Bear Swamp is a beautiful 3000+ acre mixed use forest with old woods roads, ponds, and trails bordering Skaneateles Lake to the east. The terrain is rolling and forested. No prior experience is needed. We’ll walk on a variety of trails, some of which may be muddy, so come prepared for that. If the trees are budding, it should be photo-worthy!
Website links:
General information with photos: www.cnyhiking.com/BearSwampStateForest.htm
Detailed state forest map: https:/www.dec.ny.gov/lands/59258.html
Where to Meet: Iowa Road parking lot, Bear Swamp State Forest, Sempronius, NY, 13077
*Directions*
From points north, east, and west, drive to Skaneateles. Take Rt. 41A South down the west side of Skaneateles Lake to Iowa Road in Sempronius. Turn left onto Iowa Rd. Take it to where it ends, at a T. Turn left at the T. (You’re now turning onto Bear Swamp Rd. - which is dirt, not pavement - although there’s no sign that says so.) Drive about 2000 yards and there will be a parking lot on your right. That’s where we’ll meet.
From the south: Get to Rt. 38A north; follow it a short way to Dresserville Rd. and turn right; turn left on Franklin; continue straight onto Big Hill Rd; turn left onto Rt. 41A north, and in .4 miles turn right onto Iowa Rd. Follow it for 1.5 miles and turn left onto Bear Swamp Rd. In .2 parking lot will be on right.
This free event is open to members and non-members of Women Outdoors. Non-members are invited to join us on two events to see what you think. The third time's a charm - we'll ask you to join Women Outdoors at that point. You can join now by clicking on Join Us.
*** RSVP and Cancellations – IMPORTANT – PLEASE READ ***
Please respect the trip leader and update your RSVP if you sign-up but then are unable to attend. Please also RSVP early, especially if there are only a few signed up. Events may be cancelled due to lack of attendance, as well as changes in weather or other circumstances. If you must cancel at the last minute, call or text the event host/trip leader (see your registration confirmation for contact details) and let her know who it is who is calling/texting. Be sure to copy down the address, directions, and trip leader contact information to bring with you as there might not be good cell service at the event location.
By registering for this event you are agreeing to the Assumption of Risk as stated here: https://www.womenoutdoors.org/Risk/
You can also join our Meetup Group: http://www.meetup.com/Women-Outdoors-Finger-Lakes/ and you'll be able to share in the conversation with other attendees, ask about car-pooling, borrow equipment, etc. RSVP here or on Meetup.
