September 26, 2020

Seward, Donaldson, and Emmons

Seward
4,361 feet  |  ranked 24/46 in height  |  37th peak climbed 
Donaldson
4,140 feet  |  ranked 33/46 in height  |  30th peak climbed (repeat) 
Emmons
4,040 feet  |  ranked 40/46 in height  |  31st peak climbed (repeat)

Erin let me know a few weeks ago that she'd have this weekend available for hiking in the High Peaks.  Her partner, who is a highly driven newly aspiring 46er, was unable to join her due to work obligations.  Would I like to go?  Ahem.  Of course!  We were both excited about the prospects of a fall hike in the mountains, as most of our previous High Peaks hikes have been solidly in the summer months.  Cooler temperatures with lower humidity?  Yes, please!  Fall colors?  Icing on the scenic cake!  However, we were also very concerned about the parking situation, as COVID restrictions have resulted in records crowds in the region.  I suggested heading to the Seward Range.  I have been in there twice before, when Erin and I hiked Seymour, and a solo outing where I camped on Corey's Road and hiked Donaldson and Emmons in the rain, orphaning Seward. 

September 23, 2020

FLT: Paradise Hill Road to Bamberry Road

I started this Finger Lakes Trail (FLT) hike from Paradise Hill Road, which had been my turnaround point on a snowshoe hike in the area back in January.  I hiked eastward on the FLT, crossing several small roads and streams and completing a short roadwalk before turning around at Bamberry Road, where I could see a small parking area or snowplow turnaround that I planned to use as a starting point on my next hike.  It is very satisfying when one hike includes successful scouting for the next.