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The Catskill Mountain Club Annual Dinner is a Huge Success
Members and non-members are invited to CMC’s Annual Dinner at the Emerson Resort, Mt. Tremper, NY, October 13 — cocktails at 5pm.
On Sunday, October 13, the Catskill Mountain Club held its annual dinner at the Catamount Restaurant. The 2nd annual dinner of the Catskill Mountain Club, held during the Lark in the Park celebrations, was a huge success. On the banks of the Esopus Creek in the elegantly rustic Catamount Restaurant, we enjoyed good company, good food and good drink.Afterwards, we heard the wonderfully entertaining and informative presentation of Dr. Robert Titus, Professor of Geology at Hartwick College, and his wife, fellow researcher and author, Joanna Titus. They explained the transformative effects of the last glacial period on the Catskill Mountains and the adjacent Hudson River Valley.We also honored our departing club president, Steve Berg, for his service to our club since its founding. And we welcomed incoming president Rick Roberts. We are excited about our prospects for continuing growth and success during his tenure.Finally, we held the drawing for our tremendously successful raffle. The prizes included a kayak, original art by local nature artist and outdoorsman Jack Mesick, a water purification system and a spinning rod and reel.We are already looking forward to next year's event. See more about the dinner and the hike before.....
Lark In The Park Event Schedule
Join Deanna Felicetta in a wonderful fall hike up Hunter Mountain (8.5 miles at a good pace), one of the Catskill 4000- foot peaks, and hike with us on the famed Devils Path as we ascend out of Stony Clove and climb this magnificent peak.
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Saturday, October 5 at 8AMHike to Mount Tremper and Edgewood MountainJoin us for a hike to Mount Tremper Fire Tower. It’s a difficult three-mile hike that ascends over 2000 feet, but the reward is a 360-degree view of the Catskills highest peaks and the Hudson Valley. The cab at the top of the tower will be open so you can enjoy the view from inside. There is a lean-to at the summit which is a great place to have lunch. We’ll meet at the Trail head at Plank Road at 9AM. The group limit is 12 so please pre-register early. No dogs please. For more information and to pre-register please contact Jonathan Mogelever at jmogelever@catskillcenter.org or 845-586-2611.Directions: The trail head to Mount Tremper is on the north side of Plank Road, between the Hamlet of Mount Tremper and Phoenicia. Travelling west on Route 28 (from Kingston) turn right onto route 212, then take your first left, across a bridge onto Plank Road (County Route 40)–the parking area is about 3 miles on the right. Travelling east on Route 28 (from Pine Hill) turn left into Phoenicia on 214, go straight through town on Main Street. On the east end of town this turns into Plank Road (County Route 40), continue straight–the parking area is about 1.5 miles on the left. Saturday, October 5 at 9AMDownsville Covered Bridge HikeStarting in downtown Downsville at the Covered Bridge, this hike will follow a new Finger Lakes Trail reroute (spring 2013) that bypasses the Campbell Brook Rd / Campbell Mtn Rd roadwalk and replaces it with a trailed hike to where it rejoins the original FLT just west of the Campbell Mtn Leanto. The hike then continues downhill along a beautiful stream to NY 206. No pre-registration required. Approx 6-7 miles. Strenuous/Bring Lunch/Contact about Dogs. For more information or to pre-register please contact Rick Roberts at 607 746-9694 or hikerrick2000@yahoo.comDirections: Downsville to NY 206 - FLTC Maps M29 (east half) & M30 (west half)Saturday, October 5 at 9AMEsopus Bend Nature Preserve Mushroom WalkThe Esopus Creek Conservancy and John Burroughs Natural History Society are co-sponsoring a guided mushroom walk at Esopus Bend Nature Preserve in Saugerties on Saturday, October 5th Autumn can be a very productive time of year for mushrooms, and the moist woodlands of the Preserve may host more than 100 species of mycelium. Henry Halama and George Johanson will guide us as we explore the woodlands of the Preserve in search of ground and wood-dwelling mycelia. Bring field guides and cameras if you have them. Collecting is not permitted in the Preserve. Be prepared for potentially wet/muddy trails and moderate rain. Heavy rain cancels the walk. Children are welcome, but please do not bring pets. Pre-registration is required, limited to a maximum of 20 participants. The hike totals 1.5 miles in 3 hours. Moderate/No Dogs Please. For more information or to pre-register please contact Steve Chorvas at schorvas@verizon.net.Directions: Meet 9:00 a.m. in the Saugerties Village Beach parking lot on Rte. 9W, just north of the Esopus Creek bridge, at the foot of Partition Street in the Village of Saugerties.Saturday, October 5 at 10AMKelly Hollow HikeCome experience the Kelly Hollow Trail. It’s a very nice easy 4 mile loop through a nice conifer and hemlock forest. The total elevation gain is less than 500 ft. At its height you reach a nice secluded beaver pond with a picnic table and privy where we will have lunch. Please bring lunch and pre-register for this hike before Oct 1st the limit is 12. Please no dogs. For more information or to pre-register contact Cory Smith at csmith@catskillcenter.org, or 845-586-2611.Directions: To get to Kelly Hollow, coming from Arkville you can take 28 W to Dry Brook Rd on your left. After 6 miles on Dry Brook Rd turn right onto Mill Brook Rd and at about 6.5 miles you will come to the trailhead. To come from Margaretville you take 28 W to B W S Rd No 10 go right on that road and continue about 3.5 miles until you reach Mill Brook Rd take a left onto Mill Brook and continue for 5.5 miles until you reach the trial head. The trail head sign is graphitized so it may not read Kelly Hollow but that is the one.Saturday, October 5 at 10AMBicycling on the Catskill Scenic TrailWe will start in Bloomville and meander our way along the West Branch of the Delaware River. We shall stop in the book village of Hobart. There we will briefly examine the five bookstores that reside on Main Street. Afterwards, we will proceed to Stamford to get ice cream. Then we will cycle back to Bloomville using the same route, giving us a total of 26 miles on the road. Please register for this event before October 3rd, the limit is 20. Bicycle rentals are available at the Plattekill Ski Center. A mountain bike is recommended. Moderate/No Dogs Please. Please register by October 3. For more information or to register, please contact Samira Dere at sdere@catskillcenter.org or 845-586-2611. More information on the Catskill Scenic Trail can be found on www.durr.org.Directions: The Catskill Center Scenic parking area at Bloomville is near the trail head just north of Route 10. The trail head is just east of Bloomville near the east end of Agway Road.Saturday, October 5-14Five Fire Tower Climb 2013Five Fire Tower Climb 2013 is the opportunity to experience self-guided hikes to any of the 5 Catskill Firetowers between May 21st and Oct 14th, 2013, enter the hike details on a Morgan Outdoors Five Fire Tower Passport and possibly win some great gear. Turn in the Passport at Morgan Outdoors by 6:00pm on Monday, October 14th and earn a chance to win one of three fabulous prizes. The goal of the Five Fire Tower Climb is to motivate people to try a firetower hike for the first time, providing a small incentive and lots of cheerleading! The first 100 people to turn in their Passport earn a Catskill Firetower patch, courtesy of the Watershed Post. Downloadable trail maps for each tower are found on the NY-NJ Trail Conference website. For example, Balsam Lake Mountain Firetower’s map is at http://www.nynjtc.org/map/catskill-fire-towers-balsam-lake-mountain-trail-mapLevel of difficulty: Fire Tower hikes range from “kinda” easy to “gosh darn” tough. For more information please contact Lisa Lyons info@morgan-outdoors.com or 845-439-5507. Directions: aare available from Morgan Outdoors. Stop by or send request to info@morgan-outdoors.com.Sunday, October 6 at 9AMSugarloaf and Twin LoopThis hike features some fun climbing and beautiful views from Sugarloaf and Twin Mountains. We’ll meet at the Dale Lane parking area, off of Platte Clove Road, and hike up the Mink Hollow Trail to Sugarloaf Mountain. We’ll hike down to Pecoy Notch and then detour .7 miles to the Twin Mountain summit before heading back down the Pecoy Notch trail. It is a difficult 9-mile loop with approximately 2,750 feet of elevation gain total. Bring appropriate hiking gear and lunch. Duration is 8 hours. Please pre-register by Oct. 4th, limit 12. Difficult/Bring Lunch/No Dogs Please. For more information and to pre-register, please contact Jonathan Mogelever at jmogelever@catskillcenter.org /845-586-2611.Directions: The Dale Lane parking area is about a mile off Platte Clove Road. Take Route 23A to Bloomer Road, just east of Tannersville and west of Hunter (Bloomer Road is 200 yards east of Route 214). Turn south onto Bloomer and follow it 5 miles (Bloomer turns into Platte Clove Road at Yield sign) to Dale Lane on right. Dale Lane veers right and turns into Roaring Kill Road–it is a total of one mile to the parking area on left.Sunday, October 6 at 9:30AMWindham High PeakJoin CMC board member Wendell George as we climb Windham High Peak to its stunning summit views of the Hudson Valley and, on a clear day, four mountain ranges. We’ll hike along the Escarpment Trail over Burnt Knob on a through hike starting and ending in the Black Dome Valley. Wear good boots and bring lunch and plenty of water. Dress in layers for your comfort. Weather conditions may vary greatly during the hike. About 7 miles. Moderately strenuous. Register by October 5th by contacting CMC board member Wendell George at wendell@catskillmountainclub.org, or 845-254-4546.Directions: From SR 23 in Windham or SR 23A in Hunter turn onto CR 296. Travel to Maplecrest Rd. in Hensonville and turn East going 2.1 miles to Big Hollow Rd. Turn NE 1.8 miles to Peck Rd. We’ll meet and spot cars before proceeding to the trailhead.Sunday, October 6 at 10AMTrail Maintenance on Section 2 of the Dry Brook Ridge TrailFollow Laura Battelani, CMC Board Member and volunteer for NY/NJ Trail Conference, as she inspects and clears the trail she adopted for the NY/NJ TC. Hike Pakatakan Mountain and follow the ridge, passing by a 700 years old bog, to arrive to a beautiful look out of the Pepacton Reservoir. The return can be on the same trail or we’ll continue on to German Hollow trail. Wear sturdy hiking boots/shoes, bring water and food and dress in layers for comfort. Bring hand tools if you want to help with the cleaning of the trail. Moderate/difficult; 6 miles/ 6 hours; Bring a lunch and plenty of water; no dogs please. Pregister by 10/5 by contacting Laura at bodyworx@catkill.net, or 845-586-3101.Directions: On Route 28, 40 mls from Kingston, Village of Margaretville. Half mile after the blinking light, turn right at the intersection. Meeting is at the car wash.Sunday, October 6 at 10:30AMBicycle Tour with the Catskill Mountain Cycling ClubJoin the Catskill Mountain Cycling Club for a 30 to 40 mile road cycling tour of the Central Catskills. This is a fun ride enjoying beautiful scenery. Cyclists should be able to keep a steady pace of 15-17 mph and there will be at least one significant climb. We’ll leave from the Flour Patch in Margaretville. Helmets are required. Bring plenty of water and some food. Moderate-Difficult/Bring Lunch/No Dogs Please. For more information or to pre-register, please contact Ron O’ Conner at roc5292@yahoo.com or 607-644-7323.Directions: The Flour Patch is located in Margaretville, in the Granary Building. Take Route 28 to Margaretville and cross bridge at Bridge Street. The parking area is immediately on the left.Sunday, October 6 at 11AMHike Huntersfield MountainCarol and David White, authors of Catskill Day Hikes for All Seasons and the comprehensive guide Catskill Trails (packaged with a National Geographic Map), and Catskill Peak Experiences, features three off-the-beaten-path treks for the 2013 Lark. Huntersfield Mountain is 3423′ in elevation; on the border of Greene and Schoharie Counties. We’ll hike from a large quarry to a lean-to with good viewing. We may do a loop hike with vehicles spotted at two trailheads. Up and back is 2.6 miles and more on the loop hike, so it will be up to 5 hours. We’ll visit Pratt Rock in Prattsville afterward, a short hike. Bring lunch. Well-behaved dogs are welcome. Please pre-register no later than Friday, October 4th. Poor weather will cancel. For more information or to pre-register, please contact Carol and David White at ccswhite@juno.com or 315-853-1070.Driving instructions: For the northern approach, take Greene County Route 11 to Marv Rion Rd. to the trailhead. For the southern approach, take Jim Cleveland Rd. off of CR 10. A longer route for Huntersfield begins lower on the access road at a parking area and we may spot vehicles. Interested participants will receive full directions.Sunday, October 6 from 1-2:30PMTracking Program for FamiliesSpend the afternoon at The Catskill Center’s new property in Woodstock, NY. The Thorn Preserve contains meadows, woods, and stream ecosystems. Learn about some of the animals you could see in these ecosystems. Take a short (30 minute), easy (altitude change ~15 feet) hike of the property to spot and identify some animal tracks. The program will conclude with a short children’s activity ($3 fee charged to cover materials). Program is geared toward families, but all ages are welcome. Please pre-register for this event by October. 3rd the limit is 25. Easy/Eat Before/No Dogs Please. For more information or to pre-register please contact Cory Smith at csmith@catskillcenter.org or 845-586-2611; Katie Palm at Kpalm@catskillcenter.org or 845-586-2611.Directions: The Thorn Preserveis located at 55 John Joy Road, Woodstock, NY. From Rt 28 turn onto County Rt39/Zena Road and go approximately 1.9 miles. At the stop sign, continue straight onto John Joy Road. The Thorn property is approximately .3 of a mile ahead on the left.Monday, October 7 at 9:30AMHuggins Lake East Ridge First Growth MappingJoin Mike Kudish in a continuation of the October 5th, 2012 “Lark” hike to map the extent of 1st growth forest on the West Ridge of Huggins Lake. This year we’ll map the East Ridge. Blackberry thickets may be a problem; bring shears and protective clothing. This is not a recreational speed hike, but a slow, careful examination of forest history. This is a moderate-difficult hike and will be about 6-7 hours long totaling about 6 miles (about half bushwhacking). You will need to bring a lunch and pre-registration is required before the 5th of Oct. Limit 10. Well behaved, quiet dogs on a leash are welcome. Moderate-Difficult/Bring a Lunch/Dogs Welcome. For more information or to pre-register please contact Mike Kudish at mkudish@catskill.net, or 845-586-5271.Directions: From Route 30 along the Pepacton Reservoir: Turn south on Holliday Brook Rd 3 miles to the Mary Smith Trail head, in the pass. Continue south downhill. Holliday Brook Rd becomes Berry Brook Rd. At 1.6 miles from the pass, turn left uphill on dirt road leading to Huggins Lake parking area, 0.1 mile. From Roscoe: at North end of hamlet of Roscoe, turn onto Route 206, right onto Beaverkill rd, left on Berry Brook Road. From Roscoe to trailhead, ca. 9 mile.Monday, October 7 at 10AMHead Waters TrailsWe start at the NYSDEC Offices and walk the Headwaters Trails up to the top of Bald Mountain where we will have a 270 degree view of the Catskills, one of the best views in the Catskills. The trail is on some old ski trails, so it is very steep. Then we will walk down the other side for more views. The hike is 8 miles and will take about 6 hours. Moderate-Difficult/Bring a Lunch/Dogs Welcome. For more information please contact Robert Moses at rmoses@delhitel.net, or 607-746-3645.Directions: Stamford, New York, We will park across the road from the DEC Offices, 65561 State Highway 10, Stanford NY, 12167, just northeast of Stamford on Route 10. From Windham NY take NY Route 23 West to Rt 10, 26 miles, from Margaretville NY take Rt 30 north to Rt. 23 and turn West. Go 28 miles; from Oneonta take Rt 23 east to Rt 10 and turn left, 27 miles.Tuesday-Friday, October 8-11 at 8:30AMFour Day Hike on the Finger Lakes TrailJoin veteran long distance hiker Rick Roberts for 3 nights and 4 days on the Finger Lakes Trail as it winds across the Catskills from Bear Spring Wildlife Management Area to Alder Lake. This section of the trail is very remote from any facilities and the hike is considered to be strenuous. Participants will be using their own gear and food for the 35 mile journey, camping in their own tents and possibility DEC lean-tos. To sign up go contact Rick Roberts at 607 746-9694 or HIKERRICK2000@YAHOO.COM. For more information on the Finger Lakes Trail and its 560 mile path across NYS, visit http://www.fingerlakestrail.org. Notes on Dogs. Dogs are permitted only if they can travel without a leash and are experienced in hiking with the owner.Directions: Participants will leave from the Catskill Center, 43355 State HWY 28, Arkville, NY 12406 at 8:30 am October 8. Parking at the Center. At the hikes finish, we will be picked up at Alder Lake and taken back to the Center in Arkville. Phone: 845.586.2611Tuesday, October 8th at 11AMPaddle the Pepacton ReservoirExperience an incredible outdoor adventure, paddling the beautiful Pepacton Reservoir. Join Catskill Mountain Club Board Member Ann Roberti for a scenic paddle on this newly opened NYC reservior. Provide your own CANOE or KAYAK or rent from a local business. We will launch promptly at 11AM at the Shavertown launch site on the Pepacton Reservoir. Life jackets required.All boats must be steam cleaned prior to arrival on site and have a valid access pass sticker. For more information on regulations please visit the NYCDEP website: http://www.nyc.gov/html/dep/html/recreation/cannonsville_boating_program.shtml.To register, contact Ann Roberti at annroberti@yahoo.com or (845) 676-3643. For directions to the Shavertown Bridge Recreational Boating Launch site please see the Pepacton Boating Brochure available at the link below. www.nyc.gov/html/dep/pdf/recreation/Pepacton_Boating_Brochure.pdfTuesday, October 8 at 3PMHike the new Shavertown TrailJoin the CMC on a hike of the new Shavertown Trail, a joint effort of the CMC, NYC DEP and the Town of Andes. This lovely 5 mile hike takes you past a beautiful pond with a lovely view of the reservoir and through a lovely, mature woodland. 3PM – following the paddle. Registration Required. To register contact annroberti@yahoo.com or 845-676-3643.Directions: From SR 28 in Andes turn S onto CR 1 and go 8 miles to parking just before the Shavertown Bridge at SR 30. From SR 28 in Margaretville go W 3 miles to SR 30. Turn SW and go 8 miles to parking just past the bridge on CR 1.Wednesday, October 9 at 8AMHike to Overlook Mountain & Echo LakeThis is a 9 mile hike with 2300′ up & down. It starts at the trail head parking area on Meads Mtn. Road. At 1.9 miles there are the ruins of the old hotel, which can be cautiously explored. Just above that is a television tower. It is another .4 miles to the summit of Overlook Mtn., where there are great views from a vista and the fire tower. Backtracking to the TV tower, the trail to Echo Lake is 2.1 miles. There is an easy to follow path around the lake (about .2 miles) from the lean-to. After a rest/lunch break by the lean-to, it’s back up to the TV tower and back down to the parking area. The group limit is 12 please register by Oct 2nd. Rain will cancel this event. Moderate/Bring a lunch/No dogs please. For more information or to pre-register please contact Cal Johnson at hikeski@hvc.rr.com, or 845-246-2006.Directions: From RT. 28 turn onto Rt. 375 for Woodstock and take a left turn onto Rt. 212. From the center of the Village of Woodstock, at the 90° turn by the Village Green, turn right onto Rock City Rd., which becomes Meads Mtn. Rd. at the 4-way stop signs. The road climbs around 2 miles to the trail head parking area at the top of the hill. The parking area is on the right and marked by a DEC sign.Wednesday, October 9 at 10AMBeaver Meadow Hike from Alder LakeCome and join us for a nice fall hike up several rolling hills to a beaver meadow. We will start at the Alder Lake Parking Area, travel left around the lake, past the old beaver lodge and over a newly installed bridge. Turning onto the Mill Brook Ridge Trail, we’ll head east away from the lake. This part of the hike is a moderate 1.5 miles uphill along a lovely Catskill stream to the Beaver Meadow Lean-to. We’ll relax at the Lean-to and have lunch. There’s a spring nearby to refill water bottles. The hike is 5 miles. Plan on 4 or so leisurely hours. Group size is limited. Moderate/Bring a Lunch/Dogs Welcome. For more information and to pre-register, contact Lisa Lyons at info@morgan-outdoors.com or 845 439 5507. Register by Monday, October 7th.Directions: From SR 28/30 in Margaretville go west 3 miles to the SR 30 intersection and turn left. Cross the Shavertown Bridge and turn left going about 2 miles to Barkaboom Rd. Turn right and go 7.2 miles, passing Big and Little Ponds. Turn left on to Beaverkill Rd. and go 1.4 miles to Alder Creek Rd (CR 54). Turn left onto Alder Creek Rd. and follow for 2.2 miles to the entrance of Alder Lake. Proceed up the dirt driveway to the P.A.From Andes go south 8 miles on CR 1/Trempers Kill Rd. to SR 30 and turn right, crossing the bridge. See above for further directions.From Livingston Manor take old Rt 17 north and turn right onto Beaverkill Rd (CR 151) for 12.3 miles. Turn left onto Alder Creek Rd. (CR 54) and go 2.2 miles to the entrance of Alder Lake. Proceed up the dirt driveway to the P.A.Wednesday, October 9 at 10AMBurnt Knob and Acra PointThis is a fun loop hike on a beautiful stretch of the Escarpment Trail. We’ll start at the trailhead on Big Hollow Road and Head up to Burnt Knob. There are several exceptional views to enjoy before doubling back and heading up to Acra Point and around to the Bataviakill. This is a moderate 8-mile loop with elevation gains of less than 1500 feet. Bring lunch and appropriate hiking gear. Please pre-register for this event by October, 8th at noon, the limit is 12. Moderate/Bring Lunch/Dogs welcome. For more information and to pre-register, please contact Jonathan Mogelever at jmogelever@catskillcenter.org /845-586-2611.Directions: The parking area is at the end of Big Hollow Road in the Black Dome Valley. Take Route 23 just east of Windham and cross bridge onto 296 south toward Hunter. In Hensonville, turn left (or straight) onto 40 toward Maplecrest. Stay left at Maplecreast onto Big Hollow Road (Route 56), follow it past the Community Park on the left and on to the parking at the Dead End.Wednesday, October 9 at 10AMFish the Schoharie ReservoirJoin in an educational fishing experience where we will cover some interesting topics such as invasive species management. Please pre-register by October 7th, the limit is 15. Bring your own lunch, pole and lures or approved bait.You will need these items:NYC Water Supply Lands Access Permit, which may be found at https://a826-web01.nyc.gov/recpermitapp/NYS Fishing License which can be acquired at https://nyfgisales.appsolgrp.com/fgnyia/html/index.jsp or by calling 1-86-NY-DECALS (1-866-933-2257) or in person at most Town Clerks’ Offices and many sporting goods stores. Find where to buy a license near you with DEC’s Google Maps data for the following regions.For more information or to pre-register, please contact Cory Smith at csmith@catskillcenter.org or 845-586-2611.Directions: From Roxbury go north on Route 30 for 8.5 miles. Then turn right onto Rd 7 for about 2.1 miles. We will be meeting at Snyder’s Cove. Wednesday, October 9th at 6PMThe Story of the Catskill ParkSpend an evening with Jeff Senterman, the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference's Senior Program Coordinator, as he tells the story behind the creation and development of the Catskill Park and its trails. Jeff will focus on the history behind the park and be inviting audience participation throughout. Location: Catskill Center in Arkville. For more information please contact Jeff at catskills@nynjtc.org, or 518.628.4243. Thursday, October 10th, 9AMGiant Ledge and Panther MountainJoin Catskill Mountain Club board member Heather Rolland for a long traverse of Panther Mountain’s gorgeous ridgeline. Steep ascents are interspersed with more level sections, views galore, and spectacular rock formations. Descent is via Giant Ledge, offering what many consider to be the best views in the Catskills. Expect a full day on the trail. Registration Required. Approximately 8 miles, car shuttle required. Strenuous hike. Contact CMC board member Heather Rolland at haliagrace@hotmail.com.Directions: Please note: Meeting time and full details will be provided upon registrationThursday, October 10 at 9:30AMSlide Mountain HikeHike with Pat and Moira Colangelo of the Rip van Winkle Hikers to the top of the Catskills. We will take time to enjoy the scenery and take pictures. Suitable for children capable of maintaining pace with adults. Bring about two quarts of water, lunch and wear clothing suitable for the weather. Appropriate footwear is required. Dress in layers for your comfort-bearing in mind that conditions can change rapidly and that the summit will be about 10 degrees cooler than the valleys. Moderately difficult. Hiking poles are suggested. Total elevation gain is about 1,800 feet – total hiking is 5.6 miles. No dogs please. Rain cancels. Group size is limited, so please pre-register by Tuesday, October 8th. For more information or to pre-register please contact: patrick@colangelos.com or 203-321-1981 or 607-363-7267.Directions: Meet at the Slide Mountain Parking Area (P.A) on Oliverea-Frost Valley Rd. (CR 47). From SR 28 in Big Indian turn south onto Oliverea Rd. (becomes Frost Valley Rd.) and proceed about 10 miles to the Slide Mtn. P.A. (It will be past the hairpin turn at the Giant Ledge P.A.) From SR 55 west of Grahamsville turn north onto Claryville Rd. (CR19) and proceed 4.6 miles to Frost Valley Rd. in Claryville. Turn left (north) and proceed 10.6 miles to the Slide Mtn. P.A. (It will be past the Biscuit Brook P.A.)Thursday, October 10 at 10AMHuckleberry Point HikeCome out to Huckleberry Point where you can experience an amazing view of Indian Head, Plattekill Mountains and New England. This hike is a moderate 3 hour hike which takes you up an eroded road for about ¾ of a mile. Then you will have a little rock hop across the Plattekill Creek. We will then have some slight elevation gain but eventually descended to the point. The point is where we will have our lunch as we enjoy one of the most beautiful views in the Catskills along with several birds of prey riding the air currents. We will meet at the trailhead at 10am. The group limit is 12 so please pre- register. No dogs please. Moderate/Bring a Lunch/No Please. For more information and to pre-register contact Cory Smith at 845 586-2611 or csmith@catskillcenter.org.Directions: From Catskill Center head east on 28. Take 214 N, Then turn right onto 23A E. In .6 miles you will reach Bloomer Rd on your right, it will become Platte Clove Rd and continue for a about 5 miles until you reach the trailhead just past the Platte Clove Preserve.Thursday, October 10 at 10AMIsolated Ash Grove and Monitoring Foliage HikeHike to Balsam Mountain to scout for threatened ash genus. As emerald ash borer flies deeper into the Catskills, isolated stands like ones found near Balsam Mountain are in need of monitoring. Learn about EAB and come enjoy the foliage! The hike will be 5.5 miles, taking about 6 hours. Please pre-register by October 9th, the limit is 10. Moderate-Difficult/Bring Lunch/Dogs Welcome. For more information or to pre-register please contact Molly Marquand at mmarquand@catskillcetner.org or 845-586-2611.Directions: From Rt. 28 take country road 47 from Big Indian south to Olivera. Turn onto McKinley Hollow road, approximately 3 miles from Big Indian, and drive to the end.Thursday, October 10 at 1PMHike to Vromans NoseWe will hike up the Green Trail, looking at Devonian age marine shales and sandstones. At the top of the mountain we will take in the views of the Schoharie Creek Valley. We will see it as it was near the end of the Ice Age. We will descend the Blue Trail. Please pre-register for this hike by October 9th, the limit is 35. Moderate/Eat Before/Dogs Welcome. For more information or to pre-register please contact Dr. Robert Titus at titusr@hartwick.edu.Directions: Meet at the Vromans Nose Parking lot on Mill Valley Road–taking Route 30 south, turn west onto Mill Valley Road about 1.5 miles south of the blinking light at Middleburgh. The trailhead is less than a mile on the left.Friday, October 11 at 9AMGet a Sneak Peak at the New Section of the Long PathCome get a sneak peak of the newly constructed Long Path that leads from Lane Street to Romer Mt. The new trail will eventually be 9 miles that will continue beyond Romer Mt and pass over Mt Pleasant and Cross Mt before it links up to the Wittenburg Trail. This is a great opportunity for 3 peaks (a peak at the new trail, a view of Witt peak, and of hopefully it will be peak for the fall) This is a 6 mile hike that should take 6 hours. Please pre-register by October 9th, the limit is 12. Moderate-Difficult/Bring a Lunch/No Dogs Please. For more information or to pre-register please contact Robert Mackenzie NYSDEC at rgmacken@gw.dec.state.ny.us or 845-256-3083.Directions: Take Rt 28 to the Village of Phoenicia and follow Bridge Street over the Esopus River. After crossing the river, turn right on to High Street. Follow High Street for approximately 0.5 miles. Lane Street be on the left. The future trail head is located at the end of Lane Street.Friday, October 11 at 10AMFall Composites on the Escarpment TrailJoin John Kuhner and Molly Marquand of the Catskill Native Plant Society and Paul Harwood, a long-time collector in the region, in a hunt for colorful fall composites, collect a specimen to press, learn a new species of goldenrod, or just enjoy the scenery. Total length 5.75 miles taking about 6 hours. Pre-registration is required by October 10th Moderate/Bring Lunch/Dogs Welcome. For more information or to pre-register please contact Molly Marquand at mmarquand@catskillcenter.org or 845-586-2611.Directions: We will meet at Scutt Road Parking area. To get there you follow NYS thruway to exit 21. Left off ramp. Right on Rt. 23W. 6.6 miles to Cairo. Left on Rt. 32, in 7.7 take Right unto 23A. In 7.5 miles come to intersection of 23A and North South lake rd. Go up the hill on 23A. Take right on North-South Lake rd. Take right onto Scutt rd.Friday, October 11 at 10AMSee the new John Burroughs Monument in Rochester HollowJoin John Wadlin, Joan Burroughs, and Bill Rudge who will speak about the restoration of the John Burroughs monument recently completed. Please pre-register for this event before October 9th. Moderate/Bring a Lunch/Dogs Welcome. For more info or to pre-register please contact John Wadlin at JJWADLIN@RWHM.com.Directions: Matyas Rd off Route 28 West of Big Indian.Friday, October 11 at 11AMEducational Hike to Ruins of Grand Canyon HouseJoin the Catskill Center’s Stewardship Assistant intern Cory Smith for an easy mile loop to the Ruins of the Grand Canyon House. On this hike we will discuss the height of popularity of the Grand Canyon House along with basics in forest succession and local tanneries. All ages are welcome. We will stop and eat lunch by the ruins. Pre-registration for this event is required by October 9th, the limit is 12. Easy/Bring a Lunch/No Dogs Please. For information, please contact Cory Smith at csmith@catskillcenter.org or 845-586-2611.Directions: From Catskill Center head east on 28. Take 214 N, Then turn right onto 23A E. In .6 miles you will reach Bloomer Rd on your right, it will become Platte Clove Rd and continue for a about 5 miles until you reach the trailhead for the Platte Clove Preserve. If you see the sign that indicates the road has changed to seasonal use you have gone too far.Friday, October 11 at 6PMFavorite Catskill Trails: Photographs, Maps and Hiking TalesJoin Jeff Senteman, the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference’s Senior Program Coordinator for tales, stories and information on hiking the Catskill Mountains’ long distance trails such as the Long Path, the Devil’s Path and the Escarpment Trail at Morgan Outdoors in Livingston Manor. At the Trail Conference Jeff focuses on Catskill Issues and is editor of a forthcoming guide to the Catskills Trails from the Trail Conference. For more information please contact Jeff Senteman at catskills@nynjtc.org or 518-628-4243.Directions: From Exit 96 (Livingston Manor/Lew Beach) of Route 17 head south to t-intersection. Turn left at t-intersection and travel 1/10th of a mile over a bridge and turn right onto Main Street. Proceed on Main Street towards stoplight. Morgan Outdoors is on the right at 46 Main Street. Parking is available on the street at a municipal lot to the right at the traffic light just past Morgan Outdoors.Saturday, October 12th, 9:00AMOverlook Mountain HikeCome join CMC board member Bob Moses for a beautiful fall hike to the fire tower on Overlook Mountain. We should have a beautiful view of the surrounding hills and the Hudson Valley below. We will explore the ruins of the Overlook Hotel on the way up to the summit. The ascent to the top of Overlook Mountain will give you a good work out at approximately 2.5 miles long, and with an elevation gain of 1400′. Bring plenty of water and a snack, dogs are welcome. (Moderate-Difficult/bring lunch/Dogs welcome) Register with Bob at rmoses@delhitel.net or 607-746-3645 by 6 PM, Friday, Oct. 11.From SR 28 turn North on CR 375 and go 3 miles. Turn left onto Mill Hill Road; drive .5 miles and turn right onto Rock City Rd.; continue straight onto Meads Mountain Rd; Drive approximately 2.6 miles and Overlook Mountain Parking Lot will be on the right. Saturday, October 12 at 10AMBalsam Mountain HikeThis hike features woods, streams and a great view point from the top of Balsam Mountain, one of the Catskills high peaks at 3700ft. We will cover 5.2 miles at a moderate pace. Because the total ascent is 1700 ft, this hike is categorized as moderately difficult. Well behaved dogs are allowed, but park rules require that they be on leash. Please register early (email preferred), the hike size is limited to 10. The hike may be canceled in case of inclement weather. When registering, please also provide your phone number. Moderate-Difficult/bring lunch/Dogs welcome. For more information and to pre-register, please contact George Preoteasa at gvpreo@gmail.com. Saturday, October 12th, 10:30AMCycling on the Catskill Scenic TrailThe Catskill Scenic Trail is an ideal Rail-Trail traversing 26-miles across Delaware County. We will be cycling on a 13-mile stretch from Roxbury to Stamford. We will start at Hubbell Corners, bike along the headwaters of the East Branch Delaware, past Grand Gorge to Mayhem Pond, and on up to Stamford. We’ll plan lunch at a restaurant in Stamford, then bike back to Roxbury via the same route for a 26-mile day. There is relatively little elevation change on this hard-packed trail, but there is some deep mud and a mountain bike is recommended. Helmets are required. Rentals are available at Plattekill Ski Center. The event should take about 5 hours. Please pre-register for this event before Oct. 10th, the limit is 15. Moderate/No Dogs Please. For more information or to pre-register please contact Jonathan Mogelever at jmogelver@catskillcenter.org or 845-586-2611.Directions: The Catskill Scenic Trail Parking area at Hubbell Corners is one mile north of Roxbury on Route 30, across from Ferris Hill Road on the east side of the road.Saturday, October 12th, 11AMPaddle the Pepacton Reservoir!Experience an incredible outdoor adventure, paddling the beautiful Pepacton Reservoir. Join Catskill Mountain Club Board Member Ann Roberti for a scenic paddle on this newly opened NYC reservior. Provide your own CANOE or KAYAK or rent from a local business. We will launch promptly at 11AM at the Shavertown launch site on the Pepacton Reservoir. Life jackets required. Register by 10/10.All boats must be steam cleaned prior to arrival on site and have a valid access pass sticker. For more information on regulations please visit the NYCDEP website: http://www.nyc.gov/html/dep/html/recreation/cannonsville_boating_program.shtml.To register, contact Ann Roberti at annroberti@yahoo.com or (845) 676-3643. For directions to the Shavertown Bridge Recreational Boating Launch site please see the Pepacton Boating Brochure available at the link below. http://www.nyc.gov/html/dep/pdf/recreation/Pepacton_Boating_Brochure.pdf Saturday & Sunday, October 12 & 13 at 10AMTaste of the Catskills Festival: Saturday & Sunday An all day and evening at the Maple Shade Farm in Delhi! The Taste of the Catskills Festival is a family-friendly event that showcases the food, crafts, beer, wine and culture of our region. With a variety of vendors including farmers, value-added food producers, and restaurants. Attendees learn how food travels from farm to fork during a fun-filled autumn weekend on the grounds of Maple Shade Farm, a family-run farm. Admission Fee. For more information visit www.tasteofthecatskills.com.Saturday, October 12 & Sunday October 13 at 2PMIntroduction to Fly Fishing with The Beaverkill AnglerJoin The Beaverkill Angler for Troutoberfest with Introduction to Fly-Fishing workshops. Learn from the professionals about the basics of fly-fishing. No equipment necessary. Troutoberfest offers lots of events all weekend long. Join the fun with these free workshops. Meet at The Beaverkill Angler: 52 Stewart Avenue, Roscoe, New York.For more information and to pre-register contact Beaverkill Angler at: 607-498-5194, or mail@beaverkillangler.com. More details may also be found at their website http://beaverkillangler.com/troutoberfest_2013.htmlSaturday, October 12 at 5:30PMKelly Hollow Night-Time Beaver Watch HikeJoin members of the Catskill Mountain Club for a night-time hike on the Kelly Hollow trail. Kelly Hollow is a lovely spot with mountain streams and a combination of coniferous and mixed forests and an active beaver pond at the top. It is located on Millbrook Road in the town of Middletown, Delaware County NY (NY/NJ Trail Conference map #42, F-5,6). The trail is an easy to moderate loop of about 4 miles with a moderately steep climb and there is a lean-to and privy at the top. We will ascend the trail in the late afternoon and arrive at the beaver pond at dusk. Beavers are more active at this time of day so there’s a good chance we may see them at work. After snacks at the lean-to we will descend in the dark through a spooky spruce forest back to the trail-head. Be sure to bring a good head lamp or flash-light.The entire hike will take about 3 to 3 1/2 hours allowing time to watch the beavers and take photos. This event is limited to 12 people. Well behaved dogs dogs are welcome although they will have to be kept away from the beavers. Contact Howard Raab at howardjraab@gmail.com or (845) 586-3112.Directions – We will meet at the Old Schoolhouse 2.2 miles west of Margaretville at 5:00PM or at the trail-head at 5:30PM. Directions from the Old Schoolhouse: Go right (west) on the NYC reservoir road across from the Old School House for 3.7 miles. Then left on Millbrook Road for 5.3 miles to the trail-head parking area on the right.Sunday, October 13 at 8:15AMBalsam Lake Mountain and Millbrook Ridge to Alder LakePlease join President Tom Rankin of the Catskill 3500 Club and Laurie Rankin for this fun event! Participants will have an opportunity to visit a rather remote area of the Catskills, bag a high peak, a fire tower, a Catskill Hundred Highest Peak, and a picnic! We will spot cars at Alder Lake, proceed to the southern Parking Area for Balsam Lake, and end back at the Lake for a picnic. The hike is 9 miles long to be completed in 9 hours. It is a difficult hike and the limit is 12 participants. Please bring a lunch. Well behaved dogs with leash are welcome. Difficult/Bring a Lunch/Dogs Welcome. For more information or to pre-register contact Laurie Rankin at laurierankin@hvc.rr.com, or 845-926-2182.Directions: From NY 17 (Quickway), exit 96 at Livingston Manor, take first two right turns. Proceed 0.3 mi and make right turn just past Kings Catering. Continue 14.3 mi (past Barkaboom Road). Turn north onto County Route 54 at the junction at Turnwood. Continue 2.4 mi and bear right at curve at Cross Mountain Camp; at immediate second junction, do not go up hill but bear right for 0.4 mi. the gravel road terminates at Alder Lake Trailhead parking area.Sunday, October 13 at 8:45AMHike to Hunter MountainJoin Deanna Felicetta in a wonderful fall hike up Hunter Mountain (8.5 miles at a good pace), one of the Catskill 4000- foot peaks, and hike with us on the famed Devils Path as we ascend out of Stony Clove and climb this magnificent peak. We will stop to enjoy the lovely colors as we climb and pause at the Shelter atop Hunter Mountain. We will then proceed across to the summit (elevation 4050 feet) and Hunter Mountain’s Fire tower. The views from here are panoramic and full of color! This mountain is well worth the climb and you can bag this peak! Plan for a full days outing. Bring water, snacks and dress in layers for changeable weather. Rain will cancel this event. Please register October 1 through the 10th, leaving name and contact phone. 12 participants desired – will register to 16. For more information or to register please contact Deanna Felicetta – felicetta.deanna@gmail.com or 845-586-2611 Or (best contact method) 845 216 2021 she is a (Member of Catskill Mountain Club, Catskill 3500 Club Member, Life Member of Adirondack Mountain Club, Delegate to Trail Conference for Ramapo-New Jersey Chapter).Directions: Hike will depart at 8:45 from Route 214/ Devils Path, Stony Clove Hikers Parking area. Route 214 can be accessed from Route28/ Phoenicia to the South, or Route 23A/ Hunter-Tannnersville in the North. See you on the trail, DeannaSunday, October 13 at 10AMCycling the Dry Brook ValleyCome cycle with CMC Board Member Wendell George in the peaceful and stunningly beautiful Dry Brook Valley. This will be a road ride with a very gradual elevation change. We will take time to enjoy the scenery and take pictures. Suitable for children capable of maintaining pace with adults. Bring water and wear clothing suitable for the weather. Helmet required. Rain cancels. Pre-registration required by Oct. 12th, limit 20, Easy/No Dogs Please. For more information or to pre-register please contact Wendell George at wendell@catskillmountainclub.org or 845-254-4546.Directions: Meet at the intersection of Dry Brook Rd. and Todd Mountain Rd. From SR 28 in Highmount turn south onto Galli-Curci Rd. (becomes Todd Mountain Rd.) and proceed 5.4 miles to Dry Brook Rd. From SR 28 in Arkville turn south onto Dry Brook Rd. and proceed 4.7 miles to Todd Mountain Rd.Sunday, October 13 at 11AMSleepy Hollow Trail to Little Pine OrchardWe found an 1881 penny on this trail at the foundation of an old inn, when we measured all the trails in the Catskill Forest Preserve. The Sleepy Hollow Trail heads up Rip Van Winkle Hollow where stagecoaches brought tourists from Palenville to the famed Catskill Mountain House. In 1882 a narrow-gauge railroad was constructed through Stony Clove, which was preferable to the bumpy stagecoach ride. Ascent is 800′ in 1.5 miles to a picnic area overlooking the Hudson River Valley. With time and interest, we could hike a mile up the Harding Road Trail from Palenville to a spectacular lookout up Kaaterskill Clove. Well-behaved dogs welcome. Please register no later than Friday, Oct. 11 by contacting Carol and David White at ccswhite@juno.com or 315-853-1070.Driving instructions: In Palenville, from NY 23A west of the village, take Boggart Road for over 2 mi. and bear left at the Pennsylvania Ave. junction to Mountain Turnpike Road at 2.4 mi. Turn left for 0.8 mi.Sunday, October 13 at 1:30PMTan Bark Trail Hike in PhoeniciaJoin CMC board member Aaron Bennett for a hike through history and to work up an appetite (and thirst) before heading over to the annual Catskill Mountain Club dinner at the Emerson Resort in nearby Mt Pleasant (cocktail hour at 5pm). This true community-trail follows portions of an historic tan bark trail and various old quarry roads that once provided access to quarries (for mining bluestone) and hemlock trees (the bark was critical in the process of tanning leather) back in the 1800s. Interpretive signage along key portions of the route tells the story! We’ll pass beneath a towering bedrock ledge, through a hemlock grove, several quarries, a special rock now named for Catskills-historian Lonnie Gale, and take in the spectacular autumn view of the Esopus Creek and valley from Grand View Ledge and Phoenicia Overlook. This is only a two-mile loop hike, but with its 600’ vertical is somewhat deceiving, as there are a few sections that are quite steep with un-even footing. Pace will be rather slow so as to not work up a big sweat before the annual dinner! Meet at the trailhead at the Parish Field in Phoenicia at 1:30PM. Group limit is 12; No dogs please; Moderate hike; 2 miles; Bring snacks and water. For more information and to pre-register please contact Aaron at abennett@catskill.net.Directions: The trail head to the Tan Bark Trail is located by the playground equipment in the Parish Field just off Main Street in Phoenicia. Travelling west on Route 28 (from Kingston) turn right into Phoenicia just after the Phoenicia Diner. Cross the railroad tracks and bridge. At intersection, turn right and park on Main Street. Proceed back to intersection on foot and follow Mt Ava Maria Drive walking past the grocery store and library (on left), the park is on the right after the post office.Travelling east on Route 28 (from Pine Hill) turn left into Phoenicia on NYS Rte 214, proceed straight through town on Main Street, and on the east end of town, (near the funeral home and grocery store) find street parking. Walk to Mt Ava Maria Drive (between Gormley Funeral Home and the Phoencia Market) and proceed past the library (on left), the park is on the right after the post office.Sunday, October 13 at 5PMCatskill Mountain Club Annual DinnerMembers and non-members are invited to CMC’s Annual Dinner at the Emerson Resort, Mt. Tremper, NY, October 13 — cocktails at 5pm. A portion of the $40 per person proceeds will go to help CMC grow and bring more activities to the Catskills. Fund-raising auctions and door prizes are planned also. You’ll meet lots of outdoor enthusiasts and learn more about our region from main speakers geologist Robert Titus and his wife, Johanna, recent authors of The Hudson Valley in the Ice Age: A Geological History and Tour. Both are in great demand and known for their engaging and conversational style. Stay tuned to www.catskillmountainclub.org for details, including a CMC hike in nearby Phoenicia before dinner (Tan Bark Trail, 1:30-3:30pm). RSVP for dinner reservations at annualdinner@catskillmountainclub.org.Directions: The Emerson Resort is located directly on NYS Route 28 between the hamlets of Phoenicia and Boiceville, in Mt. Tremper, NY. It is roughly 30 minutes from both Kingston (in the east) and Margaretville (to the west).Monday, October 14 at 9AMMount Tremper Fire Tower HikeJoin us for a hike to Mount Tremper Fire Tower. It’s a difficult three-mile hike that ascends over 2000 feet, but the reward is a 360-degree view of the Catskills highest peaks and the Hudson Valley. The cab at the top of the tower will be open so you can enjoy the view from inside. There is a lean-to at the summit which is a great place to have lunch. We’ll meet at the Trail head at Plank Road at 9AM. The group limit is 12 so please pre-register early. No dogs please. For more information and to pre-register please contact Jonathan Mogelever at jmogelever@catskillcenter.org or 845-586-2611.Directions: The trail head to Mount Tremper is on the north side of Plank Road, between the Hamlet of Mount Tremper and Phoenicia. Travelling west on Route 28 (from Kingston) turn right onto route 212, then take your first left, across a bridge onto Plank Road (County Route 40)–the parking area is about 3 miles on the right. Travelling east on Route 28 (from Pine Hill) turn left into Phoenicia on 214, go straight through town on Main Street. On the east end of town this turns into Plank Road (County Route 40), continue straight–the parking area is about 1.5 miles on the left.Monday, October 14 at 11AMFun for All at Frick Pond in Southern CatskillsThe Catskill “Lark in the Park” is happy to present this fun and educational hiking event on the Frick Pond trail in the southern Catskills. “Planning your Hike” will be presented by Deanna Felicetta (ADK and Catskill 3500 Club), followed by “Leave No Trace” taught by Cory Smith Steward Assistant at the Catskill Center for Conservation and Development. The hike is a gentle 3 miles on a trail very popular with families and local sportsmen in Sullivan County. This hike will include ideas helpful to making your hikes safer and environmentally aware. We hope to enjoy the fall colors as we walk and talk. Come join us. Registration is required for the hike, the limit is 15, please pre-register by October 11th. We will meet at the Frick Pond trailhead location at 11 am. Bring water and a snack. Poor weather will cancel. For more information or to pre-register call hike leader Deanna Felicetta at 845 216-2021, or Cory Smith at 845 586-2611 or csmith@catskillcenter.org or 845-586-2611.Directions: Directions from Livingston Manor: From Main Street in Livingston Manor, take a left onto Rock Avenue (Old Route 17), followed by a right onto County Route 81 (Debruce Road). Follow Debruce Road for approximately 6 miles. Turn left onto Mongaup Pond Road and follow the intersection with Beech Mountain Road at 2.7 miles. Turn left onto Beech Mountain Road and follow road for approximately 0.3 miles. Turn left into parking area for trailhead.Monday, October 14 at 11AMPalenville OverlookVisit Palenville Overlook, which can be approached from five areas. We usually begin at the terminus of South Lake Road and visit the Catskill Mountain House site, Boulder Rock and Split Rock on the Escarpment Trail to the Sleepy Hollow Horse Trail to this site of an historic boarding house where foundations still remain. Views to the mountains and Hudson Valley are spectacular! Route 23A is straight down between boulders from one of the overlooks; great rock thrones have been built for lunch with a view. This 5-mile loop hike back to North Lake, a 500′ total ascent, takes about 5 hours. No dogs on this one, which features drop-offs and ledgy hiking. Bring Lunch/No Dogs Please. Please register no later than Friday, October 11th by contacting Carol and David White at ccswhite@juno.com or 315-853-1070.Driving instructions: NY 23A to Haines Falls, left on Greene County Rte. 18 at North-South Lakes Campground sign, bear right in one block for 2.2 mi. to Schutt Rd. We’ll carpool to end of South Lake Rd., turning right inside the campground; and park some cars at the Schutt Rd. parking area.
Saturday, September 28, 10 AM & 2 PM - CMC at the Skitember Fest on Belleayre Mtn.
The CMC will host three events at the Skitember Fest on Belleayre Mtn. Visit http://www.belleayre.com/ for more info.10 AM - Hiking with Map and Compass: How to Get Where You Want to GoJoin Wendell George and Rick Roberts of the Catskill Mountain Club as we hike the ridge of Belleayre Mountain and enjoy its outstanding views of the Catskills. We will take advantage of those views to teach hikers how to use a map and compass for navigation. This essential safety skill is not well understood by many hikers, sometimes leading to difficult and even dangerous experiences. Bring a trail map and compass if you have one. The hike involves some moderate to strenuous climbing, so wear good hiking boots and bring water. Rain cancels this event. Meet at the Longhouse Lodge.2 PM - Introduction to HikingLove the idea of hiking but not sure how to get started? Have a feeling it might be a little more involved than simply 'taking a walk'? Join veteran hiker and Catskill Mountain Club member Heather Rolland in a simple and fun pre-hiking introduction to heading out on the trail. Learn about how to use the, ahem, restroom in the woods, what to carry in your pack, and how to handle common contingencies on the trail. Heather is known for her wit and wisdom, and her recent feat: she successfully climbed all 35 high peaks in the Catskills wearing a ballgown. Come ask her why! Meet at the Longhouse Lodge.2 PM - Fundamentals of KayakingHave you always thought kayaking looks like a blast, but wondered if it's hard or dangerous? Come hear and talk to Catskill Mountain Club members and expert kayakers Ann Roberti and Rick Roberts to get your feet wet (and maybe more). Ann and Rick will talk about basic skills and about equipment, giving you the tools to get started in this fabulous sport. Demonstration equipment will be provided by the CMC and Kenco outfitters of Kingston. Meet at Belleayre Beach on SR 28 in Pine Hill.
Wednesday, September 25, 5:30PM - Beat the Wednesday Hump Day Slump Hike #3 – Shavertown Trail
Join us for a hike on the newly dedicated Shavertown Trail, including a stop at its lovely pond. The hike will depart from the parking area at the Shavertown Bridge Boat Launch entrance. The walk will start at 5:30 p.m. We will hike the approximately 1.2 miles to the viewpoint overlooking the Pepacton Reservoir. If time allows and at the group’s discretion, the hike will continue for the remainder of the trail. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring water and a flash light. Camera optional: there are great views.Event will be canceled if it rains. Leashed dogs who get along with other dogs allowed. Contact Amy Beveridge at thebeveridges@yahoo.com subject line “hike” or call 607-643-6502 with any questions.Directions: From SR 28/30 in Margaretville, go west about 3 miles to the dividing of the highways. Turn south onto SR 30 and go 8 miles to the Shavertown Bridge Boat Launch on the left, just after turning right onto CR 1.From SR 28 in Andes, turn south onto CR 1 and travel 8 miles to the Shavertown Bridge Boat Launch on the right.
Friday, September 20, 10 AM - Catskill Native Plant Society hikes with CMC
Wednesday, September 18, 10 AM - Maintenance on Balsam Mtn.
These sections of trail are maintained by the NYNJTC/CMC crew and we need your help. We’ll start up the Rider Hollow Trail and then go up the Mine Hollow Trail, then across Balsam and back to the P.A. on the Rider Hollow Trail. We’ll be clearing blowdowns, cleaning waterbars and cutting understory growth that obscures the trail and markers. We’ll have tools to lend or bring your favorite pruners or loppers. A weed whip would be useful if someone can bring one. Bring plenty of water, lunch and snacks. No dogs due to safety concerns. Rain cancels. Register by Tuesday, September 17 by contacting CMC board member Wendell George at wendell@catskillmountainclub.org, or 845-254-4546. If you need to cancel, contact me by 9:00 AM Wednesday.Directions: From SR 28 in Highmount, turn south onto Galli-Curci Rd. which becomes Todd Mountain Rd. Go about 4.9 miles to Rider Hollow Rd. and turn left/southeast. Drive to the Rider Hollow P.A. at the end of the road. From SR 28 in Arkville, turn south onto Dry Brook Rd. and travel 4.7 miles to Todd Mountain Rd. Turn left/east and go .5 mile to Rider Hollow Rd. Turn right/southeast to the Rider Hollow P.A. at the end of the road.
Saturday, September 14, 10 AM - Hike to Huckleberry Point
Come out to Huckleberry Point where you can experience an amazing view of Indian Head, Plattekill Mountains and New England. This hike is a moderate 3 hour hike which takes you up an eroded road for about ¾ of a mile. Then you will have a little rock hop across the Plattekill Creek. We will then have some slight elevation gain but eventually descend to the point. The point is where we will have our lunch as we enjoy one of the most beautiful views in the Catskills along with several birds of prey riding the air currents. We will meet at the trailhead at 10AM. The group limit is 12 so please pre- register. No dogs please. For more information or to register, please contact Cory Smith at csmith@catskillcenter.orgDirections: From the Catskill Center in Arkville head east on SR 28. Take CR 214 north in Phoenicia and go about 12 miles, then turn east onto SR 23A. In .6 miles you will reach Bloomer Rd on your righ; it will become Platte Clove Rd. Continue for about 5 miles until you reach the trailhead P.A. on the left just past the Platte Clove Preserve.From the east, take SR 32 from Saugerties or take SR 23A from Catskill to Palenville. Continue west on SR 23A to Clum Hill Rd. between Haines Falls and Tannersville. Turn south to Platte Clove Rd. and turn east to the trailhead P.A. on the left just past the Platte Clove Preserve.
Saturday, September 7, 9:00 AM – Wittenberg Mountain
Directions: From SR 28 in Phoenicia, turn south onto Woodland Valley Rd. Go about 5 miles to the P.A. on the right. At this time of year the DEC collects a fee for parking, so get there a few minutes early and go to the office up the road and on the left.
Friday, August 30, Noon - Shavertown Trail Dedication
August 30. 2013In a milestone achievement, the Catskill Mountain Club is proud to invite you to attend the dedication ceremony for the newly constructed Shavertown Trail on New York City Department of Environmental Protection watershed property in the Town of Andes. NYCDEP has opened many properties to the public for recreational use during the past several years. Most notably until now have been the openings of four of the six Catskills reservoirs to recreational boating. Now, for the first time, the DEP has allowed the development of a hiking trail on its property in partnership with the Town of Andes and the CMC. The CMC has constructed and will maintain this trail of 2.6 miles and will continue to partner with the NYCDEP in the construction of trails on other parcels throughout the Catskill watershed.The trail is a rather gentle hike for the Catskills, climbing moderately from the trailhead to a woods road than rises gradually to the end loop of the trail. Along the way lies a small pond in a clearing that offers spectacular views of the Pepacton Reservoir and the surrounding mountains.Please join us on this momentous day as we celebrate our partnership, our work and the idea that these publicly held lands are the perfect place for the public to enjoy the beauty and solace of these sublime and ancient mountains.The ceremony will be held in the parking area at the entrance to the Shavertown Bridge Boat Launch. Afterwards, you are encouraged to cross the highway to the trailhead and take a hike with us!Directions: From SR 28 in Andes take CR 1 south to the site of the ceremony on the right and just before the bridge. Proceed left onto SR 30 and park in the lot to the right.From SR 28/30 in Margaretville take the left hand turn onto SR 30 at the intersection of the highways about 3 miles west of town. Drive to the parking area on the left just before the bridge.From SR 30 in Downsville take the highway to the Shavertown Bridge. Cross the bridge and immediately look for the site of the ceremony to the left. Park in the lot to the right after crossing the bridge.NOTE: Park in the parking area across SR 30 from the site of the ceremony. This lot on SR 30 is on the north side of the bridge and to the east of the site of the ceremony.
Tuesday, August 27, 10 AM - Invasive Species Workshop
Join Catskill Center CRISP (Catskill Regional Invasive Species Partnership) Coordinator Molly Marquand for a discussion of invasive species issues facing the Catskill Region. The presentation will be followed by a hike nearby to look for examples of invasive species. Learn how you can help control this problem. No dogs. Rain postpones. Register in advance by contacting Molly Marquand at mmarquand@catskillcenter.org or by calling 845-586-2611 Ext. 103.Directions: The Catskill Center is located at 43355 SR 28 in Arkville, next to the fire station.
Sunday, August 25, 11AM ’til 3 PM - Paddle the Pepacton
Experience an incredible outdoor adventure, paddling the beautiful Pepacton Reservoir. Join Catskill Mountain Club board member Ann Roberti for a scenic paddle on this newly opened NYC reservoir. Provide your own CANOE or KAYAK or rent from a local business. We will launch promptly at 11AM from the Shavertown Bridge Recreational Boating Launch site on the north side of the bridge. Pre-register and questions to Ann Roberti at annroberti@yahoo.comLife jackets required. All boats must be steam cleaned prior to arrival on site and have a valid DEP access sticker. For more information on regulations please visit the NYCDEP website: http://www.nyc.gov/html/dep/pdf/recreation/Pepacton_Boating_Brochure.pdfDirections: From SR 28/30 in Margaretville, go west about 3 miles to the dividing of the highways. Turn south onto SR 30 and go 8 miles to the Shavertown Bridge Boat Launch on the left, just after turning right onto CR 1.From SR 28 in Andes, turn south onto CR 1 and travel 8 miles to the Shavertown Bridge Boat Launch on the right.
Tuesday, August 20, 9AM – Eagle Mtn. Trail Maintenance on the Rider Hollow and Pine Hill-West Branch Trails
These sections of trail are maintained by the NYNJTC/CMC crew and we need your help. We’ll start up the Rider Hollow Trail, cross Haynes Mtn. go to the summit of Eagle on the high and remote Catskill Divide. We’ll be clearing blowdowns, cleaning waterbars and cutting understory growth that obscures the trail and markers. We’ll have tools to lend or bring your favorite pruners or loppers. A weed whip would be useful if someone can bring one. Bring plenty of water, lunch and snacks. No dogs due to safety concerns. Rain cancels. Register by Monday, August 19 by contacting CMC board member Wendell George at wendell@catskillmountainclub.org, or 845-254-4546. If you need to cancel, contact me by 8:00 AM Tuesday.Directions: From SR 28 in Highmount, turn south onto Galli-Curci Rd. which becomes Todd Mountain Rd. Go about 4.9 miles to Rider Hollow Rd. and turn left/southeast. Drive to the Rider Hollow P.A. at the end of the road. From SR 28 in Arkville, turn south onto Dry Brook Rd. and travel 4.7 miles to Todd Mountain Rd. Turn left/east and go .5 mile to Rider Hollow Rd. Turn right/southeast to the Rider Hollow P.A. at the end of the road.
Wednesday, August 14, 5:30 PM - Beat the Wednesday Hump Day Slump hike #2
Join Us for a hike on the Catskill Scenic Trail. The hike will depart from the parking area located on St Rte 10 east of the hamlet of Bloomville, NY. The walk will start at 5:30p.m. Distance will depend on the inclination of the group; expect 4-6 miles round trip! Please bring water and a flash light. This is an easy hike on level terrain. Event will be canceled if it rains. Leashed dogs who get along with other dogs are allowed. Contact Amy Beveridge at thebeveridges@yahoo.com subject line “hike” with any questions.
Saturday, August 10, 1 PM - Andes Rail Trail
We’ll walk one mile each way on our beautiful trail. If the group is so inclined, we will continue on the Bullet Hole Spur woodland hiking trail that continues for another mile, making for a 4 mile round trip hike. Meet at the train depot on Cabin Hill Road at 1:00 pm. Contact: annroberti@yahoo.com for more info.DIRECTIONS: Meet at the train depot on Cabin Hill Road/CR 2 just past the flashing red light in downtown Andes.
Thursday, July 25, 9:00 AM - Trail Maintenance of the Seager and Pine Hill-West Branch Trails
These sections of trail are maintained by the CMC and we need your help. We'll start up the Seager Trail, cross Eagle and Haynes mountains on the high and remote Catskill Divide and come down the Oliverea-Mapledale Trail to Rider Hollow. We'll be clearing blowdowns, cleaning waterbars and cutting understory growth that obscures the trail and markers. We'll have plenty of tools to lend or bring your favorite pruners or loppers. Bring plenty of water, lunch and snacks. No dogs due to safety concerns. Rain cancels. Register by Wednesday, July 17 by contacting CMC board member Wendell George at wendell@catskillmountainclub.org or 845-254-4546. If you need to cancel, contact me by 7:30 AM Thursday.Directions: From SR 28 in Highmount, turn south onto Galli-Curci Rd. which becomes Todd Mountain Rd. Go about 5.1 miles to Dry Brook Rd. and turn left/south. Drive 4.2 miles to the Seager P.A. at the end of the road.From SR 28 in Arkville, turn south onto Dry Brook Rd. and travel 8.9 miles to the Seager P.A. at the end of the road.
Wednesday, July 17th, 5:30 PM - Beat the Wednesday Hump Day Slump hiking series
Join Us for a hike on the Andes Rail Trail. We'll walk one mile each way on our beautiful trail. If the group is inclined, we will continue on the Bullet Hole Spur woodland hiking trail that continues for another mile, making a 4 mile round trip hike! Meet at the train depot on Cabin Hill Rd (AKA Cty Hwy 2) at 5:30p.m.. Bring water and a flash light. Event will be canceled if it rains, leashed dogs who get along with other dogs allowed. Contact Amy Beveridge at thebeveridges@yahoo.com subject line "hike" with any questions
Sunday, July 7th, 11:00 AM - Kelly Hollow Hike
Hi hikers. Please join CMC board member Howard Raab for a hike on the Kelly Hollow trail. This is one of the most beautiful short trails in the Catskills with cold mountain streams and a combination of coniferous and deciduous forests and an active beaver pond near the lean-to (yes, we may also see a beaver or two!) It is located on Millbrook Road in the town of Middletown, NYNJ Trail Conference map #42, F-5,6. The trail is an easy to moderate loop of about 4 miles with a lean-to and privy at the top. Bring lunch and/or snacks to have at the lean-to. Dogs are welcome.This hike will be limited to 12 people. Please register by email or phone. We will cancel in case of steady rain. If in doubt call before 10:00 Sun. morning. Contact: howardjraab@gmail.com, (845) 586-3112.We will meet at the Old Schoolhouse 2.2 miles west of Margaretville at 10:30 am or at the trail-head at 11:00 am.Directions to trail-head: Go right (west) on the NYC reservoir road across Rt.28 from the Old School House for 3.7 miles. Then left on Millbrook Road for 5.3 miles to the trail-head parking area on the right.
Friday, July 5, 10 AM - Rochester Hollow
The Rochester Hollow Trail follows a stream through beautiful forest to the site of an abandoned estate. This is a moderate hike with a gradual climb up the hollow. Longtime CMC member John Wadlin will lead a hike of 2 ½ to 3 hours. Bring water and a snack. Well behaved dogs allowed. Please pre-register by e-mail to jjwadlin@rwhm.com.
Directions: Drive to Matyas Road on the north side of Rt. 28 east of Pine Hill and west of the Peekamoose restaurant in Big Indian. The parking area is ¼ mile in on the road.
Saturday, June 22, 9:30 AM - Balsam Mountain
We'll hike a loop route over Balsam, following trails that border and cross the Rider Hollow and Mine Hollow streams and ascend through ancient hemlocks and steep scrambles to the Catskill Divide. We'll visit a stunning view of the Esopus Valley and the nearby summit rock before descending. The hike is 5.2 miles and will take about 6 hours. Wear good boots and bring plenty of water. We'll eat at the overlook. Strenuous. Well behaved dogs welcome. Register by June 21 by contacting CMC board member Wendell George at wendell@catskillmountainclub.org or 845-254-4546.Directions: From SR 28 in Highmount, turn south onto Galli-Curci Rd. which becomes Todd Mountain Rd. Go about 5 miles to Rider Hollow Rd. and turn left/east. Drive to the parking area at the end of the road.From SR 28 in Arkville, turn south onto Dry Brook Rd. and travel 4.7 miles to Todd Mountain Rd. Turn left and go .5 miles to Rider Hollow Rd., turn right and follow to the end of the road.
Wednesday, June 19, 9 AM - Frick Pond and Hodge Pond area trail maintenance
The Catskill Roving Crew needs your help on this coming Wednesday, June 19. We're going to work on the newly adopted trails around the beautiful Frick and Hodge Ponds in the Willowemoc Wild Forest. On this visit, we'll work on clearing a few blowdowns, cutting back the understory and cutting grasses and summer growth from the road beds that comprise a good deal of the trails in the area.The trailhead is about 30 miles and 45 minutes from Big Indian and approximately the same from the Shavertown Bridge in Andes. Please come give us a hand if you can.No dogs due to safety concerns. Rain cancels. Bring a good lunch and plenty of water. Bring a favorite tool or we'll have tools to lend.Reply to this email or call Wendell George at 845-254-4546 by the day before the hike. If you find that you need to cancel, call by 7:15 AM on the day of the hike - as early as 6 AM is fine.Directions: From Rt. 17 use Exit 96/Livingston Manor. Take Debruce Rd. 6 miles east to Mongaup Rd. Turn north onto Mongaup Rd. 2.5 miles to Beech Mountain Rd. Frick Pond P.A. is about .3 miles.From Rt. 28 in Big Indian turn south onto Oliverea/Frost Valley Rd. and go 19.3 miles to Round Pond Rd., about 1 mile north of Claryville. Follow Round Pond Rd./Willowemoc Rd. 11.6 miles to Mongaup Rd. Turn north onto Mongaup Rd. 2.5 miles to Beech Mountain Rd. Frick Pond P.A. is about .3 miles. For anyone who might want to carpool from Big Indian, let me know.