The Cloudsplitter Vol. 80 No. 4 October – December 2017

Published by the ALBANY CHAPTER

of the ADIRONDACK

MOUNTAIN CLUB

The Cloudsplitter Vol. 80 No. 4 October – December 2017

Published by the ALBANY CHAPTER

of the ADIRONDACK

MOUNTAIN CLUB

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MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN

I am looking forward to the cooler and less-buggy weather that makes hiking, biking and paddling in the fall so great. As with every adventure, there is some risk involved. I think the alternative, sitting on our butts and staring at screens, is not acceptable. So this message is all about hiking and paddling safety. I will not discuss biking in this message because that is a subject best discussed separately.

If you read the “Accident Report,” by Tony Goodwin of the ADK, you will know that accidents will happen on the trails. In his excellent book Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why, Laurence Gonzales makes the point never to go into the woods without being prepared to stay overnight.

We can and must be prepared before we hike and paddle. At minimum that means: 1. Have the right gear for the trip; 2. Travel together, with at least 4 people in the winter; 3. Let someone know where you are going and when to expect you back; and 4. Check the weather before you go and be prepared for bad weather.

I think one of the most important things that our Chapter offers is our outings, led by our hiking and paddling leaders. Many of our hiking leaders are Wilderness First Aid certified. Our paddling leaders recently have undergone two sessions of rescue training. I would like to thank Erica Lovrin, our paddling chair, for all her hard work organizing and promoting safety on the water.

On the following page you will see excerpts of the A-19, Rules and Recommendations for ADK Chapter Outings. We, as hiking and paddling leaders, take our responsibility for your safety very seriously. Should someone get hurt, it is bad not only for them, but it will affect everyone else on the trip. When you participate in any of our outings, you sign a waiver and agree to follow the rules.

I truly wish I did not need to write this, but a few people think the rules don’t apply to them. For everyone’s safety, if you want to do your own thing please don’t hike or paddle with the Albany Chapter of the ADK. Let’s get out there, work together and have enjoyable and safe adventures. - Jim Slavin

The Cloudsplitter

Published quarterly by the Albany Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club.

Albany Chapter ADK Empire State Plaza P.O. Box 2116 Albany, NY 12220 www.adk-albany.org Editors: Kathryn Behuniak Adkcloudeditor1@gmail.com Ann Burns Adkcloudeditor2@gmail.com Assistants: Virginia Boyle Traver Mark Platt Chris Imperial Send address changes to: Adirondack Mountain Club 814 Goggins Road Lake George, NY 12845-4117 (518) 668-4447 (phone) (518) 668-3746 (fax) For orders or membership: (800) 395-8080 or email adkinfo@adk.org Many thanks to Gail Carr for her cover sketch of “Turkeys” and for her continued support of the Chapter with her time and talent! Business meetings are the 1st Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. at Little’s Lake in Menands. Chapter members are encouraged to attend. Call Jim Slavin at (518) 434-4393. Submission deadline for the Winter 2018 issue (Jan.-March) is November 15, 2017.

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Rules and Recommendations for ADK Chapter Outings: Life jackets (PFDs) must be worn on any ADK paddling trip while on the water. (You need to wear ANDproperly secure your PFD.)Participants are expected to have a realistic knowledge of their own ability to select activities within theircapabilities and to carry clothing, food and equipment appropriate to the trip.Participants must be willing to accept the authority of the trip leader and to cooperate with him or herand other party members to make the trip safe and enjoyable.Participants should inform the leader if they feel unduly tired or if the trip is exceeding their capability. Concealing such information to avoid embarrassment or other reasons endangers the safety of all participants.Participants must not leave the party at any time without permission of the leader. Participants must notleave the trip area until all party members have safely returned, unless given permission by the tripleader.Party Coordination: It is recommended that leaders establish procedures to ensure the cohesiveness of the group. They should explain the concept of having a leader and sweep and stress the importance of maintaining contact within the groupSafety Considerations: It is recommended that trip leaders and participants observe reasonable safety precautions and that all trip decisions be made with safety as the primary concern.A leader may curtail further participation by an individual and amend trip objectives if, in the leader's judgment, the safety of the individual or group requires such action.It is recommended that if a trip participant is unable to continue with the trip and must turn back thathe or she be accompanied by at least one other person.

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ACTIVITIES RATINGSEach outing listed in this issue is rated by the leader for its level of effort. Remember that “level of effort”is not the same as the level of difficulty! A “moderate” hike for a physically fit person may mean a verystrenuous hike for a novice or unconditioned person.

It is incumbent on each participant to know their own level of fitness and limitations. The trip leader will ask questions about your experience, fitness, equipment, medical condition, expectations, etc.Be Honest!

HIKING

RATING LEVEL OF EFFORT FEET OF ELEVATION GAIN

MILES TIME (HOURS)

A+ Very strenuous 4,000+ 10+ 10+A Strenuous 3,000+ 5-10 8-10B+ Moderately Strenuous 2,000+ 5-10 6-8B Moderate 1,000+ 8-10 5-7C+ Fairly Easy 1,000+ 5-8 4-6C Easy Under 1,000 Under 5 Under 5

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ACTIVITIES RATINGS (continued)

PADDLING

RATING MILES PORTAGES WATER CLASS A 12+ Long (1/2 mile+) II - Whitewater B 6-12 Short I - Moving C Under 6 None Flat

BIKING

RATING MILES TERRAIN A 30+ Moderate to steep B 15-30 Moderate C Under 15 Flat to Moderate

Not all trips fit cleanly into one of these categories. Whenever you are unclear about a rating for a trip, leaders will be happy to explain what their designated rating means. Please Note: Unless otherwise stated, please sign up with the leader for all Chapter activities. Do not simply show up at the designated meeting place. Arrive at the carpooling site before the stated departure time. Please pay the driver to offset the costs of driving. Do not bring a pet unless the trip leader agrees that it is okay, and bring a leash. Please stay with the group or ask to proceed and stop at the first intersection and wait for the entire group to re-assemble. You are expected to carry adequate equipment, water and food. If in doubt about what to bring, ask the trip leader!

Suggested Gear For All Seasons: Winter Add-ons Water (2-3 quarts) Sturdy Boots Extra Socks Extra Food Waterproof Matches Headlamp Hat/Gloves Ski Pole or Ice Axe Map & Compass Emergency Blanket Food Skis or Snowshoes Sunglasses/Sunscreen First Aid Kit Crampons Layered Clothing (NO cotton)

Wind and rain shell Warm Liquids

Extra Sweater or Jacket Extra Layers

The Fall Open House provides a great opportunity for new members and the general public to find out more about the Adirondack Mountain Club and the many recreational, educational and environmental programs it offers. Join us, invite friends, bring questions about hiking, paddling, biking, or conservation and learn how to get more involved in ADK. Food, refreshments and raffle prizes await you. RSVP to membership@adk-albany.org or call: 518-265-6018.

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Combined Activities ScheduleOctober – December 2017

Month Day Destination or Event Leader RatingOct 1 Slavin C+

1 Fiske C 5 Priest B+7 Seward B+7 Schaller C+7 Keating A 8

Buck The Easy WaySpectacle Pond, Schroon Lake Black Mountain Summit And PointJay Mountain The Long Path In Thacher ParkHurricane Mountain & Nun-Da-Ga-O Ridge Huyck Preserve Slavin C+

10 MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING - Program: Taconic Crest Trail* 11 Evening Paddle Ballston Lake C11 Owl's Head Fire Tower B 12 Fifth Peak B 13 Muffin To Muffin Bike Ride 14 Allen Mountain A+14 Elizabethtown #4, Spotted & Grace A+

Bushwhack Traverse 18 Sheep Hill And Fitch Trails C+18 Little Porter B 18 Sleeping Beauty B 21 Taconic Crest Trail - Trail Work B 21 Pharaoh Mountain B 24 Black Head Range Traverse A 24 Evening Paddle Round Lake 25 Cat And Thomas B+27 Nun-Da-Ga-O Ridge B 28 Blake & Colvin

Zoske/Brown SheehanPriestZoske/ZoskeWarren Siegard/Siegard

TraverAntonioPriestPisaneschiSheppardPisaneschiMurray/BentienRoss/McCarronAntonio Berens

A+

Nov 4 Rooster Comb, Hedgehog & Lower Wolf Jaw Keating A+4 Nippletop & Dial Berens A+8 Ross, Whortleberry & Big Bad Luck Ponds Antonio B 10 Big Indian & Eagle Mountains Susko A 11 Taconic Crest Trail-Rte 20 To Potter Mt. Road Pisaneschi A 11 Haystack, McKenzie & Moose Warren A+14 MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING Program: The Catskills 101* 15 Traver C+18 Seward B 19

Buck Mountain Chimney Mtn. And Puffer Pond LoopOK Slip Falls Sheehan C+

Dec 2 Greylock Berens A+5 MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING Program: Climbing in Thacher Park* 9 Seward B 9 Keating A 16 Sheppard C+27

Owl's Head Fire Tower And Lake Eaton Indian Head & Twin MountainsTasty Trek LocalIndian Head & Twin Mountains Susko B+

*Monthly Chapter meetings are held at the West Albany Firehouse (Station #1), 113 Sand CreekRoad, Albany. Education Sessions start at 6:30, prior to the membership meeting. Programsbegin following the Chapter business meeting. Refreshments are served.

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ACTIVITIES DESCRIPTIONS

General Information for All Paddling Trips When the ADK Albany Chapter paddles various waterways in the Capital District area, there are typically 2 groups (Fast and Relaxed). The Relaxed Group goes as slow as the slowest paddler and may be best for short wide boats or less skilled paddlers. The Fast Group is for most everyone else and goes about 3-4 mph. If there are a large number of paddlers we may form a moderate group. Expect to paddle for about two hours. Scheduled trips launch rain or shine, promptly at the scheduled start. It is customary, after the paddle, for the group Leader to pick a nearby restaurant and convene the Paddlers Committee Meeting to socialize, plan future trips, and enjoy a meal with old and new friends. Everyone who paddles is automatically a Committee Member and is invited to participate. If new paddlers would like to join the weekly paddling email list, please email Erica Lovrin at albany.adk.paddlers@gmail.com. The following are the Albany Chapter Guidelines to participate in the Paddle outings, where safety is a priority: 1) Respect Other Users of the Waterways - Steer clear of fishermen. Don't forget their fishing lines go well out into the water. Stay close to shore when motorboats are out. Red & Green Buoys mark the deep-water channels so stay between the buoys and shore. Paddle in a tight group when crossing large bodies of water. 2) Launch on Time - Please be in your boats on the water and congregated near shore before the launch time. People launching after start time are not officially with the group. The leaders will conduct a short On-the-Water Meeting with the group to discuss the water, weather conditions and plans for the paddle. 3) Duty of the Paddler - It is the responsibility of the paddler to stay with the group and know who the leaders are. If you don't know, ask someone. 4) Leaving the Group - The leaders take a headcount at the On-the-Water Meeting. Therefore, please notify one of the leaders if you

need to leave the group for any reason. ADK is not responsible for paddlers who choose not to paddle with the group. 5) Required Gear - All paddlers must bring along a white light (a headlamp is good), a whistle (a pealess one is best) and must wear a PFD (Personal Floatation Device/life jacket). Your PFD needs to be securely fastened (zippered and buckled). There are no exceptions to these requirements. It is also a good idea to bring raingear, water, bug-dope and an extra set of clothes in the car. 6) Clothing - Other than in July and August, all paddlers should not wear cotton clothing, If you must wear cotton, bring along a full change of clothing in a dry bag. Expect to have your feet in the water when launching. Some of the launch spots are slippery and have underwater debris. Waterproof footwear (most experienced paddlers use neoprene booties or mukluks) is highly recommended in the cooler months. 7) Guests - You may bring a guest. He/she is your responsibility and must adhere to all of the Paddle Guidelines.

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Oct 1 (Sun) BUCK THE EASY WAY (C+) This will be a nice fall hike to Buck Mountain from Hogtown Road. This is the easiest way to climb Buck. It is about 5 miles with 1150' of elevation gain. We will meet at 8 a.m. Leader: James Slavin, (518) 434-4393, jaslavin1@gmail.com. Oct 1 (Sun) SPECTACLE POND, SCHROON LAKE, NY (C) It's been a while since you saw me listed as a hike leader. I will get re-started with a pretty simple hike to this pond, which has a nice view of Pharaoh Mountain. The hike is about 3.5 miles altogether, with an ascent of less than 400'. It should make for a nice, autumn hike. Leader: Dave Fiske, dfiske@nycap.rr.com, (518) 577-4997. Oct 5 (Thu) BLACK MOUNTAIN SUMMIT AND POINT (B+) We will get a mountaintop view and a lakeside view on this trip. Approaching Black Mountain from its eastern trailhead, the trail takes us gently uphill for the first 1.5 miles. The next mile is a steep climb leading to the summit. Then we will descend 2.75 miles to Black Mountain Point on the shore of Lake George. From there we will retrace our steps to a trail junction. We will pass

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several small ponds, including Black Mountain Pond, on the way out. The total distance is 11 miles with about 2900' of ascent. Most of the uphill climbing happens when we backtrack from the lake. Leader: Robert Priest, (518) 489-7472, rpriest001@nycap.rr.com. Oct 7 (Sat) JAY MOUNTAIN (B+) In the fall of 2012, the New York State Department of Conservation opened a new 2.5 mile hiking trail that travels to the Jay Mountain ridgeline. After hiking the 2.5 mile trail, we'll take a short spur which leads to a spectacular overlook with 360-degree views. We will continue along the mostly open ridge, following rock cairns for another 1.5 miles, to the 3600 foot summit of Jay Mountain. Total mileage will be 8 miles with 2,149' of elevation gain. Contact the leader by email for details and to provide your most recent hiking experience. Leader: Phil Seward, (518) 527-1851, flipsbliss17@yahoo.com. Oct 7 (Sat) THE LONG PATH IN THACHER PARK (C+) This will be a through-hike in Thacher State Park on the Long Path, beginning at Beaver Dam Road, and ending at Old Stage Road. In the south, we'll hike through woodlands, see a wetland and a stream gorge, and continue our walk along the Escarpment Trail. About halfway, we'll visit the Thacher Park Visitors Center. The north has mostly woodlands, but on a side trip we'll visit Hang Glider Cliff, and later, High Point Cliff. Near the end, we'll see the Park's preserved open-space fields. The escarpment and cliffs provide a vast panorama of the Mohawk Valley below and distant mountains. Total distance is 8 miles on mostly level ground, with a couple of brief ups and downs. My wife, Bonnie, will be joining me in leading this hike, which is co-listed with the Friends of Thacher Park. Bring appropriate clothing for fall weather, good footwear, lunch, and drink, and raingear if necessary. Meet at 9:00 a.m. at the Thacher Park Nature Center on "Nature Center Way" off Ketchum Road (Albany Co. Rt. 256), which is off Rt. 157. Leader: Jim Schaller, (518) 861-7452, jims2999@yahoo.com. Oct 7 (Sat) HURRICANE MOUNTAIN AND NUN-DA-GA-O RIDGE (A) This hike will include several wonderful peaks with great views. First we will climb Hurricane Mountain from the O'Toole Road trailhead. This is a favorite peak of many in the High Peaks

region since it has an open-rock summit to spread out on. There is a fire tower at the summit. The views of the High Peaks are wonderful from the summit of Hurricane. Then we will backtrack and climb toward Lost Pond and eventually to Weston Mountain. From Weston, all the way to Big Crow Mountain, we will cross the Nun-da-ga-o Ridge. There are many wonderful views along the Ridge allowing us to see Hurricane Mountain from many vantage points. If there's interest, we will climb Big Crow near the end of this hike. The total distance is 9.5 miles with about 2500' of elevation gain. Please list your recent hiking experience in your email request to join this hike. You will be notified if you can join based on space available and experience level. Leader: Ralph Keating, (518) 487-8901, ralfieboyk@yahoo.com. Oct 8 (Sun) HUYCK PRESERVE (C+) The Huyck Preserve is in Rensselaerville at the end of Route 85. It should be even more beautiful in the fall. We will walk by the falls and Lake Myosotis and follow the trail into the woods to the 3 trail loops. We will hike between 6 and 8 miles with about 600' of elevation gain on well-marked trails. We will meet at 8 a.m. Leader: James Slavin, (518) 434-4393, jaslavin1@gmail.com. Oct 10 (Tue) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP MEETING Education Session at 6:30 p.m.: Being safe and feeling comfortable in the woods requires some basic understanding of how to use a map and compass. This primer will cover the basics of how to read a map, and use a compass. We will also discuss the different types of maps and compasses available and provide some tips on how to practice. Please bring a liquid filled compass that has a clear rectangular base. The workshop will be led by avid outdoorsman and ADK club member, Tom McGuire. Program: Taconic Crest Trail - Dave Pisaneschi and Cliff Prewencki spend a lot of time in, and advocating for, the protection of the Taconics. This gem in the Capital District's backyard has 35-plus miles of trails that dip in and out of three states. Easy jumping on and off points (Petersburgh Pass, Williamstown, and Pittsfield) make it the perfect day hike destination. The membership meeting follows the education session. Programs begin following the Chapter business meeting. Refreshments are served.

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Oct 11 (Wed) EVENING PADDLE - BALLSTON LAKE (C)

We will launch from Villago's on Lake Road and paddle south on the lake to the end and return. Be on the lake and ready to paddle by 5:30 p.m. All participants must carry a whistle and white light, and wear a properly affixed PFD. Please review the Paddling Guidelines before participating. No need to sign up, just show up.Leaders: Alison Zoske, (518) 899-4031, saville1127@gmail.com and Edward Brown, (518) 283-2352, brownjam1@twc.com.

Oct 11 (Wed) OWL'S HEAD FIRE TOWER (B)

There are other Owl's Head Mountains in the Adirondacks, but this one has a fire tower. The trail leaves the west side of Long Lake and climbs 1114' over 3.1 miles. We will have views of Long Lake, Lake Eaton, Forked Lake and surrounding peaks. Meet 8:00 a.m. at the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: John Sheehan, (518) 674-8121, jgsheehan01@yahoo.com.

Oct 12 (Thu) FIFTH PEAK (B)This mountain offers two views of Lake George. We will see the main neck of the lake one way, and the Northwest Bay the other way. We will start at the Clay Meadow trailhead. After crossing a bridge over a wetland, the trail leads steadily uphill for 2 miles before following the high trail for a short distance. Next we get to a spur that leads to the summit. There is a shelter at the summit which will be handy if there is a thundershower. The round trip distance is a little less than 5 miles, with 1600' of ascent. If we are ambitious, we can add a walk partway down to Five Mile Mountain Point on the way back. Leader: Robert Priest, (518) 489-7472, rpriest001@nycap.rr.com.

Oct 13 (Fri) MUFFIN TO MUFFIN BIKE RIDE (B)

This is a 14-mile bike ride on roads and two 3-mile bike paths. After leaving the Exit 11 Park & Ride, our first stop will be at Lakeside Farms for a muffin, donut, or other options. We will continue on Round Lake Road, which becomes Shauber Road, down to route 146A. We will pick up the Ballston Lake Bike path for 3 miles up to Outlet Road, and go east. We will ride on Lake Road out to East Line, until we pick up the Zim Smith bike trail. We will ride into Round Lake for a stop at Leah's Bakery, another place for a muffin, or other choices. The last part of the ride is the only real uphill to get back to our cars. Most of this ride is flat or downhill. Leaders: Alison Zoske, (518)

899-4031, saville1127@gmail.com; and JoeZoske, (518) 899-4031, joezoske@gmail.com.

Oct 14 (Sat) ALLEN MOUNTAIN (A+)Mid-October, with crisp air, lingering fall colorsand cooler temperatures, seems a great time tohike Allen, one of the more remote of theAdirondack High Peaks. This is technically atrailless peak, but the herd path is quite well-established. The hike is about 18 miles round trip,with about 3000' elevation gain. Leader: ClaudiaWarren, (518) 364-3857, cldwr@hotmail.com.

Oct 14 (Sat) ELIZABETHTOWN #4,SPOTTED & GRACE BUSHWHACK TRAVERSE(A+)

We did this about twenty years ago, and it was awonderful hike along a mostly open ridge. It may have grown in since then, but it should still begreat. We start by heading up the South Fork ofthe Boquet to a beaver pond at the base ofElizabethtown and then head up the ridge.Depending on time, we will come down either the East Dix or Spotted Slide, back to the herd pathalong the North Boquet past Lilypad,Rhododendron and Cranberry Ponds. The hike will be around 16 miles and 3500' of elevation.Leaders: Steve Siegard, (518) 915-2309,ssiegard@gmail.com; Leslie Siegard, (518) 577-3468, siegard3@netscape.com.

Oct 18 (Wed) SHEEP HILL AND FITCH TRAILS (C+)

October just isn't long enough, but I hope to findlots of beautiful fall foliage remaining for this hike.Owned by the Williamstown Rural LandsFoundation, this property was once a farm and aski hill. We will begin with the Ramble, an openhillside, that may tempt you with its beautiful viewsto go no further, but we'll continue across Bee HillRoad into reclaimed farmland. A variety ofwoodland ecosystems should make this abeautiful fall outing. We will hike four miles with600' of elevation gain. Email contact preferred.Leader: Virginia Boyle Traver, (518) 322-0950,virginiabt28@gmail.com.

Oct 18 (Wed) LITTLE PORTER (B)For those newer members (and others) who arethinking of starting the High Peaks, experiencinga hike up Little Porter from The Garden would bea good place to start. Little Porter is not a High Peak, but with 1310' of elevation gain, you will geta taste of what the "bigger ones" feel like. Thishike is just under 4 miles round trip and, if it is aclear day, our efforts will be rewarded with some

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spectacular views. Meet 7:30 a.m. at Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: John Antonio, (518) 462-2765. Oct 18 (Wed) SLEEPING BEAUTY (B) When I hiked this mountain last November, there were still leaves on a few of the maple trees in the valley. We can expect to see beautiful fall colors. We will start from the Hogtown trailhead. The first mile and a quarter is a dirt road leading to the Dacy clearing. From there it will be a gentle to moderate uphill climb to the summit. The summit offers views of Lake George to the west, and some of the hills in Vermont to the east. We will take a steeper trail from the summit down to Bumps Pond. As we complete the loop there are cliffs to our left that rise back toward the summit. The total distance is about 7 miles with 1400' of ascent. Leader: Robert Priest, (518) 489-7472, rpriest001@nycap.rr.com. Oct 21 (Sat) TACONIC CREST TRAIL (TCT) TRAIL WORK (B) We'll cover the section of the TCT from Robinson Hollow to Mattison Hollow. This will involve blow down removal and drainage work. This trip will involve an overall elevation gain of about 1000' and eight miles round trip, depending on what needs to be done. The more trail maintenance needed, the less distance we will cover. Regardless, we'll plan to be back at the trailhead by 4:00 p.m. Leader: Dave Pisaneschi, (518) 459-5969, dapadk@gmail.com. Oct 21 (Sat) PHARAOH MOUNTAIN (B) We'll hike from the beaver pond on Crane Mountain Road, going up 1467' in just under 9 miles round-trip. The summit offers views of Vermont, Lake Champlain, and the High Peaks. Icy or cold conditions will prompt a rerouting closer to the Capital District. Please email me with your recent hiking experience. Leader: Kathy Sheppard, rzantshep@gmail.com, (518) 765-2657. Oct 24 (Tue) BLACK HEAD RANGE TRAVERSE (A) We'll spot cars at both the Barnum Road and Black Dome Valley Road trailheads. Total distance will be about 8.5 miles, with about 2000' of climbing. Please call me by the Sunday before, since this date is tentative. I will be picking the best day of the week. Leader: Dave Pisaneschi, (518) 459-5969, dapadk@gmail.com.

Oct 24 (Tue) EVENING PADDLE ROUND LAKE (C) Be on the water before 5:30 p.m. We will paddle across the lake and up the Anthony Kill as far as we have water. The boat launch is on the east side of Route 9 in Round Lake. Please observe speed limits and park end-to-end with other evening paddle participants if you are in a long spot for trailers. No need to sign up, just show up! All participants must carry a whistle and white light, and wear a properly affixed PFD. Please review the Paddling Guidelines before participating. Leaders: Celia Murray, (518) 225-9902, celiaam@aol.com; Pamela Bentien, (518) 421-7247, auntmayor@aol.com. Oct 25 (Wed) CAT AND THOMAS (B+) We'll hope for one of those perfect fall foliage days to enjoy the trails and views on this 1900+-acre parcel owned by the Lake George Land Conservancy. We'll spot cars on Edgecomb Road and begin at the trailhead on Valley Woods Road to head up 716' over 1 mile to Thomas Mountain and the lovely cabin and western views on its summit. From there we'll take the Richard Hayes Phillips Trail 2.3 miles south on some rough footing to the summit of Cat to enjoy its stupendous 270° views of Lake George. Be prepared for a very steep descent off Cat to Edgecomb Pond for the last 1.8 miles to the cars. Plan on 7 miles and about 2000' of vertical in all. If time and interest permits, we could also do the nice trail just a short drive down the road to go up to Pinnacle for an extra 2 miles. Leaders: Karen Ross, (518) 794-7474, kcoyross@aol.com and Lori McCarron, mmccarr2@nycap.rr.com (518) 587-1957. Oct 27 (Fri) NUN-DA-GA-O RIDGE (B) This hike is one of our all-time favorites. Also known as the Soda Range, this offers "a laid-back jaunt along streams and through the woods over a mostly open ridge." This is a loop hike of 6 miles, with about 1000' of elevation gain, that offers some of the best views of the popular High Peaks, yet is well removed from the crowds that frequent them. Meet 7:30 a.m. at Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: John Antonio, (518) 462-2765. Oct 28 (Sat) BLAKE & COLVIN (A+) We'll hike 14.6 miles and climb about 3,400' at a brisk enough pace to get to Blake, back over Colvin, and to the Lake Road before dark. Bring seasonal clothing, foot traction for any ice, lots to eat and drink, a headlamp with fresh batteries,

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and a persevering spirit. Meet at 4:15 a.m. at the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: Don Berens, 50peaks@nycap.rr.com, (518) 783-1302. Nov 4 (Sat) ROOSTER COMB, HEDGEHOG & LOWER WOLF JAW (A+) Although this hike only takes in one high peak, it will feel like you did quite a bit more. The views from Rooster Comb and Lower Wolf Jaw are impressive. Hedgehog is a bump along the way with no views. We will spot cars to make this a through-hike. We will hike a total of 11 miles with about 3700 feet of elevation gain. Please list your recent hiking experience in your email request to join this hike. You will be notified if you can join based on space available and experience level. Leader: Ralph Keating (518) 487-8901, ralfieboyk@yahoo.com. Nov 4 (Sat) NIPPLETOP & DIAL (A+) More times than I care to recall, I've climbed Dial without enough time to get to Nippletop and still be off the trail before dark. So this time we'll focus on Nippletop first and then decide if we have time for the roller coaster ridge leading up and down again and over Dial and its nearby peaks. We'll hike 14 miles plus or minus, and climb between 3400 and ,500 feet. Bring seasonal clothing, foot traction for any ice, lots to eat and drink, a headlamp with fresh batteries, and a persevering spirit. Meet at 4:15 a.m. at the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: Don Berens, (518) 783-1302, 50peaks@nycap.rr.com. Nov 8 (Wed) ROSS, WHORTLEBERRY, & BIG BAD LUCK PONDS (B) Remember a couple years back when the hike to OK Slip Falls was the hot ticket item that seemed everyone was signing up for? Well, if you start from the same trailhead and go straight (instead of the right at the first junction towards OK Slip Falls) you will be on your way to visit these three handsome ponds in the Hudson Gorge Primitive Area. This is a beautiful walk in the woods with about 8 miles in total. Meet 7:30 a.m. at the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride. Leader: John Antonio, (518) 462-2765. Nov 10 (Fri) BIG INDIAN & EAGLE MOUNTAINS (A) Big Indian is considered one of the trail less peaks in the Catskills and has a canister even though the bushwhack is short. We'll take advantage of this holiday to hike in from the Seager trailhead along one of the more scenic

trails in the Catskills. Big Indian is #19 and Eagle is #29 on the list of Catskill 3500 peaks. The distance is approximately 12 miles (mostly on trail) with 2,000' to 2,500' of ascent. Leader: John Susko, (518) 383-1284, jpsusko@netzero.net. Nov 11 (Sat) TACONIC CREST TRAIL-RTE 20 TO POTTER MT. ROAD (A) We'll spot cars and hike the southernmost section of the trail, with a total distance of 9.7 miles. Our route will take us through Pittsfield State Forest, traversing Tower Mountain with its excellent vistas and passing by Berry Pond. Leader: Dave Pisaneschi, (518) 459-5969, dapadk@gmail.com Nov 11 (Sat) HAYSTACK, MCKENZIE, MOOSE (A+) These three mountains are gems tucked away between Lake Placid and Ray Brook. (This is not the Haystack that is one of the High Peaks.) We will start from the trailhead on Route 86 near Ray Brook and hike Haystack first, via the marked trail. A shortcut via a herd path connects us to the Jack Rabbit ski trail that runs east/west from Lake Placid to Saranac Lake. From the Jack Rabbit trail, we pick up the DEC trail to McKenzie, with some nice viewpoints along the way. A trail maintained by a private organization, which is open to all hikers, leads us from McKenzie to Moose Mountain. This less visited mountain has its own charm and is worth a visit. It is hard to predict conditions this time of year, but we will most likely need micro spikes and warm winter clothing. This hike is approximately 16 miles round-trip and 3700' of elevation gain. Haystack and McKenzie are two peaks in the Saranac 6 challenge. Leader: Claudia Warren, (518) 364-3857, cldwr@hotmail.com. Nov 14 (Tue) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP MEETING Education Session – 6:30 p.m. After hearing about two young people having to be rescued from the summit of Algonquin, ADK club member Jake Bortscheller became inspired to make everyone aware of devices that could have prevented or shortened their ordeal. Jake will present an overview of global position sensors, personal locator beacons, satellite messengers, and satellite phones. Program: The Catskills 101 Jim and Laurel Bryden have been hiking in the Catskill Mountains for nearly 20 years and have hiked every mile of trail in the Catskill Park. With their photos and first-hand accounts, they will share

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with us the pleasures and challenges of hiking in the Catskills, the land of Washington Irving, Rip Van Winkle, and a host of ADK outdoor enthusiasts. The membership meeting follows the education session. Programs begin following the Chapter business meeting. Refreshments are served. Nov 15 (Wed) BUCK MOUNTAIN (C+) I haven't hiked Buck Mountain in decades. It's time to go back! Join me for a great hike with a panoramic view of Lake George and surrounding mountains. We will hike from the Hogtown trailhead, a 5 mile round-trip outing with an elevation gain of 1150'. Email contact preferred. Leader: Virginia Boyle Traver, (518) 322-0950, virginiabt28@gmail.com. Nov 18 (Sat) CHIMNEY MTN. AND PUFFER POND LOOP (B) Chimney Mountain is a great short hike that climbs about 700' in a mile (round trip is 2 miles) and has an unusual boulder formation; hence, the name "Chimney". There are also caves around the summit. We will then hike to Puffer Pond and return via the loop trail of 5.5 miles and 800' elevation gain that skirts Kings Flow shoreline on the return. The total mileage for the day will be 7.5 miles. Contact the leader by email only for details and provide your most recent hiking experience. Leader: Phil Seward, (518) 527-1851, flipsbliss17@yahoo.com. Nov 19 (Sun) OK SLIP FALLS (C+) I have seen the falls when they're flowing and when frozen. Let's try to catch them in the process of freezing. It's not quite winter, but really not still autumn either. You never know what you'll find in the Adirondacks this time of year. This hike is 5 miles round-trip with little elevation gain. Meet at the Northway Exit 9 Park & Ride at 8:00 a.m. Leader: John Sheehan, (518) 674-8121, jgsheehan01@yahoo.com. Dec 2 (Sat) GREYLOCK (A+) The west side of Mount Greylock, Massachusetts, is a beautiful wilderness bowl called the Hopper, framed by 300 degrees of Berkshire peaks. Let's see if we can make the whole 13.3 mile loop from Haley Farm over Prospect Mountain, Mounts Williams, Fitch and Greylock, and down over Stony Ledge. If snow or ice slows us, we'll have options to shorten the loop. Bring seasonal clothing, snowshoes and foot traction for any ice, lots to eat and drink, a

headlamp with fresh batteries, and a persevering spirit. We will depart from Jersey Mike's west of Latham Circle at 5:15 a.m. Leader: Don Berens, (518) 783-1302, 50peaks@nycap.rr.com. Dec 5 (Tue) MONTHLY CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP MEETING The annual winter gear swap will begin at 6:30 p.m. Sell your used outdoor gear and look for some bargains at our annual winter sale. Sellers are asked to contribute 10% to the Chapter. Please tag your gear with a price and your name. The gear sale replaces this month's education session. Program: Climbing in Thacher Park. Tom Denham will introduce us to the Thacher Climbing Coalition whose goal is to make the Helderberg Escarpment a premier rock climbing destination in the Northeast and to protect the cliff lands for generations to come. In Thacher Park, the textures range from smooth to rough with textured protected areas and the only limestone cliffs in the northeastern U.S. The membership meeting follows the education session. Programs begin following the Chapter business meeting. Refreshments are served. Dec 9 (Sat) OWL'S HEAD FIRE TOWER AND LAKE EATON (B) Owl's Head Mountain is a 3.2 mile hike (round trip is 6.4 miles with 1800' of elevation gain) that leads to a partially open summit and a fire tower. Both offer expansive views, including the High Peaks to the north and the Village of Long Lake. We will also hike 1.5 miles to the shore of Lake Eaton for an additional round-trip of 3 miles, totaling 9.4 miles for the day. Contact the leader by email only for details and provide your most recent hiking experience. Leader: Phil Seward, (518) 527-1851, flipsbliss17@yahoo.com. Dec 9 (Sat) INDIAN HEAD AND TWIN (A) We will start from Platte Clove Road and make a loop returning through the Jimmy Dolan Notch trail. The total distance for this hike is about 10.5 miles with about 2200' of elevation gain. Please list your recent hiking experience in your email request to join this hike. You will be notified if you can join based on space available and experience level. Leader: Ralph Keating, (518) 487-8901, ralfieboyk@yahoo.com.

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Dec 16 (Sat) TASTY TREK (LOCAL) (C+)We'll do a relatively easy hike or cross-countryski, depending on the weather, followed by lunchor a snack. I'm thinking of Thacher State Park and Jake Moon Cafe in Clarksville, or Five Rivers and the Five Corners Luncheonette in Delmar. We'll leave relatively early, and earn our dessert. We'll be home by mid-afternoon at this busy time of year. Plan on about 3-5 miles, with minimal to moderate elevation gain. Please email me with your recent hiking experience. Leader: Kathy Sheppard, rzantshep@gmail.com (518)765-2657.

Dec 27 (Wed) INDIAN HEAD & TWIN MOUNTAINS (B+)

We'll take the trail from Prediger Road to these two Catskill peaks on the Devil's Path. Both summits of Twin have good views to the West and South. Depending on conditions, we could take the longer loop trail to Indian Head, which has good views to the East. The distance is 7-9miles with 2500' of ascent. At this time of year snowshoes, crampons or other traction devices may be needed. Leader: John Susko, (518) 383-1284, jpsusko@netzero.net.

ALBANY CHAPTER - OFFICERS and COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS

Chairperson James Slavin 518-434-4393 jaslavin1@gmail.com

Vice Chairperson Cliff Prewencki 518-768-2907 cprewencki@aol.comTreasurer Jim Coward 518-915-1924 Jkcoward@umich.edu

Recording Secretary Gerry Magnes 518-810-7000 gmagnes1@gmail.comCorresponding Secretary Vacant

Members at Large

Representatives to the Board

Carl Klinowski 518-274-8410 cklinowski@nycap.rr.comDon Berens 518-783-1302 50peaks@nycap.rr.com

John Sheehan 518-674-8121 jgsheehan01@yahoo.comKathleen Gansfuss 518-461-5263 kvg0219@gmail.com

John Gansfuss 518-461-2085 jgansfuss@gmail.com

Finance Marina Magliori 518-256-0609 mvmigliore1112@gmail.com

Audio Video Jake BortschellerJonathan McNair

518-724-4452 jmcnair2lcg.org

Banquet Kathleen Gansfuss 518-461-5263 kvg0219@gmail.com

Cloudsplitter Kathryn BehuniakAnn Burns

518-265-3689518-506-9475

adkcloudeditor1@gmail..comadkcloudeditor2@gmail.com

Conservation David Pisaneschi 518-459-5969 dapadk@gmail.comEducation Vacant

Membership Doug Rosenberry 518-356-3142 membership@adk-albany.orgNominations Mark Janey 518-925-4989 markjaney@gmail.com

Outings Virginia Boyle Traver 518-322-0950 virginiabt28@hotmail.com

Paddlers Erica Lovrin 518-424-3582 albany.adk.paddlers@gmail.com

Programs Thea Hoeth 518-434-3052 thoeth109@gmail.com

Public Information VacantRefreshments Ellen Luchsinger 518-235-5526 kayakerL@yahoo.com

Trails Gene Reilly 518-281-7796 techvalleytrekker@yahoo.comWays and Means Sue Jordan 518-765-5564 suej9999@yahoo.com

Web Master Ted Letcher 301-651-8244 webmaster@adk-albany.orgWilderness Dave Pisaneschi 518-459-5969 dapadk@gmail.com

Young Adults Josh Baker 518-728-6419 Dl3aker@yahoo.com

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CONSERVATION NOTES Constitutional Convention (ADK OPPOSES) Every 20 years there's a popular vote on whether to amend the state constitution. Article 14 is unique to the New York State Constitution in that the Adirondack and Catskill Forest Preserves are the only constitutionally protected forest lands in the world. This November voters will get to decide if there should be a Constitutional Convention. If voters turn it down, nothing happens for 20 years. If approved, in November of 2018 delegates to the Convention will be elected by the voters. Three delegates are chosen for each Senate District. Fifteen are selected at large. The Governor and legislature are quite involved on the delegate selection. Between April 1st and Sept 2019, the Constitutional Convention will meet in Albany and work on changes to constitution, which could include drastic revisions to or the elimination of Article 14. Delegates (1) can propose all the changes as one package or (2) separate each change to be voted on separately by the voters. Amendments adopted by a majority of the delegates will be submitted to the voters for approval or rejection in a statewide referendum, at an election held at least six weeks after the Convention adjourns. Any amendments that the voters approve will go into effect on the January 1st following their approval. ADK has expressed concerns. The idea of privately operated huts and campgrounds in the interior is being proposed. Towns are pushing for a Constitutional Convention because they see an end to snowmobiling as a result of climate change. They want the constitution changed to allow ATV use in the Forest Preserve. Good Government groups support a Constitutional Convention. Other groups, such as the Adirondack Council and unions, are opposed. Teachers and retired government workers are opposed since the current state constitution (Article 5) protects tenure and life time retirement benefits. Land Bank Amendments (ADK SUPPORTS)

Since New York State has highways in the Adirondack and Catskill Parks which cross stretches of forest preserve, a land bank amendment was created in the 1950's so that every time a road needed to change for safety reasons, it would not require a constitutional amendment. Consequently, a 400 acre land bank was created from which to withdraw acreage as needed. DOT has used it very sparingly. There is still 140 acres left. However, this land bank only benefited state highways. Local officials in Adirondack and Catskills have expressed similar needs for town and county roads and would like a similar land bank. New York State’s Constitution protects the State’s forest preserve as wild forest land and

generally prohibits the lease, sale, exchange, or taking of any forest preserve land. The proposed amendment will create two exceptions to this broad protection of the forest preserve to make it easier for municipalities to undertake certain health and safety projects. If passed, the proposed amendment will create a land account of up to 250 acres of forest preserve land. A town, village, or county can apply to the land account if it has no viable alternative to using forest preserve land for certain limited health and safety purposes. Those purposes are (1) to address bridge hazards or safety on county highways and certain town highways; (2) to eliminate the hazards of dangerous curves and grades on county highways and certain town highways; (3) to relocate, reconstruct, and maintain county highways and certain town highways; and (4) for water wells and necessary related accessories located within 530 feet of a state highway, county highway, or certain town highway, where needed to meet drinking water quality standards. The State will acquire 250 acres, subject to approval by the Legislature, to incorporate into the forest preserve to replace the land placed in the health and safety land account.

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Additionally, if passed, the proposed amendment will allow bicycle paths and specified types of public utility lines to be located within the widths of state, county, and certain town highways that traverse forest preserve land. The work on the bicycle paths and utility lines must minimize the removal of trees and vegetation. And, if passed, the proposed amendment will allow a stabilization device (such as a guy wire) for an existing utility pole to be located near the width of a highway when necessary to ensure public health and safety and when no other viable option exists. The proposed amendment expressly will not permit the construction of a new intrastate gas or oil pipeline that did not receive necessary state and local permits and approvals by June 1, 2016. If you have questions or want to know more about these issues, please contact David Pisaneschi at: dapadk@gmail.com or 459-5969. For updates on conservation issues of concern to ADK members, please visit the chapter website at: http://www.adk-albany.org/conservationNotes.php

ECHOES FROM THE TRAIL Jun 3 (Sat) BLACK MOUNTAIN Leader: Kathy Sheppard

We celebrated National Trails Day by hiking the Black Mountain pond loop trail. It was a muddy trip, but perfect weather and not too buggy. On approaching the summit, we thought we heard a train but then saw the wind turbine. A white, wooden, fairly new cross on the summit deterred most of us from getting too close to the edge of the cliff. We spied large lady slipper orchids, violets, and eastern red columbines. After the hike, we enjoyed Martha's soft-serve ice cream in Lake George. Jeffrey Leavitt, Kathleen Helfrich, Mary Dabulas, Laura Fiske, Doug Dederick, Ania Ganguine, the very cute Lucas Gaguine the Corgi, and the leader, Kathy Sheppard, enjoyed a lovely day in the woods.

Jun 3 (Sat) NATIONAL TRAILS DAY-THACHER PARK Leader: Jim Schaller

On a beautiful day, we again spent National Trails Day in Thacher Park. Thirteen turned out, including two "Interns" from the Park Staff. We spilt up into three groups - covering three trails in Thacher Park "North" - covering about seven miles. Some trails were very muddy, or under water, but we still brushed back the trails, removed downed trees, and refreshed trail signs and discs. The Friends of Thacher Park provided the usual BBQ lunch at the Horseshoe Pavilion. Eight members of ADK were among those attending: Jim & Bonnie Schaller, Marion Hoyle, Monica Wilson, Susan Brown, Carolyn Rand, Jerry Buckley, and Bill Schollenburger.

Jun 15 (Thu) BATTENKILL PADDLE Leader: Charlie Beach

Where could one very leisurely paddle on a sparkling clear day moving at almost 4 miles per hour? The Battenkill River, of course. We had a water level and flow above average for the date, exposure to the spring time flora and, in places, surfing quality waves. The past flooding had cleared or reduced many of the areas which were known to be tricky. In all we had a delightful run. Participating were: Bill Smollin. Mark Janey, Don Orr, Dan Van Uithuizen, and the leader.

Jul 9 (Sun) BEAR MTN. & SAGES RAVINE Leader: John Sheehan

Bear Mountain in Connecticut is an interesting contradiction. It’s the highest peak in the state, but not the highest point. The highest point is on the shoulder of its neighbor, Frissell Mountain, whose peak, about 100’ away, is in Massachusetts. About half of the hike is on the Appalachian Trail (AT). July is a great time to hike the AT in the South Taconics because the northbound through-hikers, NOBOs for short, are coming through. We did encounter a few, including one on his cell phone at the summit…it’s just not the same anymore. After our 1500' ascent, we all enjoyed a lunch break at the top and prepared for our steep rocky descent down the back side of

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the mountain into Sages Ravine. The ravine has a dense tree canopy and is always cool with a refreshing stream at the CT./MA border. It is another reason I like this hike in July! There is also a campsite where through-hikers often freshen up and spend the night. For our trip back, we took the Paradise trail which follows the contours around the base of the mountain, making for an easy walk. Joining me on this trip was Jeff Levitt, Maureen Brown, Charlene Schafer, Stephanie Neubert, Gerald Eddy, Mia Eddy, Karl Johnson, Kathleen Helfrich, Karen Ross, Lori McCarron Pat Marsh, Claudia Rosenholtz, Laura Fisk, Mark Janey, and Shelly Ingram.

Jul 23 (Sun) CRANE MOUNTAIN AND CRANE POND Leader: Kathy Sheppard

What a fun and interesting group we had: Ben Mastaitis, Ellie Mastaitis (10 year old leader in training), Jemma Rowlands, Pam Fetcho, John Clarkson, Connie Clarkson, Ingrid Wilke, Dave LaFleur, Thea Hoeth, Robert Priest, and the leader. Sunny weather was forecast, but we did have a little rain on top. Pink mountain laurel and wild blueberries were great treats. A few of us swam in Crane Mountain Pond, avoiding the leeches (ewww).

Jul 26 (Wed) BOREAS PONDS HIKE Leader: Virginia Boyle Traver

Luckily we had the only sunny day of the entire week for our hike into the Boreas Ponds! Enthusiasm was high for this outing, as only Paul had been to this storied location before. We walked nearly 8 miles round-trip from the parking area to LaBier Flow and on to the ponds. The views were as magnificent as we had expected. We were able to pick out many High Peaks: Redfield, Allen, Skylight, Marcy, Haystack, Big Slide, Saddleback, and Basin. Enjoying the day was John Antonio, Peg Cipperly, Pam Fetcho, Dick Irving, Ralph Keating, Lori McCarron, Bill Shapiro, John Sheehan, Michael Slezak, Dan Van Uithuizen, and the leaders, Paul Breslin and the leader.

Aug 9 (Wed) BLUEBERRY MTN. Leader: John Sheehan

I first climbed Blueberry Mountain along with Porter and Cascade when I was doing the High Peaks. The mountain got a lot steeper since then. It’s what the guide books call “cardio-vascular challenging.” The mid-week hikes tend to attract the retirees, so 2 other geezers, Jim Coward and John Susko, joined me on this venture. I remembered numerous rock out crops with great views along the way and I was not disappointed. Each viewpoint exposed more and more of the best that the Adirondacks has to offer -- the Eastern High Peaks. The last viewpoint we had gave great views of the Dix range, the Giant Mtn. Wilderness area, and Keene Valley. We debated the location of the summit since we didn't see any point higher. Two of us had climbed the mountain before, and we both remembered a much more open summit with a huge boulder. However, we were all spent at that point and needed to refuel. During our lunch break, one hiker was feeling a little discomfort in one foot so he took off his boot and pulled out a butter knife that he had used to scrap the mud off from the last hike. We labeled that a wardrobe malfunction. During our lunch, including wild blueberries for dessert (yes, there are blueberries on Blueberry Mtn.), a group of hikers came by from the opposite direction and confirmed our memory of the open top with the big boulder. It was only about 0.2 mi. ahead, so off we went. The views were more open. We were joined there by a couple of families with young kids laughing and playing on the open rocks. It’s always nice to see kids enjoying the outdoors in the real world, instead of virtual reality. The trip down this steep mountain was less of a cardio-vascular issue and more of a knee, foot and quad problem. But then that made the ice cream at Stewart's in Schroon Lake a lot tastier.

Did You Know?

The Adirondack Mountain Club was formed in 1922 and Albany was the Club’s first chapter.

Happy 95th Birthday to the Club and to our Chapter!

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Albany Chapter Non Profit Organization

Adirondack Mountain Club U.S.POSTAGE P.O. Box 2116 Esp. Sta. PAID Albany, NY 12220 Permit No. 215

Albany, NY