Events Archive

Events

Events, 2007

Monday, Jan. 1 Annual New Year's Day Outing and Potluck. As is our tradition, we will be gathering on New Year's Day for an outing and light potluck. Meet at the Outdoor Lodge on the Clarkson University campus and hike, ski, or snowshoe the trails. Plan to arrive in the early afternoon, and eat around 4. There are no kitchen facilities, just electric outlets. Activity level is very easy (in fact, optional). Contact Tom Ortmeyer at (315) 265-8219 or tortmeye@twcny.rr.com.

Saturday, Jan. 6 Ski and Bird to Raquette Falls. As the ADK's High Peaks Region guide states, "This is one of the classic Adirondack ski tours". We will ski 4.2 miles along the Raquette River to the canoe carry intersection, and then walk a short distance to a lovely viewing area for the falls. With a bumper cone crop on red and black spruce, balsam fir, tamarack, and hemlock trees this year, we hope to observe many irruptive winter finch species. Bring binoculars! The Raquette Falls Trail has gentle and moderate ups and downs, with a couple of steeper areas near the end. (Taking off skis to walk down the steep sections will be fine.) Round trip distance is 8.4 miles. Moderately strenuous. This trip is jointly sponsored with St. Lawrence-Adirondack Audubon. Contact Joan Collins & George Yellott at (315) 261-4246 or jecollins@twcny.rr.com.

Sunday, Jan. 7 Haystack from the Loj. Joint trip with Glens Falls-Saratoga Chapter. We will take the Van Hoevenberg Trail almost to Marcy, and then take a shortcut (15-minute bushwhack) at a former lean-to site to intersect the trail to Haystack. Full crampons and snowshoes needed, ski poles recommended. Good conditions may result in a climb of Marcy on the way back. Around 16 miles round trip. Very strenuous and demanding winter mountaineering. Contact Mike McLean at (315) 262-2564 or mpmclean@twcny.rr.com.

Saturday, Jan. 13 Skiing at the Visitor Information Center. In Paul Smiths. We will ski the long trail in the morning and some of the shorter ones in the afternoon. Easy to moderate. Contact Gene and Carolyn Kaczka at (315) 265-4806 or gckaczka@twcny.rr.com.

Saturday, Jan. 20 Snowshoe Baxter Mountain. We'll climb Baxter Mountain from Spruce Hill off Route 9N. The trail leads to lookouts on rock ledges with views of Keene Valley, the Great Range, and Marcy. Moderate climb. Bring snowshoes, lunch, camera. 770 foot elevation gain, summit 2440'. 2 miles round trip. Contact Duncan and Lois Cutter at (315) 328-4675 or dcutter1@twcny.rr.com.

Sunday Jan. 21 Sawteeth. 12 miles, 3600 foot ascent. Very strenuous and demanding winter mountaineering. Snowshoes and crampons necessary. Spectacular views along the trail and from the summit of this high peak. Contact Nancy LaBaff at (315) 379-9885 or nlabaff1@twcny.rr.com, or Lyle Montgomery at (315) 394-0121 or lmontgom@twcny.rr.com.

Sunday, January 21 Outdoors-Indoors: A New Zealand Adventure Tom Van De Water and Betsy Kepes and their son, Jay, spent many months exploring the wonders of New Zealand mainly on their bikes. Come spend an evening hearing about the highlights of their trip that also included a stop in Japan. 7 PM at the Potsdam Museum. For details, email or call Rose Rivezzi, 265-8117.

Saturday, Jan. 27 Snowshoe Dial Mountain. We'll go up Dial via Bear Den. The total ascent is 4000 feet. If all goes well we can add Nippletop and make an interesting loop. Very strenuous and demanding winter mountaineering. Contact Debra White at (315) 322-4066 or dwhite46r@twcny.rr.com.

Sunday, Jan. 28 Snowshoe Pitchoff Mountain. If we can spot cars this is a 5.2 mile trip with about 1500 feet of elevation gain. Crampons may be needed. Strenuous. Contact John and Susan Omohundro at (315) 265-8365 or omohunjt@northnet.org.

Saturday, Feb. 3 Ski and Bird on the Leonard Pond Trail. This fairly easy ski trip is on old dirt roads with mostly level terrain. The trail leads through a variety of primarily coniferous habitats - red pine, white pine, mixed coniferous/deciduous, and spruce-fir-tamarack boreal habitat. Our destination will be the gated location delineating the beginning of private land, and we will also take a short side trail to view Leonard Pond (& hopefully, the resident River Otters). This is a wonderful trail for observing boreal bird species. We will also be watching for irruptive winter finch species with this year’s bumper cone crop on red and black spruce, balsam fir, tamarack, and hemlock trees. Bring binoculars! Round trip distance is 5 miles. This trip is jointly sponsored with St. Lawrence-Adirondack Audubon. Contact Joan Collins at (315) 261-4246 or jecollins@twcny.rr.com.

Sunday, Feb. 4 Beginner Snowshoe at Indian Creek Nature Center and the Indian Creek Nature Center. This is an easy afternoon 2 to 3 mile return trip flatland snowshoe outing. We'll also be looking for birds. Snowshoes will be provided, so come on out and try your feet on this wonderful way to enjoy winter. Contact Ann Spencer at (315) 379-1383 or aaspencer@verizon.net.

Saturday Feb. 10 Jenkins Mountain. We'll ski to the base of this small peak and snowshoe to the summit. If time and conditions permit we'll bushwhack to the northerly summit as well. Remarkable views. The start and finish is at the Visitor Information Center at Paul Smiths. An 8 mile trip with 1200 feet of elevation gain, with an easy to moderate pace with some short but challenging inclines. Contact Cliff and Gloria Daly at (613) 224-4413 or cliff.daly@pwgsc.gc.ca.

Sunday, February 11 Outdoors-Indoors: Hiking With Children The Foisy/Koehler family and the Madore family will share some of their experiences about hikes involving children. They will share special things to be considered and the special joys that come when hiking with kids on the trail. This would be a great opportunity if you’ve ever thought about hiking with children but feel unsure about it. 7 PM at the Potsdam Museum. For details, email or call Rose Rivezzi, 265-8117.

Saturday, Feb. 17 (Rescheduled to Feb 24) - Ski in the St. Regis Canoe Area. If ice conditions permit, we'll ski the 7 Carries Canoe Route, which is a 9 mile "spot a car" trip with very little elevation gain. If not, we'll ski the Fish Pond loop, which is an 11.6 mile round trip with little elevation gain. Moderately strenuous. Contact Armond & Ann Spencer at (315) 379-1383 or aaspencer@verizon.net.

Sunday Feb. 18 Black Pond (near Paul Smiths). Join us for a Kids on the Trail Hike/Ski/Snowshoe. We plan to eat lunch at the lean-to. We'll supply hot dogs and marshmallows if you supply the kids to roast them. Easy. Contact Marg and Blair Madore at (315) 265-0602 or madorebf@potsdam.edu.

Saturday, Feb. 24 (Rescheduled from Feb 17) - Ski in the St. Regis Canoe Area. If ice conditions permit, we'll ski the 7 Carries Canoe Route, which is a 9 mile "spot a car" trip with very little elevation gain. If not, we'll ski the Fish Pond loop, which is an 11.6 mile round trip with little elevation gain. Moderately strenuous. Contact Armond & Ann Spencer at (315) 379-1383 or aaspencer@verizon.net.

Sunday, Feb. 25 Skiing in the Gatineau Park. In the hills a short distance north of Ottawa. Good scenery. Warm shelters. Very well maintained trails, usually in good condition even when nearby areas are icy. About fifteen miles, hilly. Moderately strenuous. Trail fee. Contact John Barron at (613) 828-2296 or barronj@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.

Saturday, Mar. 3 Gothics and Armstrong (Jointly with Glens Falls-Saratoga Chapter). We will head up the Ausable Club Road and then up the Beaver Meadow Falls Trail to the col between Gothics and Armstrong. First Gothics and then Armstrong, or possibly Armstrong then Gothics. We may throw in Sawteeth and Pyramid, or possibly Upper Wolf Jaw if the weather is good and we decide to descend via a loop trail. A full day with dinner in Keene Valley finishing the trip. Very strenuous and demanding winter mountaineering. Contact Mike McLean at (315) 262-2564 or mpmclean@twcny.rr.com.

Sunday, Mar. 4 Snowshoe to Harper Falls. This will be an afternoon trip to Harper Falls on the north branch of the Grasse River, north of Lampson Falls. It is a double falls with some interesting rock work to explore. Approximately 2 miles round trip, suitable for all ages. Contact Tom Ortmeyer at (315) 265-8261 or tortmeye@twcny.rr.com.

Saturday, Mar. 10 Ski the Peavine Swamp Trail from the Ranger School. We're planning a trip of about 8 miles round trip. Conditions and/or participants may alter these plans. Moderate. Contact Armond & Ann Spencer at (315) 379-1383 or aaspencer@verizon.net.

New! Sunday, Mar. 11, 1:30 pm. Beginner Snowshoe at Indian Creek Nature Center and the Indian Creek Nature Center. This is an easy afternoon 2 to 3 mile return trip flatland snowshoe outing. We'll also be looking for birds. Snowshoes will be provided, so come on out and try your feet on this wonderful way to enjoy winter. Contact Ann Spencer at (315) 379-1383 or aaspencer@verizon.net.

Saturday Mar. 17 Ski/Snowshoe Cat Mountain. Assuming the snow depth is sufficient, we will ski to the vicinity of Janack's Landing (perhaps over ice part of the way) or a little farther, then stow the skis and snowshoe up Cat Mountain to enjoy its panoramic views of the Five Ponds Wilderness. About 10 miles round trip. Strenuous. Contact Tom Wheeler at (315) 265-2013 or twheele3@twcny.rr.com.

Sunday, March 18 Outdoors-Indoors: Planning a Trip to New Zealand Mike Klein spent six months in New Zealand. He will share some of the interesting places he explored and give suggestions in planning a trip to this spectacular country. 7 PM at the Potsdam Museum. For details, email or call Rose Rivezzi, 265-8117.

Saturday Mar. 24 Mystery Trip. If we can find snow, we'll ski. If we can't find snow, we'll hike. In either case the trip will be moderately strenuous. Contact Ann & Armond Spencer at (315) 379-1383 or aaspencer@verizon.net.

Sunday, April 1 - April Foolish Trip Armond Spencer (315-379-1383 or aaspencer@verizon.net), leader. Armond thinks there will still be skiing in April. If not, we'll hike - and this time we'll bring stabilicers! Level 2-3

Saturday, April 7 - Grass River Whitewater Canoe and Hike Brad Pendergraft 265-3010 penton@northnet.org The trip starts with a carry to and around Lampson Falls, then to Russell on the Grass River. All the difficult rapids are at the start of the trip and can be carried so even intermediate canoeists can complete the trip. After the upper rapids are passed the river is class I and II whitewater. A wet suit is mandatory. You must talk with Brad if you want to participate. Hikers are also needed to ferry vehicles to the take out. If you would like to hike the shore trail and watch the fun please call for more details. Level 3

Saturday, April 14 - Hiking in Frontenac Provincial Park John Barron (613) 828-2296 barronj@dfo-mpo.gc.ca We’ll hike the Slide Lake Loop, a rugged, scenic trail that wends among lakes in the park’s southeast corner about one hour from the Ogdensburg Bridge. We can’t be sure of the birds on the day, but on this route we’ve seen many kinds including ospreys and herons. Historic sites. 10 miles. Level 3-4

Saturday, April 21 - Catamount Mountain Trail Maintenance Gloria & Cliff Daly (613) 224-4413 cliff.daly@rogers.com /come out and help spruce up our adopted trail on this small but spectacular peak just north of Whiteface. Take lunch, work gloves, and small garbage bag and shears or saw. Moderate pace 4 miles with 2000’ ascent. Level 4

Saturday, April 21 - Indian Creek Nature Center Spring Wildflowers/Birds Walk Peter O’Shea. Join Peter to view spring wildflowers and early migrants at the Nature Center near Rensselaer Falls. Meet at the East End Entrance (2.5 miles from Route 68 on the Rennselaer Falls road) at 9A.M.Bring Binoculars! Level 1. This trip is jointly sponsored with St. Lawrence-Adirondack Audubon.

Sunday, April 22 - Celebrate Earth Day with a climb of Pitchoff Mt. Susan & John Omohundro 265-8365 omohunjt@northnet.org If we spot cars this is 5.2 miles with 1500 feet of elevation gain. Good summit views. Weather permitting, a potluck picnic afterwards beside Cascade Lake. Level 3-4

Sunday, April 22 - Outdoors Indoors: Adirondacks to Algonquin: The View from Space. Potsdam Museum, 7 pm. Frank Ahern of Ottawa region has published a book using space imaging and computer graphics to explore the geology and ecology of Algonquin Park. The Adirondacks share geology and physiography with Algonquin, and Frank will discuss the connection. A similar book for the Adirondacks may be his next project. For details, email or call Rose Rivezzi, 265-8117.

Saturday, April 28 - Everton Falls Cleanup & Canoe Duncan Cutter (315) 328-4675 or dcutter1@twcny.rr.com. This is our annual clean up at Everton Falls. Clean up from about 11 to 12, lunch on the rocks at the falls, then canoeing or hiking.

Sunday, April 29 - Spring Potluck at the Potsdam Presbyterian Church at the junction of Rtes 11 and llB Ann & Tom Ortmeyer 265-8219 tortmeye@twcny.rr.com and Duncan & Lois Cutter 328-4675 dcutter1@twcny.rr.com Come at 5, plan to eat at 5:30. Our speaker will be Stuart Mesinger, author of the recently published book, “No Place I’d rather be. Wit and Wisdom from the Adirondack Lean-To Journals.” Signed copies will be available for purchase. Level 1

Saturday, May 5 - Black Pond - (Near Paul Smiths) Marg and Blair Madore 265-0602 madorebfk@potsdam.edu This trip didn’t go in February so we’ll try again. Join us for a Kids on the Trail Hike. We’ll plan to eat lunch at the lean-to We’ll supply hot dogs and marsh-mallows if you supply the kids to roast them. Substitute Grandparents are welcome. Level 1

Saturday, May 12 - Bog River Canoe/Birding Trip Joan Collins 261-4246 jecollins@twcny.rr.com We’ll begin at the lower dam on the Bog River and canoe 3 miles up to a nice picnic area on Hitchins Pond. After a food break there will be an optional climb of Low’s ridge; 2mile RT and 400 feet of elevation gain. There are spectacular views from the summit. Bring binoculars. Level 3. This trip is jointly sponsored with St. Lawrence-Adirondack Audubon.

Sunday, May 13 Canoe - Madawaska Pond/Quebec Brook Neal Burdick 386-4648 nealadk@hotmail.com This is flat water canoeing after a flat carry of about a half a mile before the put in. But it is worth it, especially if the black flies aren’t out yet. Level 2

Saturday, May 19 - Hiking/Birding in the Massawepie Mire Joan Collins 261-4246 jecollins@twcny.rr.com& Eileen Wheeler. Massawepie is the largest bog (actually a fen!) in New York State. We will walk the old level railroad bed for about 4 miles RT and visit the South Branch of the Grass River. There will be an optional 2mile RT hike on the Mountaineer Trail along scenic Massawepie Lake in the afternoon. Boreal birds, bog plants and scenic views will be our focus. Bring binoculars. Level 2-3 This trip is jointly sponsored with St. Lawrence-Adirondack Audubon.

Sunday, May 20 – St. Regis Mountain Canoe, Kayak/Climb ( Jointly with Glens Falls Chapter) Mike Mclean 262-2564 mpmclean@twny.rr.com Meet at Paul Smiths College Canoe Launch at 9 A.M. and canoe across Lower St. Regis, Spitfire, and Upper St. Regis, ditch our rides at a well defined trail that starts in Spring Cove and hits the St. Regis Mt. trail near the site of the former observer’s cabin. Approximately 7miles of paddling and 4 miles of hiking with 1600 feet of elevation gain. Level 4

Saturday, May 26 - Lampson Falls Cleanup Gloria & Cliff Daly (613) 224-4413 cliff.daly@rogers.com Enjoy spring flowers and the roaring Grasse River as we pick up litter in the vicinity of the Falls. Take a few small garbage bags, work gloves and lunch. Kids are especially welcome! Meet at McDonalds in Canton for breakfast at 9 A.M. or at the trailhead at 10. We finish by 2 P.M. Level 1

Saturday, June 2 - National Trails Day ADK’s recognition of National Trails Day will be held at the Heart Lake Program Center. Trail projects around the area, followed by a barbecue and celebration of the 85th anniversary of the Northville-Placid trail. Watch the club website for registration information.

Sunday, June 3 - Road Bike Trip David Trithart 265-8117 trithadi@potsdam.edu We’ll ride 20 to 30 miles on a route I’ll choose. We’ll start at 9AM, and travel at a pace of 12 to 15 mph so we’ll finish by noon. Level 3

Thursday, June 7 Paddle Henderson Lake. Susan and John Omohundro 265-8365 omohunjt@northnet.org. A leisurely paddle of this lake after 1/4 mi. carry to the put-in from the Tahawus trailhead. Stupendous views of the High Peaks and Indian Pass. A swim and time for lunch at a leanto.

Saturday, June 9 - Biking near the Indian Creek Nature Center Tom Ortmeyer 265-8219 tortmeye@twcny.rr.com We’ll bike a 20 mile loop on the back roads near the Center. A mid morning start with a lunch stop along the way. Level 3

Saturday, June 16 - Hike the High Peak of your choice Chuck Tracy 347-3585 akd46r10364@yahoo.com I will lead a trip to any of the 46 high peaks with the most popular peak requested by the group being our destination. Details will follow the choice. Anyone working on their 46er list can feel free to contact me at anytime, as we do several other unscheduled hikes also. Level 5

Sunday, June 17 - Hike Debar Mountain Nancy Skiff 393-7507 nanas@northnet.org Debar is one of the most prominent of the Northern Adirondacks. Seven and a half miles and 1600 feet of elevation gain. Level 4

Saturday, June 23 - Streeter Lake Katherine and Gordon Batson 265-8491 gbatson@twcny.rr.com Via Youngs road, this is an easy, gentle seven miles RT to Streeter Lake not far from Star Lake. The trail leads thru the old Schuler estate (Potato chip company) and across the Potato Patch. Level 2-3

Saturday, June 23 - Mount Colden John Barron (613) 828-2296 barronj@dfo-mpo.gc.ca Hike to this high peak with spectacular summit views and plenty of points of interest en route. 12 miles RT 3500 feet of elevation gain. Moderate pace. Level 5

Wednesday, June 27 - Evening Paddle and Picnic on Stark Falls Reservoir Dick Mooers 265-2774 RMOOERS@twcny.rr.com. We’ll plan to start around 5, paddle a while and have our picnic. Level 1-2

Friday, June 29 - Sunday, July 1 - Lake Harris Family Camping Weekend Two nights camping at Lake Harris State Park in Newcomb, with dayhike to Stony Pond on Saturday.

Saturday, June 30 - Low’s Ridge-Upper Dam trail Birding/Hiking Trip Joan Collins and Tom Wheeler 261-4246 jecollins@twcny.rr.com The old level dirt road travels along some spectacular mixed wild areas to the Upper Dam on the Bog River, where we’ll have lunch . There is an optional climb up Low’s Ridge after lunch. RT distance to the Upper Dam is 5 miles and the optional climb adds 2 miles RT with 400 feet of elevation gain. Bring Binoculars ! Level 2-3 This trip is jointly sponsored with St. Lawrence-Adirondack Audubon.

Saturday July 7 - Cycling from Cape Vincent to Sackets Harbor. Scenic ride along the shore of Lake Ontario, 50 miles round trip. Moderate pace. Contact John Barron at (613) 828-2296 or barronj@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.

Sunday July 8 - Lake Lila Canoe Birding Trip & Mt. Frederica Climb (with St. Lawrence-Adirondack Audubon). Explore Lake Leila (8-10 miles of canoeing) including a 3 mile round-trip hike to the summit of Mt. Frederica (450 feet of ascent). Spectacular views. Quarter-mile carry required. Bring binoculars for bird observation. Strenuous. Contact Joan Collins at (315) 261-4246 or jecollins@twcny.rr.com or Eileen Wheeler at (315) 265-2013 or eiwheeler@yahoo.com.

Thursday July 12 - Arab Mountain. A midday hike to the fire tower and discussion of history with the student interpreter there. Lunch on the summit. On the way home, we'll swing through Conifer and remind ourselves of the history of the Emporium hardwood lumber company. Easy. Contact John & Susan Omohundro at (315) 265- 8365 or omohunjt@northnet.org.

Saturday July 14 - Canoe Jones Pond to Church Pond. We will start at Jones Pond and take the navigable stream to Osgood Pond. We will have the option of doing some swimming and exploring the Osgood River before navigating through some canals connecting to a smaller pond and ultimately Church Pond. About four miles, moderate. Please contact trip leaders by Wednesday July 11. Contact Nikki Coates at (315) 265-3232 or Ron Johnson at (315) 769-8241.

Saturday July 21 - Whiteface Paddle, Hike, Slide Climb. Meet at 7:00 a.m. at Lake Placid Boat Launch. A four-mile paddle and seven-mile hike. We’ll take off around 7:00 a.m. and paddle over to Whiteface Landing. From there we'll head up the trail to the lean-to. If conditions are dry, we'll scoot over to a stream just above the lean-to and climb the slide that leads us almost to the summit. Bring money for snacks and cold drinks on the summit. Return the same way to a nice Lake Placid restaurant to end the trip. Very strenuous. Contact Mike McLean at (315) 262-2564 or mpmclean@twcny.rr.com.

Wednesday, July 25 - Evening Picnic and Paddle at Higley Flow. Meet at the boat launch on Pine Road off Gulf Road at 5 PM and plan to picnic at the state park. Cancelled if raining. Launch from the concrete ramp or from a sandy beach that is a 25-yard carry through open woods. Note: There is no parking right at the launch location. Easy. Contact Dick Mooers at (315) 854-4186 or rmooers@twcny.rr.com.

Sunday, July 29 - Lilypad Pond. Easy afternoon hike to scenic Lilypad Pond in the White Hill Wild Forest, approaching from the Goldmine Road. 2 miles round trip, with one steep section. Possible extension to Long Pond if the group is willing. Contact Tom Ortmeyer at (315) 265-8219 or tortmeye@twcny.rr.com.

Saturday Aug. 4 - Canoe Sandy Creek. Canoe the marshes of Sandy Creek into Lake Ontario, where you'll find sand dunes and excellent swimming. About 10 miles round trip if the winds cooperate. The put-in is about 30 minutes past Watertown, and if we can get enough double racks we'll do some car pooling. Contact Alison Charles at (315) 388-4245.

Saturday Aug. 11 - A Ranger School Adventure. We'll look for an "old growth" cherry, find out what a hill of Dunkeld Larches looks like, and discover a hidden lean-to as we traverse the North Boundary Trail and environs. Moderate. Contact Bill Mueller at (315) 262-2952 or b-hutch-m@twcny.rr.com.

Wednesday Aug. 15 - Evening on the St. Lawrence. Canoe or kayak around Ogden Island, which has some nice sheltered bays and sandy beaches for swimming. Be prepared for fairly strong current in a couple of short stretches. If the wind is up we'll canoe one of the sheltered inlets near Waddington instead. Total distance 4-5 mi. Picnic on the island. Easy. Contact Alison Charles at (315) 388-4245.

Postponed until fall Saturday Aug. 18 - Crane Mountain. Barbara McMartin wrote that this was her favorite mountain. About 5 miles round trip with 1300 feet of elevation gain. It is quite a drive, so we may consider staying over, possibly camping out Saturday night, and driving home Sunday. Moderate. Contact Ann & Armond Spencer at (315) 379-1383 or aaspencer@verizon.net.

Cancelled Monday, Aug. 20 to Friday, Aug. 24 - Paddle Sections of the Historic Rideau Canal. Five days canoeing or kayaking the southern end of Ontario's famous waterway from Kingston to Ottawa. You may join for some or all of the days. Camping is available, also B&B's. Contact Dick Mooers by cell phone at (315) 854-4186 (even during the trip), or rmooers@twcny.rr.com.

Wednesday Aug. 29 - Evening Picnic and Paddle at Hannawa Pond. Park and launch just off Highway 56 at the canoe launch near the Hannawa Falls fire station at 5 PM and picnic at Postwood Park. Cancelled if raining. Easy. Contact Dick Mooers at (315) 854-4186 or rmooers@twcny.rr.com.

Monday Sept. 3 - Fairy Ladder Falls. We will look for this waterfall, discovered by Verplanck Colvin in 1873 near Elk Pass in the High Peaks. About six miles one way, most of it quite easy, concluding with a quarter-mile of thick bushwhacking. Depending on time and energy we may return via overlooks over the Ausable Lakes. Early start from Potsdam. Very strenuous. Contact Tom Wheeler at (315) 265-2013 or tweele3@twcny.rr.com.

Saturday, Sept. 8 - Blue Mountain Birding Hike (with St. Lawrence-Adirondack Audubon). We will climb Blue Mountain for spectacular views and a chance to hear and observe Bicknell's Thrush before its fall migration to the Caribbean. There is a fire tower on the summit that offers 360-degree views of many high peaks and surrounding mountains and lakes. 4 miles round trip with a 1500ft elevation gain. Bring binoculars. Strenuous. Rain date is 9/9. Contact Joan Collins at (315) 261-4246 or jecollins@twcny.rr.com or Eileen Wheeler at (315) 265-2013 or eiwheeler@yahoo.com.

Sunday, Sept. 9 - Bear Mountain Bog. Join us for this easy 3.5 mile hike to interesting boardwalks over a large bog. This Kids on the Trail hike is ideal for families with children, grandparents and substitute grandparents. Easy. Contact Blair & Marg Madore at (315) 265-0602 or madorebf@potsdam.edu.

Saturday Sept. 15 - Cycling the Tooley Pond Road. Significant climbs on the trip out, fast descents on the return. Several short rugged hikes to waterfalls on the Grasse River. 20 miles of cycling. Moderately strenuous. Contact Geri Ames at (315) 764-0009 or geriames@verizon.net or John Barron at (613) 828-2296 or barronj@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.

Saturday, September 15. Saranac Lakes and River. Dick Mooers 265-2774 or rmooers@twcny.rr.com. 14 mile paddle for sea kayaks and fast canoes from Middle Saranac Lake to Lake Flower, a four year tradition for the chapter. Paddlers need to average 3 to 4 mph comfortably. Lunch break at Second Pond launch ramp, early dinner at Little Italy. Joint trip with Champlain Kayak Club and Adirondack Pirate Paddlers group (Glens Falls, mainly). Limit of ten boats. All safety gear required. Meet at South Creek ramp at 9 AM to organize shuttle; launch at 10. All participants must have a pfd, and kayakers must use a spray skirt.

Saturday, Sept. 22 - Hike the foothills of the Adirondacks at September Farm. A 2-mile loop through pine and hardwood forest, woodland lore, birds, streams and beaver ponds. To be followed by chili, cornbread, tea and coffee (supplied) - the rest potluck, around the 19th-century Garner House and barn. Easy. Contact Bill Mueller at (315) 262-2952 or b-hutch-m@twcny.rr.com.

(Rescheduled to Sept. 29) Wednesday Sept. 26 - Evening Picnic and Paddle at Norwood Pond. Meet at the Lakeshore Drive entrance to the Norwood Municipal Beach at 4:30 p.m. to be let through the gate. Potential for downwind sailing with an umbrella! Possible alternative "picnic" at the Lobster House to cap the summer series. Easy. Contact Dick Mooers at (315) 854-4186 or rmooers@twcny.rr.com.

(Rescheduled from Sept. 26) Sunday Sept. 29 - Evening Picnic and Paddle at Norwood Pond. Forecast wind and weather are severe enough to postpone the Wednesday Picnic and Paddle event from today to Sunday. If you are at the Norwood beach gate at 4:30 PM on Sunday you can drive in. The gate will be locked while we paddle. We will launch from the sandy beach, paddle for maybe a couple of hours, and then go to the Lobster House for a sit down dinner together. If you wish to instead eat a picnic dinner at the park, that's fine, but you will have to load up, drive out to the road and then walk back to the picnic area, as I will be locking the gate. Plan on eating between 6:30 and 7:00 PM. The picnic area is not far from the road. Easy. Contact Dick Mooers at (315) 854-4186 or rmooers@twcny.rr.com.

Saturday Sept. 29 - Azure Mountain Art Johnson 265-2619. I will leave Potsdam about 8:30 and will spend the day on the top, but others may descend when they wish. Level 2

Saturday, Sept. 29 - Massawepie Mire Hiking/Birding Trip Joan Collins 261-4246, jecollins@twcny.rr.com. Massawepie Mire is the largest fen in New York State. We will walk the old, level railroad for ~ 4 miles RT and visit the South Branch of the Grass River location near the trailhead. There will also be an optional 2-mile RT hike on the Mountaineer Trail along scenic Massewepie Lake in the afternoon. Level 3. Jointly sponsored with High Peaks Audubon and St. Lawrence-Adirondack Audubon.

Saturday, October 13 - Palmer Hill Mine Hike Brad Pendergraft 265-3010, penton@northnet.org. Meet at the park in Hopkinton at 8 a.m. This is a long drive for a short hike to a very interesting location. We will hike over Palmer Hill to see an abandoned iron mine. Bring a hammer, magnet, and ziploc bags for samples. Good balance is needed on the path into the mine. Total distance is 1 mile. Level 2.

Saturday, Oct. 13 & Sunday Oct.14 - Stone Valley Work Days Mark Simon 262-2571.

Saturday, Oct. 20 - Indian Creek Nature Center Bird Walk Joan Collins 261-4246, jecollins@twcny.rr.com. Bring binoculars! RT distance is approximately 2 miles on level trails. Jointly sponsored with Indian Creek Nature Center and St. Lawrence-Adirondack Audubon. Level 1.

Sunday, Oct. 21 - Hike the trails at Paul Smith's VIC. Tom Ortmeyer, 265-8210, tortmeye@twcny.rr.com. We'll enjoy the late fall colors and scenery in an area with no hunting. We’ll walk several of the loops as time permits for 2 to 4 miles total. Level 2

Sunday, Oct. 21 - Red Sandstone Trail Work. John Omohundro 265-8365, omohunjt@northnet.org. We're building some steps and bridges across a gully beside the Sugar Island Flow. An afternoon project.

Saturday Oct. 27 - Hike in the Wolf Lake State Forest Dick Mooers 265-2774, rmooers@twcny.rr.com. Hike a delightful circuit of three small ponds. The 4.5-mile trail is rough underfoot making it seem longer, but the scenery is pretty. Bring lunch, water, bionics and a garbage bag for a little cleanup. Not for young children unless yours is a tiger. Level 2-3.

Saturday Oct. 27 - Catamount Lodge & Forest Woods Walk (TAUNY event) Take a walk in the woods and learn more about the future of a special tract of Adirondack land at the Catamount Lodge & Forest Woods Walk, Saturday, October 27, 2007 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hosts Joe and Ruth McWilliams invite you to join them and TAUNY staff for a visit of their 379-acre forest property at Catamount Lodge in South Colton. Forester Robert McLaughlin will lead the woods walk, followed by hot lunch at the lodge. Offered in conjunction with TAUNY's current exhibit of North Country woodwork, the program will focus on sustainable resources for different types of woodwork. A stop at Carry Falls Reservoir will be part of the walk.

Over lunch back at the Lodge, the McWilliams will share their objectives for owning the property and talk about their long-term management plans for the forest. They purchased Catamount from St. Lawrence University in 2005. They are managing it for recreation, wildlife, timber, water and educational benefits. As a special benefit, logger Bob Hostetter and sawyer Richard Shea will also be available during the program to talk about their work.

Cost per person is $15 members, $20 non-members. Registration is required. For details about this and other special programs offered by TAUNY, or to register for the Catamount Lodge & Forest Woods Walk, call the TAUNY office at 315-386-4289 or visit the TAUNY website at www.tauny.org.

Sunday, Oct. 28 - Owls Head Mountain Gene & Carolyn Kaczka 315-265-4806, gckaczka@twcny.rr.com. This mountain overlooking Long Lake has a recently restored fire tower on its 2780-ft summit. RT is 6.2 miles with an elevation gain of 1150 feet. This moderate climb gets steep at the end. Level 3.

Saturday, Nov. 3 - Crane Mountain Ann & Armond Spencer 379-1383, aaspencer@verizon.net. Barbara McMartin wrote that this was her favorite mountain. About 5 miles RT with 1300 feet of elevation gain. It is a long drive, so we may consider staying overnight, possibly camping out Saturday and driving home Sunday. Level 3-4

Sunday, Nov. 4 - Annual Meeting and Potluck Tom Ortmeyer 315-265-8210, tortmeye@twcny.rr.com or Duncan & Lois Cutter 328-04675, dcutter1@twcny.rr.com. At the Presbyterian Church in Potsdam. Meet at 5 and eat at 5:30. ADK Executive Director Neil Woodworth will speak at 7.

Saturday, Nov. 10 - St. Regis Mountain John Barron (613) 828-2296, johnbarron@sympatico.ca & Geri Ames 764-0009, geriames@verizon.net. 7-mile RT with 1250 feet of elevation gain. Magnificent views. Level 3-4.

Sunday Nov. 11 - Hike to Eagle Eyrie overlooking Lake Placid. John & Susan Omohundro 265-8365, geriames@verizon.net. About 8 mi RT, or 2.5 mi on trail from Connery Pond to Whiteface Landing, then about 1.5 mi. on un-maintained path with about 500 ft. gain to summit. May be icy. Level 3.5.

Monday Nov. 12th (Veterans Day) - Lower Wolf Jaw via Bennie's Brook Slide Mike McLean 262-2564, mpmclean@twcny.rr.com. Start 7:00 a.m. sharp at trailhead! Up the Southside Trail to Benny's Brook, where an established herd path takes us to the slide. Below-freezing temperatures may dictate the use of full crampons. Return via the Wolf Jaws Trail. Estimate 8 or so miles of hiking. Level 5.

Saturday, Nov. 17 - Rideau Trail. John Barron. (613) 828-2296, johnbarron@sympatico.ca. Hiking from Beveridge's Locks (near Smiths Falls) to Perth, Ontario. Flat and easy, partly on Tay Canal towpath. 10 miles. Level 3. Optional supper in Perth.

Saturday, Dec. 1 - Birding hike (or ski?!) on the Leonard Pond Trail Joan Collins 261-4246, jecollins@twcny.rr.com and Eileen Wheeler 265-2013, eiwheeler@yahoo.com. A fairly easy hike/ski trip on old dirt roads with mostly level terrain. RT distance is 5 miles. Jointly sponsored with St. Lawrence-Adirondack Audubon. Level 2.

Saturday Dec. 8 - Hike to Clear Pond Blair & Margaret Madore 265-0602, madorebf@potsdam.edu. This pleasant walk on a seasonal road leads to the abandoned Boy Scout Camp Vigor on the shores of lovely Clear Pond. We plan to cook lunch (weather permitting) over a fire at the lake. Families (young and old) are encouraged to join us. Level 1.

Saturday, Dec. 15 - Hike to Big Pine, Wanakena. Bill Mueller 262-2952, b-hutch-m@twcny.rr.com. Snowshoe or winter hike to an "old growth" pine. Easy two-mile RT. Level 1

Saturday Dec. 22 - Whiteface Ski David Trithart 265-8117, dtrithar@twcny.rr.com. This traditional early season ski includes a five-mile gradual climb to the castle on the Whiteface toll road, followed by a pleasant descent. Weather can present difficult conditions, including extreme cold and wind. Level 5.

Tuesday, Jan. 1 2008 - Annual New Year's Potluck and Ski/snowshoe Outing. Outdoor Lodge on the Clarkson University campus. We meet starting at 1 pm to enjoy the trails near the lodge, and then gather to share hors d'oeuvres and conversation around 4:00. Contact Tom Ortmeyer, 315-265-8219, tortmeye@twcny.rr.com for details and directions.

Events Archive

Banner photo © Carl Heilman II / www.carlheilman.com