Store Is Open, visit the Gallery
Blog
Zim Smith Trail Update
Sep 16 2010 7:50:50 pm EST
The Zim Smith Trail will soon open up at Underpass Rd., near Curtis Lumber, with a bridge crossing a small stream. A paved trail extends to Oak St, just off East High St. I spoke with someone working on the site, he said it may be ready Wednesday, they just have to pave a small portion, and fence up a portion so people don’t end up on the windshield of an Amtrak.
Speaking of which, I figured out how they’ll solve the Zepko Lane problem. Zepko Lane has train tracks going over it but no gate or warning lights. So they’re just going to fence off the end of Zepko Lane so people don’t try to access the trail through there.
Anyway, bittersweet project. No longer my little secret. Never encountered anyone on that path back in the day. At least I can get to Round Lake without worrying about stale diesel exhaust and rapidly curving semi-trailers, with drivers jacked up on 15 hours worth of 5 hour energy drink.
Published a trail review of Buck Mountain with directions and a general idea of trail conditions
Completed the southern approach to Buck Mountain Yesterday, published an image gallery.
Buck Mountain is a perennial favorite; a 3.3 mile hike with 2000ft elevation gain. It is a nice day hike with rewarding views of Lake George, as well as a glimpse of mosses, lichens, and dwarf trees associated with summit conditions.
Look for a trail review tomorrow.
Saratoga County Trail Expansion
Sep 7 2010 9:43:37 pm EST
I noticed an increase in recreational trail expansion and maintenance in Saratoga County. judging by the tone of this article, it seems to be a continuing trend. I will now be able to access the Zim Smith Trail in Ballston Spa without trespassing or crossing creeks.
I wrote an article outlining how long it took for birds to visit the feeder, as well as what species of birds I’ve observed.
So far, I’ve observed six species of birds, as well as some persistent squirrels.
Set up a bird feeder and fountain to attract birds. Have had it for over a month now. In the following article, I review the cost of setup and materials for my feeding station.
So far, I’ve counted six species of birds that have visited my station, averaging a new bird type every week. I used Cornell’s web based bird guide, to make positive identifications.
In the Adirondacks, I sometimes come across remnants of dwellings, far from any road or community. This particular photograph was from a hike on Indian Pass Trail in October 2009. I found what looked like barrel rings in a birch tree.
Upon further investigation, I found rusted metal basins, and a cast iron piece with the word ‘Hibachi,’ on it. I suspect this area was used as a primitive kitchen, or perhaps it was the only remnant of a shack of sorts. Unfortunately, the weather turned before I could do any further investigation.





