North Woods Outer Loop

Hadley Mountain historically has faced its share of forest fires. The fires left thin soil, leading to more exposed rock on this fairly quick, scenic hike. Due to the rockiness, when you're thinking about heading out for this hike, be sure to grab a sturdy pair of hiking boots or at least your sturdiest athletic shoes; it's a good idea to have stable footwear with good ankle support. Because th...

Not all adventures have to involve scaling crazy-steep mountains or paddling down intense white-water rapids. Some of the best adventures are the relaxing and mellow ones right in our backyards. When I cannot get into the woods every day, I go to the Colonie Town Park, just 10 minutes from my house, to experience nature close to home.The Colonie Town Park is a beautiful, well-kept park just 20 ...

This 2.3 mile loop trail is lightly trafficked and great for all skill levels. Starting out the trail register, you will see signs from The Nature Conservancy which manages the preserve. Descending down a hill with lots of exposed tree roots, you will then cross over the meandering Lisha Kill and continue on into this nicely preserved old-growth forest. There are other trails that come off the ...

There are a few entries into the preserve' however, this hike has you entering off of Mariaville Road. There is a kiosk here and you will enter on the Red trail. Shortly after you can go out and back on the Blue trail to view the Upper and Lower Falls from lookouts above. Once back to the Red trail you will descend some stairs and pass the creek over a bridge. This will take you by the Upper...

This scenic byway starts in Fonda, NY and travels along Route 30 to Malone, NY.  The area described and pictured here is a 65 mile stretch from Mayfield to Indian Lake. Starting in Mayfield you will head north driving past the Great Sacandaga Lake. Continuing through the town of Hope  you will drive along the Sacandaga River with plenty of pull offs to enjoy the views.  During the spring months...

Once you drive onto N. Long Pond Road you will follow it appproximately 1.5 miles to the end. From the parking you can take the short walk back on the road to the start of the trail. The trail is actually a rough Fire Tower Road. You will follow this for about 1.3 miles. Here you will see a service road gate on your right. From here you will pass the gate and follow the last .2 miles to the...