Welcome to the Taconic Hiking Club in the Albany, NY Capital District/Berkshires
Taconic Hiking Club members welcome applicants interested in nature study, hiking, backpacking, camping, cycling, canoe/kayaking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, trail maintenance and Tanglewood. Activities are listed in our newsletter and generally take place in, but are not limited to, the area surrounding Capital District. Contact:THC, 30 Upper Flat Rock Road, Delmar NY 12054-5228. Annual dues are $10. To view the current THC BLOG pages, search: http://taconichikingclub.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
2012 TCT End-to-End Hike
Here is some important information for the May 12, 2012, Taconic Hiking Club’s Endurance Challenge – the End to End.
On Friday, May 11th at approximately 7PM there will be a meeting of all the entrants at the Berry Pond Campsites in the Pittsfield State Forest. This orientation will be conducted by Colin Campbell, THC trails chairman, who will go over the maps of the Taconic Crest Trail and will answer questions about the trail itself. No meals will be provided on Friday night.
Due to the early starting time (5:30AM) all are encouraged to camp at Berry Pond where drinking water and a latrine will be available even though the park is not opened to the public. Wake up will take place at 5:00AM and a hot breakfast will be served to all. Juice, tea and coffee will also be provided. The hikers will then be led out of the park by our official bagpipe starter at 5:30AM. Anyone who does not camp at Berry Pond should adhere to these times. Those coming later will be allowed to hike but will not be permitted to start after 6:30AM.
Participants must bring another person to move their vehicles from Berry Pond to the end at Rt. 346 and to transport the weary hiker home. We feel that it is in the best interest of hiker safety that she/he not drive home after a grueling 29 mile hike. A list of participant names and contact information will be provided so that perhaps people can car pool.
As hikers progress north from Berry Pond, support sites along the Crest Trail will be at:
#1 Madden Road, Hancock, MA (5.3 miles)
#2 Mattison Hollow (12.8 miles)
#3 Petersburgh Pass (20.9 miles)
At these support sites THC members will have water available for the hikers. Any prepackaged small bags the entrants have prepared for themselves will be at sites #2 and #3. We recommend these contain dry socks, lunch, gorp, a flashlight and a jacket for the last site. These items should be packed in a plastic bag, not paper, and be clearly labeled. There is a maximum of two bags per hiker and please keep them light. Hikers are free to carry whatever they wish on the trail. The club recommends a beverage, whistle, compass or GPS, map handouts from the THC, rain gear if appropriate and comfortable, sturdy hiking boots. Most of the trail is wooded and there will be protection from the sun, but a hat is always useful as well as sunscreen. There is NO rain date for this event. If a hiker fails to show on May 12th the registration fee will NOT be refunded.
All hikers must clear the Petersburgh Pass site by 4:30PM to avoid problems caused by the remaining 8.35 miles of trail and oncoming darkness at approximately 8PM.
Lastly, the THC will schedule two trail work days, usually in the month prior to the End to End. All entrants are encouraged to participate in one or both of these dates to get familiar with the terrain and trail markings. If you are interested in attending please contact Colin Campbell at 518-438-9629 or Holesinhead@aol.com.
A trail map with waypoints that can be programmed to a GPS and a map to Berry Pond will be sent to entrants in April. I hope this information helps you plan a successful End to End hike. Feel free to contact me at pambailey22@yahoo.com or 39 Fane Court, Troy, NY 12182 if you need more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
A participant asked several questions that I thought everyone might like to hear the answers to:
1)How many years has this event been happening?
"existing as a scheduled event since 1966..."
2) What is the fastest and slowest times recorded for this hike?
We don't really keep track of times as we do not encourage it as a race, but as a personal endurance challenge. Someone recalled that we've recently had two entrants (1 male, 1 female) complete the trail sections and finish somewhere around 1:30 or 2:00. Most people trickle across the finish at 346 starting around 4:00 pm and keep on coming until maybe 7:30 + or -. Someone else said that in 2008 we had someone (or more than one) finish up at 8:50 with a head lamp.
3) Approximate trail miles for each waypoint would be helpful; do you happen to know them?
The trail guide says:
Berry Pond - Potter Mtn Rd parking 3.2
Potter Mtn Rd - Madden Rd parking 2.1
Madden Rd - Rounds Mtn - 1.65
Rounds Mtn - Mattison Hollow access - 6.28
Mattison Hollow access - SE Hollow access - 2.55
SE Hollow access -Berlin Mtn - 2.5
Berlin Mtn - Green Hollow access - 1.2
Green Hollow access - Petersburg Pass parking - 1.6
Petersburg Pass - Snow Hole - 2.75
Snow Hole - Pownal Overlook - .95
Pownal Overlook - Prosser Hollow access - 1.85
Prosser Hollow access - 346 - 2.1
4) What is the driving distance and time from Berry Pond to Rt. 346?
34 miles and about 1 hour
Directions will be available Friday May 11th or you can request that I e-mail them to you sooner.
5) What does the finish on Rt 346 look like? Is it a park, picnic area, trailhead parking lot?
HEAVEN!!! Just kidding. It is a small parking area where club members helping out at the finish will park their cars. Participant cars will be parked nearby on a wide shoulder of Rt 346.
6) Does anything "official" happen at the finish; refreshments, finish board, etc.?
Applause, light refreshments, certificates and patches will be handed out. There is a Stewart's about 3 miles away with gas, restrooms, sandwiches and soup, etc.
Support for those running the event will not be guaranteed.
No dogs or other pets are allowed to participate.
Address to the entrance of the PittsfieldStateForest (Berry Pond) for camping Friday night and the start of the hike Saturday morning:
Please include a $30.00 registration fee.This fee is non-refundable after March 31, 2012. Checks should be made payable to the Taconic Hiking Club and mailed to Pam Bailey, 39 Fane Court, Troy, NY12182.
Completed registration forms will not be accepted until January 1, 2012. There will be a ceiling of 25 entrants for this event, with each application handled on a first received, first served basis. Additional entrants will be placed on a waiting list in case of cancellations. All applicants must be 18 years or older.
I, the undersigned, declare myself physically fit and able to participate in the above event.I realize that hiking events such as this are physically strenuous and hereby agree to be solely responsible for my own safety during this 29-mile hike.
I also acknowledge, agree and release the Taconic Hiking Club and any and all of its volunteers from any and all liability claims, losses and/or damages for personal injuries or death which may occur while participating in this event.
Name_________________________________
Date______________________
Address_______________________________
_______________________________
Phone _______________________________
E- mail_______________________________
Emergency Contact Name & Phone________________________________
Signature______________________________
Name and address of hometown newspaper for press release after the challenge
At a recent Board of Governor’s meeting it was decided that the Taconic Hiking Club would have a slogan to be used for club activities. Our past recording secretary, Janet Jones, suggested the club slogan for 2012 would be “Get out and stay out!” Let’s take Jan’s advice and enjoy all these wonderful activities.
DECEMBER
Saturday, December 3: 2012 End to End Meeting, Clifton Park, NY All interested in helping with the May 12, 2012 are invited to a organizational meeting at Gayle Fountain’s home, 17 Washington Lane, Clifton Park. Soup and sandwiches will be served at the noon meeting. Please come with your ideas on how make this an even more successful event than in the past. If you can’t make this meeting, call Gayle to let her know where you would like to volunteer. CONTACT: Gayle Fountain at pfounta1@nycap.rr.com or 371-8585. LENGTH: Approximately 2 hours with lunch. ROAD DISTANCE: A short drive up the Northway.
Thursday, December 8: Catallo Island, Waterford, NY This will be a hike, XC ski or snowshoe, depending on conditions, in the area around Etta’s house. This is the area she refers to as “Catallo Island” (it looks like an island on a map). We will have hot drinks and snacks at Etta’s house afterwards. Contact Etta for details. CONTACT: Etta Menges at 233-8310. LENGTH: To be determined that day. ROAD DISTANCE: From your house to Etta’s in Waterford.
Saturday, December 10: Moreau State Park, Ganesvoort, NY This a joint hike with ADK. This popular state park is a short drive up the Northway and sports good views and interesting terrain. This could be a snowshoe or a hike, depending upon the weather. Be sure to bring some type of traction device--Stabilicers or Microspikes--as it could be icy. Meet at 8:00AM at the Exit 9 Park & Ride in Clifton Park. Call or email Cliff by Thursday, 12/8. CONTACT: Cliff Prewencki at cprewencki@aol.com or 768-2907. LENGTH: To be determined.. ROAD DISTANCE: Approximately 70 miles round-trip.
Wednesday, December 14: Somewhere in the Catskills, NY This will be a hike or snowshoe depending on conditions at a “to be chosen location” in the Catskills. Contact Susan for more details, including meeting time and place. CONTACT: Susan Roberts at 766-4170. LENGTH: To be determined by the group.ROAD DISTANCE: To be determined by starting place.
Saturday, December 17: AT Jug End to the Berkshire School, Egremont, MA Bring your poles and stabilicers for a relatively steep ascent to the ridge, with several great views, but a gentle descent. Car spot required along with an early departure. Contact Sharon for details. CONTACT: Sharon Bonk, sboqc@mindspring.com or 674-0042. LENGTH: Approximately 6 miles with an ascent of 900 feet. ROAD DISTANCE: Approximately 90 miles from the Schodack Park & Ride.
Tuesday December 20, Thacher State Park Ski or Snowshoe the Escarpment Trail. Meet at Elm Ave Park & Ride in Delmar. At 9:30 AM CONTACT: Dick Hughes Rhughes913@nycap.rr.com or 371-7655. LENGTH: 4 to 5 miles. ROAD DISTANCE: Approximately 22 miles round trip.
Tuesday, December 27: Potter Hill Rd to Tower Mt Road, Stephentown, NY
This is a snowshoe trip on the Taconic Crest Trail. Full winter gear required and good conditioning – winter hiking is difficult. Contact Mary for details. CONTACT: Mary MacDonald at mmacdonald003@nycap.rr.com or 371-1294. LENGTH: Approximately 6 - 7 miles including access trails depending on trail accessibility. ROAD DISTANCE: 70 miles round-trip.
Wednesday, December 28: LEADERS CHOICE This will be snowshoe, hike or XC, depending on conditions. Contact Judy for details. CONTACT: Judy Brandow at hwesterh@nycap.rr.com or 482-4610. LENGTH: Contact Judy. ROAD DISTANCE: Contact Judy.
JANUARY
Saturday, January 7: Saratoga National Park, Stillwater, NY We will XC ski, snowshoe or hike the Wilkinson Trail, in the Battlefield. We will meet at the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride, off Fire Road. Contact George for the starting time. Full winter gear will be necessary. CONTACT: George Astle at 728-6690. LENGTH: Approximately 6 miles. ROAD DISTANCE: Approximately 40 miles round-trip.
Sunday, January 8: Wilton Preserve, Ganesvoort, NY We will check out the preserve on this moderate XC ski trip. Let's see what is in this beautiful nearby area. Contact Mary for more details closer to the date of the trip. Full winter gear required. CONTACT: Mary MacDonald at mmacdonald003@nycap.rr.com or 371-1294. LENGTH: To be determined by the group.ROAD DISTANCE: 7 miles round-trip.
Tuesday, January 10: Woodford Hollow, Bennington, VT Old rail bed along Bolles Brook beckons. While snowmobiliers use the beginning of this gradual climb, we may have to break trail. Expect on minor stream crossing. Since we will return the same way, snowshoers can form their own group. Leave from Park and Ride on Hoosick Road. Please call Dale for time. CONTACT: Dale Blanchet at 273-4262. LENGTH: 5.2 miles with ascent of 450 feet. ROAD DISTANCE: 65 miles.
Thursday, January 12: Grafton Park, Partridge Run OR Lapland Lake, NY Let’s go skiing! Trip destination will depend on snow conditions. If there’s plenty of snow and it’s not bitter cold, we’ll go to Grafton or Partridge Run. If snow conditions are iffy or it’s really cold, we’ll go to Lapland Lake. Wherever we go, bring your lunch, warm drink and warm clothes. Call Lynn for meeting time and place. CONTACT: Lynn Filarecki, 674-2125. LENGTH: Depends on where we go but most likely not more than 5 – 6 miles. ROAD DISTANCE: Depends on destination.
Saturday, January 14: Dyken Pond, Rensselaer County, NY Dyken Pond Environmental Education Center, at height of the Rensselaer Plateau, has 6+ miles of trails to explore. No warming hut so be prepared with hot drinks and a lunch. Come to leader’s house afterward for hot chocolate. Contact Sharon for details. CONTACT: Sharon Bonk, sboqc@mindspring.com or 674-0042. LENGTH: 3-4 miles, depending on snow conditions and group interest. ROAD DISTANCE: Approximately 30 miles round trip from the Hannaford in West Sand Lake.
Monday, January 16 (MLK Holiday): Notchview Reservation, Windsor, MA This Trustees of Reservations property is part of the Hoosac Range and at an elevation of 2000’, so there should be snow on the 30km of groomed intermediate and novice trails. There is a $12 fee for non-members and a warming lodge with space for gear storage. Insufficient snow will have leader reconsider another skiing location, possibly Prospect Mountain in Woodford VT. Contact Sharon for details. CONTACT: Sharon Bonk, sboqc@mindspring.com or 674-0042. LENGTH: 3-4 miles, depending on snow conditions and group interest. ROAD DISTANCE: Approximately 100 miles round trip from Defreetsville.
Tuesday, January 17: Thacher Nature Center, Voorheesville, NY Hike or snowshoe the Fred Schroeder Memorial Trail, about 5 miles, minimal elevation. If you want to try snowshoes, this is the hike for you. Snowshoe rental available at the Center. Meeting place will be the Schodack Park & Ride, call Susan for details. CONTACT: Susan Roberts at 766-4170. LENGTH: To be determined by the group.ROAD DISTANCE: To be determined by starting place.
Saturday, January 21: Grafton Lakes State Park Winter Festival, Grafton, NY Join us for a fun filled day of winter activities at Grafton Lakes State Park Winter Festival. We will set our club table up, to hand out club literature, at 10:00AM in the maintenance building. Please consider donating some time to “man the booth”. A snowshoe or x-country ski event will be planned for that day. Contact Gayle or check the Winter Festival Schedule for further details. CONTACT: Gayle Fountain at pfounta1@nycap.rr.com or 371-8585. LENGTH: Approximately 2.5 miles. ROAD DISTANCE: About 40 miles round-trip.
Sunday, January 22: Open House at Kathy Wolfe’s, Albany, NY Once again Kathy will be hosting a potluck gathering after a hike, or snowshoe in the area. The hike will depart at noon from Kathy’s. Our feast will be served at 3PM. Don’t be late! Please call Kathy by January 15th with your potluck offering. CONTACT: Kathy Wolfe at nanwolfe88@yahoo.com or 482-0424. LENGTH: To be determined by group. ROAD DISTANCE: Your house to Kathy’s.
Tuesday, January 24: Shaker and Holy Mountains, Hancock, MA This “moderate” hike leading from Rt. 20 across from Hancock Shaker Village to ruins and religious sites atop hills in Pittsfield State Forest has one steep stretch in its 790’ ascent, but otherwise is a lovely woods walk. There are “perfect stone walls,” a reservoir, and sweet Shaker Brook to see as well as the remains of a waterworks dam and the “Sacred Gap,” a natural amphitheatre. These trails used to be gentle and cushioned; however many are rutted by ATV and dirt bike use. Hopefully we will be able to appreciate the history of this well-used landscape. Contact leaders for meeting time and place. CONTACT: Karen Ross: at kcoyross@aol.com or794-7474 or Sharon Bonk at sboqc@mindspring.com or 674-0042. LENGTH: Approximately 6.5 miles with ROAD DISTANCE: It depends on where you’re meeting us.
Wednesday, January 25: LEADERS CHOICE This will be snowshoe, hike or XC, depending on conditions. Contact Judy for details. CONTACT: Judy Brandow at hwesterh@nycap.rr.com or 482-4610. LENGTH: Contact Judy. ROAD DISTANCE: Contact Judy.
Tuesday, January 31: Moose Mountain Pond, North Hudson, NY We will ski south from Essex County Route 4 over gentle rolling terrain past Berrymill Pond with views across to Owl Pate Mountains. Call Dale for meeting place and time. CONTACT: Dale Blanchet at 273-4262. LENGTH: 6.5 miles with ascent of 350 feet. ROAD DISTANCE: About 175 miles.
FEBRUARY
Sunday, February 5: Beebe Hill, Columbia County, NY We will ski a loop mostly in the woods, then over the hump to No Bottom Pond. Must be able to control your decent. We will leave from the Schodack Park & Ride, please call Dale for details. CONTACT: Dale Blanchet at 273-4262. LENGTH: 4 to 5 miles with ascent of 350 feet. ROAD DISTANCE: 65 miles.
Wednesday, February 8: Shenantaha Creek Park to Round Lake Ski the bike path starting in Malta near the junction of East Line Rd.and Rt. 67 to Round Lake Village and return. Call Dick for meeting place CONTACT: Dick Hughes at Rhughes913@nycap.rr.com or 371-7655. LENGTH: 4 to 5 miles ROAD DISTANCE: 18 miles round trip.
Saturday, February 11: Merck Forest, VT I tried this trip last year, but the weather didn’t cooperate. So let’s try again - come join me for a leisurely, relaxed ski around Merck Forest. There are numerous old roads and trails to explore here that provide very pleasant skiing – we’ll avoid the steepest hills! They do request, though it’s not mandatory, a very modest donation to help keep the farm going. Call Lynn for details. CONTACT: Lynn Filarecki, 674-2125. LENGTH: Approximately 5-8 miles, depending on group interest ROAD DISTANCE: Approximately 130 miles round-trip, car-pooling to determine fee
Tuesday, February 14: Peaked Mountain Pond. North Creek, NY This will be a snowshoe hike. We will go in on the trail from 13th Lake, and up to the pond, this is a not-too-hard hike. From the Pond, those who wish can ascend to the top of Peaked Mountain, a fairly steep, stiff climb. Meet at the Exit 9 Park and Ride in Clifton Park, contact Katie for the starting time. CONTACT: Katie Henrikson at khenriks@nycap.rr.com or 439-4308. LENGTH: 6.6 miles round-trip to the pond, with 700 feet of ascent. ROAD DISTANCE: Approximately 100 miles round trip.
Wednesday, February 15: Spring schedule activities are due Yay, we’re thinking spring! Time to send in your bike rides, hikes or kayak trips for our spring schedule. Let’s make this our busiest spring ever! CONTACT: Gayle Fountain at pfounta1@nycap.rr.com or 371-8585. LENGTH: You decide. ROAD DISTANCE: Unlimited.
Saturday, February 18: Tower Mountain Road to Route 20, Lanesborough, MA This is a snowshoe trip and will require full winter gear on the Taconic Crest Trail. Winter hiking is difficult and can be cold and windy. Please come prepared for a great day in the snowy outdoors. . We will have a car shuttle. Contact Mary for more details. CONTACT: Mary MacDonald at mmacdonald003@nycap.rr.com or 371-1294. LENGTH: Approximately 6½ miles and about 1 mile along the access trail. ROAD DISTANCE: 70 miles round-trip.
Tuesday, February 19: Hand Hollow, Columbia County, NY This will be a snowshoe. Contact Dale for details. CONTACT: Dale Blanchet at 273-4262. LENGTH: To be determined. ROAD DISTANCE: To be determined.
Wednesday, February 22: LEADERS CHOICE This will be snowshoe, hike or XC, depending on conditions. Contact Judy for details. CONTACT: Judy Brandow at hwesterh@nycap.rr.com or 482-4610. LENGTH: Contact Judy. ROAD DISTANCE: Contact Judy.
Saturday, February 25: Hopkins Forest, Williamstown, MA We will start from the Rosenburg Center at 10AM and will be skiing (or hiking if no snow) the Lower Loop and Upper Loop trails. For more information regarding the trails: http://hmf.williams.edu/public/trail-map/ CONTACT: Rob Bayly at ckarp00000@aol.com or 279-4402. LENGTH: 4.1 miles round-trip. ROAD DISTANCE: Your house to Williamstown.
Tuesday, February 28: Pine Ridge Cross Country Ski Center, Poestenkill, NY. Variety of trails, if no local snow, we will go to Lapland Lake. Meeting place will be the Schodack Park & Ride. Call Susan for details. CONTACT: Susan Roberts at 766-4170. LENGTH: To be determined by the group.ROAD DISTANCE: To be determined by starting place.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Sunday, March 25: Merck Forest, Rupert, VT Celebrate the Spring Open House weekend at Merck Forest and Farm Center, in Rupert VT. Enjoy a variety of old roads and trails and save room for the generous pancake breakfast (pancakes, sausage, coffee, and more). Yes, it is mud season but it's also maple syrup season. Breakfast is from 10 -2, so we can walk/hike first then enjoy a late breakfast. Or if some of you want to eat first, go ahead and we'll all rendezvous later. Prefer to meet at Brunswick (near Walmart) Park and Ride, but could vary depending on response. Call for confirmation and starting time. CONTACT: Bob Armao bob_armao@yahoo.com or 271-6512. LENGTH: A few miles with moderate ascent, depending on group preference and hunger. ROAD DISTANCE: Approximately 110 miles round trip.
Autumn is upon us. Time to get out and enjoy crisp days and the lovely fall foliage. We have a nice variety of activities to choose from in this schedule, so join us and have some fun in the great outdoors.
A lot has happened since the last outings schedule was distributed. The membership voted on and approved, by a 52-2 margin, to change the Taconic Hiking Club's by-laws. The changes were ratified at the Board of Governors meeting in July and are now in effect. The most notable change for the majority of you will be we can now send official correspondence, like this schedule, to you via e-mail. Please contact Corresponding Secretary Sharon Bonk (sboqc@mindspring.com or 674-0042) if you would prefer to receive your outings schedule and other club information electronically.
On a sad note, we lost Phil Fountain in an accident on July 29th. Phil was a past President of the club and one of its most dedicated and active members. We intend to formally recognize Phil's service to the club in the months ahead. One event is a memorial hike over Berlin Mountain on October 25. We'll keep you posted on others as they are finalized. In the meantime, we can all honor Phil's memory by enjoying the great outdoors and striving to make the world around us a better place.
In that spirit, a special thank you to Susan Roberts for volunteering to take over the fall hikes Phil had scheduled in connection with Hudson Valley Community College. These outings have provided excellent exposure for the club to novice hikers. We'd love to see them continue. Please contact me (rjhydorn@lycos.com or 283-6056)if you are interested in assuming the ambassador's role.
Lastly, I'd like to invite you all to the Annual Fall Banquet, which is being held on November 6 at Moscatiello's in Troy. The speaker will be club member Rich Vertigan, who will regale us with his biking expedition tales.
Respectfully,
R.J. Hydorn
September
Wednesday, September 7: Paddle the Kunjamuk, Speculator, NY
The Kunjamuk is a beautiful winding stream up in the Adirondacks near Speculator. It will require some skill in frequently turning the boat but the reward will be seeing the beauty of nature up close. The paddle is approximately 10 miles round trip. Contact Etta for a meeting time and place.
CONTACT: Etta Menges at 233-8310.
LENGTH:Paddle distance approximately 10 miles.
ROAD DISTANCE:About 150 miles round-trip.
Thursday, September 8:Bromley Mountain, Peru, VT
Bromley is known for its ski area in the winter, but there is also a hiking trail. There will be all new views from the top. Meet at the Park and Ride at the intersection of Routes 4 and 43 at 8:00 AM.
LENGTH:Approximately 6 miles and 1400 feet of ascent.
ROAD DISTANCE: 110 miles round trip.
Friday, September 9: Walkway bike over the Hudson, Poughkeepsie, NY
This is the second attempt at this trip. The bicycle trip is planned to the Poughkeepsie area where we will bike on the Hudson Valley Rail Trail, which connects to the bridge. We will cross over the bridge and visit the Farmer's Market, which begins at 3:00 PM at Pulaski Park in Poughkeepsie. Plan to bring a lunch and contact Mary for further information.
Saturday and Sunday, September 10-11: 2nd Annual Plateau Traverse Hike
Co-sponsored by the Friends of Dyken Pond, the Dyken Pond Environmental Education Center and the Rensselear Land Trust. As part of the Hudson River Valley Ramble we will meet at Pineridge Cross Country Ski Area and take shuttles to the Pittstown State Forest and will hike south back to Pineridge. Participants can then set up a tent to camp for the night and enjoy an evening cooking, eating and sitting around the campfire. In the morning on Sunday we will continue our journey south to Garfield Road in Stephentown. There will be an option short hike to the summit of Turner Mountain. At the end of the day, we will be met by shuttles, and be brought back to Pineridge to pick up our cars. Cost is free, but pre-registration is required.
LENGTH: We will be traveling approximately 15 miles each day. This will be a very strenuous hike with some off trail bushwhacking and significant elevation change. Participants must be in excellent physical condition.
ROAD DISTANCE: Your house to Pineridge.
Saturday, September 17: Hoosac Range/Spruce Hill, North Adams, MA
This is a new trail on Berkshire Natural Resources Council property and takes us to Spruce Hill (2566’) in Savoy Mountain State Forest. We will have 360 views from the top and a chance of viewing migrating hawks. We will meet at Rte 7, Brunswick Park and Ride. Call Sharon for further information.
LENGTH:6 miles round-trip with an elevation gain of 700 feet.
ROAD DISTANCE:Approximately 80 miles round-trip
Sunday, September 18: Long Trail/AT, Shrewsbury, VT
We will travel a short section from Upper Cold River Road in the shadow of Killington Peak down to VT Route 103. Highlights include views from Clarendon Lookout and a short side trip at the end down into Clarendon Gorge.
LENGTH: 5.4 miles and approximately 350 feet of ascent and 1200 feet of descent.
ROAD DISTANCE: 155 miles round-trip.
Monday, September 19-Tuesday, September 20:
Harriman State Park Hiking, Rockland County, NY
Harriman Park is located 50 miles north of NYC and is a little over 2 hours drive from the Capital District.Explore Harriman’s hills and ridges when the park is quiet during midweek.Options include parts of the Long Path, AT, or other park trails. Cool off in Lake Tirorati after a day of hiking. Stay overnight Monday (also possible to arrive on Sunday with leader) at Camp Thendara as guests of the Thendara Mountain Club (small fee, plus shared food cost).
Wednesday, September 21: Paddle Lake Otsego, Cooperstown, NY
Cooperstown isn’t just about baseball it also has a beautiful lake with an opera house and the spiritual
presence of Natty Bumppo and Chingachgook. This is a good quiet time with changing foliage to explore at least a portion of this outstanding lake. The paddle will be less than 12 miles. We will meet by the south entrance to J C Penny’s at Crossgates Mall at 8 A.M..
Friday, September 23: Lapland Pond, east of Lake George, NY
Begin on a gravel road with mountain views. Go past a beaver meadow, over a little hemlock knoll, and along a lovely pond to a lean-to. Expect wet spots, a minor stream crossing and very little climbing.We will leave from Exit 9 Park & Ride on Fire Road.Call Dale for further information.
CONTACT:Dale Blanchett at 273-4262.
LENGTH:4.2 miles round-trip.An optional visit to Black Mountain Pond would add 2.4 miles and 200 feet of ascent.
ROAD DISTANCE:175 miles round-trip.
Tuesday, September 27: Ponds south of Moriah Road, North Hudson, NY
Trails ascend gradually to Bass Lake, Berrymill Pond and Moose Mountain Pond with some rocky areas.We will hike along an outlet brook, a marshy area and see rocky promontories across a lake.
We will leave from Exit 9 Park & Ride on Fire Road.Call Dale for further information.
CONTACT:Dale Blanchett at 273-4262.
LENGTH:7 – 8 miles with an ascent of 500 to 600 feet.
ROAD DISTANCE:200 miles round-trip.
October
Saturday, October 1: Taconic Crest Trail via Mattison and Robinson Hollows, Berlin, NY
We’ll hike a central portion of the Taconic Crest Trail, going up Mattison Hollow past its scenic waterfalls, along the TCT for about 3 miles, and down Robinson Hollow. We will meet at Berlin High School parking lot at 9 A.M. Bring lunch and water. Register in advance.
LENGTH: About 7 miles, with about 1000 feet ascent and descent.
ROAD DISTANCE: Just a few miles.
Sunday, October 16: Hike Savoy Mountain State Forest, North Adams, MA
We will hike some new trails visiting Burnett Pond, Tannery Brook Falls, Balanced Rock and perhaps, Borden Mountain.Contact Willard for further information.
Wednesday, October 5:Dickinson Fire Tower, Grafton NY
This is one of Phil’s HVCC hikes for Creative Retirement.
We will hike along Long Pond Road via the Fire Tower Trail to the restored Dickinson Fire Tower.
We will have lunch at the summit and allow small groups to climb the tower and enjoy the vast panoramic scenery.We return to our cars via the Chet Bell Trail. We will meet at the Wal-Mart (south parking area) in Brunswick off Route 7 at 9:30AM and drive to Grafton Lakes State Park’s winter entrance.Please be sure to call Susan to offer your help with this hike or to let her know you will be joining her.
CONTACT: Susan Roberts at 766-4170
LENGTH:Approximately 2.5 miles round-trip with an ascent of 300 feet.
ROAD DISTANCE:25 miles round-trip.
Wednesday, October 5: Warren County Bike Trail, Glens Falls, NY
Ride approximately 20 miles from Glens Falls to Lake George and back.Optional extension will add Hudson Falls Feeder Canal path (unpaved). Finish the day with a stop at Rock Hill Bakery in downtown Glens Falls.We will meet at I 87, Exit 9 Park and Ride at 9AM and caravan to the Glens Falls starting point.
Thursday, October 6, 2011: Blue Mountain, Blue Mountain Lake, NY
This fire tower mountain is located near Blue Mountain Lake and the Adirondack Museum. There are excellent views from the fire tower.. If time permits we will visit the museum (look for coupons/discounts). Travel time to trailhead is about 1 ¾ hours. Contact Mary MacDonald for further information.
Monday, October 10: Hyde Park Walkabout Trails, Dutchess County, NY
The Hyde Park trail system includes 16 miles of parks and historic sites. We will briskly walk the generally moderate trails (with some hills) in Mills Norrie State Park (Hudson River views) and the interconnected trails of the Roosevelt woods and farm sites. Since the hike will cover 10 miles, there is no plan to visit the historic homes that these trails entwine.
October 10, Monday:Vanderwacker Mountain, Minerva, NY
This mountain in the southern Adirondacks has great views of the High Peaks. There should also be good fall color on Columbus Day.Meet at Northway Exit 9 Park and Ride, in Clifton Park at 8:00AM.
LENGTH: 5 miles round trip and 1650 feet of ascent
ROAD DISTANCE: Approximately 200 miles round trip.
Wednesday, October 12: Olana, Hudson, NY
This is one of Phil’s HVCC hikes for Creative Retirement
This will be a easy stroll along the grounds of Frederic Church’s home and through the landscapes of pond, gardens, and woods created by him, in the 1860’s and 1870’s.We will meet at the Schodack Center off Route 9 and 20, from I 90 Exit 11 East at 9:30 A.M.Please be sure to call Susan to offer your help with this hike or to let her know you will be joining her.
CONTACT: Susan Roberts at 766-4170
LENGTH:To be determined by the group.
ROAD DISTANCE:44 miles round-trip.
Sunday, October 16: AT in NY, Putnam County, NY
This hike overlaps two sections (6 & 7) of the Appalachian Trail through Clarence Fahnestock State Park. There will be views from Shenandoah Mt and of Canopus Lake. We will continue south past an old sunken mine.
CONTACT: R.J. Hydorn at 518-283-6056 (rjhydorn@lycos.com)
LENGTH: 8.3 miles and approximately 500 feet ascent, 600 feet decent.
ROAD DISTANCE: 180 miles round-trip.
Wednesday, October 19: Hopkins Memorial Forest, Williamstown, MA
This is one of Phil’s HVCC hikes for Creative Retirement.
We will start from the Rosenberg Center, the Williams College’s research base.The hike will consist of two loops that form a figure eight. We will also go a short distance off the trail to find a canopy platform 75 feet above us in a tree.We will meet at the Wal-Mart (south parking area) in Brunswick off Route 7 at 9:30 A.M.Please be sure to call Susan to offer your help with this hike or to let her know you will be joining her.
CONTACT: Susan Roberts at 766-4170
LENGTH: 4.3 miles round-trip and a elevation gain of about450 feet.
ROAD DISTANCE:60 miles round-trip.
Sunday, October 23: Quarry, Becket, MA
A short uphill walk brings us to the historic quarry site with its drill, trucks, and derricks.The Becket Land Trust has put in interpretive signs and marked trails on roads that lead past smaller quarries.We will leave from Schodack Park & Ride, Exit 11E.Call Dale for further information.
CONTACT:Dale Blanchett at 273-4262.
LENGTH:3 miles with an ascent of 250.
ROAD DISTANCE:112 miles round-trip.
Tuesday, October 25: PHIL FOUNTAIN MEMORIAL HIKE
on the Taconic Crest Trail, Petersburg, NY
We wanted to pay tribute to Phil’s devotion to the Taconic Crest Trail and in particular his love of this section. This joint ADK and Taconic Hiking Club hike will celebrate Phil’s trail work on the Crest Trail, his leadership over many outings on these paths, and his joy in the creation and documentation of this ridge and its access points. We’ll want to toast and hail Phil from the 360° view on Berlin Mtn. We’ll spot cars at the trailhead in Southeast Hollow and start from Petersburg Pass, heading south up over Berlin Mountain (2818’) and continuing to the Southeast Hollow access trail. One option hikers have is to do a shorter segment out and back, hiking just Berlin Mountain and returning to Petersburg Pass. Thewhole distance and elevation to SE Hollow is 7 miles and about 1300’ vertical, and to do just Berlin Mtn. would be 5.5 miles RT and 1000’ vertical. These are short days, so meet Virginia at the Defreestville Park and Ride at 7:30 A.M. and Karen at Cumberland Farms at the intersection of Rtes. 22 and 43 in Stephentown at 8 A.M. We’ll need time to spot cars.
LENGTH:5.5 to 7 miles with between 1000 to 1300 feet of ascent.
ROAD DISTANCE:75 miles round-trip.
Sunday, October 30: Schodack Island Paddle, Schodack, NY
Plan to meet at the boat launch on the Schodack Creek side at Schodack Island State Park. We’ll paddle around the island and into the river, taking advantage of the morning high tide.Plan to be in the water and ready to go by 9:00AM.We will paddle and explore until about 4:00 PM.Best for touring kayaks, but strong canoers are welcome.
ROAD DISTANCE:Your house to Schodack Island State Park.
November
Saturday, November 5th hike postponed to November 12th: Lower Wolfjaw, Keene Valley, NY
We will take Lake Road passing through the Ausable Club, proceeding up the Wedge Brook Trail to the summit of Lower Wolf Jaw. After enjoying the views from the summit we return by the same route
LENGTH:Summit at 4175 feet with an ascent 2825 feet.8.38 miles total round-trip. Plan an early start.
ROAD DISTANCE: Approximately 200 miles round-trip.
Saturday, November 5: Siamese Ponds Trail Work, NY
This is a co-hike with Albany ADK. We’ll hike in from the Rt. 8 trailhead to the lean to and finally to the ponds.Activities will include trail work (brushing out, water bars, etc.) and trash removal. Nothing is going to be difficult or physically demanding, but this is a work trip. This is your chance to join the Wilderness Committee on a work trip into the Chapter’s adopted wilderness area and give something back to the mountains. .
Sunday, November 6: THC Annual Fall Banquet, 12:00 P.M.
Moscatiello’s Restaurant
99 North Greenbush Road, Troy, NY
We will have a lunch buffet with the following choices:
House salad
Homemade Italian Bread
Ziti Primavera
Meatballs & Sausage
Chicken Marsala
Mini Cannoli Platter
Soda, Iced Tea, Lemonade, Coffee, Tea & Decaf
Club member, Rich Vertigan will be our guest speaker. He will present "Biking Across America" pictures of his bike trip from the East Coast to the West Coast.
Please send your check for $22.00 by October 30, 2011 (no refunds after this date) to:
Doree Cox
104 Dutch Church Road
Petersburgh, NY 12138
NOTE: This is the first day of Daylight Standard Time. Make sure wherever you go today you aren’t an hour late.
November 8, Tuesday, Election Day Hike toBlack Dome, Jewett, NY
Black Dome is the center of the three Catskill Mountains that can be seen from various high points around the capital district. We will go up the Black Dome trail from the Big Hollow Rd parking lot, and return the same way. A side trip to Blackhead is possible if the group wishes. Meet at 8:00AM at the Delmar Route 32 Park and Ride.
LENGTH:4.0 or 4.5 miles round-trip with1780 feet of ascent.
ROAD DISTANCE:Approximately 80 miles round trip.
Friday, November 11, Taconic Crest Trail, Berlin, NY
This is a co-hike with Albany ADK.We’ll cover the section of the TCT from Robinson Hollow to Mattison Hollow. This will involve blow down removal and drainage work.Contact David for further information.
Saturday, November 12 (from Nov 5th): Lower Wolfjaw Mountain, Keene Valley, NY
We will take Lake Road passing through the Ausable Club, proceeding up the Wedge Brook Trail to the summit of Lower Wolf Jaw. After enjoying the views from the summit we return by the same route
LENGTH:Summit at 4175 feet with an ascent 2825 feet.8.38 miles total round-trip. Plan an early start.
ROAD DISTANCE:Approximately 200 miles round-trip.
Sunday, November 13: AT in NY/CT, Bull's Bridge, CT
I'm missing a short section of the Appalachian Trail in Connecticut from Bull's Bridge to the state line on Hoyt Road. We will hike up and over Ten-Mile Hill and along the valley where the Ten-Mile and Housatonic Rivers meet.
LENGTH: 4.1 miles and approximately 500 feet ascent with 600 feet of descent.
ROAD DISTANCE: 155 miles round trip.
Sunday, Nov 20: Leader's Choice Hike, Southern Berkshires, MA
Will pick a scenic southern Berkshire hike.Plenty of good options as the foliage begins to fade and drop. Contact leader for details as date approaches.
Trail Work: Contact Colin Campbell 438-9629 or holesinhead@aol.com. Outings must be submitted to Gayle Fountain at pfounta1@nycap.rr.com or 371-8585. EXPLORE OUR LINKS to informative sites. (Please report failures.)
