Jeanie and I will be exploring areas of the western Finger Lakes region this summer, and you're invited to join us! These hikes will be a bit out of the way for many in our region, but maybe you live out this way or want to take a scenic drive.
In the 1930s, Jersey Hill State Forest was the site of many work projects carried out by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Projects included the construction of roads and the planting of thousands of pine and spruce trees in the open areas on the property. A fire tower and observer's cabin were built on a hill in this area to aid in the early detection of any forest fires that might threaten the reforestation projects on recently acquired abandoned farm lands.
We'll walk some of the old roads and investigate a couple of foundations from the late 1800s, visit the site of an old fire tower (long gone), and stop at a cemetery that is slowly being reclaimed by nature.
- Footwear is a your choice for this walk. We'll be on dirt roads that could be muddy depending on the weather. If it's a wet period you may want to bring an extra pair of shoes for your drive home (and a plastic bag for your muddy shoes).
- Clothes for the weather. Layers are best. Rain gear if needed.
- Snack and water
- Hiking poles if you like walking with them
- Tick ready - Deet and Picaridin repel 'em, Permethrin on clothes kills 'em
- A good attitude - no complaining about mud and rain :-)
Directions
We'll arrange a meeting place depending on who is interested. We'll probably want to car pool or caravan to this one!
Jersey Hill State Forest, between Birdsall and West Almond
100 miles from Ithaca,
75 miles from Rochester
80 miles from Geneva
60 miles from Corning
This 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! Click 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.
