This week’s hike takes us in a new direction, Allegany County and Phillips Creek State Forest. Known as Allegany’ #1 Forest Area. It features 6 well market trails ranging from a 1.46 mile beginners trail to a 1.85 mile expert and a 2.96 mile intermediate section. It is composed of hardwoods and large stands of pines and spruce. During the 1930’s the Civilian Conservation Corps planted large stands of conifers. As of a couple of weeks ago, the lower trails were quite wet so proper footwear is advised in these areas. Maps will be provided.

Foot bridge over stream on trail 4 of the Phillips Creek Trail System for hikers and skiers with by-pass for horses.

We expect to have three groups based on the wishes of the group. All hikers will leave the parking lot and stay to the right onto Trail 3.  Half way around the loop, we will get on Trail 4.  At Stewart Rd, the climbers will take the loop Trail 5, then rejoin Trail 4 and follow the tourists and naturalists to trail 6 and back to the start point.

Here is a link for Philips Creek and information on Polly Wogg Holler

We have 2 options for the after hike social. Just down the road is Pollywogg Holler described as a Eco-Resort. Featuring pizza cooked in a wood fired oven Sunday’s from 1-6. Live entertainment for June 6 is “All Natural Speed Balls” with a $5 cover. Probably not for everyone. The other option would be the Country Kitchen in Hornell.

Directions to Phillips Creek State Forest.

I have room for 3 or 4 riders if you want to meet at 22 East Lake Road, Loon Lake. To carpool from Loon Lake, we should leave about 12:45.

A self organized carpool from Wayland will meet at the parking lot behind the Fire Hall off of Rt 63 in Wayland just west of the Rt 15/Rt 21 intersection at 12:45 and be ready to leave promptly at 12:55 for Phillips Creek. Be sure to bring directions in case you need to drive.

From Springwater: Take Rt 15 S to Wayland and continue on Route 21 16.5 miles. When you reach Hornell turn right on County Route 66 go 0.28 miles and turn right on State Route 36 toward Arkport. Go 0.43 miles and merge onto I 86 W NY17 Southern Tier Expressway. Drive 5.4 miles and take Exit 33 Almond. Turn right on Karr Valley Road for 0.5 miles. Turn right onto Main Street NY 21 this takes you thru Almond. After 4.28 miles turn right on Hamilton Hill road for 0.09 miles and turn left onto Rt 244. Continue 1.28 miles and take a slight right and continue on State Route 244. Continue 6.05 miles to Phillips Creek parking lot across from Stuck Hill road.. Drive time is 52 minutes.