Genesee Valley Chapter
Adirondack Mountain Club

Jul 30 - Aug 1

Women's Backpacking Trip - Ha-De-Ron-Dah Wilderness Area
Join us for a women-only backpacking trip to the Ha-De-Ron-Dah Wilderness Area, located southwest of Old Forge. We will meet in the Bushnell Basin's Park & Ride area at 9:00 am on Friday July 30th and carpool to the trail head located on Rt. 28. The drive is approximately 4 hours long. We will backpack in 3-4 miles at a relaxed-pace to Middle Settlement Lake. On Saturday, we will hope to explore the area with a long day hike. Sunday morning will find us enjoying breakfast by the lake followed by our return backpack to the cars and the drive home. This trip is rated as an Easy backpack and we welcome first-time backpackers, along with experienced folks. There will be a pre-trip meeting in July.
Trip leaders: Barb Brenner and Lydia D'Amato. Contact Barb Brenner at to sign up for the trip. (Email is the best way to sign-up. If you don't have email, call Barb at 585-520-7484.)

July 31
Saturday
9:45 AM

Braddock Bay Park - Update
Meet at 9:45 am for a 10:00 am start in the Braddock Bay Park parking lot in Greece. (Take the Lake Ontario Parkway to the East Manitou Road exit. Turn right (north) and go a short distance to the first left turn, which is the entrance to the park. Follow the park road to the parking lot at the end.) We will walk out onto the East Spit of the bay. We will then walk the nature trail in the woods. This is all flat and easy walking for about 2 hours. If there is a wind from the north it could be chillier here than in the rest of the county, so come prepared.
For more information please contact Joanne Mitchell at 621-1906 or .

August 1
Sunday
8:15 AM

Keuka lake -Branchport - Update
I am going to lead a paddle around the Branchport fork of this beautiful lake. Since the lake is surrounded with cottages there are not many locations to take out or break for lunch so I am going to try and figure out the best route. If we were to do the entire fork it is a 18 mile paddle which is a bit much for most people so I am going to try and keep it to 12 miles or less. This is a open water paddle for kayaks only.Since there is a lengthy drive I would like to start a little early. Meet at the Bushnells Basin Park and ride parking lot at 8:15 am -8:30 am. We will leave no later than 8:45 am for Keuka Lake. Between driving and paddling this will be a all day event. Bring plenty of water and food with you to last the day. Bring you boat,paddle,pfd, water, sunscreen, hat, etc.
Call me or e-mail me with questions or to confirm.....
Contact Charlie Helman for more details at 585-266-0424 or .

August 1
Sunday
10:15 AM

Bay Park West - Update
Dick Spade will lead this Sunday hike through the rolling hills of Bay Park West. Bay Park West is one of the county parks that will soon have an established mountain bike trail system. This is a chance to view the area as it is now, and voice your opinion. We can still convey our opinions to the parks dept at the upcoming field workshops. We will meet at the parking lot along the North side of Bay Front S. road. To get there take Empire Blvd east from 590, make a left onto Orchard Park Blvd, follow the road until it Tees into Bay Front S. Turn left. The parking lot is just past the "Bay Fish and Game Club". Meet at 10:15 am and start hiking at 10:30am. Bring a lunch.
For more information contact Dick Spade at 234-0636.

August 2
Monday
10:00 AM

Daytrippers - Canadice Lake
All paddles are 10:00-12:00. These are leisurely paddles appropriate for canoes and kayaks. We enjoy the camaraderie of the group and the wonderful scenery around us. All are welcome!!! Bring PFD, water, food is always nice, and of course boat and paddles.

Bring: life jacket, water, sunscreen, snacks to share are always good!!! And of course, your boat - if you need one give a call.

Enjoy a leisurely paddle on beautiful Canadice Lake. This is truly a "gem" of the Fingerlakes!!!!

Directions: Travel south on Rt 15A. After the village of Hemlock, Hemlock Lake comes up on the right, keep going!!! Turn left on Purcell Rd. At the end of Purcell Rd. turn Right. The lake will show up on your right. There is one stop sign. Stop and then continue straight. After the stop sign begin watching for the boat launch. Thee will be cars parked along the road and a driveway down to the water (there is NO SIGN). Drive down to the water to unload your boat then park on the road.
Contacts: Peg Jacobs 335-8460 or Pat Powers 733-7814

August 5
Thursday
6:15 PM

Thursday evening paddle - Canal at Ayrault
Thursday, August 5th we will be paddling from the boat launch on Ayrault Road on the canal in Fairport. Bring your boat, paddle, PFD, water, sunglasses/sunscreen, and bug repellant. Meet between 6:00 and 6:15 PM for a 6:30 PM launch.
Contact Chris Asbury at or (585)943-1438.

August 6-8

High Peaks Challenge: Basin, Saddleback, Gothics, Armstrong and Upper Wolf in a day - Update
A chance to bag 5 peaks in a day. We have a leanto rented by Johns Brook Lodge so if you prefer to go tentless, here is your chance. We hike in on Friday. Saturday, we will attempt to do Basin, Saddleback, Gothics, Armstrong and Upper Wolf. I have heard of others accomplishing this in about 9.5 hours. We hike out on Sunday. You must be in very good physical conditions for this trip, had experience mountain climbing and backpacking. Everyone will share transportation costs and leanto rental.
For more information and signup contact Jim Luening at (585) 387-0256 or .

August 6-8

Biking and Camping Trip - Pine Creek Rail Trail
Biking and Camping Trip - We will be riding on the Pine Creek Rail Trail which is south of Wellsboro P.A. and camping out near the trail. We will set up camp near the trail and our vehicles and ride in one direction one day and then the other direction the next. So there is no need to carry our camping gear on the bike. The trail winds along the creek through the Pine Creek Valley and countryside known as the Grand Canyon of the East. The bike trail is mostly flat. We will leave Friday midday and drive down to PA and set up camp. If we have time we will ride some Friday evening if not we will ride first thing Saturday morning. We will ride as far as the group wants. We can also take a short hike. There are plenty of hiking trails in the area. Sunday we will ride some more before heading home about mid afternoon. Meals can be eating at camp or there are places to eat nearby.
Please contact Bob Krenzer to sign up or need more info. .

August 7
Saturday
9:00 AM

Allegany County - Update
The Genesee Valley Conservancy has invited us on a hike in Allegany County on the south side of Swain Ski Center. This is a 490 acre private property that has several miles of maintained hiking trails, including a section of the Finger Lakes Trail, that is open to the public through the generosity of the landowner.
This hike will be led by biologist Dr. Gregg Hartvigsen and will be a moderate hike; there are some hills and gullies on the property. We will aim to finish the hike at 11:30/12:00, but this will vary depending on who shows and if we find interesting things along the way. There will be occasional stops to chat about forest ecology.
We will be meeting at the GVC office in Geneseo (One Main Street, Geneseo) at 9:00 and carpool to the property (~45 minute drive). Or, meet us there for our 10:00 start time: head south on I-390 to exit 4, turn right onto Route 36 for 6 miles, turn right onto Route 70 for 5.6 miles, turn left onto County Road 15B for .7 miles, turn right onto Moneghan Road for .3 miles, end at 1972 Moneghan Road.
Questions on the event can be directed to Benjmain Gajewski at Ben@GeneseeValleyConservancy.org or 585-243-2190.

August 8
Sunday
8:15 AM

Wesley Hill and Grimes Glen - Update
On Sunday, August 8, we will hike in two beautiful locations in the Finger Lakes Region: Wesley Hill Nature Preserve and Grimes Glen. Wesley Hill Nature Preserve is located to the East of Honeoye Lake on Gulick Road (very near the Cumming Nature Center). We will meet at 8:15 A.M. in the parking lot of what was formerly known as Frontier Commons on Jefferson Rd. (This is the shopping center behind Tully's restaurant.) From there we will car pool to Wesley Hill Nature Preserve. In the afternoon, we'll return to our vehicles and take a short drive south to Naples, which is the location of Grimes Glen. There, we will hike along (and occasionally in) the very shallow creek that cuts though the Glen and passes the three magnificent waterfalls that cascade down the shale walls of the Glen. Please note: Be prepared for wet and at times slippery conditions in Grimes Glen.
For further details, contact Dave Harrison at 442-3223.

August 9
Monday
10:00 AM

Daytrippers - Erie Canal / Fairport (Becky)
All paddles are 10:00-12:00. These are leisurely paddles appropriate for canoes and kayaks. We enjoy the camaraderie of the group and the wonderful scenery around us. All are welcome!!! Bring PFD, water, food is always nice, and of course boat and paddles.

Bring: life jacket, water, sunscreen, snacks to share are always good!!! And of course, your boat - if you need one give a call.

Directions: We will meet at the boat launch off Ayrault Rd. Turn on to Aryault Rd from Rt. 31F, cross over the canal. The park entrance is just past that on the left. There is a concrete ramp, or for the brave, a very skinny walk way you can drop into your boat from. The parking lot says "trailers only" but we've never had a problem - especially if we "double up" in the space.
Contact Rebecca Ledwin at 585-943-5979 or

August 15
Sunday
10:15 AM

Black Creek Park - Update
On Sunday, Aug 15th we will be hiking in the Western part of Black Creek Park. We won't use the usual parking area. We will meet at the Parking lot located at the eastern end of Green Rd. We will meet at 10:15 AM and start hiking at 10:30 AM. Bring a lunch.We will hike until approximately 1:30 PM.
Contact Dan Wilson at or 585-352-0196 for additional information.

August 20-22

West Canada Lakes Wilderness Backpack - Update
This backpack will take us to the heart of Genesee Valley ADK's adopted area, the West Canada Lakes Wilderness. On Friday morning, August 20, we'll drive to the Pillsbury Mt./Pillsbury Lake trailhead off Perkins Clearing Road (northwest of Speculator). We'll backpack approximately five miles northwest on mostly level terrain along the historic French Louie Trail to Cedar Ponds, where we'll spend Friday night. On Saturday, we'll backpack about five miles southwest on mostly level terrain along the Northville–Lake Placid Trail to the West Canada Lakes. We'll explore these beautiful lakes, spending Saturday night at South Lake or West Lake. On Sunday, we'll complete the loop by hiking approximately nine miles on mostly level terrain back to our vehicles. This trip is rated as Class B only because of the hiking distance on Sunday.
For more information or to sign up, contact Dave Harrison at (585) 442-3223 or or Bob Krenzer at 334-6146 or .

Recent Trip Reports – More reports from the paddlers and hikers – Click any thumbnail to open a slideshow with additional images.

July 26

Daytrippers on Irondequoit Bay
These Monday's are picture perfect!!! Beautiful summer day to paddle. 21 of us set off into the bay. Since it was such a large group we "naturally" divided into smaller groups as we paddled along. There was a bit of a breeze and some nice waves pushing us, both out and back (why does the wind always change on the return trip??). Mr. Bird and his party of 5 were blessed with a mink (I'm told "up close and personal", ) They also say they saw an eagle, we have to take their word on these!!! (I'm never in the faster group who see the exiting things) A sea plane was practicing landings and seemed pretty close at times but really just stirred up more waves for us. We set out with 21 but at some point met another of our paddlers who put in at another point and joined us - threw my count all off!!! Anyway - a great day for a great paddle with super people.

And Thanks Ellen for inviting us all over for treats after.....that's a nice treat in itself. Next week - Canadice Lake!

Participants: Chuck J, Marty T., Bob J, John H, Jim B, Marilyn K, Laurel B, Susan D, Annette L, Skip L, Doug S, Carole H, Jenny L, Ellen P, Megan M, Jack B, David W, Debbie M, Pat P, Judy G, Peg J.
Trip leaders - Peg Jacobs/Pat Power/Ellen Prill

July 22

Irondequoit Creek from Baycreek
Tonight we did another paddle with our younger members group. Another large group and Baycreek was very accomodating in not only renting boats but working with some folks that were in the buying mood. The weather was a little overcast but it was still a great paddle. We were even treated to a visit by the resident beaver that lives near Baycreek.
Participants: Another large group....18 people.
Trip leader - Charlie Helman

July 18

Canandaigua lake - North end
Today nine of us set out for a paddle from Kershaw Park south into Canandaigua Lake. As we started out we were greeted with strong winds from the northwest. These winds created whitecaps and some tricky paddling for our group. We paddled a few miles south before crossing the lake. After crossing we headed back up to the north towards Squaw Island. We stopped at the island for lunch. After lunch we got into a practice session to practice self and assisted rescues. Everyone that participated enjoyed the exercise and the 80+ degree water temperatures.
Trip leader - Charlie Helman

July 19

Daytrippers at Hemlock Lake - Photos by Peg

   
Photos by Peg

A lovely paddle! 14 of us set out paddling along the shoreline (slight chance of rain). An eagle made a graceful appearance for us!!! The sun came out and it was perfect! A few new paddlers and a few new boats and of course, a few regulars. We took a break on the shoreline after an hour of paddling, drinks and goodies, then paddled back.

As the last car left the parking area at 12:20 it POURED!!!! Someone in our group lives right - we just seem to have the nice weather!!!

Participants: Judith, Neil, John, George, Pat, Marilee, Ruth, Peg, Carol, Cheryl, Laurel, Jenny, Sandra and "the unknown, unreadable" name!!!
Trip leaders - Peg Jacobs/Pat Power

July 15

Thursday evening on the canal by Spencerport

   
Photos by Dan Rammacher – Trip leader - Charlie Helman

This evening we had eight paddlers for a journey along the canal in Spencerport. Usually when we have done this paddle in the past it has always been paddling to the west to begin and then return with the sunset behind us......tonight we reversed the trip and paddled to the east first and then into the sunset on the way back. The weather was excellent and a good time was had by all.....even the mosquitoes! We did have a strange sighting.....Peg in a kayak!!!
Trip leader - Charlie Helman

July 12

Daytrippers at Fairhaven State Park - Photos by Rebecca

   
Photos by Rebecca

The Daytripper Monday paddle group had a fabulous day on Sterling Creek and at Fairhaven State Park. The park is a gem. The calm, warm day with a mild breeze was the perfect start to the week. Several newcomers came to enjoy the paddle. After a leisurely two hour paddle we had a picnic. It was great to share stories and swap ideas. A wonderful day!
Trip leaders - Rebecca Ledwin

July 5

Black Creek - Churchville - Daytrippers Holiday Version - Photos by John Atkins

   

Photos by John Atkins

Today we gathered a very large group of people for a special Holiday weekend Version of the Daytrippers. We had spectacular weather and we paddled from Churchville Park to the entrance of the Bergen Swamp and back again. Great paddle!
Participants: 21 people......way too many to list here
Trip leader - Charlie Helman

June 24

Braddock Bay - Salmon Creek
For our second installment of our joint paddle with the younger members we worked with the people from Braddocks Bay Paddlesports. They provided rental boats and gear for those that needed and the Chris and I led the troops up Salmon Creek. Another great night of paddling!
Participants: 15 participants
Trip leaders - Charlie Helman and Chris Asbury

June 21

Daytrippers on Canadice Lake - Photos by Becky

   

Photos by Becky

For my first paddle of the summer, it was wonderful to enjoy the beautiful day, calm conditions, and connect with fellow paddling friends. 14 of us put in at the Bay Creek site. With experienced paddlers in the front, we ended up splitting into two groups. The group I paddled with was challenged at Ellison Park by shallow water, many downed trees, and rocks. After a short break, we headed back continuing to enjoy the wildlife and gorgeous day. Many swans, ducks, turtles, great blue heron and other birds were sited. Everyone had a good time.
Trip leader - Rebecca Ledwin

June 18-20

Catskill Park Sampler
By Joe Roth

On Friday afternoon Margaret O'Keefe, Eric Oogjen, Shannon Pattison and Joe Roth met at the Bushnell's Basin park and ride to carpool to the Catskills. We caught the start of the camping season and were forced to camp outside the park near Saugerties. No problem, as long as we had hot showers!

The hiking Saturday and Sunday was about the same for distance and elevation: 7.5 miles and 2500 feet respectively. We climbed Thomas Cole, Black Dome and Blackhead one day; Indian Head and Twin the other. Each day's weather was the same: high 80's and humid. We ducked the thunderstorms that cruised by, so it was dry hiking and dry camping. Yippee!

The campground had Wi-Fi, so we could Google the restaurants and brew pubs the area had to offer. The beer was tasty, but the real surprise was the cactus sauce at El Rancho restaurant.

The trip description promised no black flies. Indeed that was the case. But it did not promise no house flies. There were clouds of those critters on all the sunny spots near the tops of the mountains. They were never a problem, but one always wonders with buzzing on summer hikes.

The other "animal" story involved an attack turkey. Here is how Shannon recorded the event:

"It seemed like a harmless day of mountaineering. Up in the peaks of the Catskills, we trudged down a path unaware of the menace lurking ahead with her brood. One of our companion mountaineers wandered from the safety of our small group, and forged ahead on the trail alone. Shortly after she disappeared from sight, we were all startled when she came running back yelling, "A TURKEY'S ATTACKING ME!" For a brief moment, I thought this might be somehow related to our conversation about Geodon the previous evening (a whole other story). A moment later, the terrible meaning of those words were revealed when a fierce ruffed grouse came charging in our direction. With her feathers ruffled and her beak sharp and menacing, she clearly intended to peck our eyes out! It was shear luck when the fowl menace became unnerved by our numbers. She veered off the path and ran along our flank as our shocked looks thwarted her attack. Once again, we had survived yet another day of perilous mountaineering in the magnificent Catskill Mountains. Beware of the menacing ruffed grouse!

Before driving home Sunday we took a cool dip at the Big Deep, a natural swimming hole created by a gravel dam on the Saw Kill near Woodstock. It was a fitting end to a good sampling of what the park had to offer.

June 17

Baycreek Paddlesports - Irondequoit Creek
Tonight we organized a joint paddle between our paddlers and the Younger members. By working with Baycreek we were able to get them to stay open late, provide rental boats and gear for those that needed stuff then they joined up on a paddle up Irondequoit Creek. Great weather and a very....very....large group of paddlers of all levels from beginner to advanced.
Participants: 30 people!......WOW!!!
Trip leader - Charlie Helman

June 12

ADK Outdoor Expo
Collected photos -> http://www.pbase.com/gvc_adk/

Write us at:

Genesee Valley Chapter
Adirondack Mountain Club
P.O. Box 18558
Rochester, NY 14618-0558

Call us at:

GVC Chapter Hotline
(585) 987-1717

Send email to members of the Executive Committee

The Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK) is dedicated to the protection and responsible recreational use of the New York State Forest Preserve, and other parks, wild lands, and waters vital to our members and chapters. The Club, founded in 1922, is a member-directed organization committed to public service and stewardship. ADK employs a balanced approach to outdoor recreation, advocacy, environmental education, and natural resource conservation.

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