BREIA X-COUNTRY

Sunfield closed?

2012-01-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

On 1/22/2012 9:01 AM, Matt Kuligowski wrote:

Sunfield on Jackson Hill is not packed/rolled as of 1/21/12. This was a disappointment, as this is one of my favorite trails and one BREIA advertises for the view! Split tree down on connecting trail from "Into the Woods" to Sunfield probably blocking equipment from accessing Sunfield. Chainsaw anyone?

Otherwise all else seems like early season conditions - in the middle of January! - on Jackson Hill.

Thanks,
Matt K.
Oneida

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BREIA response:

Thanks, Matt, for reporting the downed limb.

The Sunfield is not closed to skiing, it just hadn't been groomed by yesterday. Skiing is permitted any time you can get there and that there is enough snow.

The BREIA system had a huge amount of blow-down throughout our 38 miles of trails last weekend during the windstorm. That, the sudden flash-freeze and our first real snowfall that could be rolled and then groomed, created a great amount of work for our crew. The Sunfield and and spur trail from Into The Woods was one of the last trails on the list, and one we couldn't get to Saturday.
We will try to get to this tree and begin grooming the Sunfield in the next day or two. Depending on Monday's thaw and rain, we hope to be in 100% good shape this week.

BREIA
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A Delightful Weekend of Skiing

2012-01-18T00:12:00.001-08:00

Weather forecasts for the weekend of 1/14-1/15 looked doubtful -- but several inches of snow on Friday gave enough coverage for fine skiing ! A dozen of us (mostly from the Philadelphia area) made the long drive and were rewarded with fresh powder, dazzling clear skies, and a very welcoming warming hut (with temperatures hovering near zero).

Trails were not groomed, but things went smoothly after the first couple of skiers broke trail. We stayed on the Jackson Hill system (more elevation and, presumably, deeper snow), where we encountered a couple of downed trees. A reminder of how much work the BREIA staff puts in to keep the trails in good condition. The Search & Rescue people had opened their ski rental office (very handy for us out-of-towners) -- people were helpful and welcoming as usual.

Thank you for running such a wonderful facility and making it freely available.

Scott

Moose

2012-01-16T19:48:00.000-08:00

Hey BREIA,  Heard that some party spotted a moose on the Egypt Road Trails recently.  Great news,  any details?  Joey
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Joey...
We heard about a moose  along Rt. 12 in the Alder Creek  area about a week ago. It may still be around...
Anyone else seen it?

BREIA
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Where's the snow?

2012-01-12T07:23:00.000-08:00

We need to tell you folks from out of town that we have next to no snow today. Rain overnight took what little cover we had yesterday. Snow is forecast for tonight and maybe Friday, so keep your fingers crossed for the weekend.

We will update the website trail conditions as soon as grooming can begin.
BREIA

(posted Wed, Jan 11, 7:20am) - BREIA Plans this Weekend?

2012-01-11T04:16:00.000-08:00

Dear BREIA,

Happy January. Thank you for the wonderful ski area that you maintain so well.

I'm Scott Higgs, key organizer of a group of cross country ski enthusiasts in Philadelphia -- headed to BREIA this weekend for our annual outing -- the 6th year in a row !

I know that this snow season has been skimpy. To organize our group, we had to coordinate plans months ahead -- our lodging is booked, and we will be driving up regardless of conditions. We're preparing ourselves for possible -- but continue to be optimistic there will be enough snow.

Would you please help us understand what to expect ?
You cannot predict the weather, but you can tell us:

If there is some snow, but not enough for grooming:
1) Is it still OK to ski on the trails ?
2) Will you still rent equipment (living in Philadelphia, many of our members don't have their own) ?
3) If snow is OK to ski, but not enough for grooming, will you please consider opening the warming hut(s) ? This may mean extra effort for your staff -- but you could skip the work of starting and monitoring fires. Even if snow is light, there will be lots of people anxious to try skiing -- you would provide a wonderful service by simply giving skiers (especially our novices) a sheltered place to sit for a few minutes, eat lunch, and rest !

Thanks for taking a minute to consider these questions and letting me know.

(and a final bonus question, if you're feeling creative: in case snow is simply not enough to ski, can you suggest other outdoor activities that would be most likely to interest disappointed skiers -- good places to hike or interesting natural areas to explore ?)

Thank you very much -- I hope to see you Saturday with a dozen eager skiers and lots of fresh snow !
(If any of this is easier to discuss by phone, feel free to call me at 610-xxx-xxxx.)

Take care,

Scott

-----------------------------------------------

BREIA Response:

Hi Scott...
Believe me, we are very disappointed in our situation here thus far this winter. it's the first time we can recall ever getting close to mid-January without being able to groom. There is a light snow cover on the Jackson Hill trails...enough to ski, but not enough to groom. The Egypt Road trails, at a lower elevation, currently have an inch or two, but under the hemlocks, snow is sparse.
We do have a forecast for snow and sleet Thursday, so things could improve, but we won't know until it happens.

We will post an answer on the warming huts being open later today.

We hate to divert you elsewhere, but after you try our trails, if they are not satisfactory, you might try the Carpenter Road trails above Snow Ridge ski area in Turin. Last weekend they had a little more snow than us...but not much. Unfortunately, nowhere around here has much snow as of today.

Please note that BREIA does not rent skis. Skis equipment is available, if conditions permit, from Boonville Search & Rescue in Boonville at the Canal Trail trail-head. A donation is appreciated. You will need to check with them as to whether they will be open this weekend, since conditions are not great at present.

All this said, you are certainly welcome to use the BREIA trails as best you can. If conditions permit, they will be groomed for this weekend.

Have a great weekend, whatever the conditions! Thanks for coming to visit us each each year.
BREIA

Canal Trail Skiing up to Pixley Falls

2012-01-05T15:41:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys -

Went down (well technically up) the canal trail today from the Trails End to Pixley Falls. The snow depth was just at the limit to be passable - and in some areas it felt like I was skiing more on twigs then snow. It was also a bit icy under all the snow and in some areas mother nature sort of reaches out and grabs your skis! If anyone goes out there you can probably tell from the weird looking snow angel where "mother nature" was able to get a good hold - it wasn't bad, only a little blood :)

Feel free to call my crazy but I just couldn't wait any more to get out!

Ryan

~~~~
Ryan... you are the first skier to report on your experience this season. Glad you tried it; sorry it wasn't better. THINK SNOW!!
Thanks,
BREIA

Grooming this weekend?

2012-01-03T05:36:00.000-08:00

Hello,

I was wondering whether you might begin grooming this upcoming weekend due to the new snowfall?

Thanks,
Alex
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY

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On Tue, Jan 3, 2012 at 8:25 AM, BREIA wrote:

Hi Alex....
We did not get the dump of lake snow as promised yesterday. Nothing significant is forecast for today or tomorrow. As soon as there is reasonable cover, we will begin grooming, but it's not there yet. We will update the trail conditions as soon as we can groom, so please keep watching that page.
Trails are open if you want to try them; they just aren't groomed. The warming huts are closed until grooming begins.

We are as disappointed as you are!
BREIA
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Skiing?

2011-12-28T19:40:00.000-08:00

How is skiing there? Is it worth a 7 hr drive from VA? Anything with a 6 inch + base is worth it.  Andrey Ashburn, VA

BREIA Response: 
Snowfall has been sporadic and light so far this year, and we have not yet been able to groom any of the BREIA trails. There is a light cover on all trails...1-3 inches, except for Jackson Hill trails, which may have picked up several inches late Wednesday and overnight tonight. An assessment as to grooming there will be made early Thursday and a new condition report on all trails will be posted Thursday morning.
Temps are expected to remain below freezing until Sunday, when some rain is forecast.

Hope this helps!
BREIA

Christmas Day 2011 at Jackson Hill

2011-12-26T05:06:00.001-08:00

Thanks for your comments, Mark. We will begin grooming as soon as we get a bit more snow. Sorry there wasn't more for you for this Christmas week. We are all a bit disappointed, but looking forward to some significant drops soon!
BREIA

Christmas Day 2011 at Jackson Hill

2011-12-26T04:55:00.000-08:00

There was just enough snow for thin but acceptable conditions on Sunday for skiiing in the fields and on the flat trails under the hardwoods. It was scratchy and I had to walk under the fir and hemlock canopy but there was a nice frozen leaves base under the two inches of powder for some decent sliding.

At Jackson Hill you are not only fortunate to be at 1550 ft elevation with coverage when it is bare in Barneveld and Trenton, but your soil is so rock-free compared to many other locations in the Northeast! And being right off Route 12, there are no long local roads to negotiate after having come over 225 miles on interstates!

A very Merry Christmas indeed.

Mark from Norwalk, CT

Re: How are conditions out there?

2011-03-18T15:40:00.000-07:00

I skied at the upper trails at Egypt Rd. (Alder Creek Gorge) today, Sat. 3/18 and we had 12-14" of base. Great Spring skiing; 50 deg. and sunny, total cover, corn snow. The local forecast calls for temps around 40 on Sat. and 45 on Sun.(sunny) and chance of rain on Mon. with a high around 50, and a chance of rain or snow on Tues. with highs in the mid-40's. The nights are to be in the 20's and 30's for this period so I imagine the snow will hold up through next week though the perfect day might be Sunday.

BREIA

How are conditions out there?

2011-03-18T15:37:00.000-07:00

We're a group from Schenectady called ECOS. We ski on Tuesdays. We're
thinking of coming out to the BREIA trails on March 22 but don't want to
make such a long drive unless we know the conditions. Can someone out
there give us an idea? Thanks!

Re: races/fun ski events?

2011-01-19T17:54:00.000-08:00

Linda,

There is an excellent x-country ski club in Holland Patent called the Wolverine Ski club. Here is some info from their website about them:

About us - WSC is a member club of the New York State Ski Racing Association Nordic Division (NYSSRA Nordic, Inc). Based out of the Trenton Fish and Game Club in Holland Patent, NY. WCS offers once a week learn to ski programs for all levels including; Bill Koch Youth Ski Program for 13 and younger, Juniors 14-19, senior and master 20+. We also offer a kids ski program trough the Holland Patent school. other local schools and colleges are welcome to get involved with our club.

Here's a link t0 their website: http://wolverineskiclub.com/

They schedule races and events throughout the ski season. I hope this is what you're looking for.

BREIA

races/fun ski events?

2011-01-19T17:46:00.000-08:00

First off thanks to BREIA for providing such a wonderful place to ski. My four children and I have been to Egypt Road every weekend since Christmas. Even before we had this latest snow we had a great time.

Does anyone know of any events/xc ski races that are being held in the area? My children enjoy youth runs/races in the summer and I think they would love something similar with xc skiing? Any info would be appreciated.

Linda

Central New York Trails Day

2011-01-19T08:02:00.000-08:00

Central New York Trails Day
Sponsored by the NYS AHPERD Central North Zone

* On, Saturday, January 22, 2011, from 10:00am to 1:00pm Central New York is featuring three (3) trail systems for families to use for snowshoeing and/or cross-country skiing. Each trail will offer free equipment to use with some instruction.

* Our mission is to promote outdoor adventure activities that can be enjoyed by the entire family and expose individuals to the public trail systems available in Central New York.

* Our goal is to promote life-time fitness activities that can be enjoyed by family and friends. We hope that your family will explore a new trail each week while creating a positive healthy and active lifestyle through enjoyment of the outdoors.

1. BREIA Trails in Alder Creek, 9338 Egypt Road, Boonville, N.Y. 13309 will provide snow shoes. Hot chocolate and granola bars will be served. Meet at the warming hut to pick up equipment. For more information call Elaine at 733-7978.

2. Maxwell Field, 301 East Sands Street, Oneida, N.Y. 13421 will provide snow shoes and cross country skis. Meet near the concession stand at Maxwell Field. Hot chocolate and granola bars will be served. For more information call Bonnie at 813-3331.

3. Ilion High School, 1 Golden Bomber Drive, Ilion, NY 13357 will provide snow shoes and cross country skis. Meet at the main gym of the school. Hot chocolate and granola bars will be served. For more information call Jane at 895-7471 ext. 5403.

This is a FREE event offered to all who are interested in coming out to enjoy some aerobic winter fun!
Hope to see you on January 22nd!

Great Skiing on MLK weekend

2011-01-18T03:41:00.000-08:00

Dear BREIA,

Just wanted to say thanks for a fantastic weekend of Skiing. A bunch of us came up from the Philadelphia area (well, I actually flew all the way back from San Francisco to join) and it was well worth the trip. Nature cooperated by dumping huge amounts of snow before our arrival and during the day on Saturday. Trail conditions were great fun for a beginner like me as it offered a safe, powdery chance for us to all get back into practice on the trails at Jackson Hill. Then on Sunday, we had a great sunny day to pick up some speed on the groomed trails. Several of us skied down from the Jackson Hill warming hut to the Pixley Falls end of the canal trail. A great morning of skiing, beautiful views and we were all completely wiped out by the end of it all. What a great time. BREIA is really a great facility and we all feel lucky to be able to enjoy it so much. This was our 5^th year taking a group trip (maybe our 6^th) and each year is something special.

Thanks for the good memories.

Thanks

-Andy

RE: Dogs and a "superior" cross country skiing experience

2011-01-16T09:46:00.000-08:00

Dear BREIA,

I can understand Jim's sentiments in his well-argued letter.  I like 
skiing on my own fields with my dog.  But at BREIA?  I don't think 
so.  One problem is that not all dogs are as well-behaved as I'm sure 
Jim's is.  I have nearly been tripped up by a dog on more than one 
occasion, and I have seen children and others intimidated by large 
dogs running far in front of their owners.

And even well-behaved dogs can create problems.  I know I'm not the 
only person who, before the present rules, returned home with dog 
feces on his skis.  Finally, when conditions get soft, especially as 
the spring comes on, dogs really can wreak havoc on a groomed trail.

Perhaps there is an argument for adding the Domser Road spur to the 
dog-permitted Canal Trail.  But I don't believe that this is BREIA-
owned land and it might be that the owners would object.  They might 
wish to have the trail on their land operated under the same rules as 
the rest of the non-State-owned system.

Most serious cross country ski areas, drawing on their own experience, 
don't permit dogs.  It's best for BREIA, too.  Don't despair, dog 
owners.  The Canal Trail is ready and waiting.

David

Dogs and a "superior" cross country skiing experience

2011-01-15T08:02:00.001-08:00

Dear Breia,

Thank you for your informative response to my earlier post. I have skied at Breia for many years, both when dogs were allowed and more recently, since they were banned on all trails except the Canal Trail. I must disagree with your contention that dogs seriously degrade the condition of the trails.

In my experience, there are many factors that determine trail conditions - amount of use by skiers, weather conditions, and yes, dogs. Fortunately, the trails at Breia are groomed quite regularly and to be honest, I have never felt that the trails were in poor condition because of all the paw prints, or fecal matter. In the three or so years since the ban on dogs was instituted I have enjoyed skiing with my dog along the Canal, and without her at Egypt Road and Jackson Hill, and I do not recall ever thinking that the trails were "superior" at the places were dogs were not allowed. I typically ski at Breia about 10 times per year.

I had always assumed that the ban on dogs was partly related to the problems that dogs can cause as they interact with each other and with skiers who are not comfortable with dogs. I think those are very legitimate concerns and for those reasons I believe it is a good idea to ban dogs in some areas.

I am sure that some skiers at Breia are keen to have the best possible trail conditions (although many of those skiers may be going elsewhere to enjoy "skate" skiing). However, many of the skiers I see at Breia appear to be "casual" skiers who might be willing to share more of the trails with dogs. In particular I would like to see the Domser Road area opened back up to dogs. This area, which connects to the canal trail, is not heavily used, and is often in less than pristine condition anyway. I would be interested to read on this blog the thoughts of other skiers about dogs in this area and also possibly along the Great trail, another trail which is not heavily used and which often is not in perfect condition.

Thank You
Jim

Thank You!

2011-01-12T18:35:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday, January 9, 2011, I drove to the BREIA ski area from 
suburban Rochester, NY to meet Central NY friends and to ski the Egypt 
Road trails.  Because this was my third visit over the past few years, 
I felt it was about time the land owner(s), the people associated with 
BREIA, and those associated with the private family foundation 
providing funding be told how appreciative I am of the opportunity to 
ski the trails.  My group endeavored to do our part by following all 
rules.  In return we were rewarded with a glorious and healthful day.  
What a treat.

Thank you!
Vince

Re: dog friendly

2011-01-11T13:36:00.001-08:00

Jim,

No we don't allow dogs on any other trails of the BREIA system. The reason they're allowed on the Canal Trail is because by state law BREIA cannot restrict activities on state land. The Canal Tr. is state property and is a state right-of-way. To be honest we'd prefer if folks didn't ski, or snowshoe with their dogs on the Canal Tr. for the simple reason that dogs seriously degrade the grooming that BREIA provides at a not small expense. Years of experience have proven that it doesn't take long for dog traffic on a groomed trail to destroy the grooming. Also, if you look on the BREIA website and on signs at all the trailheads you'll notice the message: No Dogs In Winter (Except Canal Trail). This policy is in effect so that BREIA can provide a superior cross-country skiing experience for the thousands of skiers that use our system annually.

In regard to your second point, we try to insure that the Trail's End parking lot is plowed out in a timely fashion. As mentioned in an earlier post, the Pixley Falls Park lot is not being plowed by the state.

Best Regards,
BREIA

dog friendly

2011-01-11T13:31:00.000-08:00

Hi

Had a great time skiing on the canal trail this weekend with my wife and our dog.
We really appreciate that you allow dogs on this trail.  I was wondering if dogs
are also allowed in the Domser Road area.

Noticed all the nice new bridges on the canal trail.  Glad to see that the system
is being maintained so well.

Finally, we parked at the southern end of the canal trail on Sunday and even
though it was not plowed, getting in and out was not too bad, even in our little
Honda Civic.

Jim

I need clairification of the Breia trails closings

2011-01-10T12:28:00.000-08:00

The website displays "the entire Alder creek trail system...then goes on to list several trails. The Great Trail, Cherry Tree trail, and Creekside loop, are not spelled out. Is the whole of the Egypt road section closed? or just the trails noted.

Thanks for all you do!

Mike

Parking?

2011-01-09T09:24:00.001-08:00

We wanted to ski the canal trail shortly after noon on Saturday (1-8) but were disappointed to find the lower lot unplowed and even though the bridge has been replaced at Pixley falls a baracade is set up out by the state highway. Really miss being able to park there.

Finally parked in the lot just up from the tracks on Egypt Road and had a wonderful ski on that freshly packed and tracked trail.

Skiing at Egypt Rd.

2011-01-09T09:22:00.000-08:00

Hello BREIA,

Just wanted to say that the skiing was terrific yesterday during the snow storm( 01/07/11). My group was out there prior to the system being groomed and the skiing was perfect. We spent the majority of our three hours on the Egypt Road trails enjoying powder conditions. The only problem we had was that the snow stopped falling. Thanks for this great trail system.

Scott

Watch out for bare booters

2010-12-31T07:18:00.000-08:00

I skied almost 2 hours yesterday on most of the Egypt road trails and coverage was slightly better with the inch or two of snow. On my return to the north trailhead I encountered hiking boot tracks of at least four people walking in the direction of the great trail. With the limited snow they really beat up that section of trail and only wished I came across them to give them a lecture… I’m grateful for the snow we have and looking forward to a good dumping soon. Tomorrow will go out to Winona Forest where they have 2ft of snow. Thanks for all your hard work.

Jason Pare'

Ski Xmas day at Alder Creek Gorge

2010-12-25T12:23:00.000-08:00

My wife and I skied the Rim Tr., Short Cut Tr. and the Glacier Tr. today, and for the lack of snow (4" at most), it was quite good. It should be advised that if you have a pair of "rock" skis (skis that you don't mind dinging up a little), to use them. The Short Cut seemed to have the best cover, perhaps because it's in a little bowl. The more open the ridge (as on the Glacier Tr.) the less the cover. The little snow that is there has firmed up in the cold temps and provides a barely sufficient base, for what has been a ludicrously meager snowfall so far.

Anyone have any reports for Jackson Hill or the Canal Tr.?

Tracks?

2010-12-25T07:01:00.000-08:00

From viewing the webcam I see what appears to be tracks.  Any reports?

lost black glove

2010-12-13T05:43:00.000-08:00

Parked at Alder Creek Gorge lot on Saturday, 12/11. I lost a Lands End black glove (left). Did anyone find it? thanks.

Linda

Any chance????

2010-12-07T16:54:00.001-08:00

Snowing like crazy down here in Syracuse. Any chance of skiing this weekend (12/11)?? Looking forward to getting out

Tom

Skiing

2010-12-06T17:54:00.000-08:00

Any forecast or report on skiing?

Anxious

Trail Closings?

2010-12-06T17:42:00.000-08:00

What's the trail closings for Rim Trail, Glacier Trail, etc. posted on the website all about? What if I want to ski before 2:00pm during the week?

Jeanne R

'09-'10x-c skiing

2010-03-16T05:35:00.000-07:00

As the winter x-country ski season seems to be winding down, I want to thank all involved in
maintaining the trails and posting updates about trail conditions so that so many of us were
able to be out and about in a very picturesque and safe environment.

Interlopers From Indiana

2010-03-15T11:50:00.000-07:00

My wife and I needed one last cross country ski fix for the year, so we looked at a snow depth map and hit the internet for the least expensive fairs. Syracuse was the winning location and we were so pleased to save some money on access fees by skiing the BRIEA Trails. We also met some really nice and helpful locals out on the trails that helped us with dinning and hotel accommodations. The Savoy on Rome was delicious!

For a day and a half we attempted to ski as many of the beautifully groomed trails that our bodies could realistically endure. We are so impressed by the quality of the grooming and the beautiful woods they traversed through. This system of trails is truly a gem that you should be very proud of and we just wanted to thank those who made this possible. It must not have been easy to build or even maintain it but it is very impressive and deeply appreciated by the interlopers from Indianoplace, IN. Thanks!

Shawn Tresselt
Intact Teams
3808 Brigade Circle
Carmel, IN 46032
Office: 317-733-9713
Cell: 847-409-7010

Lost Articles

2010-03-07T11:32:00.000-08:00

My husband and I were skiing at Egypt Road on February 6th. I believe that I lost a zip lock bag with my two passports and some jewelry. I am offering a reward for their return.

Thank you,

Elaine Damme
851 Chambers Rock Rd.
Newark, DE 19711
302-312-7487
decatlady851@verizon.net

Blog Post 2/26-2/28

2010-03-03T14:51:00.000-08:00

My boyfriend and I drove up from Ithaca this weekend to enjoy some X-C skiing at this wonderful facility that we had heard of from a friend. The warming hut at Jackson Hill is BEAUTIFUL!!! Especially with all the hot cocoa in stock ;) All the trails are absolutely gorgeous. We spent time at both the Egypt Road trails as well as the Canal trail to Jackson Hill area. Thank you so much for such a wonderful facility, for free!!!!!

Sincerely,

Beth O'Malley and Mike Zupancic

Jackson Hill Trail

2010-02-25T15:13:00.000-08:00

According to your trail rules the only trail to skate ski is the 
Sunfield Trail at Jackson Hill. Looking at the map I cannot locate 
that trail. Please advise.
Susan

2/26

2010-02-25T15:00:00.000-08:00

Looks like the kids may have a snow day on Friday, 2/26! Any chance Egypt Rd will be groomed by Friday p.m.? Please advise. Thanks for a GREAT xc ski trail system.

Skied your trails Feb. 19-20

2010-02-22T12:00:00.000-08:00

We came out to Boonville from Schenectady for two days of skiing. What a
treat to find so much good snow and trails so expertly groomed. We skied
most of the Egypt Road system one day and did a lot of the Jackson Hill
trails the next day, with a lunch stop in the beautiful warming hut there.
We had heard about the trails from friends and are very glad we took the
time to come out and try them. We'll definitely be back and will tell our
skiing friends about this place.

Susan, Schenectady, New York

Egypt Road Trails Great

2010-02-18T16:46:00.000-08:00

I drove down from Ottawa, Ontario to enjoy the BREIA trails on Feb 17. (We haven’t had snow for five weeks and our trails are all very icy.) I read on your website that all trails would be open to the public the whole day during Presidents’ Day week so I hopped into the car and headed south. You have such a wonderful resource of well groomed and well marked trails! I enjoyed lunch in your beautiful warming hut. I am surprised that there isn’t more publicity as this could be a great tourist destination that could support some local motels and B & Bs. Thanks, BREIA…keep up the good work.

Bob,

Ottawa, Canada

Thank you!

2010-02-18T16:45:00.000-08:00

My husband and I visited the Egypt Road trails this past weekend and had a wonderful time. What a generous and unique gift to the community this facility is. I can't tell you how much we appreciate being able to enjoy these beautiful trails. Thank you so very much!

Cheryl

Alder Creek

2010-02-08T05:16:00.000-08:00

A group of us went to Alder Creek this past weekend. We were so disappointed that the wood stove had been removed from the warming hut.

It was very cold in the hut with the little heat coming out of the electric registers.

Another larger group came in behind us from Delaware. They were all commenting about the absence of the wood stove.

It was part of the whole ambience of skiing there - having the warmth of the hut waiting...

Why was it removed?

Jackson Hill

2010-01-29T15:05:00.001-08:00

I am planning to ski with some out of town guests for the weekend and would like to know if the trails at Jackson Hill will be groomed for the weekend and if the warming hut at is open and if the wood stove is still in place.

What are conditions going to be like this weekend?

2010-01-28T12:29:00.000-08:00

I can see that some of Tug Hill is getting lake effect, but you seem to be on the eastern edge. I’d love to ski there Sunday, but it’s a long drive for ice. What news?

Cooperstown, NY

Re: Trail Closing

2010-01-15T13:08:00.000-08:00

If we might borrow from an earlier December post regarding the closing of the Alder Creek Gorge trails during the week:

BREIA is now partnering with the Potato Hill Farm Outdoor Education Center (PHFOEC) to provide campuses for outdoor activities to area school groups. Given the large size of the groups and the fact that they will be snowshoeing or hiking on the trails, it was determined that access to the trails at Alder Creek Gorge would be limited to the school groups during the weekday hours of 8:30-2:00 PM. It should be noted that the general public still will have access to the Great Trail, and Cherry Tree Trail on Egypt Rd. and also the Canal Trail and Jackson Hill trail system. We regret any inconvenience that this new restriction causes, but hope that the benefits derived from trail usage by area school children will compensate.

BREIA

Trail closing

2010-01-15T13:04:00.000-08:00

I am disappointed to learn that you are closing the Alder Creek Gorge Trail System weekdays until 2:00. As a retired person, I have enjoyed use of the trails during the weekdays when they are less busy. There are typically 10 to 15 people that I meet on the trails on a typical day who comment on their pleasure of skiing when there are fewer people. What is the reason for closing the trails?

Re: Dogs (revisited)

2010-01-15T07:13:00.000-08:00

Rick,

That sounds like a very unpleasant experience. Any bicyclist that's been chased by an aggressive dog would probably relate to your story as well. Your point that adults as well children can feel threatened by a large, unleashed dog bounding down the trail is very well taken. The seeming lack of concern of the owner makes the situation even worse. As mentioned in an earlier post, the Oneida County deer predation law prohibits unleashed dogs off of an owner's private property from mid-Dec. through mid April. Unfortunately BREIA cannot prohibit dogs on the Canal Trail because it is part of the state right-of-way along the Black River Canal. If folks encounter similar situations you might want to contact the local dog control officer or sheriff.

BREIA

Dogs (revisited)

2010-01-15T07:09:00.000-08:00

First I want to say that I love animals and never want to hurt one. However, if it comes down to me or the animal, I'm going to defend myself. That being said, I was out for a ski today on the Canal Trail down at the trail's end (south of Pixley) when a tall (I'd say 5'10"ish) woman in about her 60s comes skiing at me with a black lab...loose. I stop completely and the dog runs at me and jumps on me! I'm the type of person that will ALWAYS smile and say "hi" (unless their dogs are after me) and I've met some really nice people out on the trails. I actually yelled a profanity as I was poking the dog with the metal tips of my poles trying to keep him off of me as the woman did not even acknowledge that it was happening. She just skied past! Unbelievable. It's not just the kids, but adults that the dogs go after, too. I would even go so far as to suggest that NO dogs are allowed on the trails. That kind of behavior shouldn't be accepted any place and that
woman should be ashamed of herself.

rick

SKI WAX

2010-01-11T14:03:00.000-08:00

Do you recommend a particular all-purpose ski wax? If so, where can it/they be purchased. We skied Black River Canal Trail New Year’s Day and 1 of us got bogged by sticky snow. Thanks

Gail Person

Re: dogs

2010-01-06T14:36:00.000-08:00

You bring up a very good point Linda. A large, unleashed dog and small children is not a good situation. It should be noted that Oneida County has a deer predation law requiring dogs off of an owner's property to be leashed from Dec. through April 15th.

BREIA

Re: dogs

2010-01-06T14:09:00.000-08:00

BREIA-
I commend you for your stance on dogs on the trail. I skiied Christmas week four times and twice (Egypt Road)witnessed owners and their dog on the trail. Neither time were these dogs leashed. I was with my four children (10, 9, 6, 5) and when they see a dog about as big as they are coming at them, they are scared even though they hear shouts of "He's friendly!" It really puts a damper on fun. How can we be sure these people will clean up after their dogs when they are clearly ignoring the rule that bans them in the first place? Please keep this rule in place.
Thank you for providing us with a great place to ski!

Linda

Re: dogs

2010-01-05T13:54:00.000-08:00

Dogs and ski trails certainly create a dilemma. Certain folks love to ski with their dogs and don't feel that anyone should be able to restrict that right. What users of our trails must understand is that the vast majority of the trail system is private property. The wishes of the property owner are to provide an outstanding cross country skiing experience to the general public.

To achieve this we set a double track with our state-of-the-art groomers. Anyone familiar with the process knows that this is a costly endeavor, involving expensive machines, many operator man-hours and thousands of gallons of fuel. This is particularly so when you consider that the BREIA trail system encompasses 50 Km. Unfortunately, many years of experience have proven to us that dog traffic on the trails severely degrade the trail. This is especially evident on the Canal Trail where dogs are permitted. Skiers have mentioned on many occasions that within an hour of grooming the tracks were nearly obliterated by dog traffic.

A question that begs to be answered is: Given the vast surrounding landscape of woods, fields, logging roads, snowmobile trails, etc., why would you choose to take your dog on the only groomed ski tracks for many miles?

BREIA

dogs

2010-01-05T13:53:00.000-08:00

I think it is great that dogs are allowed on some ski trails. I have 2 snow dogs (Siberian Husky & Samoyed), and they love the snow and skijoring. We use the other trails mostly in the winter, because The Canal trail is just too boring to do often. Where we go, the trails are groomed by volunteers, and with the packed trail, the dogs don't affect it in any way. I think it is unfortunate that there are some closed minded people out there that just don't like dogs, period. I can understand the aggravation caused by people that don't 'clean up' after their dogs, and therefore ruin it for the rest of us. I get upset with that too. As for degrading the trail, that is rather on over statement. I have yet to have my ski swallowed up by a dog's footprint. There are more and more real x-c ski areas that are opening certain trails to dogs, because of the growing need. It is very unfortunate that Salmon Hill ski area in Redfield had to close. They were very dog friendly. We love the breia trails in the summer for bikejoring. There really are some awesome trails there.

Re: Grooming

2010-01-05T13:48:00.000-08:00

We groom as budget, time, and the weather permit. We'd love to groom 24/7, but sadly the budget doesn't permit. Given the heavy weekend usage, we try to groom just before the weekend to maximize conditions for the largest amount of people.

BREIA

Grooming

2010-01-05T13:47:00.002-08:00

Dear BREIA,

Do you have a grooming schedule? Thanks.

rick

Canal Trail

2010-01-05T13:47:00.001-08:00

I skied the Canal Trail Twice last week (Wednesday & Saturday) from lower lot to 1st road crossing

Conditions were perfect -

Thanks for your efforts!

Re: Directions to Alder Creek Trails

2010-01-03T18:20:00.000-08:00

The Alder Creek Trail system is located on Egypt Rd. in Alder Creek. Take Rte. 12 North. Egypt Rd. is the first left after the Rte. 28 junction in Alder Creek. The lower (railroad) lot is just across the railroad tracks on the right, and the upper lot is approx. 2 miles up the hill on the right.

The entire system map and individual trail maps are available on the Where We Are link of the BREIA website.

BREIA

Directions to Alder Creek Trails

2010-01-03T18:19:00.000-08:00

Hello BREIA,

I cannot find directions to the Alder Creek trail system. Any chance you could post them onto the BREIA site?

Thanks

Scott

Re: Jacksonhill Rd Warming Hut

2010-01-02T06:24:00.000-08:00

As per last ski season, BREIA has started grooming the Jackson Hill trails and opening the Jackson Hill warming hut in mid-January. This is for budgetary reasons.

BREIA

Jacksonhill Rd Warming Hut

2010-01-02T06:23:00.000-08:00

Hi, my friends and I were wondering why this hut is closed. We are the kind of people that like to leave it better than we found it. I hope no one has violated this place and ruined it for the rest if us. Please keep us posted at robertb@kalexenergy.com. Thank you.

Re: Jackson Hill warming hut

2010-01-02T06:14:00.000-08:00

The plan is to reopen the Jackson Hill warming hut and start regular grooming of the Jackson Hill trail system in mid-January.

BREIA

Jackson Hill warming hut

2010-01-02T06:13:00.001-08:00

Just wondering if the hut at JH will open eventually or is it closed for the season? Thanks.
MC Wolf

Re: directions?

2009-12-31T06:52:00.000-08:00

The easiest way is to take Rte. 12 into Boonville. A little shortcut to avoid the light in Boonville is to take a left on Academy St., then left on Rte. 46. Turn right at the BREIA sign about 2 miles outside of Boonville on Jackson Hill Rd.

BREIA

directions?

2009-12-31T06:50:00.000-08:00

Have been skiing at Canal and Egypt with my kids and would like to check out Jackson Hill w/them tomorrow (Thur). After looking at online maps as well as hard copies, I am not sure the best way to get there. I live in Whitesboro and would probably take route 12. Do I cut over on a smaller road or head into Boonville and down 46? Suggestions?

Re: Where to go?

2009-12-29T13:37:00.000-08:00

The Alder Creek Gorge, Great Trail and Canal Trail were all packed and tracked 12/29.

BREIA

Where to go?

2009-12-29T13:36:00.000-08:00

I am trying to decide whether to go to BREIA or Osceola on Wednesday, the 30th. You ask that people check your trail conditions section, which I have, but the latest conditions report is the 24th, before it poured with rain the day after Christmas, the 26th. I know Osceola has since gotten a foot or so of lake effect snow, but did you? And, have you groomed since? I gather right after the rain, conditions were iffy from other people’s posts.

J. Ravage, Cooperstown, NY

Re: Great Trail

2009-12-29T13:11:00.000-08:00

Karen, The best thing to do is check the website; the Home page and Trail Conditions page for any notices concerning trail restrictions.

BREIA

Great Trail

2009-12-29T13:03:00.000-08:00

My friend and I skied yesterday. We parked in the lower lot and took
the Great Trail - we did manage to get ourselves a little lost as it
had snowed and the trails were not groomed. That said, it was an
awesome day. We did encounter a large tree down at the beginning of
the Great Trail (near the lower lot) which caused us to have to remove
our skis to get over it. We are looking forward to another awesome
year on the trails. One question, will the Great Trail be available
to the general public once the restriction begins?

Karen

Jackson Hill

2009-12-29T13:02:00.000-08:00

First tracks on Sundowner yesterday (Dec 28). Very good conditions
with 3-4 inches on top of a solid 5-6 inch base. Barkeater looked
great but did not track. Beautiful day. Today should be even better!
Chris
Canastota, NY

Sent from my iPhone

Egypt Rd.

2009-12-27T15:16:00.001-08:00

Gully III was a little dirty, and it was a little thin and messy in the
conifer section of the Great Trail. Other than that, it was pretty good
skiing. Everything was groomed and double tracked.

Ed Luban
Syracuse

Re: Post Trail Status at Signin

2009-12-27T15:06:00.000-08:00

We regret your inconvenience at the lower Egypt Rd. trail system. As you noted the trail conditions were posted on our website, which, given the number of trail heads within our 50 Km system, is an efficient way to make them available to the public. We suggest that everyone check the Trail Conditions link at our website prior to visiting the trails.

BREIA

Post Trail Status at Signin

2009-12-27T15:04:00.000-08:00

Hi,

My family and I stopped for a short ski on the lower trails on Egypt Road today. We assumed that we would do some of the Great Trail, the Creekside Loop and the Cherry Tree Trail. We found that the Cherry Tree Trail was only slightly groomed and ended up going in a circle (not enough trail markers), and the bridge right after the railroad tracks on the Creekside Loop was closed, ending our ski on that trail.

If the information that you had on your website had been at the signin location, then we probably would have gone up to the upper trails instead of spending our time on these.

By the way, in the past I have found your trails to be great. I skied the Glacier Trail and Rim Trail a couple of days before, and it was fantastic.

Thanks,

Roy

Re: Reasons

2009-12-22T07:02:00.000-08:00

BREIA is now partnering with the Potato Hill Farm Outdoor Education Center (PHFOEC) to provide campuses for outdoor activities to area school groups. Given the large size of the groups and the fact that they will be snowshoeing or hiking on the trails, it was determined that access to the trails at Alder Creek Gorge would be limited to the school groups during the weekday hours of 8:30-2:00 PM. It should be noted that the general public still will have access to the Great Trail, and Cherry Tree Trail on Egypt Rd. and also the Canal Trail and Jackson Hill trail system. We regret any inconvenience that this new restriction causes, but hope that the benefits derived from trail usage by area school children will compensate.

BREIA

Reasons

2009-12-22T07:00:00.000-08:00

Can you please explain the reasons for the restricted hours.

Re: Restrictions M-F 8:30 AM to 2 PM

2009-12-21T05:55:00.000-08:00

The Great Trail, Canal Trail, and Jackson Hill Trail system will remain open unless otherwise indicated. Check the Trail Conditions link for specific trail conditions/restrictions.

BREIA

Restrictions M-F 8:30 AM to 2 PM

2009-12-21T05:52:00.000-08:00

Sorry to see use of the "Alder Creek Gorge trail system" has been restricted Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 2 PM. That said, what BREIA trails, if any, are available to the general public during those days/hours? Thanks!

Egypt Rd.

2009-12-13T10:17:00.001-08:00

I just returned from an amazing afternoon of skiing on the Egypt Road
trails. The first skiing of the season! I had expected good conditions,
but they were in fact near perfect. The sun was out, fresh snow was
hanging in the trees, and the trails were groomed to perfection. Thanks
for laying down tracks! We are so lucky to have the BREIA trails so
close to us, and so well maintained.

Onno

2009-12-11T07:16:00.000-08:00

Anyone get out to Egypt Road yet?

Anxious

What a year on the Canal Trail

2009-03-27T05:41:00.000-07:00

Although there may be a few more days left, it does seem that the cross country season is winding to a close. It was still pretty darn good this afternoon (3/25) is getting thin is a few spots between the top of the gorge and Pixley Falls.

It has been simply unbelievable on the canal trail this year thanks to BREIA's efforts.

I must apologize for not being very rigorous in signing in when I skied so if I could remedy that by letting you know now, you can up your usage rates. I was on the canal trail 72 times (and probably signed in 3 times). My wife was with me for 48 of those times (including the 3 that I signed us in).

So once more, thank you for maintaining all the BREIA trails. It was simply wonderful all ski season.

Lou and Maureen Casamayou
Turin NY

Skiing?

2009-03-27T05:39:00.000-07:00

Anybody been skiing lately?

How are the leaves and branches?

Ronald

What a great place

2009-03-05T06:31:00.000-08:00

I moved from Upstate NY to Indiana after college for work. My Mom still lives in Trenton Falls so we spend a lot of time back there during the year. I discovered the BREIA trails about three years ago; although my Mom tells me that she and my Dad used to ski there years ago. It is one of the greatest treasures of the North Country. On a cold, crisp, winter morning there is no better experience than skiing up to the Egypt Road warming hut with a fire going in the wood stove, warming yourself by the stove, and then heading off to ski down along the creek. In Indiana we have nothing like the BREIA trails although I wish we did. Life would be a lot more enjoyable.

Great Ski Trip

2009-03-03T05:44:00.000-08:00

I came up with a group of students from Hobart and William Smith
Colleges. We had a very enjoyable day on the BREIA trails (Egypt
Road). The trails were very impressive, and our group, primarily made
up of beginners, had a great first experience cross country skiing.

Thank you so much for providing such a wonderful resource! We will
definitely be back soon!

Feb. 20th Skiing

2009-02-22T08:33:00.001-08:00

Just a short note to everyone at BREIA X-Country Center. We were visiting my good college friend, Dave Jones (Utica) and he took us to BREIA. It was spectacular. Last weekend we were at Trapps Family Lodge and Craftsbury Center in Vermont and today at BREIA was just as good if not better then our skiing last weekend. The rolling hills and the ascents were magnificent and the trails were groomed perfect.
My friend, David said Echo Lake was the best he has seen it.

We will be back!

Kevin Bradley
Paxton,MA

Beautiful Ski Trails

2009-02-21T06:47:00.000-08:00

We just wanted to say what a great time we had yesterday at BREIA. The trails are gorgeous and we got a great workout. We are looking forward to trying some of the other trails and thank you for providing such a wonderful resource in New York.

Thanks from Oneonta,
Carol and Woody

found items

2009-02-18T08:54:00.000-08:00

While skiing the great trail Sunday afternoon, we found a pair of
sunglasses (cranberry frame colored).

We put them in the sign-in board. There is also a Nokia cell phone (been there several weeks) in the sign-in board cabinet. (Great Trail parking lot off Egypt Rd.)

ski rentals

2009-02-06T06:54:00.000-08:00

Zora,

You can rent complete sets of ski equipment at the Boonville Search & Rescue building in Boonville, which is at the start of the BREIA Canal Trail on Rte. 12 behind the Big M plaza. They request a modest donation for the use of skis which can only be used at the Canal Trail however. They're open every weekend throughout the Winter.

In Utica, Schuss Ski and Bike on Commercial Drive in New Hartford also rents x-country ski equipment. If anyone knows of anywhere else to rent x-country gear, we'd be happy to know about it.

BREIA

ski rentals

2009-02-06T06:52:00.000-08:00

Hi,

we have visitors this weekend and need to rent either just shoes (if they are compatible with our skis) or the complete set of cross country equipment. Any suggestions where in Utica/Boonville area this can be done?
Thanks

Zora

Great skiing this past weekend at Jackson Hill

2009-02-02T07:48:00.001-08:00

Hi,

Just dropping a note to thank you for grooming the Jackson Hill trails and allowing me, my wife and a large group of friends to have FANTASTIC day of skiing on Saturday, Jan 31st.

The conditions were perfect.

Thanks so much.

-Andy

car key found on the Glacier Trail...

2009-02-01T12:45:00.000-08:00

A single car key was found on the hill (below the bell) on the Glacier Trail on Sunday afternoon, Feb. 1. It was put on the shelf in the Egypt Rd. warming hut.

BREIA

snowmobiles

2009-01-28T07:30:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the information on the snowmobile tracks on the Great Trail. Obviously, they were trespassing, and we would appreciate hearing from anyone who witnesses snowmobile or ATV traffic on any BREIA trails. If you're on a trail and encounter any motorized traffic, feel free to call BREIA directly at 942-2299.

BREIA

snowmobiles

2009-01-28T07:22:00.000-08:00

I use your trails 1 or 2 times a week. I want to thank you for these trails. I also wanted to inform you that while skiing Sunday on the Great Trail, there were deep ruts from snowmobiles on the trail near Echo Lake Road. I don't know if there is anything that can be done, but I think this could be a dangerous situation..

Thank you!

The canal trail was great - until

2009-01-27T09:12:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the previous poster for expressing his concerns about dogs on the BREIA trail system. First, it's hard to disagree with the fact that dogs degrade the trails that BREIA spends a great deal of money to groom. Given the availability of open fields, woods, parks, snowmobile trails, etc., why do some skiers elect to bring their dogs on BREIA trails, knowing, that by having their dogs accompany them, they are wrecking the very trails that they're skiing on?

For clarification, because the Canal Trail is part of a New York State right-of-way, BREIA cannot restrict usage on that trail. Hence the BREIA signs at the access points of all our trails do indicate that dogs are not allowed in Winter on either the Egypt Road or Jackson Hill trail systems, but that they are allowed on the Canal Trail. That doesn't mean that we encourage people to bring their dogs on the Canal Trail. We would prefer that they didn't for the reasons stated above; it doesn't take much dog traffic to severely degrade the groomed tracks on the trail. When that happens, all the skiers that use our trail system suffer because of the actions of just a few.

BREIA

The canal trail was great - until

2009-01-27T09:05:00.000-08:00

I had the opportunity to ski the canal trail from the rescue station to route 46 yesterday. The trail was pristine and I was especially lucky to be the first one on the trail after it was groomed. Perfect conditions, a beautiful day...this is what I wanted to start doing when I retired and now I have done it. Well you can imagine my surprise, that after reading the very visible new rules that you have posted about dogs on the trail, to have a pleasant gentleman with a large dog with huge feet obliterate the pristine trail. It was too bad and it probably happens all the time, but yesterday it happened to me.

You are a great organization and and many thanks to the family and their foundation that has made this treasure possible!

BREIA trail system

2009-01-26T06:38:00.000-08:00

I am new to the sport and have been more than pleasantly surprised by
the BREIA trail system and what it offers to winter recreation. The
trails, groomed or not, are terrific. The trail system offers an
experience for every level of skiing proficiency. The fact that trail
cutting, maintenance, grooming, warming huts etc are provided without
cost to users is unparalleled in today's economies. My family
appreciates all that this offers and we send our thanks for such a
gift to the central New York communities. I hope all users will
continue to be thankful for this facility and thankful to the persons
who have made it possible through their selfless generosity.

Thanks again; looking forward to many more outings.

Andy--Utica

Unplowed parking lot

2009-01-20T13:50:00.001-08:00

Debbie,

BREIA continues to plow the Trail's End parking lot. However, due to lack of funding, the Pixley Park lot won't be plowed.

BREIA

unplowed parking lots

2009-01-20T13:48:00.000-08:00

Hi,
We went skiing at Pixley Falls on Monday Jan. 19, 2009. The trails were not groomed, but there were people out who went ahead of us. Any idea why none of the parking lots are being plowed at Pixley Park, there is limited parking, none on the other of the bridge, and you couldn't get in this time. We absolutely love the trails, they are our favorite spot, and we are lucky to have 4WD so we can get in and out, but many others can't use the Pixley Falls trails because of not being able to get in.

Thank-you,

Debbie

Jackson Hill

2009-01-19T13:56:00.000-08:00

A group of nine skied Jackson Hill on Sunday Jan 18th. There were three other groups and one single gentleman.

We appreciated who ever cut the trail for us to enjoy! It made our trip very enjoyable. The trees were just laden with fresh snow and just beautiful.

Of course we were disappointed that the trails were not groomed and the warming hut was not open. Unfortunately we did not check your site before heading out. We still enjoyed a tailgate snack in the parking lot.

Looking forward to your grooming effort and use of the warming hut!

mickie

BREIA outing 1/10/09

2009-01-12T06:52:00.000-08:00

A group of 10 of us from the Onondaga Ski Club had an outing yesterday on the Egypt Road trails. The conditions were wonderful and the trails were nicely groomed, so we all enjoyed the privilege of using the BREIA trails. We consider ourselves lucky to be able to visit and experience this beautiful area.

The concept of BREIA is all the more amazing at a time when many people have a desire to buy up large plots of wilderness to specifically exclude everyone else, that someone would be so kind and generous as to make their property available to the public. And providing groomed trails and warming huts with fuel readily available (and comfort stations) is the icing on the cake!

Thank you so much!

Donna

Jackson Hill trail grooming

2009-01-08T14:21:00.000-08:00

Janis,

Like many individuals and organizations, BREIA has had to tighten it's belt. We only have so many resources, so the decision was made not to groom Jackson Hill until after the first of the year. We are in fact clearing trails, and hope to have many trails at Jackson Hill groomed for the upcoming weekend.

Best Regards,

BREIA

Jackson Hill trails Not Groomed Jan 4

2009-01-08T14:17:00.000-08:00

My friend and I took advantage of the beautiful day Sunday Jan 4 to go to Jackson Hill to ski. We were very disappointed that the trails weren't groomed. The time we can enjoy this sport is limited to available time off, weather,and daylight. I know there are a lot of trails to groom but I thought Jackson Hill was very popular. Does anyone know why all the other trails were groomed and not Jackson Hill?

Janis
New Hartford

A great day on the Great Trail

2009-01-06T11:09:00.000-08:00

Weather and trail conditions sounded perfect, so I headed to the Egypt Road trails. I arrived at 9am; 2 degrees, sunny, calm. A gorgeous day to be out in the woods! I started at the trailhead at the railroad parking lot.

I skied Creekside Loop, Cherry Tree Trail, which offered a little off-track, backwoods skiing, and the Great Trail, with its dozen or so fun hills along the western half of this trail. However, the front half of the Great Trail was fairly flat and wound its way through a couple of stands of hemlock trees, as in the photo to the left.

I saw/heard black-capped chickadees, ravens, downy woodpeckers, goldfinches, a bluejay, a white-breasted nuthatch, a tufted titmouse, and a hairy woodpecker plus tracks from deer, fox, coyote, cottontail rabbit, and mice.

Thanks, BREIA, for another great outing!

Dave Behm
Clifton Park, NY