Events
News
Backtracks
Contact
Resources
Reports
Events
Events, 2009
Thursday, Jan 1 New Years Day Ski/Snowshoe Outing with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. We will gather early to mid-afternoon at the Outdoor Lodge on the Clarkson campus for short, easy skiing or snowshoeing tours of the trails behind the lodge. Bring hors d’oeuvres to pass, and plan to be back at the lodge around 4 pm to help bring in the New Year. Public welcome. Contact Tom Ortmeyer at (315) 265-8219 or tortmeye@twcny.rr.com.
Saturday, Jan 10 Jenkins Mountain from Black Pond with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. About 6.5 - 7 mile round trip with about 800 feet of elevation gain. Moderately strenuous. Public welcome. Contact Tom Wheeler at (315) 386-3482 or twheele3@twcny.rr.com.
Saturday, Jan 10 Snowshoe at the Wild Center with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Participants will snowshoe the trails from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Wild Center museum along the edge of the Raquette River. This trip precedes the 1 p.m. talk “Tippu Tip’s Lost Empire”, John and Terese Hart’s fascinating program on the Lomami Rain Forest in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Wild Center will provide snowshoes for anyone who does not have them. This trip is jointly sponsored by the Northern NY Chapter of the Audubon Society. Very easy. Public welcome. Register by calling Joan Collins at (315) 261-4246 or jecollins@twcny.rr.com.
Sunday, Jan 11 Outdoors/Indoors - The Great Camps of the Adirondacks
Presentation of the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Mary Jo Whalen will share her pictures and knowledge of the Adirondack Great Camps, made famous by industrialists and financiers from the end of the Civil War to the beginning of the Great Depression. 7:00 PM in the Community Room located above the police station in Potsdam. Light refreshments will be served. Public welcome. For information, contact Rose Rivezzi at (315) 265-8117 or rrivezzi@twcny.rr.com.
Saturday, Jan 17 Mount Arab with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. This 1-mile trail takes an hour or so to climb, depending upon the amount of snow and whether previous hikers have made a track already. It leads to a fire tower on a largely open summit and possibly great views of southern St. Lawrence County. Brave souls can climb into the tower. Elevation gain is 700 feet. We'll have a snack on the porch of the caretaker's cabin, if it's not too windy. Proper winter gear a necessity. Easy. Public welcome. Contact John & Susan Omohundro at (315) 265-8365 or omohunjt@northnet.org.
Sunday, Jan 18 Snowshoe around Black Pond with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. We'll ski/snowshoe/hike around this lovely pond near Paul Smith's. About 3 miles of level terrain. We'll provide hot chocolate for all participants. Families are encouraged to participate - kids and dogs are most welcome. Very easy. Public welcome. Contact Blair & Marg Madore at (315) 265-0602 or madorebf@potsdam.edu.
Rescheduled to Saturday, February 21 Saturday, Jan 24 Ski the Leonard Pond Trail with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Participants will cross country ski 5 miles round-trip on a wide, level trail in mixed forest and boreal habitat. We will end the trip at the famous “Backwoods Inn” for lunch. This trip is jointly sponsored by the Northern NY Chapter of the Audubon Society. Easy. Public welcome. Leaders Joan Collins & Eileen Wheeler. Register by contacting Joan at (315) 261-4246 or jecollins@twcny.rr.com.
Saturday Jan 24 and Sunday Jan 25 Beginners’ Snowshoe at Catamount Lodge with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. As a part of the Colton Festival, the Catamount Lodge will host a beginner's snowshoe trip on the lodge grounds. Snowshoes will be available to borrow. Instructions on gear and technique will be offered prior to the trip. Very easy. Public welcome. Contact Tom Ortmeyer at (315) 265-8219 or tortmeye@twcny.rr.com.
Rescheduled to Saturday, February 28 Saturday, Jan 24 Rocky Peak Ridge with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. We will leave the parking lot on Rt. 9 in New Russia and head out on the East Ridge Trail to Rocky Peak Ridge and Giant. This trail will take us through the dark forest below Blueberry Cobbles and then on to the bright and many open views leading first to Bald Peak and then above tree line to the great rocky summit of the aptly named Rocky Peak where there are 360 degree views. Weather can present difficult conditions. Crampons required. Approximately 11 miles, 3600 feet elevation gain. Very strenuous and difficult winter mountaineering. Public welcome. Contact Art Boni at (613) 728-7455 or primo@rogers.com.
Saturday, Jan.31 Arbutus Lake (Huntington Forest) with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Participants will snowshoe a flat 2 mile loop through softwood and mixed forest around the shore of the lake. There is the possibility that Red and White-winged Crossbills will be in the softwoods along the trail. Those interested can stay and have lunch in Huntington Lodge which is currently being renovated. This trip is jointly sponsored by the Northern NY Chapter of the Audubon Society. Very easy. Public welcome. Contact Charlotte Demers at (518) 582-2157 or cdemers@esf.edu
Sunday, Feb 1 Mount Marshall with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. We will hike up to Flowed Lands and make our way over to and then up Herbert Brook and thence to the top of Marshall. Nice views can be had on the ascent and from the summit if the weather cooperates. We will follow our tracks all the way back to our cars. About 12 miles round trip. Very strenuous and difficult winter mountaineering. Public welcome. Contact Mike McLean at (315) 262-2564 or mpmclean@twcny.rr.com.
Sunday Feb 1 Outdoors/Indoors - Our Local Trails: Past, Present, Future
Presentation of the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Panel discussion with Tom Ortmeyer, Rob Badger, Mark Simon, Bob Dowman, and John Omohundro of how the Chapter is involved in local recreation opportunities, including the Red Sandstone Trail, Stone Valley, Postwood Park, O’Malley Brook, and others the panel would like to add. They will discuss the history, current issues, and possible futures of these places. 7:00 PM in the Community Room located above the police station in Potsdam. Light refreshments will be served. Public welcome. For information, contact Rose Rivezzi at (315) 265-8117 or rrivezzi@twcny.rr.com.
Saturday, Feb 7 Ski the Ponds to Fish Pond with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Last year we skied the 7 carries. This time we want to ski (conditions permitting) from Little Clear across St. Regis , Ochre, and Monday Ponds to Fish Pond, and return on the ski trail. About 10 miles round trip. Strenuous. Public welcome. Contact Armond Spencer at (315) 379-1383 or aaspencer@verizon.net.
Sunday, Feb 8 Riverside Trail Snowshoe with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. This will be an afternoon snowshoe trip on the Riverside Trail, a 1.4 mile loop going into the St. Regis River above Parishville. Call for details. Easy. Public welcome. Contact Tom Ortmeyer at (315) 265-8219 or tortmeye@twcny.rr.com.
Saturday, Feb 14 Ski and Snowshoe of Rt. 458 to the St. Regis River with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. We’ll ski in about 2 miles over gently rolling terrain, then stash the skis and snowshoe up a ridge and down to the river. About 6 miles round trip. Easy to moderate. Public welcome. Contact Duncan Cutter at (315) 328-4675 or dcutter1@twcny.rr.com
Sunday, Feb 15 Ski the Jordan River Trail with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. If the ice permits we’ll ski across the Raquette and explore the Jordan River Trail. If not we will explore Church Pond. 4-5 miles round trip Easy to moderate. Public welcome. Contact Tom Van DeWater at (315) 386-8489 or tvandewater@yahoo.com.
Saturday, Feb 21 Ski Trip to Santanoni Great Camp with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. A lovely, moderate-level ski to a storied destination, this ten-mile round-trip is a classic Adirondack winter journey to an historic Great Camp. The dirt road trail is not groomed for skiing. Bring appropriate layers of apparel for the weather and temperature, skis, water, lunch or snacks. This trip is jointly sponsored by the Northern NY Chapter of the Audubon Society. Public welcome. Contact Pat & John Thaxton: at (518) 576-4232 or jpthax5317@aol.com.
Rescheduled from Saturday, January 24 Saturday, February 21 Ski the Leonard Pond Trail with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Participants will cross country ski 5 miles round-trip on a wide, level trail in mixed forest and boreal habitat. We will end the trip at the famous “Backwoods Inn” for lunch. This trip is jointly sponsored by the Northern NY Chapter of the Audubon Society. Easy. Public welcome. Leaders Joan Collins & Eileen Wheeler. Register by contacting Joan at (315) 261-4246 or jecollins@twcny.rr.com.
Sunday, Feb 22 Family Outing at the Indian Creek Nature Center with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. We’ll ski or snowshoe around the trails at the Center, and regroup at the bonfire for cocoa and goodies. Very easy. Public welcome. Contact Ann Spencer at (315) 379-1383 or aaspencer@verizon.net.
Saturday, Feb 28 Skiing Hayes Brook Truck Trail to the Sheep Meadows with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Easy terrain in Debar Mountain Wild Forest. 8 miles round trip, little change in elevation. Moderately strenuous. Public welcome. Contact John Barron (613) 828-2296 or johnbarron@sympatico.ca
Rescheduled from Saturday, January 24 Saturday, Feb 28 Rocky Peak Ridge with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. We will leave the parking lot on Rt. 9 in New Russia and head out on the East Ridge Trail to Rocky Peak Ridge and Giant. This trail will take us through the dark forest below Blueberry Cobbles and then on to the bright and many open views leading first to Bald Peak and then above tree line to the great rocky summit of the aptly named Rocky Peak where there are 360 degree views. Weather can present difficult conditions. Crampons required. Approximately 11 miles, 3600 feet elevation gain. Very strenuous and difficult winter mountaineering. Public welcome. Contact Art Boni at (613) 728-7455 or primo@rogers.com.
Sunday, Mar 1 Wright and Algonquin with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. We will start from High Peaks Information Center to climb these two peaks which present spectacular 360 degree views. We will climb directly to Algonquin and then "bag" Wright on the descent. Wind and cold temperatures can be severe especially on Algonquin. Crampons required. Approximately 10 miles, 3000+ feet elevation gain. Very strenuous and difficult winter mountaineering. Public welcome. Contact Art Boni at (613) 728-7455 or primo@rogers.com
Saturday, Mar 7 Snowshoe Azure Mountain with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Departure from Potsdam at 9:30 to climb this St. Regis Falls fire tower mountain with great views. About 2 miles with 900 foot ascent. Easy to moderate. Public welcome. Contact Gene Kaczka at (315) 265-4806 or gckaczka@twcny.rr.com.
Sunday Mar 8 Outdoors/Indoors – Tour of the Northwest Passage
Presentation of the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Mary Jane Watson participated in an Australian-led expedition to transit the Northwest Passage during the summers of 2005 and 2006, sailing aboard the R/V Academic Ioffe. Starting in Iqaluit, capital of Nunavut, the tour crossed to the western coast of Greenland, touching in several communities before crossing Baffin Bay to Lancaster Sound and stopping at Beechey Island, the site where the Franklin Expedition spent its first winter. After the Arctic ice cleared out in the spring of 2006, the expedition resumed and completed the transit of the Northwest Passage on the 100th anniversary of Armundsen's first successful transit of the Passage. Come hear Mary Jane talk about this incredible trip. Public welcome. 7:00 PM in the Community Room located above the police station in Potsdam. Light refreshments will be served. For information, contact Rose Rivezzi at (315) 265-8117 or rrivezzi@twcny.rr.com.
Saturday, Mar 14 Skiing in the Gatineau Park in Hull (near Ottawa) with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. The Gatineau has some beautiful trails, both for traditional and skating. We’ll choose routes on site. Moderate to strenuous. Public welcome. Contact Bill Romey at (315) 268-0231 or romeywl@potsdam.edu.
Saturday, Mar 21 Ski the Peavine Swamp Trails with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Hoping we still have some snow down there, we’ll ski one or more of the loops. 8 miles round trip. Strenuous. Public welcome. Contact Ron Johnson at (315) 769- 8241 or rjohnson454@gmail.com.
Saturday Mar 28 Hike/ Ski the trails at the VIC near Paul Smiths with the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Depending on conditions, we’ll ski, snowshoe, or hike some of the trails at the VIC. Easy. Public welcome. Contact Art Johnson at (315) 265-2619 or ajohns35@verizon.net.
Saturday April 4 - Hike or Ski at the VIC with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. Depending on conditions, we'll ski, snowshoe, or hike some of the trails at the Paul Smiths Visitor Interpretive Center. Easy. Public welcome. Art Johnson (315) 265-2619, johnsoal@potsdam.edu.
Sunday April 5 - Hike the North Branch of the Grasse with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. We plan an early afternoon start for this early spring hike, which may find ice or may find wildflowers. We'll hike down from Harper Falls (sure to be flowing well) to the confluence with the South Branch, and back. Approximately 7 miles round trip, little elevation gain, Moderate. Public welcome. Armond Spencer (315) 379-1383, aaspencer@verizon.net.
Sunday April 19 - Red Sandstone Trail Workday with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. Begin Earth Week by giving something back to nature. Satisfying chores are available for all levels of skill and stamina: litter pickup, branch nipping, blowdown removal, sign nailing, rock work, light sawing. We'll begin in early afternoon; call for details. Public welcome. John Omohundro (315) 265-8365, omohunjt@northnet.org.
Sunday April 19 - Spring (Mud Season) Potluck Party of the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. Potsdam Presbyterian Church Community Room. We'll gather at 5 pm, to eat at 5:30. Bring a dish to pass and your own plates and utensils. Coffee and tea will be provided. Sherm Craig and Jamie Savage will make a presentation on the Cranberry Lake 50 - the new 50-mile hiking trail around Cranberry Lake. Public welcome. Tom Ortmeyer (315) 265-8219, tortmeye@twcny.rr.com.
Thursday April 23 - Leave No Trace Awareness Workshop. Learn from a Master Educator about the principles of Leave No Trace outdoor ethics. This enjoyable presentation of about an hour will focus on ways to reduce our impact on the environment. Jointly sponsored by the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club and Wear On Earth. Meet at the store in Potsdam at 6 p.m. Public welcome. Shannon Fyrberg (315) 268-2163, shannon.fyrberg@gmail.com.
Saturday May 2 - Lost Pond Peak Bushwhack with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. Challenging two- to three- mile bushwhack to the remote Lost Pond region, south of Street Mtn., wedged between ten miles of trail hiking. 2,000 ft vertical, very strenuous. Public welcome. Gloria and Cliff Daly (613) 224-4413, cliff.daly@rogers.com.
Saturday May 2 - Spring Wildflowers and Early Migrants with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. An easy nature walk jointly sponsored by Indian Creek Nature Center and the Northern NY Audubon Society. Public welcome. Peter O'Shea (315) 848-2178.
Saturday May 2 - Everton Falls Clean-Up with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. The annual day of maintenance at Everton Falls. We’ll pick up winter trash from beside the road and the falls, clear the nature trail, then eat lunch at the falls and spend the rest of the day canoeing. Public welcome. Duncan Cutter, dcutter1@twcny.rr.com.
Sunday May 3 - Catamount Mountain Trail Maintenance with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. Help side trim and remove dead wood from our adopted trail on this small but spectacular peak just north of Whiteface. Take lunch, work gloves, and shears or hand saw. Moderate 4 miles, 2000 ft ascent. Public welcome. Gloria and Cliff Daly (613) 224-4413, cliff.daly@rogers.com.
Sunday May 10 – Roaring Brook Falls, the Nubble, and Giant’s Washbowl with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. About a 5-mi circuit, 1500 ft elevation gain, much to look at. Moderate. Public welcome. John & Susan Omohundro (315) 265-8365, omohunjt@northnet.org
Sunday May 17 - Spring Birds at Indian Creek with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. We’ll view a wide variety of species on a hike through shrub-land, marsh, wetland, and forest habitats along the Tower and Succession Trails. Bring binoculars. Easy. Jointly sponsored by Indian Creek Nature Center and Northern NY Audubon Society. Public welcome. Joan Collins (315) 261-4246, jecollins@twcny.rr.com or Eileen Wheeler (315) 386-2482, eiwheeler@yahoo.com
Saturday May 23 - Mountain Biking Start-up with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. Shannon Fyrberg will lead a trip on Clarkson University trails for confident road bikers who are tentative about transitioning to trail riding. The trip will cover 2-3 miles of woodland terrain; anyone with a front-suspension bike and confident road skills is welcome. Helmets are required. Shannon Fyrberg (315) 268-2163, shannon.fyrberg@gmail.com.
Saturday May 30 - Massawepie Mire Walk with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. The mire is the largest bog (actually a fen) in New York State. We will walk the old, level railroad bed for 4 miles round trip and visit the South Branch of the Grasse River. An optional 2-mile round-trip hike on the Mountaineer Trail along scenic Massawepie Lake in the afternoon. Boreal birds, bog plants, and scenic views will be our focus. Jointly sponsored with Northern NY Audubon Society. Easy. Joan Collins (315) 261-4246, jecollins@twcny.rr.com, or Eileen Wheeler (315) 386-2482, eiwheeler@yahoo.com.
Saturday May 30 - MacNaughton Mountain via Wallface Ponds with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. Future 46ers and other hikers alike will enjoy this trip to MacNaughton, the peak that should have made Colvin's list of peaks over 4000 feet. We will start at Adirondak Loj and head into Indian Pass and then follow the trail up to Wallface Ponds. We will then bushwhack between the two large ponds and make our way the final mile to the summit. About 13 miles with 2,500 feet of climbing, very strenuous. An early start. Mike McLean (315) 262-2564, mpmclean@twcny.rr.com.
Saturday May 30 - Lampson Falls Spruce Up with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. Enjoy the tranquil Grasse River and its impressive, two-tiered falls as we do our annual clean up in their vicinity. Bring a few small garbage bags, work gloves, and lunch. 3 miles level, about 4 hours. Kids especially welcome! Meet at McDonalds in Canton, leaving there at 9:30 a.m. or at the Lampson Falls trailhead at 10:00 a.m. We finish by 2:00 p.m. then visit the Kepeses for a post-outing social. Easy. Gloria and Cliff Daly (613) 224-4413, cliff.daly@rogers.com.
Saturday June 6 - Catamount Bicycle Tour with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. We'll bicycle from South Colton up the River Road and over to Rt. 56. We'll then head south to Catamount Lodge area for a break, and then back to South Colton on Rt. 56. Moderate pace, with support. 22 miles total. Tom Ortmeyer (315) 265-8219, tortmeye@twcny.rr.com.
Saturday June 6 - National Trails Day – This national event in the ADK-wide program will be based in Cranberry Lake this year, with projects slated to include side-cutting, drainage clearing, and rock water bar construction. More information is available at www.adk.org/trails.
New Tuesday June 16th, rain date Tuesday June 23rd - Introduction to the Clarkson Nature Trails (Mountain Biking) with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. If you’ve ever wanted to explore the local trails by bike and either didn’t know where to go or were afraid of trails above your ability, fear no more! Clarkson University offers a great variety of forested biking trails from smooth, wide, sandy paths to narrow, twisting single track. Distance 1 to 4 mi, rolling terrain with small hills. We’ll start with the easiest trails and loop back to the parking lot with each increase in difficulty so everyone can have fun. Meet at the Clarkson University Outdoor Lodge Deck at 6:00 pm. Shannon Fyrberg, x19c84ski@yahoo.com, or call Wear On Earth 10 am - 6 pm, Monday - Saturday, 315-265-3178.
Wednesday June 24 - Wednesday Picnic and Paddle: Higley Flow Reservoir with the Laurentian Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. Paddle to Higley Flow State Park beach with your picnic supper and return, about five miles. Personal flotation devices are required, and insect repellant is advised. Suitable for beginners with either kayaks or canoes. Meet at Big Rock launch ramp at Higley Dam, and be ready to launch at 5 pm. Dick Mooers (315) 854-4186, rmooers@twcny.rr.com.
July 11th (Saturday) - Canoe and Hike at Sugar Island (paddle/hike)
Join us for a kid-friendly paddle and hike in beautiful Potsdam! We’ll paddle
from our home in Potsdam up the Raquette to Sugar Island, where we’ll hike the
loop trail around to the power plant and back to the canoes before returning
home. Interested but don’t have a boat? We may be able to help. Easy, about 4
hours. Contact Eileen Visser, (315) 265-1259
July 12th (Sunday) -
New Hiker Series: Arab Mountain (hike)
A steady climb takes us up the side of Arab Mountain, a peak near Tupper Lake
that offers wonderful views from its fire tower. Roundtrip distance is 2 miles,
with about 800 feet of climb. Outing is limited to 25 people, so register early.
Contact Rose Rivezzi, (315) 265-8117, for meeting time, place, and trip specifics.
July 12th (Sunday) -
Cranberry Lake and Beyond (road bike)
We will cycle a very scenic loop starting near Cranberry Lake, going through
Newton Falls and Star Lake, with a side trip to the Ranger School near Wanakena
before returning to Cranberry Lake. The route is 35 miles and moderately hilly.
Pace will be relaxed. Contact Lyle and Mike Montgomery, (315) 394-0121, lmontgom@twcny.rr.com
July 20th (Monday) -
New Hiker Series: Azure Mountain (hike)
You’ll feel like you’ve climbed a mountain after reaching the summit of Azure,
and you’ll be rewarded by the excellent views from its rocky summit and aluminum
fire tower. Roundtrip distance is 2 miles, with about 1000 feet of climb. Outing
is limited to 25 people, so register early. Contact Rose Rivezzi, (315) 265-8117,
for meeting time, place, and trip specifics.
July 25th (Saturday) -
New Hiker Series: Owl’s Head Mountain near Malone (hike)
You’ll have a great view of the mountain even before you start to climb. An
abandoned mine site is near the top of Owl’s Head. Roundtrip distance is 2.2
miles. Outing is limited to 25 people, so register early. Contact Rose Rivezzi,
(315) 265-8117, for meeting time, place, and trip specifics.
July 25th (Saturday) -
Introduction to Kayaking and Evening Paddling (paddle)
We will meet at 4 p.m. at the Shane Fuller memorial boat launch in Ives Park,
Potsdam (near the gazebo) to paddle on the Raquette and talk about boats. For
those who are unfamiliar with kayaking, Wear On Earth will offer reduced-cost
boat rentals for the event. Come join us and try out a new sport! Contact Shannon
Fyrberg, (315) 265-3178, shannon.fyrberg@gmail.com.
July 26th (Sunday) -
Lyon Mountain (hike)
In 2008 an ADK professional trail crew completely rerouted and rebuilt the
trail on Lyon Mountain: we’ll admire the result. There is a fire tower at the
summit, and in good weather there are views of Lake Chazy, Lake Champlain,
and the skyline of Montreal. 6 miles RT, 2000 feet gain. Level 3-4. Contact
John Barron, (613) 828-2296, johnbarron@sympatico.ca.
July 26th (Sunday) -
Burgers & Boats Festival in Potsdam (paddle)
Although this is not an ADK-sponsored outing, members may find it interesting.
Wear On Earth is throwing a boating party in Potsdam where various new, demo,
and used kayaks and canoes will be sold at reduced prices. People are welcome
to come try out the boats and have a burger while enjoying the company of friends.
Contact Shannon Fyrberg, (315) 265-3178, shannon.fyrberg@gmail.com.
July 29 (Wednesday) -
Picnic and Paddle at Blake Reservoir
Meet at Blake Reservoir’s southern boat launch immediately on the power
development road at 5 PM. This is a distance south of the McNeil campground
on Blake. The road to the launch begins very close to SH 56 just south of the
Raquette River bridge in South Colton and goes several miles to the launch
location. Paddle north to Blake Campsite for your own picnic supper and paddle
back. Level 1: suitable for beginning paddlers. All participants must wear
a pfd. Dick Mooers 265-2774 or rmooers@twcny.rr.com.
July 30th (Thursday) -
Blue Mountain (hike)
Join us for this moderate climb up beautiful Blue Mountain. We’ll climb the
fire tower and visit with the summit steward. Level 3. Contact Susan and John
Omohundro, (315) 265-8365, omohunsl@northnet.org.
August 1 (Saturday) -
Cycle tour of Madrid, Hopkinton, Parishville, Potsdam (road bike)
Join us for a cycle tour of the North Country’s rolling hills, passing through
a number of lovely villages along the way. We'll stop for lunch, when the group
wants it, somewhere in the open and forested terrain this route covers. About
60 miles at moderate pace (14-16 mph). Contact Art Boni, (613) 728-7455, primo@rogers.com.
August 1 (Saturday) -
Noonmark and Round Mountain Loop (hike)
From the parking lot in St. Huberts we will head to the summit of Noonmark
(3556 ft) via the Stimson Trail. After a lunch break, we’ll use the Old Dix
Trail to ease over to Round Mtn (3100 ft) and loop back for a round-trip hike
just under 7 miles, with 2200 ft of climb. Level 4. Contact Ed Moczydlowski,
(315) 268-5507, smoczydl@twcny.rr.com.
August 15th (Saturday) -
Canoe and Hike to Debar Pond and Baldface Mountain (paddle/hike)
We will canoe across Debar Pond, after a .3 mile carry on elevated boardwalk.
After paddling through coves, we will pull up on Shelving Rock (good swimming
and picnicking), and then begin the strenuous bushwhack up to the ledges of
Baldface. From there, we’ll have views toward the pond as well as Whiteface,
Loon, Sable, and Debar Mountains. New York State once raised elk not far from
here, and there will be blueberries and loons. Good introductory paddle for
beginning paddlers, since the bushwhack is optional. Contact Lois and Duncan
Cutter, (315) 328-4675, dcutter1@twcny.rr.com.
August 16th (Sunday) -
Paddle and Picnic on the Upper and Lower Lakes (paddle)
Join us on the Upper and Lower Lakes near Rensselaer Falls, where we’ll spend
an enjoyable afternoon paddling and watching for birds. We’ll
start at 3 P.M. Bring binoculars, PFD, whistle, bug dope, and picnic fare.
Level 1. Contact Ann Spencer, (315) 379-1383, aaspencer@verizon.net.
August 22nd (Saturday) -
Giant of the Valley via Zander Scott Trail (hike)
We’ll ascend Giant Mtn by the Zander Scott trail, which climbs the long open
ridge to the summit of the 12th highest peak in the Adirondacks. We’ll enjoy
the views from Giant’s summit, and may add a side trip to Rocky Peak if the
group is so inclined. 6 miles RT, 3050 feet feet of climb. Strenuous. Contact
Hollis Easter, (315) 212-1326, adk@holliseaster.com.
August 26 (Wednesday) -
Picnic and Paddle on the Grasse River, Canton
New launch location
We will still paddle on the Grasse, but because Taylor Park will be closed for the season, we will launch on the Little River.
To find the launch location, take Park Street (starts at the Canton Post Office) past the university, and turn in to the launch site
immediately after the wooden truss bridge across Little River. Beware muddy banks!
Launch time is still 5 PM. Paddle first, then picnic, so bring a snack for the boat.
Level 1: suitable for beginning paddlers.
All participants must wear a pfd. Dick Mooers 265-2774 or rmooers@twcny.rr.com.
September 5th (Saturday) -
MacIntyre Range Traverse (Iroquois, Boundary, Algonquin, Wright Peaks) (hike)
We will meet at Adirondak Loj and head into Indian Pass to ascend the trail
between Marshall and Iroquois mountains. At the top of the pass, we will bushwhack
the steep .4 miles up to Shepherd’s Tooth and the summit of Iroquois. From
there, we'll head east over to Boundary, Algonquin, and Wright peaks, completing
the loop by returning to the Loj. Very strenuous, with 11 miles of hiking and
4000 feet of climb. Contact Mike McLean, (315) 262-2564, mpmclean@twcny.rr.com.
September 6th (Sunday) -
Cycling the 1000 Islands Parkway (road bike)
We’ll bicycle along the 1000 Islands Parkway on the Ontario side of the St.
Lawrence, from Gananoque eastward. 25 miles one way; car shuttle. Flat, level
2-3. Possible swim at beginning or end. John Barron, (613) 828-2296, johnbarron@sympatico.ca.
September 12th (Saturday) -
Canoe Upper St. Regis, Spitfire, and Lower St. Regis Lakes (paddle)
We’ll paddle these three beautiful lakes that offer beautiful views of St.
Regis Mountain, starting with a 0.2 mile portage across the St. Regis Esker
to put in on Upper St. Regis. From there it’s a moderate paddle down through
the three connected lakes. Contact Ron Johnson and Nikki Coates, (315) 212-4957,
rjohnson454@gmail.com.
September 12th (Saturday) -
Hike around Massawepie Lake (hike) Cancelled
We’ll hike around this beautiful bit of water near Tupper
Lake. About 6 miles, little elevation gain. Level 2. Contact Armond Spencer,
(315) 379-1383, aaspencer@verizon.net.
September 12 (Saturday) -
Sea Kayak Saranac River and Lakes Cancelled
Paddle 14 miles from Middle Saranac Lake to the village of Saranac Lake.
Meet at South Creek boat launch at 9 AM for shuttle arrangements, and launch around 10 AM.
Participants must be experienced and able to maintain 3 to 4 mph for several hours.
Also, wind on Middle Saranac can kick up a sea quickly. Lunch at the SH 3 DEC boat access to Lower Saranac Lake.
Dinner in town follows. Level 4-5. All participants must wear a pfd. Dick Mooers 265-2774 or
rmooers@twcny.rr.com.
September 19th (Saturday) -
Baldface Mountain Bushwhack (hike)
Come climb Baldface Mountain, a small peak in the Debar Mountain Wilderness.
Baldface has beautiful open views of Debar Mountain, and may have changing
leaves by late September. About one mile of bushwhacking each way. Contact
Tom Ortmeyer, (315) 265-8219, tortmeye@twcny.rr.com, or Geri Ames, (315) 842-2107,
geriames@gmail.com.
September 20th (Sunday) -
New Hiker Series: Red Sandstone Trail in Potsdam (hike)
Bring your kids, their grandparents, and your dogs for a fun romp around Sugar
Island near Potsdam. Weather permitting, a campfire cookout and treasure hunt
will be part of this easy adventure. Contact Blair Madore, madorebf@potsdam.edu.
September 26th (Saturday) -
September Walk at September Farm, South Colton (hike)
Walk the foothills of the Adirondack mountains on wooded trails in what used
to be a 19th-century farm. Participants will see second-growth forest covering
the moderate hills of South Colton, with beaver ponds, bubbling streams, and
giant white ponds. Afterwards, join us for chili, cornbread, coffee, tea, and
conversation. Approximately 2 miles walk, 100 feet elevation gain. Easy and
suitable for new hikers. Contact Bill Mueller, (315) 262-2952, b-hutch-m@twcny.rr.com.
New
September 27th (Sunday) -
New Hiker Series: Azure Mountain (hike)
You’ll feel like you’ve climbed a mountain after reaching the summit of Azure,
and you’ll be rewarded by the excellent views from its rocky summit and aluminum
fire tower. Roundtrip distance is 2 miles, with about 1000 feet of climb. Outing
is limited to 20 people, so register early. Contact Rose Rivezzi, (315) 265-8117,
for meeting time, place, and trip specifics.
September 30 (Wednesday) -
Picnic and Paddle on Norwood Lake
Launch at Norwood Beach, Lakeshore Drive. Access the park from either Cemetery
Road (turn at the Lobster House) or from the Village center. The park gate
will be open from 4:45 to 5 PM, then locked. Late arrivals will have to carry
to the lake from the road, about 100 yards. Bring a snack for the boat, as
we will “picnic” at the Lobster House to celebrate the summer series.
Level 1: suitable for beginning paddlers. All participants must wear a pfd.
Dick Mooers 265-2774 or rmooers@twcny.rr.com.
Sunday, October 4 - Esther Mtn Hike
Esther Mountain was named for Esther McComb, who climbed it alone (and by accident)
in 1839 at the age of 15. A nominally trailless High Peak, it’s one of the
shorter, easier ones. About 6 miles round trip, 2000 feet of climb, level
4-5. Contact John Barron, (613) 828-2296, johnbarron@sympatico.ca.
Sunday, October 4 - Hike around Massawepie Lake
We’ll hike around this beautiful bit of water near Tupper Lake. About 6 miles, little elevation gain. Level 2.
Contact Armond Spencer, (315) 379-1383, aaspencer@verizon.net.
Monday, October 12 - Lyon Mtn Hike
Celebrate Columbus Day by following a newly-cut trail to 3,820-foot Lyon
Mountain, a peak that boasts a rocky summit, an abandoned fire tower, and an
international view spanning the High Peaks of NY, Vermont, Lake Champlain,
Chazy Lake, the St. Lawrence River, and the skyscrapers of Montreal,
Quebec. About 6 miles round trip; fairly strenuous. Contact Duncan Cutter,
(315) 328-4675, dcutter1@twcny.rr.com
Saturday, October 17 - Azure Mtn Birdwatching
Azure Mountain’s 2512’ fire tower summit
is reached by hiking a one mile trail with an elevation gain of 944’.
In mid-October, late migrant songbirds may be observed along the trail. Once
on the open summit, we will watch for migrating raptors. Meet at 9 am at the
Azure Mtn trailhead on Blue Mountain Road. Suitable for beginners. Contact
Joan Collins, (315) 261-4264, jecollins@twcny.rr.com.
Saturday, October 31 - Costumes and Candy on Cascade Mtn! - Hike
Happy Halloween! We will climb Cascade and Porter Mtns in costume to celebrate
the holiday and make it interesting. Trip will be about 6.2 miles with 2000
ft elevation gain. Make sure costumes are appropriate for hiking and weather
conditions, and be creative! Bring candy to share with other hikers. Joint
outing with the Albany Chapter of ADK. Contact Hollis Easter, (315) 212-1326,
adk@holliseaster.com.
Saturday, October 31 - Stone Valley Trail Maintenance
We will do trail work in Stone Valley, one of the Chapter’s adopted trails.
Contact Mark Simon, simonm@potsdam.edu.
Sunday, November 1 - More Stone Valley Trail Maintenance
We will do trail work in Stone Valley, one of the Chapter’s adopted trails.
Contact Mark Simon, simonm@potsdam.edu.
Moved from 11/14
Saturday, November 7 - New Hikers Series: The Big Pine (Wanakena, NY)
The White Pine is nearly 5 feet in diameter. How did it survive the vast
logging that took place 100 years ago in this area? What makes it thrive
today in this particular place? Learn the answers to these and other
questions about forest ecology in a gentle hike through the “forever wild”
near charming Wanakena, NY. Hang out afterwards in the village, look in
on Dave’s general store and walk over the Oswegatchie River on the historic
suspension foot-bridge. Learn about the many trail-heads that originate in
Wanakena inviting you to future forest adventures. Mostly level, 2 miles round
trip, friendly for beginners. Contact Bill Mueller, (315) 262-2952,
b-hutch-m@twcny.rr.com.
Sunday, November 8 - Red Sandstone Trail Workday
We’ll build a switchback trail overlooking Sugar island flow. We also need
light cutting of vegetation to open up the trail. Helpers of all levels are
welcome. Bring pruners, small saws, gloves, snack, water, to meet at the
steel bridge off Back Hannawa Rd. (County Rd 59 across from Sweeney Rd) at
1 pm. We’ll work for a couple hours so you can clean up in time for the potluck
that evening. Contact Susan and John Omohundro, (315) 265-8365, omohunjt@northnet.org.
Sunday, November 8 - Fall Potluck and Annual Meeting
Join us at the Canton Presbyterian Church (5 pm) for food, fellowship,
the Chapter’s Annual Meeting, and a presentation by Brian Mann, Chief of
North Country Public Radio’s Adirondack News Bureau. Bring a dish to pass and
table service for yourself; beverages will be provided. Contact Tom Ortmeyer,
(315) 265-8219, tortmeye@gmail.com.
Moved to 11/7
Saturday, November 14 - New Hikers Series: The Big Pine (Wanakena, NY)
The White Pine is nearly 5 feet in diameter. How did it survive the vast
logging that took place 100 years ago in this area? What makes it thrive
today in this particular place? Learn the answers to these and other
questions about forest ecology in a gentle hike through the “forever wild”
near charming Wanakena, NY. Hang out afterwards in the village, look in
on Dave’s general store and walk over the Oswegatchie River on the historic
suspension foot-bridge. Learn about the many trail-heads that originate in
Wanakena inviting you to future forest adventures. Mostly level, 2 miles round
trip, friendly for beginners. Contact Bill Mueller, (315) 262-2952,
b-hutch-m@twcny.rr.com.
Saturday, November 21 - Cliff Mtn from Upper Works - Hike
We will meet at Upper Works and make our way to Flowed Lands and then to Uphill
Brook Lean-to. From there, we will follow the well-defined herd path to the
summit of Cliff. We may throw in Redfield if the weather, trail conditions,
and participants cooperate. Expect a full day with about 15 miles round trip.
Very strenuous. Contact Mike McLean, (315) 262-2564, mpmclean@twcny.rr.com.
Sunday, November 22 - Rideau Trail, Ontario - Hike
Walk the Rideau Trail from Narrows Lock to Westport, which follows the Rideau
Canal and waterway, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Easy to moderate trail
and a short stretch of cottage road. 10 miles, about 300 feet of climb. Level
3. Contact John Barron, (613) 828-2296, johnbarron@sympatico.ca.
Saturday, December 19 - Whiteface Toll Road Ski Trip
Join David Trithart for the traditional early season ski up and down the
Whiteface Memorial Highway, the highest road in New York State! Moderately
strenuous cross-country skiing, depending on conditions. Contact David
Trithart, trithadi@potsdam.edu.
Friday, January 1, 2010 - New Year’s Day Ski/Snowshoe Gathering
Join the Laurentian Chapter in welcoming the new year with outdoor fun
and a potluck snack reception afterwards. Outing will be held at the
Clarkson University Outdoors Lodge; check the winter newsletter for full
details. Contact Tom Ortmeyer, (315) 265-8219, tortmeye@gmail.com.