Virgil Mountain Loop from Tone Street, Kennedy State Forest
Saturday 07/13/2024 9:00 am
Start time changed to 9AM due to hot weather forecast!
Hike rating:
Pace - Moderate
Terrain - Difficult
Event/Trailhead location:
Tone Street is located just off Route 392 and is two miles east of Greek Peak Ski Resort. Google directions to the trailhead are incorrect. To drive to the correct end of Tone Street use the pin in the map here (click here for directions). The small parking area at the dead end of Tone Street and the trailhead are at the map location here: (click for map).
Hike Leader: Gary Mallow
Contact:
Hike leader contact information will be sent in the email acknowledging that you have registered for this hike.
Hike Details:
Brief Hike Description
This is a 8.1 mile lollipop shaped loop hike rated strenuous due to length and ascent of 1,540 feet
We will hike in Kennedy State Forest, taking us to the Virgil Mountain summit and near Greek Peak, starting at the Tone Road Finger Lakes Trailhead (FLT).
Wear light breathable clothing and sturdy waterproof hiking boots, bring water and a sandwich or a snack for lunch.
Tics, other biting bugs and sun are factors. Bring insect repellant if you use it, sunscreen, and consider long pants and long sleeve shirt to ward off the tics.
If you will have trouble navigating to the trailhead, contact the hike leader at the address above.
Check this space the morning of the hike for any changes or a cancelation.
Detailed Hike Description
The Virgil Mountain Loop features spectacular views from near the top of the highest peak (2132’) in the neighborhood! The trail winds through the eastern section of Kennedy State Forest, passing through upland forests of oak, pine, and maple and across a stream as we near the end of the loop. The terrain is rolling, with a total elevation gain of 1,540 feet. We will pass the top of the Greek Peak ski area and will reach the summit of Virgil Mountain.
Our work begins quickly on a steep uphill pitch for our first mile, leading up to the peak of Virgil Mountain in an open area under a high voltage power line, which offers 180-degree views of the surroundings. We continue on a wide loop that includes a couple of other uphill pitches and a walk along a woods road with no motorized vehicles, following the Main FLT and orange blazes. On our return we reach Virgil Mountain again and will enjoy a brief lunch break at this viewpoint. Our hike continues on the FLT, leading us back to the cars after about a mile, all of it downhill. There will be several muddy areas and at least one creek crossing which might have high water.