Winter v Spring

It had been quite a while since I had been to Ferncliff Forest.  Just like my experience at Windham High Peak a few days ago, I was amazed at how green everything had become and how alive the forest was.  Why not compare some similar photos from January to today?

Windham High Peak

This would be my first Escarpment training run of the year.  With two months to go, I figured it would be about time.

I was amazed at how green everything appeared.  I've always have said Autumn is my favorite season, but Spring is gaining ground.  I love how everything is so full of life.  The trees are a bright lively green.  Chipmunks and squirrels and deer can be heard rustling among the forest.  The birds are chirping enjoying the warmth of the day.

If only I had as much life.  Absolutely beat up from a rough work week, it took quite a bit of effort to get out today.  I made it up to the lean to in 18 minutes and to the summit in 58 minutes.  Not bad with the late start in the heat and humidity.  I tried to run down I had significant pain in my back.  I chose not to make things worse and walked down taking in mother nature's beauty.    

Four-Mile Point Preserve

Another of Scenic Hudson's little gems.  Apparently this is the northern most preserve along the Hudson.  I hope to visit all of them this year.

Four-Mile Point Preserve is located between the towns of Athens and Coxsackie just off Route 385.  The trails here are relatively short.  The total distance may add up to 1/4 of a mile.  The effort to reward ratio is quite low.

From the parking area I first walked out to the marsh.  Wetlands have been under siege for many years in this country, it's nice that some are being protected.  I find the muddy green swamps to be quite beautiful and they are so vital to the ecosystem.

At Four-Mile there is a small bluff that provides views of the Hudson.  It only rises maybe 75 feet, but it feels higher.  Many people were out on their boats, kayaks and jet skis taking advantage of the day's gorgeous weather.

My final destination would be the river itself.  The trails end here with some picnic tables.  The cool Hudson breeze provided some relief from today's humidity.  Unfortunately, the white trash that Greene County has far too much of cannot understand the "Carry Out Your Trash" sign.  Large bags of trash hung to the fences along with quite a bit of debris scattered about the area.  Despite this, the preserve is a welcome spot to enjoy mother nature.  

Harriman Rain Walk

After volunteering for the Northface endurance run, I met up with my friend Caroline and her dog Jackson for a walk in the rain.  The Hudson Valley has been so dry recently, the rain was a welcome sight.

We met up at the Reeves Meadow Visitor Center.  Because of the rain, the center was not open.  Apparently on a typical day, they sell hot dogs and other treats.

I had never been to this part of the park before, so we just did a few out and backs on the trails near by.  Spring is further advanced here than the Catskill region.  Most of the trees were quite green.  The many streams a brooks were raging due to the recent rains.  This time of year makes for an exciting time to go for a walk  in the woods.  The trees are coming to life.  It's a wonderful thing.