There will not be any Springwater Trails hike this Sunday.  However, we are planning to start up again next weekend with boating and hiking at the north boat launch at Hemlock Lake. Please join us then.

Meanwhile, everyone is encouraged to go outside and enjoy the spring weather.  Opportunities are available from walking around your house to pick up from the winter, to hiking the Finger Lakes Trail. Check here for recommendations for use of the FLT and other hiking trails during the COVID epidemic.

This Sundays hike will include a 3 mile easy hike and (or)  kayak in the wetland pond known to locals as ” The Marrow Beds”. This pond was excavated during the late 1800”s and was reported to be as deep as 45 feet. the pond has silted in over time and the deepest spot is about 4 feet. The morrow was loaded on a small set of railroad tracks and sent across town to the cement works.

There is an abundance of wild life (water birds of various kinds, turtles,beavers and occasional eagle sightings).

We will have a Social in the yard, practicing “social distancing”.  Bring a snack with you also.

Directions

From Wayland: From the intersection of Rt 15 and 21, head west on NY-63 (Naples St) for 1.2 miles. Turn left onto Dieter Rd. Dieter Rd will make a 90° right turn, and then you should immediately turn left toward the Rod and Gun Club.  Rick is the home on the left.

This event will combine a downstream paddle on the West River and a hike on the Middlesex  Valley Rail Trail (aka the Lehigh Valley Trail).  The best time to paddle this waterway is Spring.  Let’s hope we  have timed it right.  According to Native American legend, this is the birthplace of the Seneca Indians.   For images and additional information http://www.ilovethefingerlakes.com/rivers/west.htm

Paddlers  The West River is a lazy stream, so we will be able to do an out- and -back with no problem.  Launching at the Sunnyside Bridge, we will head downstream through a marshland full of waterfowl, turtles, and possibly eagles and osprey.  Distance  will depend on conditions, but likely 4 miles round trip (2 hours).  PLEASE ARRIVE AT LEAST 15 MINUTES EARLY, READY TO LAUNCH AT 4:00.

Hikers  The rail trail is a level path that parallels Rt 245 for 2.6 miles from Sunnyside to Parrish Hill Rd. There will likely be mud, so dress accordingly. The easy terrain lends itself to observing the surprises that nature has to offer.  You might want to bring a camera.  Distance will depend on hikers choice.

Directions  From Route 21 in Naples head northeast on Route 245.  Turn left on Sunnyside Rd and park on the left before the bridge at the brown and yellow DEC sign “West River Fishing Access Site”.  Parking for 4-5 cars.

Social  For those who wish to gather after the event,  the Community Park on Route 245 just east of Naples has a large picnic area with tables and pavilions.  Please bring your own food and drinks.  Social distancing will be observed.  Masks are also advisable.