We shaped up along Route 13 in Newfield planning to walk through Fisched Old Growth Forest — but as soon as we stepped off, we hit a sign saying the forest was closed until April 30 for special deer hunting. So we headed up the highway a few minutes to the lower Lick Brook parking lot. We had an unexpected start this time as well — a big trail was coming at us and we had to wait for it to pass by before we could cross the trestleThat was the last excitement for this morning
Official head count: 15H, one D
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Sat April 13
Kennedy SF, Virgil
The mud season started with a bang. The car was wedged in too deep to push out — the AAA had to come and pull it outThe hiking dogs really love mud-puddle water, much more than clean fresh water in a stream
Shindagin Hollow SF — Braley Hill Road to Shindagin Hollow Road on the FLT
I got this shot of Tiger to illustrate what the terrain is like in the long stretch that skirts the edge of the very deep Shindagin gorge. Tiger was trying to get a shot to show where the steep downslope ends and the sheer drop begins, but it was impossible to get up to the edge of the slope without falling off. If you have any balance issues, the sensation of walking along this stretch of the FLT and wondering if you could fall off can be very upsetting. ****** While we were standing around waiting to start the hike, a very loud roaring and throbbing sound abruptly filled the airThis wonderful big jeep came roaring into view — I know we go hiking to escape the ugliness and dirt and noise of modern life, and to walk amid the calm beauties of nature — but this roaring machine really lifted up my spirits, and I greatly wished I was riding in it at the moment.
