January, 2011
Explore the winter wonderland of the Canadice Outlet this coming Sunday, December 29, 2013 from 2:00 – 4:00. Snowshoes,waterproof boots with ice clamps, and warm winter clothing are recommended to trek into a gully, cross an either partially frozen or flowing creek (depending on weather conditions), and hike the ridge of the creek that connects Canadice Lake and Hemlock Lake in the Hemlock/Canadice State Forest. Please arrive by 1:45 at 5107 Old Bald Hill Road, Hemlock to prepare for the hike. Dogs are not recommended on the hike due to the depth of the snow, steep gullies, and the dangers of the creek.
Note that our unusual weather conditions over the last two weeks in New York have ranged from 2 feet of snow and 4 degree temperatures to 55 degree weather, rain and complete melting of snow which have dramatically effected the creek area. The Canadice Outlet creek was partially frozen two weeks ago, and according to our scout Rick, the creek was a raging river on Christmas Day. Water conditions for our hike will effect us crossing the creek and we may adjust the route the day of the hike.
This hike is mainly geared toward tourists and climbers as they will be traveling over snow and up and down gully ravines. However, naturalists will follow a snowshoe packed trail on an old abandoned road, hike to a slight downhill area to the creek, search for animal tracks in the snow, and enjoy the stillness of the isolated gully. Climbers, lead by neighbor, Rick, will hopefully cross the creek at a given location and follow the eastern ridge of the Canadice Outlet to a designated destination. Tourists, lead by Pam, will follow the western ridge of the creek to a designated destination, search for owl pellets, and look for locations to slide down closer to the creek. Bring your camera’s as Dena may be wearing her red long coat to go sliding!
After hike social will be at Pam’s house. Holiday appetizers are welcomed to celebrate the coming of the New Year. A hearty soup and a fire will warm your bones. Bring your own beverage or a addition to a holiday punch.
More information on the Canadice Outlet available at hemlockandcanadicelakes.com.
Directions and Parking: From Rt 15A in Hemlock, turn on Old Bald Hill North (across from the entrance to Hemlock Park). Near the first big bend, park on the side of the road and walk in long driveway to left of mailboxes. Food may be dropped off early.