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.

I had a thought  today along the east shoreline of Hemlock Lake with my  daughter’s Australian Shepard dog.  Zoe and I sat along the lake enjoying the 8 ” of snow that fell in Hemlock, clear skies, and sunshine on a Thanksgiving Day.  No hunters or hikers were on the lake today, except two lone kayakers that were just coming in around 1:00 pm.  I admired them, and thought of dragging my  kayak back out again for one more water adventure before the water became too cold or the ice covered the lake. 

The shoreline was already showing signs of ice in late November.  The weather conditions do seem early this time of year as  I remember sunshine and no snow on Christmas in the past.

I also thought of people that might be alone this time of year, for whatever reasons. Springwater Trails provides such a sense of family and social outlet for many that are looking to fill their lives with community, caring people and adventure.  Our  Sunday hikes have become a meaningful activity in many member’s lives.  I have seen it, I have experienced it, and it is what relationships are about.  Holidays are no different.

So  instead of having no hike December 1, Zoe and I thought we would have an optional hike, if anyone would like to participate.  No big organization will take place, just show up, and whatever happens, happens.  Soup, Beans, and Chili will be provided.  Bring something if you wish, but don’t cook anymore…….just your presence is all that is needed.  We already had our Thanksgiving feast.

We will meet at 5107 Old Bald Hill Road, Hemlock….at 2:00 ….just off 15A…you can find it. No complicated directions or details.You may want to park along the side of the road.

Pam

wide shoreline

In September of 2012 the lake levels of the “little finger lakes” were the lowest I’ve seen them in over 5 years.  Springwater Trails was able to navigate along a wide shoreline from the north boat launch of Hemlock Lake to the south boat launch on a beautiful summer like day.  Hikers took note of thousands of zebra mussells exposed on the shoreline, many mushrooms (especially a giant pure white puffball) , fall wildflowers, eagles, and migrating geese. This Sunday we will explore the same shoreline, but with a higher water level, early fall foliage, and in some areas a challenging rocky and narrow shoreline.

4 brave kayers previewed Hemlock Lake prior to this Sunday’s hike to explore the east shoreline for passage.  The area in question at the shoreline  was about 1/2 way down Hemlock Lake, around the area of the high cliffs.  Planning a kayak adventure this time of year took into consideration the direction of the wind, temperature, and logistics of boat pick up.  We launched from the north boat launch in the warmth of the afternoon with 10 mile an hour winds from the north and landed at the south boat launch 2 and 1/2 hours later with the wind at our back.  We confirmed that the shoreline was navigable from boat launch to boat launch. (except for a short swampy area near the south end).

We will meet at the North Boat Launch of Hemlock Lake at 1:45.  Please be respectful to local fishermen accessing the boat launch area and do not block their trailers.  Boaters like to get their boats in and out of the lake as quick as possible and hikers need to be considerate.

Climbers will hike the entire east shoreline of Hemlock Lake and time could extend 3 hours.  If desired, climbers may choice towards the end of the shoreline to pick up the south boat launch trail to give their feet a rest from the rocks and avoid the swampy area closer to the boat launch area.

south boat launch area

Cars will be provided at the south boat launch for pick up back to the north boat launch.  Tourists will hike to the high cliffs and return to the north boat launch, via shoreline and the grassy boat launch trail which can be picked up at the bench overlooking the lake.  Naturalists will walk the shoreline and return via the boat launch trail.  Wear sturdy shoes, bring a snack and your camera.

Optional after hike social and campfire will be at Pam’s, only 1/2 mile away from the North Boat Launch.  Bring a dish to pass and your drink of choice. Welcome Fall!

Please click here for directions to the North Boat Launch.