Figure 8 Danby State Forest
Saturday 12/21/2024 10:00 am
Hike rating:
Event/Trailhead location:
The junction of Station and Bald Hill Roads in Danby off of Rt. 96B, south of Ithaca College (click here for map). There’s a big curve to the right—that’s where Station Road starts. There’s plenty of space to park on the south side of the curve.
Carpool:
Carpool Meeting Time: December 21, 2024 9:30 am
Carpool Meeting Place:
EMS Parking Lot at 722 S Meadow St. (link for map). Please park in front of the store but at the end of the lot furthest away from the store.
Hike Leader: Allen Quirk
Contact:
Hike leader contact information will be sent in the email acknowledging that you have registered for this hike.
Hike Details:
On this hike we will explore the less visited part of northeastern Danby State Forest. The route forms a figure 8 with hikers having the option of only doing the first loop (3.7 miles), or both loops (5.6 miles).
Starting at the corner of Bald Hill Road and Station Road in Danby State Forest, this hike will combine parts of the Finger Lakes and Abbott Loop Trails with sections of (mostly gravel) road walks.
The trail may be muddy, icy and/or snowy depending on the weather. Wear sturdy, waterproof boots, dress in layers, and bring footwear traction devices (Microspikes, Yaktraks, Stabilicers, etc) to the trailhead. Hiking poles will be very useful on the route. Bring snacks/lunch and water.
We will start our hike at the parking location (corner of Bald Hill Road and Station Road). After walking north 0.7 miles on Bald Hill Road, we turn east on the Finger Lakes Trail and travel 1.4 miles to Diane’s Crossing. There we turn right (west) on the Abbott Loop and hike 1.3 miles to Bald Hill Road, where those who want to may return to their cars 0.3 miles to the north. Intrepid souls choosing the longer option will continue 0.6 miles to Thatcher’s Pinnacles where we’ll take a break before continuing around on the Abbott Loop Trail and reaching Bald Hill Road again a mile later. From there we will turn left (north) and hike 0.6 miles to our cars.
If you have any questions, contact the hike leader at the email address above.
Check this space the morning of the hike for any changes or a cancellation.