Rotterdam

Did some local hikes with Benny this afternoon in Rotterdam (near Schenectady). The first was at Old Maids Woods (Nature Conservancy). The trailhead is a little bit hidden off a NiMo access road. The entrance trail was a mess with blow down. Once up on the plateau, the orange blazed trail was clear, but it was still a bit of challenge to follow at times. Couldn't really get lost though  as there was a rail line on one side and the access road on the other. At one point, Benny picked up a scent and went into full beagle mode - sniffing like crazy. It was the first time I heard him baying. There was lots of deer sign in the open woods. Did a short loop and then went back down to the car.

 Next, we went to Great Flats Preserve nearby. There was a small windmill at the parking area. Followed the wide entrance trail (more of mowed path). And then the trail around the big swamp. Nice flat walk. Altogether walked about 3 miles on a very sunny but cold day.

Rotterdam