Calm before the storm

I went to Thacher Park this afternoon. Walked along the Indian Ladder and Escarpment trails under mostly sunny skies. First an earthquake, coming soon a hurricane ... what's next ... locusts?!?

CNY

While visiting family this weekend, I was able to do some short hikes at some nearby parks and preserves.
On Friday, an unexpected detour off the Thruway (due to a truck fire), led me to Oxbow falls park. Followed the main trail all the way to the frisbee golf course. It was a bit confusing with many unmarked side trails. There were some waterfalls in this park, but not much water flowing.
On Saturday, went to Fillmore Glen state park. Did a loop on the Gorge and South Rim trails. A nice cool spot to be for a warm afternoon.
On Sunday, made a short trip in the evening to Carpenter falls and ravine.
On Monday, stopped at Clark Reservation state park in Syracuse. Did a nice loop consisting of the Cliff and Lake trails. Tricky walking in some spots due limestone crevices. A surprisingly tranquil setting so close to an urban area.

Central NY

Bulls and Bears

I read somewhere that hiking was a good way to get your mind off the roller coaster ride that is the U.S. stock market. I figured I needed a real long hike for this remedy to work effectively. I started from the Garden lot Friday morning with Todd. Howie, of course, led the way. Our destination was Haystack mountain. It was a real nice day for hiking - not too warm with some partly cloudy skies and no bugs. The trail had a lot of water from the recent rains. We were able to finish this grueling hike in around 9 hours. Post-hiking activities included chowing down an 8 ounce burger and a chocolate milk shake.

Summit Elevation: Haystack 4961 ft
Round-trip Distance: 17.8 mi
Elevation Change: 3440 ft

Haystack