Saturday, February 22, 2014

Rooster Hill

I did this hike solo today in the southern Adirondacks. I parked along the shoulder of Route 10 near Arietta at start of the Third Lake trail. A hunter was just ahead of me with two beagles. I followed the trail which was well packed by snowmobiles, for about 0.8 miles. Then, I headed off trail and up the northern slope of Rooster Hill. This is where the fun started. I was wearing snowshoes, which were up to this point unnecessary. But now, even with them, I was still sinking at least a foot with each step. Needless to say, it was slow going. I had forgotten how much effort it takes to "break" trail. After a little less than half mile, I reached the cliffs which had some filtered views down to West Stoner Lake and the surrounding hills. I stopped for a snack and then tagged the true summit before I headed back down. Got back to the car and my legs felt like Jello. Had a nice day weather-wise.

Summit Elevation: Rooster Hill 2200 ft
Round-trip Distance: 3.5 mi
Elevation Change: 525 ft
Rooster Hill

Thursday, February 13, 2014

RIP Howie

This is the saddest blog post. I had to put Howie down today. He was quickly deteriorating due to liver problems. Howie was a shelter dog and I have had him for over 10 years. This is a difficult loss for me.

I will always remember him as the happy little hiking hound.


Saturday, February 01, 2014

Hayden

Did a short hike with Howie in the northern Catskills today. We climbed Mount Hayden (a small peak near Windham). Parked at the end of Nauvoo Road at the snow plow turn-around (near the gate). Continued walking on the old woods road up to the ridge at Barlow Notch. Then, I followed the long path north to the top of Mt Hayden. The summit was wooded and only could find some views through the trees. Headed back down after snacking on peanut butter crackers. Took a different route for a short bit. Followed a woods road that paralleled the long path, until I got back down into the notch. Also, followed a short side road which lead to an old quarry site. Not much snow in the woods - only a couple of inches. Made it back to the car ten minutes before it started to sprinkle.

Summit Elevation: Hayden 2924 ft
Round-trip Distance: 4.25 mi
Elevation Change: 940 ft
Hayden