WEATHER UPDATE: The snow conditions were terrific yesterday. Trails were very well groomed with no bare spots at all. Today (Sunday) high winds are predicted in the morning, tapering off by 1 PM, with a chance of afternoon rain and temperatures in the 40s. There will still be a good snow base, but with warmer temps it will probably get a bit mushy. Be prepared to play it by ear on the skiing/hiking. 

We will meet at the parking lot at the entrance to Harriett Hollister Spencer Park at 1:50 PM. Assuming the snow sticks around, bring gear to snowshoe, cross country ski or hike. Hikers may want to bring traction devices. We will break into groups based on the interests of the participants. If you bring an extra pair of snowshoes, you may find someone who would like to try them out. Bring water and snacks and dress appropriately for the weather with layers that are easy to add or subtract. Note: This is the beginning of Daylight Savings Time – don’t forget to “spring ahead”!

Hikers on boots or snowshoes will need to avoid walking on the groomed ski trails (carefully groomed by the Rochester Cross Country Ski Foundation). Since the park is a popular winter sports location, some trails may be easy walking even with snow and we will adjust based on conditions and snow depth.

Naturalists: From the parking lot, start out on Ruthie’s Run, then follow the Chalet Trail. This area is an old road that once led to a large chalet and cabins which housed a camp at one time. One of the old buildings is used by the Nordic Ski Patrol during the winter season. Continue across the C4 trail intersection to The Pines trail.

**Option #1** For those those wanting a shorter more level route: At the intersection of Pines and Blue Spruce Trails, continue along the Pines Trail to the picnic area and restrooms then return via the Overlook Road, finishing back at the starting point (Approximately 1.6 miles).

**Option #2** For those wishing for a bit longer, slightly steeper hike: at the intersection of Pines and Blue Spruce trails, turn right onto the Blue Spruce Trail and follow the loop around and back to the Pines Trail, then return via the Overlook Road to the parking lot (Approximately 2.3 miles).

Tourists: From the parking lot, follow the Overlook Road for a brief way to a short section of the Bypass Trail that will connect with Cannonball Run, a shady section of the woods. Where Cannonball meets the park road, the Tourists can stop to admire the outstanding view before proceeding on to Raccoon Run. Travel a short loop around the picnic and rest room area, then hook up with the Pines Trail, which crosses over the intersection with the C4 trail, and continue onto the Chalet Trail to Ruthie’s Run, and back to the starting point. Approximately 3 miles.

Climbers: Will start from Deer Run (Where they may be dropped off before other hikers depart) and will continue onto the Blue Spruce Run. Turning right at the first intersection with Whiteface, follow this trail about ¾ of the way around and turn right (1 mile point), then right again to enter the top (south end) of Raccoon Run. Passing by Upper Sidewinder, continue on the southernmost trail which will connect with Sidewinder. Continue (north) to Lower Sidewinder, then turn right and cut over to Raccoon Run. Turn right onto Fox Run, loop around back to Raccoon Run (turning right), then take a left onto the Overlook Road. Just past the C4 crossing, turn right onto the Pines Trail. At the Whiteface Trail intersection, turn right and continue to Cannonball Run, and the back to the parking lot on Overlook Road. (Approximately 3.5 miles)

Social: Afterwards, we will meet at the Cornerstone Market 8732 Main Street Honeoye Lake, NY 14471. Check their menu.

They have a great bakery shop, beer and wine, and their kitchen is open until 5:00 on Sundays. You may wish to call ahead (585-229-2411) to order a meal so that there is enough time for them to prepare. Although the kitchen closes at 5:00, the dining areas and bakery/coffee shop will still be open.

Directions to Park at 6775 Canadice Hill Road, Springwter, NY:   see map at:

FROM ROCHESTER: Take RT 15A south. Two miles before Springwater village, turn left onto Wheaton Hill Road. Drive for about 3 miles. Turn Left onto Wetmore Rd. and straight thru onto Canadice Hill road and drive another 2 miles to The Park.

FROM HONEOYE: From 20A turn south onto County Route 37 and go about 4 miles to the County Route 37/Canadice Hill Road split. Continue south on Canadice Hill Road about 3 miles. Harriett Hollister Spencer Park will be on your left.

FROM SPRINGWATER: Take Route 15A north out of Springwater for one mile and turn right on Wheaton Hill Road. Take the 1st left onto Canadice Rd. Turn right to stay on Canadice Rd. At the county line continue onto Co Rd 37 for 2.0 miles. Turn right onto Luckenbach Hill Rd. At the top, turn left onto Ross Rd. At the stop sign, take a sharp right onto Canadice Hill Rd. Harriett Hollister Spencer Park will be on your right.