Adirondack Rd. approximately 2.5 miles south of Alder Meadow Rd. on the east side of Schroon Lake. From the Gull Pond trailhead, we hike 0.6 miles to lovely Gull Pond, then over the pond on the ice and down a gentle wooded draw to Harrison Marsh (actually a pond with wetland margins), across the Marsh and thence south along Shanty Bottom Creek - a gorgeous easy wooded route - to connect with the Spectacle Pond trail near its midpoint. We've come about 1.7 miles so far, all flat or gently downhill. We then take the regular trail SE to Spectacle Pond and our lunch spot, a very wild spot with (we hope) stellar views of nearby Pharaoh Mountain. Then back to a couple of cars we've previously spotted at the Spectacle Pond Trailhead, for drivers to retrieve their cars from the Gull Pond trailhead, a mile away. Total distance, about 4 miles, with only small elevation gains of 400 ft total. Note – this is a SNOWSHOE!
Meet at CTL at 9:15 for a 9:30 departure, or Stewarts in Schroon Lake via Exit 27 at 10:10, or at the Gull Pond trailhead at 10:30. Email me if you have any questions.
Mar 1, 2024 Bonus Trails of Moreau Lake State Park Hike Rating: Moderate Lenore and Jack Reber WX
For our hike at MLSP, we will start at the Spring Trailhead, located on the south side of Spier Falls Road, at the big bend in the Hudson River, about 1 mile upstream from the Spier Falls Dam. From here we will hike the Western Ridge Trail to the ridge where we will decide on the specific route from a variety of trails available, based on the wishes of the participants. The options will result in the total distance to be between 4 and 5.2 miles and gains of between 900 and 1200 feet. The current weather forecast for Friday calls for a sunny day with temps in the mid-40s. Snow should not be a concern but please bring spikes!
Meet at the MLSP office parking lot at 9:30 to caravan/carpool or at the Spring Trailhead parking lot at 10:00 (see above for location). MLSP is located off Exit 17 of the Adirondack Northway at 605 Old Saratoga Road. Please contact us with any questions.
Mar 8, 2024 Bonus Cat and Thomas Mountains Hike Rating: Moderate/Difficult Steve Mackey WX
Cat and Thomas Mountains are located in a land preserve named after them, about 2 miles west of the hamlet of Bolton Landing. Previously owned by the Lake George Land Conservancy (LGLC), the lands are now owned by the State of New York and part of the Adirondack Forest Preserve. LGLC maintains the trails of the preserve through DEC's volunteer stewardship agreement. The plan for the day is to offer a lollipop loop hike to Cat Mountain only and, for those who would like to add some adventure to the hike, a thru-hike that would include Thomas Mtn. Those hikers electing the Cat-only hike would be on their own after we reach the summit of Cat Mtn and would need to carpool with those who have the same plan. In any case, both groups would start together. From the Edgecomb Pond trailhead we will follow the red trail, with some steep sections, to the summit of Cat Mountain and panoramic views of Lake George and the surrounding mountains. At this point, we will have hiked about 2 miles and gained approximately 1000 feet. This will be an early lunch for the Cat-only hikers and time for snacks for the thru-hikers. The Cat-only hikers will return to Edgecomb Pond via the blue-marked trail for an additional 2 miles and about 150 feet gain (Note: Do not use the trail map shown on the LGLC website – it has not been updated to show the current red-marked trail). The thru-hikers will continue to Thomas Mountain by first taking the blue-marked trail 0.5 miles to the junction with the Richard Hayes Phillips Trail (yellow markers). From there we continue on the yellow-marked trail in a northerly direction, approximately 3 miles and an additional gain of about 700 feet, with lots of ups and downs, to the summit of Thomas Mtn — lunch will be on the way. The overlook at Thomas Mtn provides a 180° view of Lake George and the surrounding mountains. After enjoying a well-earned break we will descend on the yellow-marked trail to the blue-marked trail and continue to our previously spotted cars at the Valley Woods Road parking lot, a distance of 1.5 miles. Our route will total about 7 miles and a gain of about 1700 feet. Unfortunately, I will not be able to scout the route, but we can expect icy sections and perhaps some remaining snow on the trail between Cat and Thomas since it is little used. Snowshoes will not be needed, but bring spikes, and your boots should be waterproof!
Meet at CTL at 8:30 for a departure of 8:45 or the Edgecomb Trailhead parking lot at 9:15 where hikers will be dropped off and cars will be spotted at the Valley View TH parking lot. There are several ways to reach the trailhead — these directions are from Exit 24 of the Northway (Bolton Landing): From the exit take CR 11 (Bolton Landing-Riverbank Rd.) E for 2 mi to Valley Woods Rd and turn R; continue on Valley Woods Rd (passing the Thomas Mountain TH in a short distance) for 0.6 mi to Edgecomb Pond Rd and turn R; continue on Edgecomb Pond Rd for about 1.5 mi to the TH parking area on the R. Please email me if you have any questions.
Mar 14, 2024 Alt Vischer Ferry Hike on the Mohawk Towpath Rating: Easy Sharon Gavitt WX
The Vischer Ferry Nature Preserve and Historical Park consists of about 700 acres of wetlands and floodplains forming the southern border of the Town of Clifton Park between Riverview Road and the Mohawk River. For our hike, we will enjoy a route on the Mohawk Towpath along the remnants of the Erie Canal on a hard-packed, level gravel path, shared by walkers and bicyclists. The total distance is about 4.5 miles starting at the Ferry Drive entrance to the historic Whipple Bridge and back. I recently scouted the path and found it to be dry but those conditions could change so wear appropriate footwear. There are historic features along our route and an excellent bird-watching area. The beavers have been busy chewing away at the trees and if we are lucky we will spot them at work! A tailgate lunch at the Ferry Drive entrance is planned with the option of visiting the nearby Vischer Ferry General Store to buy lunch or a drink, about a 5-minute walk.
Meet at the Ferry Drive Gateway Entrance parking lot at the end of Ferry Drive in the hamlet of Vischer Ferry at 10:00. There are several ways to get there - these are from exit 8 of the Northway. From exit 8 take Crescent Rd. (CR92) W for 2.5 miles (the road changes to CR90 but it is still Crescent Rd) and bear R onto Riverview Rd. In a short distance turn L onto Ferry Drive and continue to the end. Please contact me if you have any questions.Mar 14, 2024 Regular Daniels Road Overlook Hike Rating: Moderate Lenore and Jack Reber WX
The 523-acre Daniels Road State Forest is located just to the north of the City of Saratoga Springs in the Town of Greenfield. These lands were formerly leased to the Saratoga Mountain Bike Association (SMBA) by the Nature Conservancy and Finch Pruyn but were officially purchased by NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). SMBA maintains the trails within the State Forest per agreement with DEC. The lands are mostly mixed forest and feature mountain bike trails throughout the property. The trails range from easy to difficult and provide hiking opportunities as well – trails are mostly undulating with some small hills. This will be our third Canes visit to the State Forest and a new route. Our Overlook hike is a 5+ mile hike of short ups and downs with rocks, roots, runoff, and fingers of bedrock on the mountain bike trails. This is the southern tip of the Adirondack Mountains and has great rock formations and lovely little streams and ponds. The mountain bikers have added a few interesting surprises also. Snow and ice should not be an issue but bring your spikes just in case. Also, there may be sections of the trail that are wet from recent rain and snow melt so your hiking boots should be waterproof.
Meet at the Skidmore North Woods Falstaff parking lot on Perimeter Rd. to carpool or caravan to the trailhead at 9:30 for departure at 9:45 – please refer to the embedded link to the Skidmore interactive map for the location of the Falstaff lot (Select Parking from the menu and click on Falstaff’s Lot). Alternatively, meet at the official trailhead/kiosk at the end of a dirt/gravel access road just east of the Skidmore riding center on the north side of Daniels Road at 9:45ish (Note – NOT at the small parking area opposite where Clinton St. intersects Daniels Rd.). Directions to the trailhead access road (one of several ways): Daniels Rd joins Rt 9N on the west and Rt 9 (aka Maple Ave) on the east, just north of the City of Saratoga Springs. If you are arriving from Rt 9N take Daniels Rd E for 2.5 miles to the large DEC State Forest sign; if you are arriving from Rt 9 take Daniels Rd. W for 1.2 miles to the same sign. On the east side of the DEC sign proceed N on the dirt/gravel access road 0.5 miles to the trailhead parking lot. Note that this access road contains a few speed bumps so drive slowly. Please contact us with any questions. DEC trail map Skidmore campus map
Mar 21, 2024 Regular LeVine Preserve Hike Rating: Easy/Moderate Gail Stauble WX
This is a wonderful hike with 3 miles of rolling terrain, two creeks to follow, a view of an old sawmill along Cadman Creek, and even a hike on an esker. Lunch will be at the old homestead (Circa 1920s?) with its well-preserved foundation and hand-dug well – there is even a picnic table. The LeVine Nature Preserve is owned and maintained by Saratoga PLAN and is just down the road from its big sister - the Hennig Preserve. There are essentially four loop trails within the 177-acre preserve plus Taber Road Trail, an old abandoned dirt town road that bisects the preserve.
Meet at the LeVine Preserve sign at 10:30. Directions: There are several ways to reach the preserve but for those of you using a GPS navigator try using 303 Centerline Rd., Middle Grove, NY (or Galway if Middle Grove doesn’t work) - that will get you close. Alternatively, I will meet at the Saratoga Amtrak Station at 10:00 to carpool/caravan to the trailhead. From there turn R onto West Ave from Station Lane; continue about .25 miles to NY 29 and turn R; continue on NY 29 for 12 miles to Barkersville Road (CR 16) - you will see the Waterwheel Village Store on the NW corner. Turn R here and stay on Barkersville Road for 2.7 miles. The road will take several sharp turns, but stay on Barkersville Road until it intersects with Glenwild Road. Turn L on Glenwild Road, and after driving 1.4 miles, turn L on Centerline Road. In approximately 0.8 miles, you will see the kiosk for the LeVine Preserve on the S side of Centerline Road. Alternatively, if you are familiar with getting to the Hennig Preserve just continue W on Centerline an additional 1.3 miles to LeVine. Please contact me with any questions. Trail map
Mar 29, 2024 Bonus Rooster Comb & Snow Mtns Loop Snowshoe Rating: Moderate/Difficult Peter Fedorick WX
The Keene area did not receive nearly the same amount of snow that our area did so I decided to take advantage of the nice day Friday and schedule a hike of Rooster Comb and Snow Mtns. The trail to Rooster Comb is broken so it should be clear sailing at least to there. We begin our hike at 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 of Rooster Comb (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 Mtn. and the Ausable Valley. After lunch, we retrace our steps to the trail to Snow Mtn. (2,370’) for more beautiful views in several directions. As an option, hikers who do not wish to visit Snow Mtn. may return to the parking lot from the junction mentioned – make sure you are carpooling with those with the same plans. For our return we again retrace our steps to a connecting trail that will take us back to the parking lot, completing the loop – about 5.6 miles and a 2,000-foot gain for the day. Please bring snowshoes and spikes – we will determine the appropriate gear at the trailhead.
Meet at CTL at 8:00 for a departure of 8:15; or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:10; or at the trailhead at 9:30ish. If you have any questions please contact me.
Apr 16, 2024 Bonus Buck Mountain Hike from Pilot Knob Rating: Moderate/Difficult Steve Mackey WX
Buck Mountain is one of the more popular hikes on the east side of Lake George offering great views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. We typically hike from Shelving Rock Road in the east; however, we thought we would try the route from the west this time – only the second time for the Canes I believe, though many of us have done this popular trip other times. We will hike from the west 6.6 miles round-trip with a significant 2000-foot elevation gain. The steeper sections will be in the second part of the ascent with gains spread out over the length of the hike. This route offers multiple viewpoints toward the west before reaching the sweeping vista from the summit. Although I wasn’t able to scout the trail we did receive a report on the trail conditions as of Saturday, April 13th. As expected there are wet and muddy sections but no snow or ice. Streams are flowing with lots of water from the rain and melting snow so trekking poles will help. The current weather forecast calls for a sunny day with temps in the 60s.
Meet at CTL at 8:45 for departure at 9:00 or the Buck Mountain trailhead, located at 1750 Pilot Knob Road, at 9:20ish. The TH is 2.7 miles north of the Schumann Preserve on the same road for those of you familiar with that preserve. Please email me if you have any questions.
Apr 16, 2024 Alternate Stewart's Ledge Hike from Pilot Knob Rating: Easy Kim Brown a class="blink" href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-73.60332584381102&lat=43.51791780498988" target="_blank">WX
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. 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 afterward. The trail is in good shape and the current weather forecast calls for a sunny day with temps in the 60s.
Meet at CTL at 9:45 for departure at 10:00 or at the Buck Mountain trailhead, located at 1750 Pilot Knob Road, at 10:20ish. The TH is 2.7 miles north of the Schumann Preserve on the same road for those of you familiar with that preserve. Do not hesitate to contact me with any questions.
Apr 22, 2024 Bonus Buck Mountain Fire Tower and Castle Rock Hike Rating: Easy/Moderate Eric Potter WX
This bonus outing was scheduled to take advantage of a nice weather day for the views from two Central Adirondack summits and to avoid the black fly season which begins in mid-May. It is a longer drive than the usual scheduled Canes outings. Participants who do not want to participate in the second hike (Castle Rock) can return home directly from Buck Mountain trailhead, so plan carpooling accordingly.
Buck Mountain Fire Tower - This is a new hike for most of us, on a new modern-design trail in the Whitney Wilderness north of the hamlet of Long Lake, 2.5 miles round trip, 500-foot elevation gain. There is plenty of parking at the new trailhead, about 15 minutes north of Long Lake on the road to Little Tupper Lake. There is no view from the ground level at the summit, but the fire tower has good views of the Whitney Wilderness and other firetower summits in Hamilton County. Lunch will be at a location to be decided during the hike. The hike is part of both the Hamilton County and ADK Fire Tower challenges so if you are aspiring to complete either or both this is your chance.
Castle Rock - This is a big rock knob near the north shore of Blue Mountain Lake, with spectacular views of the lake and the connected Eagle and Utowana Lakes as well as the surrounding mountains. The overlook is a great place for a snack and a lengthy break. The trailhead parking is near the Minnowbrook Conference Center on Maple Lodge Road, very near the Adirondack Experience (formerly Blue Mountain Museum). We'll do the loop hike of 3.4 miles, 700-foot elevation gain to the summit. This is a fairly easy family-type hike with superb views, well worth the effort.
Meet at CTL at 7:15 for departure at 7:30 or the Stewart’s in Indian Lake at 8:30. It is about a 2-hour drive (80 mi) to the Buck Mtn TH from CTL so we should arrive at around 9:30ish, returning to CTL at about 5:00 (est). If you are interested in attending or have any questions please send me an email. This would not be a commitment but would give me an idea of the interest.
Apr 25, 2024 Regular Garnet Hill Triad - Balm of Gilead, William Blake Pond & Hooper Mine Hike Rating: Moderate Diane Selin WX
The trailhead for all three of these destinations is located adjacent to the Garnet Hill Ski complex in North River. Our loop hike will begin by first hiking to an overlook just shy of the summit of Balm of Gilead Mtn, gaining about 550 feet in less than 1 mile. The overlook offers extensive views west, including Thirteenth Lake and its surrounding mountains. From just below the summit we will bushwhack thru open woods, slightly downhill, to the shores of William Blake Pond for lunch, before continuing to the abandoned Hooper Garnet Mine for some exploration and back to the starting point. The total distance for the hike is around 3 miles with a total gain of about 725 feet. While the total distance seems short this hike will be done at a leisurely pace with lots of time allowed for exploration.
Meet at CTL at 8:45 for departure at 9:00 or Stewart’s in North Creek at 9:45 or the trailhead parking at 10:15ish. The trailhead parking is in front of the tennis courts adjacent to the ski center. Don't hesitate to contact me with any questions.
May 1, 2024 Bonus Prospect Mountain Hike Rating: Moderate Steve Mackey WX
We will start from the Lake George Recreation Area and follow a route we have hiked many times. In my opinion, it is by far the best route up Prospect. For some reason, it never got marked with trail markers, so a friend and I got permission and recently put up trail markers. We also built rock stepping stones across some streams, built/repaired many water bars, and built a treadway on the steep eroded section. It’s not quite done, but is coming along nicely. The round trip distance is 5.2 miles, with a gain of 1,430 feet. Much of the trail is along a beautiful stream, with several small waterfalls. I’m not sure about wildflowers, but we are getting into peak season, so hopefully we’ll see some. There are plenty of picnic tables on the summit, so obviously we’ll find a nice spot, and have lunch up there.
Meet at the Lake George Recreation Center parking lot at 10:00 - located at the end of Transfer Road on the north side of NY 9N, slightly over .5 miles west of Exit 21 of the Northway. Please contact me with any questions.
May 16, 2024 Regular Griffith Lake and Baker Peak Loop Hike – Danby VT Rating: Difficult Tim Ward WX
A new hike for the Canes, on a route that will take us to a lake and a mountain top in the Big Branch Wilderness Area of VT. Starting from the Lake Trail trailhead on South End Rd. near Danby, VT we will walk up an old woods road to McGinn Brook where there's a junction either to Griffith Lake or Baker Peak. I'd suggest we first hike to the lake where we'd eat lunch. There's an open area on the lake quite suitable for this. Afterwards, we'd climb Baker Peak which features a pleasant view plus exquisite rock formations. We'd then descend to the brook junction, then back to the trailhead. Total miles are about 8.2 with about a 2,250-foot ascent. In many ways, this hike has all the iconic features we all love and is difficult enough to appreciate you've done something.
Meet at CTL at 7:30 for departure at 7:45; or meet at the south end of the Price Chopper in Granville at 8:30 (located NE of the intersection of Rt 22 and 149 in back of RiteAid/Walgreens); or at the trailhead at 9:15. Directions to the trailhead: From the center of Danby (intersection of Rt 7 and Mt. Tabor Rd./Brooklyn Rd. in the hamlet of Danby/Mt. Tabor), travel 2.0 miles S on Rte 7, turn E (left) on South End Road (Forest Road 259). Follow FR 259 for about .5 miles, past a sharp R, to the trailhead parking on the L. If you are interested in attending or have any questions please send me an email. This would not be a commitment but would give me an idea of the interest.
May 16, 2024 Alternate Hudson Crossing Park Rating: Easy Sharon Gavitt WX
This hike is a substitute for the Battlefield hike previously scheduled. From the Hudson Crossing parking lot we will first hike to the northern end of the park (aka Lock C5 Island) at Eagles Point and then return via the Hudson River Trail, continuing in a southern direction to Fort Hardy Park (FHP) in the Village of Schuylerville. From FHP we continue south along the Old Champlain Towpath Trail to the historic Schuyler House for lunch. After lunch, we will retrace our steps to FHP and onto Hudson Crossing Park and our cars. It is estimated that the total hiking distance is less than 5 miles of flat trail.
Meet at the Hudson Crossing Park parking lot at 10:00. From the intersection of NY29 and US4/NY32 (across from Stewart’s in Schuylerville) head N on US4/NY32 (Broad St.) for .8 miles and turn R onto CR42. Continue on CR42 for about .3 miles to the parking lot on your R. Distances are approximate. Please contact me with any questions.
May 24, 2024, Friday Bonus Jay Mountain Combo Hike Rating: Moderate/Difficult Pete Jr. and Chris Fedorick WX
Simply put, Jay Mountain is a super nice hike. Located about 7 miles NE of the intersection of Rt 73 and 9N in the Town of Jay, the primary feature of this hike is the mountain’s 1.5-mile open ridge, offering panoramic views of the Lake Champlain Valley, the Greens of Vermont, the High Peaks and the surrounding mountains and valleys. Considered by most as a challenging hike, it is being offered as two separate hikes starting at the same time, with different goals, allowing participants of varying abilities to enjoy the mountain. Peter Sr. will lead the first group at a slower pace than the main group for 2.4 miles and an accumulated gain of about 1800 feet from the trailhead to the first overlook. The 360° view from the overlook is spectacular. At the overlook, they will enjoy a leisurely lunch while some of the group may decide to explore the nearby ridge, not venturing too far. Since this is their goal they will return to the trailhead from here.
Chris and I (Pete Jr), leading the second group, will reach the overlook before Peter Sr.’s group and, after a short visit, will continue along the open ridgeline, enjoying the expansive views, for an additional 1.1 miles and gaining another 450 feet to the “Big Cairn” where we will have lunch. After lunch, those wishing to go to the very interesting true summit will hike an additional 1.0 miles RT to a point only one foot higher but which offers terrific views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains. The “Cairn Group” will wait for the summit group unless someone volunteers to sweep a group back down. Anyone remaining at the “Big Cairn” will rejoin the summit group for the final sweep back down.
To put the hike in perspective, the hike to the open ridgeline is similar to Hurricane Mtn in trail conditions, distance, and ascent. A tad bit more maybe. The total hiking distance for the second group is about 8.2 miles RT and a total accumulated gain of about 2600 feet. Since there are two separate hiking groups it is important to decide ahead of time which hike you would like to attend and make sure that you carpool from CTL with those going on the same hike, as arrival times back at CTL will most likely be different. Also, please contact me if you are interested in hiking the longer route or have any questions about either hike. This would not be a commitment but would give me an idea of the interest.
Meet at CTL at 7:30 for departure at 7:45; or the High Peaks Rest Area at 8:35ish; or at the trailhead at 9:15ish. A short stop at the Stewart’s in Keene is planned immediately before proceeding to the trailhead.
May 30, 2024 Regular Swede Mountain and Deer Leap Hikes Rating: Moderate Steve Mackey and Leo Demers WX
We came up with two fairly easy hikes that aren’t too long a drive, and both have good views. First, we will hike Swede Mountain, located off Rt 8 about 13 miles E of Exit 25 of the Northway. It has a fire tower that was reopened to the public a couple of years ago. It’s a round trip distance of 2.1 miles and a gain of 262 feet. When it first opened, the brain trust of Peter, Tim Ward, and I (Steve) figured out how to build the trail up the first steep hill. Then I spent many days building steps and fixing some of the wet areas. Most of the year the trail is dry, but if we get a lot of rain, it could be muddy in a couple of sections. Bring appropriate footwear if we’ve had a lot of rain beforehand. Lunch will be at a location TBD on the day of the hike, dependent upon the time we complete the Swede Mtn hike. Rest assured it will have a nice view!
The next hike will be to Deer Leap located at the northern end of the Tongue Mountain Range. The trailhead is only a 13-mile drive from the Swede Mtn trailhead and on the way home so it is convenient for this double hike. It’s a 3.5-mile round trip with a gain of 767 feet. The traditional overlook is starting to become overgrown, but the last time we were there, a gentleman told us about a better overlook and gave us the coordinates. It’s a bit shorter, so the mileage will be a little less. Most of this trail is really pleasant. There are a lot of open woods with plenty of oak trees. The Glens Fall-Saratoga Chapter of ADK takes care of this trail, and we were in here a couple of weeks ago, cutting blowdown and making water bars. As far as I know, it should be nice and dry.
Meet at CTL at 8:30 for departure at 8:45 or the Horicon Community Center at 9:15ish, located on Rt 8 about 2 miles E of exit 25 of the Northway on the R, across from Mill Pond, for a brief stop (bathrooms available) or the Rt 8 trailhead, located on the R about 10 miles E of the Community Center, at 9:30ish. If you have any questions please contact either one of us.
Jun 5, 2024 Alternate Saratoga Battlefield Historical Walk-About on the Wilkinson Trail Rating: Easy Denis Foley WX Saratoga Battlefield Info
A favorite hike for many of us, the Wilkinson Trail at the Saratoga National Historic Park (Battlefield) 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. Beginning at the Saratoga National Battlefield Visitor Center we will hike the Wilkinson Trail at a leisurely pace over gentle slopes around the northern section of the battlefield for a total distance of around 3 miles. Along the way, we will make stops at various interpretive stations. We should be back at the visitor center by 1 pm where we will have lunch. After lunch, depending on the wishes of the group, we could opt to visit the Saratoga Monument, about a ten-minute drive from the Battlefield.
Meet at the Saratoga Battlefield Visitor Center (VC) at 10 am. For information on the Wilkinson Trail and directions to the Battlefield please click on the Info link above. For those of you who have access to a GPS, the address is 648 Route 32, Stillwater, NY 12170. If you have any questions, please contact me.
Jun 18, 2024 Bonus Stewarts Bridge Reservoir Paddle Rating: Easy/Moderate Joanne Armstrong WX
We will paddle Stewarts Bridge Reservoir (aka Stewarts Pond) - the impounded waters of the Sacandaga River lying between Stewarts Dam, Hadley, downstream, and the Conklingville Dam, Edinburg, upstream. Its irregular shoreline lends itself to exploring, and the launch area is a perfect place for lunch, swimming or just chilling out. The waters of the reservoir are suitable for all types of canoes and kayaks. Bald eagles have been observed in the past so bring a camera and binoculars.
Meet at the hamlet of Hadley’s train station at the intersection of Rockwell St./Stony Creek Rd. (CR1) at 10:00 or the launch area around 10:30. For those of you opting to go directly to the launch site its access is on a marked side road, on the left, about 4 miles west along CR4/N. Shore Rd from the train station noted above. Continue on the access road to the end, at the shore of the reservoir, where there's plenty of parking. Please contact me with any questions.
Jun 21, 2024 Friday Regular Haystack Mtn Hike and/or West Rupert, VT Bike Rating: Moderate Tim Ward WX
There appears to be an interest in Vermont outings so I am leading another but this time as a morning hike, afternoon bike, or a combo hike-bike! We will begin our day with a hike of Haystack Mountain near Pawlet, VT. Haystack Mtn, one of the Three Sisters, a group of peaks in the northern Taconic Mountains east of Granville, NY, features distinctive sheer cliffs and dramatic outcrops of slate and quartzite. From this modest 1900-foot summit one can see west to Glens Falls and south to Mt. Equinox. The hike is about 3 miles RT with an accumulated gain of approximately 1200 feet. In the past, the Canes have enjoyed this hike and has always been well-attended. We intend to arrive at the open-rock summit well before the typical lunch break to continue our active day. Those who plan on the hike-only option could remain on top, relax, stay for lunch, and return to their cars whenever they choose, or consider joining those who intend to bike in the afternoon for lunch in West Rupert, VT.
After our hike, we will regroup at Sherman’s General Store in West Rupert and join with the bikers-only group. From here we will caravan to the nearby lunch spot and enjoy a leisurely lunch along an idyllic, clear stream under a large sycamore tree. After lunch, there are some options for some more exercise. Some could bike on the adjacent rail trail as far as you'd like. Others might wish to do a loop on local roads which would take you up a hill east of West Rupert and then back down to the village. Some of this stretch has to be walked due to steepness but the scenery more than makes up for the inconvenience, also the ride back down more than compensates for the effort. If we luck out with a nice day the participants will be more than satisfied. Returning to either Price Chopper or CTL will be on your own so make sure if you are carpooling all the riders have the same plans.
Meet at CTL at 7:45 for a departure at 8:00 or at the south end of the Price Chopper in Granville at 8:40ish (located NE of the intersection of Rt 22 and 149 in back of RiteAid/Walgreens); or meet at Sherman’s General Store in West Rupert at 12:30ish for the bikers-only and those that plan on joining the group for lunch. Sherman's General Store is located at 1137 State Hwy 153, West Rupert, VT. Please email me if you intend to bike-only or have any questions.
Jun 28, 2024 Friday Bonus Buck Mountain from Hogtown Rating: Moderate Steve Mackey WX
This trail starts from Shelving Rock Road near Dacy Clearing. There are designated parking spots on each side of the road as well as a dispersed camping spot near the trailhead. The trail winds its way through the forest with a few ups and downs for the first mile, then climbs more steadily with a few flat sections to catch your breath before making its way to the top. Views from the open rock summit area are expansive, encompassing Lake George and the surrounding mountains and even some of the High Peaks on a clear day. While this trail does not reward you with any views until you reach the summit, it is an enjoyable hike and a shorter approach to the summit than the trail from Pilot Knob. This route gets a lot less use compared to the route from Pilot Knob, so hopefully we will have the trail all to ourselves. The total distance is about 5 miles, with around a 1,130-foot gain. 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. Also, for those of you who have extra energy at the end of the hike, there may be an opportunity to visit the nearby Shelving Rock area for a swim – a decision we will make after the hike. Please make sure you carpool with someone who may want to visit the bays around Shelving Rock or swim.
Meet at CTL at 8:45 for departure at 9:00; or the Buck Mtn. trailhead on Shelving Rock Rd at 9:45ish. Directions to the TH from CTL (distances are approximate): From CTL return to Rt 9 and turn L; continue N on Rt 9 for .75 mi and turn R on Rt 149; continue E on Rt 149 for 6 mi and turn L on Buttermilk Falls Rd; continue N on BF Rd for 3.1 mi and bear L on to Sly Pond Rd; continue N on SP Rd for 5.7 mi and bear L on to Shelving Rock Rd; continue on SR Rd for 1.2 mi to TH parking on L. Please email me if you have any questions.
Jul 12, 2024 Friday Regular/Bonus Picnic on the AT/LT & a Swim in Big Branch – Danby, Vt Rating: Moderate Hike leader: Tim Ward WX
It’s been nearly five years since we’ve done this hike with a swim in Big Branch, so it’s overdue. It's that warm, humid time of year again when thoughts of cooling off in a mountain brook may come to mind. Such a brook would be hard to beat in Big Branch in Mt Tabor near Danby, Vermont. We'll walk the Long Trail south for about 1.3 miles, cross Big Branch on a nice suspension bridge; continue south for a short distance, then take a side trail through flowery fields (path mowed) to the next bridge over a tributary. There is a lonesome lean-to (Old Job Shelter) with two picnic tables where we will share a picnic lunch. Then we retrace our steps to the suspension bridge, then a short distance to another lean-to where we leave the trail and walk downstream along Big Branch for about 1/2 mile to a picture-perfect not very deep, sunny pool. One can swim, sit in, wade, or just chill out in or next to this summer oasis. From here it's a short steep climb up the hillside to the Long Trail and back to the parking area. Altogether about 5 miles of walking.
Meet at CTL at 8:15 for departure at 8:30; or meet at the south end of the Price Chopper in Granville at 9:15 (located NE of the intersection of Rt 22 and 149 in back of RiteAid/Walgreens); or at the trailhead at 10:15. The Griffith Lake trailhead is located at the Big Branch parking area for the AT/LT on Brooklyn Rd/USFS 10, on the right, ~3 miles NE of the intersection of Rt 7 and Mt. Tabor Rd./Brooklyn Rd. in the hamlet of Danby/Mt. Tabor. If you are driving from the capital district area and would like to volunteer to meet at Panera Bread in Latham (or some other location) to caravan or carpool please let me know so we can modify the write-up. Please email me with any questions.
Jul 12, 2024 Bonus/Alt South Pond Paddle, Hamilton County Rating: Moderate Leaders: Lenore and Jack Reber WX
A new paddle for the Canes! This paddle has been done privately by some of us but never scheduled as an official Cane outing – until now. South Pond, really a lake, lies just north of Blue Mountain Lake. It has a mostly rocky shoreline, and many large and small islands, including a campsite and a great lunch and swim spot. There are a few houses and cabins but the lake has a pristine feel and great views of Blue Mountain. The trail to the lake, about a tenth of a mile, has been improved and the launch site is small and sandy.
Meet at CTL at 7:30 for departure at 7:45 or the Indian Lake Stewarts at 9:00 for a short pit stop. It is a 25-minute drive from there to the trailhead (TH) and parking. Parking at the TH is very limited. If you plan on driving directly to the TH we ask that you contact us so that we can make any accommodations necessary. Unfortunately, neither Jack nor I will be able to meet anyone at CTL but we are confident that someone will be able to lead the group to the Stewart’s at Indian Lake. Please contact us with any questions.
Jul 18, 2024 Regular Owl Head Lookout Rating: Moderate Gail Stauble WX
Owl Head Lookout (not to be confused with Owl's Head in Keene) is part of the Giant Mountain Wilderness area. The trailhead is located on the south side of Route 9N, about 4.5 miles west of Elizabethtown. From the parking area, we'll follow a dirt road for a few hundred yards, then we turn SE 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 miles, 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, Rocky Peak Ridge, Green, Knob Lock, and Hurricane (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, elevation 2530 feet, gain of 1260 feet.
Meet at CTL at 8:15 for a departure of 8:30 or the High Peaks Rest Area at 9:15 or at the trailhead at 10:00. Please contact me with any questions.
Aug 2, 2024 Fri Bonus Stewart Creek and Cod Pond Hike Rating: Easy/Moderate Lenore and Jack Reber WX
A new hike for the Canes! Stewart Creek and Cod Pond are located in the Wilcox Lake Wild Forest located in the southeastern part of the Central Adirondacks. The two destinations share a trailhead and parking lot located on the south side of NY 8 about 13.5 miles south (west) of the intersection of NY8/28 in Wevertown, or 8.5 miles north of the intersection of NY30/8 north of Wells. We begin our day with a hike on the Stewart Creek Trail (aka Oregon Trail), passing the junction with the Cod Pond Trail in a short distance on the right. This hike takes us gently up to Stewart Creek, which has myriad ways of showing off its water and cardinal flowers. The trail is also varied, stony or muddy, soft needles or rocks. There is a wonderful waterfall that begins under the bridge crossing Stewart Creek at the site of an old dam and continues downstream over cascades, dropping about 15 feet. Here we will have an early lunch in the shade with a view of the falls. It is about a 1 mile hike with a gain of less than 200 feet. After a leisurely lunch, we retrace our steps to the Cod Pond Trail which will take us, in about 1 mile, to a scenic small pond. After a short visit, we retrace our steps back to our cars. The total mileage for both hikes is about 4.5 miles with an accumulated gain of about 400 feet.
Meet at CTL at 8:45 for a departure at 9:00 or at the Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown at 9:30 or the trailhead at 10:00. The Court House/Community Center is located on the NE corner of the intersection of NY8/28. Unfortunately, neither Jack nor I will be able to meet anyone at CTL but we are confident that someone will be able to lead the group to the Town of Johnsburg Court House in Wevertown where we will meet everyone. Please contact us with any questions.
Aug 8, 2024 Regular Wilson Pond Hike and Ice Cream Social Rating: Moderate Diane Selin WX
Wilson Pond is a small, remote pond in the Blue Ridge Wilderness, west of the hamlet of Blue Mountain Lake. The trailhead is located on the south side of the NY28, across from Eagle Lake, about 2.8 miles west of the intersection of NY 30/28 in the hamlet. Our hike will take us through a variety of forest and terrain, passing Grassy Pond and crossing some streams to a lean-to near the shore of Wilson Pond. Here, we will enjoy lunch on a large rock outcropping with a nice view of the pond. The total roundtrip distance is 6 miles with a cumulative gain of about 800 feet. For an added treat, plan on stopping by my camp after the hike for an ice cream social - ice cream, brownies, whipped cream, and chocolate syrup - only a ten-minute drive from the trailhead on your way home!
Meet at CTL at 8:00 for a departure at 8:15 or at the Indian Lake Stewart’s at 9:30 for a short stop or at the trailhead at 10:00. Unfortunately, I will not be able to meet anyone at CTL but I am confident that someone will be able to lead the group to the Stewart’s at Indian Lake and the trailhead where I will meet everyone. Please contact me with any questions.
Aug 15, 2024 Regular Moxham Mountain Hike Rating: Moderate Steve Mackey WX
This is a 5.5-mile out-and-back hike to a beautiful mountain summit near Minerva. A moderately easy hike with some ups and downs with a cumulative gain of about 1,500 feet. There are many overlooks with scenic views along the trail and expansive views from its rocky summit. The trailhead has limited parking so carpooling from one of the meeting locations is encouraged.
Meet at CTL at 8:45 for departure at 9:00 or at the Black Bear Restaurant, Northway Exit 26 at 9:30, or the trailhead at 10:00. Please take advantage of the Mobil Station just off the Northway at Exit 26 to pick up something you may have forgotten or use the restroom before meeting at the Black Bear. Please contact me with any questions.
Aug 23, 2024 (Fri) Regular Lake Abanakee Paddle Rating: Moderate WX
We will launch on Chain Lakes Road and paddle south under the Lake Abanakee bridge and the Big Brook Rd causeway, continuing our exploration of the lake. Lunch will be at a location to be determined. About 7 miles RT. Lake Abanakee is suitable for all types of boats.
Meet at CTL at 8:30 for departure at 8:45, or at Stewart’s in North Creek at 9:30, or 10:00 at the launch site, located on Chain Lakes Rd, the first R turn on Rt 28 after crossing the bridge over Lake Abanakee and adjacent to the Town of Indian Lake beach (bathrooms are closed for the season). Unfortunately, neither Jack nor I will be able to meet anyone at CTL but we are confident that someone will be able to lead the group to the Stewart’s in North Creek and the launch site, where we will meet everyone. Please contact us with any questions.
Aug 29, 2024 Regular Cedar River Flow Paddle Rating: Moderate Lenore and Jack Reber WX
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.
Meet at CTL at 8:15 for a departure of 8:30, or at the Indian Lake Stewart’s at 9:40 for a short pit stop, or the boat launch at Wakely Dam at 10:15ish. Unfortunately, neither Jack nor I will be able to meet anyone at CTL but we are confident that someone will be able to lead the group to the Stewart’s in Indian Lake where we will meet everyone. Please contact us with any questions.
Sep 5, 2024 Regular Boreas Ponds Paddle Rating: Moderate Steve Mackey WX
Boreas Ponds are located about 8 miles west of North Hudson, north of Blue Ridge Rd. The Boreas Ponds Tract, as it is known, was added to the Forest Preserve back in 2016. This addition to the High Peaks Wilderness made it the largest Wilderness Area in the Northeastern US. Gulf Brook Road (the road in) is currently open to the Four Corners Parking Area where we will park. From here we will have to portage our boats about a half mile to the pond, so you either need to have wheels to transport your boat or a lightweight boat, like a Hornbeck, etc. This paddle is a lot like our trip into Henderson Lake near the Tahawus trailhead, you don't want to carry a heavy boat that far. I've been into the Boreas Ponds several times, biking, skiing, and kayaking, and it is very pristine, uncrowded, and the view of the Great Range is spectacular. If all goes according to plan, this is a very special place.
Meet at CTL at 8:15 for an 8:30 departure or the Frontier Town parking lot, just E of Exit 29 of the Northway, at 9:15ish. Please contact me with any questions.
Sep 12, 2024 Canes Picnic at Fernwood Pavilion, Moreau Lake State Park Join the fun! Start times of planned activities below. First hot dog at noonish!
Once again we are returning to Moreau Lake State Park. Planned for the day are a variety of activities and of course the picnic. We have reserved the Fernwood Pavilion with lots of convenient parking and restrooms close by. Hot dogs, rolls, condiments, plates and utensils will be provided as well as coffee and hot water for tea or hot chocolate. If you prefer something other than hot dogs, the grill will be available for you to prepare your special meal. Bring a side dish, an appetizer, salad, or dessert to share, and whatever you would like to drink. Main dishes (chili, baked beans…) are also welcome. Please sign in and pick up a name tag. A $5 fee will be collected to cover picnic costs (pavilion rental, food and misc. supplies). However, to repeat the message from Jerry the web guy, “Thanks to the generosity of Canes members in response to our solicitation for donations a year ago, I am happy to say that we have sufficient funds remaining to cover our website and email expenses for another year. So there will be no solicitation for website-related expenses this year.” – Great News!
Planned activities
Leo Demers has volunteered to lead a hike of about 3 miles and a gain of about 800 feet that will include a visit to the Moreau Overlook to get you back in time for lunch. This hike is rated moderate. Meet at the parking lot adjacent to the Fernwood Pavilion at 9:45. If you have any questions please email Leo.
Steve Mackey has volunteered to lead a paddle of Moreau Lake. Don’t worry, you will be back in time for the first hot dog! Unfortunately, beavers have blocked access to the northern portion of the lake by the causeway resulting in a shorter-than-normal paddle. Meet at the boat launch area, across from the warming hut, at 10:00. If you have any questions please email Steve.
Diane Selin has volunteered to lead a bike ride starting from the parking lot, adjacent to the entrance kiosk, departing at 10:00. Her route will be on predominantly low-traffic roads with short distances on busier roads with wide shoulders. The mostly flat route is 15 miles in length. If you have any questions please email Diane.
For those of you who do not wish to join the organized activities please feel free to arrive early and go for a walk, a paddle, bike the park roads, or just visit. BTW – many of you haven’t participated in any of our outings in recent times - please use this opportunity to join your friends and catch up - we all want to know what you have been up to. Bring your stories and pictures to share! If you or someone you know may need assistance getting to/from Moreau don't hesitate to get in touch with Fran, Margie, or Peter to see if we can help. Also, if you know a Cane that no longer receives or reads their email or visits our website, please let them know.
Moreau Lake State Park is located just off Exit 17 of the Adirondack Northway – at 605 Old Saratoga Road. The entrance kiosk is not staffed during the week so there is no need to stop. After going past the kiosk, keep left and proceed along the park road to the boat launch for those of you who are paddling or continue along the park road to the large parking area adjacent to the Fernwood Pavilion for everyone else. Hope you can join us!
Weather: We will be monitoring the weather forecast so please check your email as the date gets closer in case there is a need to change the date. Do a sun dance for the 12th!
The Crooked Canes Picnic Team
Email for questions: Fran, Margie, Peter
Sep 19, 2024 Regular Sawyer Mountain and Rock Lake Hike Rating: Moderate Lenore and Jack Reber WX
A new combo hike in the Indian Lake area for the Canes to enjoy! Our day begins with a hike of Sawyer Mountain. At just 2600 feet Sawyer Mountain isn’t a high mountain but it is considered a worthwhile hike and one that you may have wanted to do for a while but never got around to it. Its trailhead is located about 4.4 miles west of the hamlet of Indian Lake on the south side of NY 28/30. The trail is level at first before climbing moderately for about 1 mile to an overlook just before the summit, with nice views east. We continue past the wooded summit (no views) to a nicer overlook with views of Panther, Wakely, and Snowy Mtns. After a short visit, we retrace our steps to our cars. The total distance is about 2.5 miles RT with maybe a 750 foot gain including the visit to the overlooks.
Back at the cars, we will drive about 1/4 mile west to the Rock River trailhead on the north side of NY28/30. Hikers will be dropped off and wait for the return of drivers while they spot cars at the Rock Lake trailhead about 2 miles farther west. Once reunited, we will hike north on the Rock River Trail for about 1 mile to the intersection with a snowmobile connector trail (aka Cedar River Trail), near the eastern shore of Rock Lake. This section of our route loses about 200 feet! Here we will continue west on the snowmobile trail with gentle ups and downs and find our lunch spot on the shore of Rock Lake with a great view of Blue Mountain. Lunch will be past noon so make sure you bring some snacks to enjoy while at one of the overlooks on Sawyer Mtn. After lunch, we continue west on the snowmobile trail for less than 1 mile to the intersection with the Rock Lake Trail with perhaps a visit to the shore for more views of the lake and Blue Mtn. From the intersection, we hike on the Rock Lake Trail in a southwesterly direction for about 0.5 miles to our cars, spotted earlier. The total distance for today’s hike is about 5 miles with around a 750’ gain.
Meet at CTL at 8:15 for departure at 8:30 or the Indian Lake Stewart’s at 9:45 for a short pit stop or the Sawyer Mtn. trailhead at 10:00ish. Unfortunately, neither Jack nor I will be able to meet anyone at CTL, but we are confident that someone will be able to lead the group to the Stewart’s at Indian Lake where we will meet everyone. Please contact us with any questions.
Sep 27, 2024 Fri Bonus Stony Creek to Harrisburg Lake Bike Rating: Moderate Steve Mackey WX
There is a new challenge in our area, called the ADK Gateway 8 Challenge. It’s based out of Corinth and consists of biking, paddling, and hiking activities that are nearby, and many of them we already do regularly. I thought it would be fun to do a bunch of them as Cane's outings. I figured it would be best to do the bike rides and paddles first, while the weather is good.
The first one I picked is the bike ride from Stony Creek to Harrisburg Lake – a new one for the Canes! The route begins at the John T O’Neill Green Meadows Park (Town Park) in Stony Creek. From here we follow Harrisburg Rd nearly 11 miles to Harrisburg Lake. Harrisburg Rd is a dead-end country road with farms, old camps, and lots of open space along the way. Except for the last 0.25 miles of hardpack (compacted gravel/dirt), the road is paved but without rideable shoulders. It is lightly traveled, especially during the week, so it shouldn’t be an issue. The first 5+ miles is a moderate but sustained climb, gaining about 800 feet, and maybe a challenge for some. After we reach the 5-mile point the road becomes mostly level with ups and downs to the end. Our destination is a small parking area on the right (N) just beyond the causeway that divides Harrisburg Lake. Public hand-launches are located on both sides of the causeway in case you are considering paddling the lake in the future. Here we will take a well-earned break for bikers to enjoy a snack and to take in the view from the causeway before retracing our route back to our cars. Once we reach the mid-point on the route the ride will be all downhill and fast! The bike ride is somewhat short so lunch could be back at the parking lot.
Optional hike of the Dean Farm Trails: Just around the corner from the Green Meadows Town Park is the trailhead for the Dean Farm Heritage Trails. This system of trails is included as one of the hiking activities in the Gateway 8 Challenge. Depending on when we complete the bike ride I may hike the trails and anyone who would like to join me is welcome. The Challenge Hike is a loop of about 3.6 miles and should take about 2 hours to complete. If you would like to join me make sure you bring a lock to secure your bike to your carrier while we hike.
Meet at CTL at 9:30 for a departure at 9:40 or at the Lake Luzerne Stewart’s at 10:00 for a short pit stop or at the John T O’Neill Green Meadows Park at 10:30ish. The Green Meadows Park is located on the right, at the intersection of Lanfear and Harrisburg Roads, about 0.5 miles north of the main intersection in Stony Creek. Please contact me with any questions.
Sep 28, 2024 Sat Bonus West Branch of the Sacandaga River Paddle Rating: Moderate Peter Fedorick WX
The West Branch of the Sacandaga River is one of my favorite paddles, although, admittedly, I haven’t paddled it in recent years – different priorities, I guess. The river lies entirely within the Silver Lake Wilderness, Hamilton County. It begins northwest of Benson, flows west, then north (our section), then eastward before converging with the Sacandaga River south of Wells – shaped like a large horseshoe lying on its side. Our paddle will be a thru-paddle starting at the second bridge on Route 10, north of the Hamlet of Lower Arietta, and will continue in a northerly direction, essentially parallel to Route 10, for about 8 or 9 miles to our take-out near Shaker Place where we will spot cars. The takeout is an improved version of the very steep one that existed on our previous paddles of the river. This section is a downstream, flatwater paddle with the river meandering through a broad valley of marshes, lined by mountains, narrow at times. We will have the opportunity to visit two nearby lakes. First is Chub Lake, a short paddle from our start, and Trout Lake, about 2 miles from our start, where we will have an early lunch since there aren’t many places along the river to beach our boats. Once we return to the river we continue our paddle to the take-out. Our actual paddle time will be somewhere between 4 to 5 hours, depending on how much time we spend exploring. Unfortunately, I will not be able to scout the route, and the river has been known to present logistical issues with downed trees blocking travel at times. We will have to take our chances. The biggest downside to this paddle is it is a long drive for most of us – perhaps two hours from the Glens Falls area and the reason I plan on an early start. Most agree that the drive is worth it! Although the paddle has been done privately it has only been officially scheduled as a Canes paddle twice – in 2013 and 2015. If you would like to get an idea of what to expect, visit West Branch Sacandaga Paddle 9-13-2013. I will bring a saw and rope but hope not to have to use it. The paddle is suitable for all types of canoes and kayaks. There is a variety of ways to get to the put-in on Rt 10. However, I have included only one meeting location other than the put-in to keep it simple. Please contact me if you plan on going directly to the put-in or have any questions.
Meet at the Fulton County Visitor Center at the NE corner of Rts 29 & 30 at 8:15 for departure at 8:25 or the put-in at 9:15. Restrooms are available at Dunkin Donuts across the street. The put-in is located at the second bridge, north of the Hamlet of Lower Arietta, across from the Good Luck Cliffs trailhead. Access to the river is on the east side of Rt 10 on both sides of the river.
Oct 3, 2024 Regular Goodnow Mtn Hike Rating: Moderate Steve Mackey WX
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 about 1,000 feet. The tower's cab is in disrepair and scheduled for repairs; however, there are great views looking south without climbing the tower and panoramic views from the stairs.
Meet at CTL at 8:45 for departure at 9:00 or the Black Bear Restaurant (large parking lot to the left of the restaurant), Northway Exit 26 in Pottersville at 9:30 or the trailhead at 10:30. Please take advantage of the Mobil Station just off the Northway at Exit 26 to pick up something you may have forgotten or use the restroom before meeting at the Black Bear. We will also make a short pit stop at the Town of Newcomb’s High Peaks Overlook Park before proceeding to the trailhead, located about 6 miles east on 28N. Please contact me with any questions.
Oct 9, 2024 Wed Bonus Mount Van Hoevenberg Hike Rating: Moderate Barbara and Rich Zuccaro WX
Mount Van Hoevenberg isn’t a tall mountain but the panoramic view of the High Peaks from the ledges just below its 2,940-foot summit is said to be one of the best in the Adirondacks. Two trails lead to the ledges – we will be hiking the East Trail, located about 6 miles south of the Village of Lake Placid, as the crow flies, at the Olympic Sports Complex (OSC). There is lots of parking and the trail is relatively new, constructed in 2018. From the parking lot located on Bob Run Rd at OSC, we will work our way around the Mtn. Pass Lodge, passing one of the sliding tracks on our right, to the trailhead. From the trailhead, we begin our ascent on stone stairs alongside the Cliffside Coaster on our right, an amusement-type ride, and a portion of the cross-country ski trails on our left. In a short distance, we leave the man-made structures behind and begin hiking, surrounded by trees! The trail continues its 900-foot ascent on a well-marked trail through various forest types from mixed hardwoods with open views to evergreens closer to the top. After hiking about 1.8 miles we reach the ledges with their stunning views. If we are lucky there should be lots of color remaining to make it all worthwhile and enjoy a leisurely lunch. After lunch, we retrace our steps back to our cars. Special request – The Mount Van Hoevenberg hike is shorter in distance and time than some of our regular hikes. As a result, we complete the hike with time still available to fit in a short hike on the way home. In recent years offering Owl’s Head in Keene fit the schedule perfectly for those that didn’t mind a second hike. Unfortunately, we do not have anyone willing to lead it at this time. If you plan on going on the Mount Van Hoevenberg hike and are willing to lead the Owl’s Head Hike afterward please Email Peter and it will be added to the outing description.
Meet at CTL at 8:45 for a departure at 9:00, the High Peaks Welcome Center at 9:45, or the OSC trailhead for Mt. Van Hoevenberg at 10:30ish. Travel time is just under an hour and a half from CTL. Trailhead parking for Mt. Van Hoevenberg is located on Bob Run Rd., off of NY 73. From the Stewart’s Shop in Keene continue WNW on NY 73 towards Lake Placid for ~8 miles and turn L onto Bob Run Road at the large sign for Olympic Sports Complex. Follow signs to trailhead parking. Please email us if you have any questions.
Oct 11, 2024 Fri Bonus Barton High Cliffs Bushwhack Rating: Difficult Peter Fedorick WX
Barton High Cliffs is an impressive series of vertical cliffs about 300-400 feet in height and over a 1/4 mile in length, located on the N side of NY 8, between Brant Lake and Hague. The bushwhack route is about 6.5 miles long with about a 2000-foot gain, subject to some variability depending on how good my memory is in trying to locate the top of the cliffs and eventually making a loop underneath them. The terrain along the route varies from open woods, evergreens, some stream crossings, and lots of rocks and boulders, hidden by fallen leaves, to trap your legs. There are steep sections as well. The plan is to first head to the top of the cliffs where we will enjoy expansive views. To the west Brant Lake, and the Brothers Mtns; to the NW the rocky summit of Stevens Mtn. As we travel east along the ridge more views of close and distant mountains will be visible as we search for our lunch spot. After a leisurely lunch, we will make our way down to the gorge area, a much steeper descent than our hike to the top of the cliffs, where we will travel parallel to the cliffs in a westerly direction with views of the cliffs above. With some luck, we will rejoin our earlier route and return to our cars. If you would like to see what the hike looks like, visit the 2014 Journal entry describing a hike to the cliffs by a group of intrepid Canes.
Meet at CTL at 9:00 for a departure of 9:15, or at the Town of Horicon Community Center parking lot (rear) located on the S side of NY 8, 1.7 miles E of Exit 25 of the Northway at 9:45 for a short pit stop, or meet at the trailhead pull-off at 10:00ish. The trailhead pull-off is located on the S side of NY 8, 11.2 miles E of Exit 25 of the Northway or 9.5 miles past the Horicon Community Center. If you are coming from Hague the pull-off is located 7.0 miles W of NY 8 and NY 9N. Please contact me if you plan on attending this hike or have any questions.
Oct 17, 2024 Regular Giant's Nubble and Roaring Brook Thru Hike Rating: Moderate Gail Stauble & Scott Anderson WX
Giant's Nubble is a rocky knob off the ridge trail to its namesake, providing a close-up view of Giant Mtn. to the north and expansive views of the High Peaks to the south and west. This will be a thru hike of about 4.5 miles beginning at the Chapel Pond trailhead and ending at the Roaring Brook trailhead on Rt.73. While the total distance may be on the short side, the views cause visitors to linger and a leisurely lunch is planned. Total gain on the 2-mile ascent is around 1350 feet and a total loss on the 2-mile descent is around 1600 feet. We will have the opportunity to explore the area beneath Roaring Brook Falls at the end of the hike, adding about 0.5 miles and little gain. It is always difficult to time a hike to coincide with peak colors. Hopefully, there will be lots of color remaining during ours. ***Note: parking regulations are in effect at the St. Huberts parking area/trailhead and along Rt. 73. We have secured reservations for two cars at the AMR lot where we will spot cars before beginning our hike. Please contact us with any questions.
Meet at CTL at 8:00 for departure at 8:15, or at the High Peaks Welcome Center, north of exit 29, at 9:05, or the Chapel Pond TH at 9:30ish.
Oct 22, 2024 Tue Bonus Picnic at Little Rock Pond – Danby, Vt Rating: Moderate Diane Selin & Tim Ward WX
A pleasant loop hike can be found in Mt Tabor, just east of Danby, Vt. It includes a heavily used mostly level walk on the Long Trail to Little Rock Pond, a lovely mountain tarn. There are paths around this little lake. From the north end, there's the Green Mountain Trail, a much less used trail taking one to the top of Green Mountain (wouldn't you know), along a ridge with views overlooking the lake and adjoining hills. It might be especially colorful when we're there. The trail then makes a long gentle descent with views occasionally to the west through mature evergreens back to the beginning. This hike takes one over a varied topography, from trail side streams through a hardwood forest, around a lake, a sometimes steep ascent (or descent), up a mountain, an open azalea-clad open ridge, a dark winding path through an alpine spruce forest and finally a long descent through a mature hardwood and a mature majestic pine and hemlock forest with views between the trunks. If we luck out with a clear, cool day this 6.8-mile walk with a total ascent of about 1000 feet would be hard to beat.
Last but not least, let's include an Autumnal "Feast" on this outing. Please bring some kind of communal offering such as a salad, bread, something to drink, dessert, etc. No need to overdo it, I'll bring plates, cups, and plastic spoons and forks. We can either dine along the lake or on top depending on the weather and time. We find adding simple things like a shared lunch really makes a difference.
Meet at CTL at 8:15 for departure at 8:30, or meet at the south end of the Price Chopper in Granville at 9:15 (located NE of the intersection of Rt 22 and 149 in back of RiteAid/Walgreens), or at the trailhead at 10:15. The Griffith Lake trailhead is located at the Big Branch parking area for the AT/LT on Brooklyn Rd/USFS 10, on the right, ~3 miles NE of the intersection of Rt 7 and Mt. Tabor Rd./Brooklyn Rd. in the hamlet of Danby/Mt. Tabor. If you are driving from the Capital District area and would like to volunteer to meet at Panera Bread in Latham (or some other location) to caravan or carpool please let me know so we can modify the write-up. Please contact us with any questions.
Oct 24, 2024 Regular Valentino Family Community Forest Hike Rating: Moderate Debbie Van Ryn WX
The Valentino Family Community Forest (VFCF) is just one of the many properties conserved and managed by the Rensselaer Plateau Alliance (RPA), a nonprofit land trust in Rensselaer County. The VFCF parcel is a little over 400 acres, located on Stuffle St. in Grafton. This new Canes hike does not have any open vistas, but has lovely views of the forest and beaver pond, with leaves turning colors and lovely mosses and ferns. It is important to watch your feet as there are many rocks and tree roots to step over. There are some steep and narrow areas, but the elevation gain is only 600 feet over the planned 5.5-mile route. There are a few areas with high grass, so good tick protection is important. We will start from the B parking lot. The first mile is a meander up and downhill, but mostly up, through forest and open field. We then start a loop hike, first going around the beaver pond on the east and then steep uphill for almost 0.5 miles to "Sophie's Knoll." Then downhill past the old sugar shack to the creek. We can have lunch at the top of the hill or by the creek. We then walk along the creek, crossing to the west and walking the western edge of the beaver ponds until we return to the 1-mile meander back to the cars.
Meet at CTL at 8:00 for a departure at 8:15, or the Exit 9 Park and Ride on Fire Road at 9:00 for a departure at 9:10, or the Walmart Supercenter at 760 Hoosick Rd. in Troy at 9:30 for a departure at 9:40, or the trailhead at parking lot B at 10:00. Unfortunately I will not be able to meet anyone at CTL or the Fire Rd. Park & Ride but I am confident someone will be able to lead the group from either of those locations to Walmart, at the lot closest to Rt. 7, where I will meet everyone for the 20-minute drive to the trailhead. Park and Ride directions - from the South take Exit 9 to Rt. 146 remain straight, cross Rt. 146; the lot is on the left. From the North take Exit 9E to Rt. 146, go under the Northway and turn left onto Fire Rd; the lot is on the left. For people with a GPS, the address is 21 Fire Rd, Clifton Park, NY 12065. Directions to trailhead, lot B - When going east on Route 2 towards Grafton, turn left on Stuffle Street, approximately 3 miles east of the hamlet of Cropseyville, and drive up the hill. Drive past the A lot entrance continuing on Stuffle St for 1.7 miles. NOTE: Stuffle St takes a right turn at the fork with Coonradt Road; be sure to turn right, NOT going straight onto Coonradt. The road is gravel at this point with some ruts you will need to be careful when passing over. After it becomes so narrow you wonder if it is still a road, turn right at the sign into the large parking lot. Please contact me with any questions.
Oct 31, 2024 Regular Rock Pond Hike Rating: Moderate Sandy Powell WX
Our destination is Rock Pond in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness. We start our hike at 10:00 at the parking area at the Putnam Pond State Campground boat launch, the same as the Treadway Mtn. trailhead. We follow the east shore of Putnam Pond, through the campground area, and then enter the woods. After about 0.9 miles we will make a quick detour on a spur trail to visit Heart Pond. In an additional 1.5 miles over rolling terrain we arrive at the abandoned graphite mining area (shaft, quarry, and workings) which we can take some time to explore. We will continue on a few tenths of a mile to our lunch spot on a classic rock peninsula with expansive views of the pond. After a leisurely lunch, we will retrace our route back to our cars. If the group is interested, we could hike a spur trail (that connects back to the main trail) that follows along the east shore of Rock Pond and the north shore of Little Rock Pond by the lean-to for an additional 0.5 mile with minimal elevation change. The total hike is about 5 miles with about a 600-foot accumulated gain, with the possibility of adding 0.5 miles to see Little Rock Pond.
Meet at CTL at 8:15 for a departure of 8:30, or at the Stewarts in Schroon Lake via Exit 27 for a short pit stop at 9:10, or at the Putnam Pond boat launch trailhead parking lot around 9:45. Unfortunately, I will not be able to meet anyone at CTL or the Schroon Lake Stewart’s but I am confident someone will be able to lead the group from either of those locations to the boat launch trailhead parking lot where I will meet everyone. Please contact me with any questions.
Nov 7, 2024 Regular Pilot Knob Ridge Hike Rating: Moderate/Difficult Kim Brown & Scott Anderson WX
This moderate to strenuous hike is approximately 4 miles long with an accumulated gain of around 1,600 feet. It starts on the marked state trail to Buck Mtn and Inman Pond and veers SE onto an unmarked herd path. It’s pretty much up all the way to the top where we will have several overlooks, then the false summit, before getting to the top of the ridge. Views of Lake George are spectacular! We will return the way we came up. All down! Note: Beware of lots of accumulated slippery dry leaves over rocks in some places.
Meet at CTL at 9:00 for departure at 9:15 or the trailhead at 9:45. Trailhead directions: From exit 20, I-87, follow Rt 9 north for 0.3m to NY 149. Turn right and continue on NY149 for 4.3m and turn left onto NY9L (Ridge Rd) by Stewart's for an additional 4.6m, turning right onto CR32/Pilot Knob Rd. Continue for 3.3m to the DEC parking lot/trailhead on the right. Please note this is NOT the Schumann Preserve for the Pilot Knob Preserve/Gazebo owned by the LGLC]. Please contact us with any questions.
Nov 8, 2024 Bonus Helen Buckner Preserve, Vt – Bald Mtn Hike Rating: Moderate Tim Ward WX
I believe it's been a while since we visited the Helen Buckner Preserve in West Haven, Vt. - just a stone's throw from Whitehall. This is a pleasant walk with some bushwhacking. It features a pine, oak, hickory, hemlock, and red cedar forest on limestone, vast open fields, and an expansive view from a cliff which is bound to amaze even the most jaded, seen them all, mountain climber. This is Nature Conservancy land, an old Lake Champlain farm with a farmhouse and barn and a quaint 18th-century cemetery. It's a glance back in time, quite unlike any of the other Cane hangouts. The elevation gain is about 1000 feet and the total meandering distance is about 5 miles. This is not an arduous outing but it includes some off-trail travel and a couple of rather steep stretches. We could call this our post-Halloween hike. The weather may change the date, so stay tuned. For a preview of what to expect click on Bald Mtn Preserve - 2014.
Meet at CTL at 9:30 for departure at 9:45 or at the Stewart’s in Whitehall, located at 60 Poultney St (RT 4), at 10:15ish for a pit stop before driving the short distance to the trailhead. Unfortunately, I will not be able to meet anyone at CTL but I am confident that someone will be able to lead the group to the Stewart’s in Whitehall where I will meet everyone. Please email me if you have any questions.
Nov 14, 2024 Regular John and Clear Ponds Loop Hike Rating: Easy/Moderate Lenore and Jack Reber WX
Clear and John Ponds are located in the Siamese Ponds Wilderness, due south of the hamlet of Indian Lake. From the John Pond trailhead located at the end of a short dirt road at the SW end of Wilderness Lane (see directions below) we will hike a 5-mile counterclockwise loop, with less than a total of a 500-foot gain. The terrain is varied, including open meadows, pine, and mature deciduous forest with views of Bullhead Mountain, lovely John Pond Brook, and of course John and Clear Ponds. The trail follows an old road on this section for part of the way, paralleling John Pond Brook for quite a distance. It is relatively flat for the first quarter of a mile before it starts to climb slightly, gaining about 250 feet before reaching the short spur trail to a lean-to and the shore of John Pond at 2.5 miles where we will have lunch. On the way, at about 1.7 miles, we will have a chance to visit a small cemetery containing the graves of Elizabeth Amelia King and Peter Savarie, two half-siblings who died in 1897 from diphtheria. After a leisurely lunch, we continue on the loop, gaining another 200 feet over the next mile, before beginning our gradual descent back to Wilderness Lane. At about the 4-mile point we will visit Clear Pond and enjoy a long break.
Meet at CTL at 8:15 for a departure at 8:30 or the North Creek Stewart’s at 9:15 or the trailhead at 10:00ish. The trailhead is a bit of a challenge to locate but here are the directions from North Creek for the adventurous (otherwise we will caravan to the TH from Stewart’s): From Stewart’s in North Creek continue west on NY 28 for 16.4 miles to Chamberlain Rd. Turn left onto Chamberlain Rd for 2.1mi. Turn left onto Big Brook Rd. for 1mi. Turn left onto Starbuck Rd for 0.4mi. Continue straight onto Lakeview Dr until it dead ends into Wilderness Ln. For the John Pond trailhead, turn right on Wilderness Ln. to its end, turn left onto the forest road, and continue about a tenth of a mile to a small grass lot and the trail register. Unfortunately, neither Jack nor I will be able to meet anyone at CTL but we are confident that someone will be able to lead the group to the Stewart’s at North Creek and to the trailhead where we will meet everyone. See our Useful links/First Wilderness for more info. Please contact us with any questions.
Nov 20, 2024 Wed Regular Fifth Peak Lean-to Hike Rating: Moderate Gail Stauble WX
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 .5 mile before beginning a somewhat steep and continuous climb for the next mile, gaining 1000 feet. At this point the trail becomes less steep but still climbs in the final 1.1 mile, gaining another 500 feet to the top of Fifth Peak and a lean-to. From the overlook near the lean-to, we should have excellent views of the Lake George Narrows, 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 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. Please contact me with any questions.
Dec 6, 2024 Bonus Potash Mountain Hike Rating: Moderate Steve Mackey WX
With the weather a little sketchy this week I thought I would schedule something close to the Saratoga-Glens Falls area and Potash fits the bill, always a good backup. For those of you who aren’t familiar with it, Potash Mountain is located just west of NY 9N in the Town of Lake Luzerne. It isn’t a very high mountain at only 1700 feet but what it lacks in height it makes up in character. It is dome-shaped with south-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 hike, including the nature trail, is slightly less than 4 miles in total with a 1000-foot gain, steep in places but the route has received a great deal of trail improvements including stone steps and stairways in the steepest sections. Lunch will be at the overlook near the summit. The current snowpack on the trail is not sufficient to require snowshoes. However, snow is expected in the Lake Luzerne area totaling between 3-5 inches through Thursday so bring snowshoes and spikes. We will determine what to wear at the trailhead. The current weather forecast for Friday calls for a sunny day with a high temp in the mid-20s and wind between 10-15 mph.
Meet at CTL at 10:00 for departure at 10:15 or the trailhead at 10:30ish. Trailhead parking is located on the R on Potash Rd just past its junction with Dunkley Rd; 0.5 mile N from where Potash Rd intersects Rt. 9N, directly across from the entrance to Luzerne State Campground; 7 miles S of Exit 21 of the Northway or about 3 mi N of Hadley-Luzerne High School. If you have any questions please email me.