Our Visit to the Western NY RV Show

How true that is!

This past week my wife and I made our annual visit to the Hamburg Fairgrounds for the "Western NY RV Show". I first started going to the event as a teen with my grandparents. who were some of the most avid rv'ers I've ever known.  I owe my love of camping to them and going to the show each January always brings back a flood of fond memories, recalling walking around the arena floor with them as they talked about the pros and cons of each model on display.

Once again this year, there were travel trailers of every shape and size (and budget) to admire, in addition to a good selection of some of the basic necessities you'd need for an improved rv'ing experience.  For anyone interested in buying a "new to me" camper, all of the dealers on site had a wide selection of those to pick from as well. We've been enjoying our 4th such travel trailer for the past several years, a 2007 Dutchman "Freedom Spirit" thanks to the fine folks at https://www.wilkinsrv.com/.

"Skyline RV" (Darien, NY) Used RV Display.  

Of the several tiny campers we saw, for anyone not quite ready to give up on tent camping but, tired of sleeping on the cold wet ground, the "Coachman Clipper Express 9"; https://coachmenrv.com/camping-trailers/clipper/9.0TD/ might be to your liking. It can be towed by even the smallest of cars / suv's while still providing some of the basic essentials.     

Coachman Clipper Express 9

Retro campers are still quite popular.  It wasn't hard for us to imagine ourselves retired and enjoying a few days relaxing at one of our favorite campsites in a "Gulfstream Vintage Cruiser"; https://www.gulfstreamcoach.com/products/light-weight/vintage-cruiser/overview

Culfstream Vintage Cruiser

The Cruiser has a lovely retro themed blue interior as well.

Although most of the campers we toured had the same general layout and interior color scheme (sandstone seems to be the consensus this year), there were a few surprises to be had.  I cannot recall ever seeing twin beds in place of a queen in a camper before, although I'm sure they've probably been an option.  Our guess was this "Mini Winnie" floor plan is geared towards heading out for a few days with your buddy hunting / fishing. It also can be made into one large bed if needed. https://www.usadventurerv.com/product-winnebago-industries-towables/micro-minnie-travel-trailer/2108tb

Well, that's something different.

Of all the travel trailers at the show, our favorite was a 27' "Palomino Puma".  

https://www.optimumrv.com/product/new-2020-palomino-puma-27rlss-1035713-29

We really liked the interior layout, very spacious throughout. It's similar in size to the camper we own now which meets our needs quite nicely.   

Maybe, if we win the lottery in the near future...............

The interior floorplan.

Plenty of room to move around from front to back. 

A good amount of workspace in the kitchen area.

Even the bathroom is fairly spacious. 

In addition to the many campers on display it's always nice to visit every year with some of our local Tourism friends that are campground owners.  Two of our favorites are https://www.triplercamp.com/ which is in the Cattaraugus / Chautauqua region of the State; https://enchantedmountains.com/ and http://dreamlakecampground.com/, located  25 minutes West of Letchworth State Park; https://parks.ny.gov/parks/79/details.aspx.  

Triple R Campground in Franklinville, NY will have a new waterpark for the 2020 season.

 

Patty Daniel Jarnot can't wait for camping season to begin at "Dream Lake"!

All in all, it was an afternoon well spent, sort of like being able to walk around in the Sears Christmas Wish Book, only for "big" kids. Now we can dream of some rv'ing to come once camping season returns in a few months.  Hooray!!

A Beginner's Guide to Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a great way to get out and explore nature in the winter.

Now that we actually have some snow cover on the ground here in Western NY perhaps those of us that got some snow shoes for Christmas can finally try them out, maybe for the first time ever.  Before doing that though, here's a well written article via rei.com with quite a bit of info to help you enjoy the experience.

https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/snowshoeing-first-steps.html?cm_mmc=sm_fb_76501-_-content-_-na-_-ea-_-link-_-traffic&fbclid=IwAR10i4_Ca8T01Yo-ItEyv9YKBI24cRQ0ALZBqgPh480sx-t39ThFKxmiO3U

Okay, so you're read up and have tromped around the yard a few times to master the basics.  Now it's time to head out and explore a little which begs the question; "Where's some good places to enjoy my new winter pastime?"

For starters, here's a few awesome spots locally;

1.) Letchworth State Park - Castile, NY

2.) Genesee County Forest & Park - E. Bethany, NY

3.) Audobon Beaver Meadow Nature Center - Jave Center, NY

4.) Chestnut Ridge Park - Orchard Park, NY

5.) Genesee Valley Greenway Trail - Cuba, NY 

Enjoy!!

Continuing the WNY Winter Hiking Challenge

Last weekend I started the WNY Winter Hiking Challenge with the ambition to complete not just the minimum 6 trails, but all 9 trails (and a bonus hike) in the same day. If you read my previous entry, you already know the outcome of that epic day of hiking.  If you haven't read it yet, you can find it here.

At the start of this day, I have completed 5 of the 9 trails.  My goal is to still complete all of the hikes, but I'll be taking my time today to enjoy the challenge.

Unlike last weekend, the weather today finally feels like winter.  The temps are in the low 30s and an overnight showers have provided a fresh coat of snow on the ground.

Trail #6 of 9 - Zoar Valley Multiple Use Area - Valentine Flats

I love rafting and guiding in Zoar Valley in the spring, but I haven't spent much time here during the winter months.  Of all of the trails in the hiking challenge, this is the one that I spent the most time preparing for.  You should always prepare for any hike of adventure outdoors, but Zoar Valley presents it's own unique challenges if something were to go wrong.

The drive to the parking area wasn't bad but when I turned onto Point Peter Road, I realized I was in for a treat today.

The road was completely covered in snow, no plow marks, no tire tracks, no signs that anyone but me would be on the trail this morning.  Just a fresh coat of snow.  I happily put my truck into 4WD and continued on to the parking area.

The trailhead to the Zoar Valley MUA

In addition to my normal essential items, I've brought a few extra items today.   Extra water, food and supplies, just in case I want to spent a bit longer on the trail.  I've also brought along my new micro spikes.  With the fresh snow, it will be a good test of the spikes which slip on over boots.

I text my wife and let her know that I'm heading out on the trail and will be back in a few hours.  The plan is to text her when get back to the parking so that someone knows where I am and that all is well.

After passing the gate and a short walk down the trail, it's time to make a decision.  Go left and head up to Peter's Point or go right and head down into the gorge.  Today, we will be heading down into the gorge.

The trail down into the gorge is a gentle slope, and as expected there are no other human footprints anywhere to be seen.  I do pass a number of animal tracks.  From what I can see, the fox, rabbits other animals have been busy overnight.

As I head down the trail, there is only one item that bothers me.  The trail markers chosen for this trail are small red circles.  Normally this wouldn't be an issue, but at this time of the year I've noticed that the trail markers blend into the background quite well and are difficult to spot at times. Normally this may not be an issue as you can see a fairly distinct trail from foot traffic, but today, it is just that fresh coat of snow.

When I reached the bottom of the gorge, I realized that I don't see any trail markers anywhere.  There is what appears to be a clean path in front of me, but looking further into the forest, I still don't see the trail markers. If you find yourself in this situation, turn around and follow your footsteps back to the last marker you see.  Then turn back around to the direction you want to go and look again for the next marker.

 In my case, I took several things into account to decide on my next move.

1.  I know where I am in the gorge, and I have my map and compass with me along with my GPS app on my phone which has the coordinates for my way points all preset and saved.

2.  I have two extremely identifiable landmarks in front of me if I keep moving forward (Pyramid Hill and the South Branch of the Cattaraugus Creek).  If I get to the hill, I can use it to pickup the trail again.  If I follow the flow of the South Branch of the Cattaraugus Creek, I will pickup the trail again where the South Branch meets up with the main branch of the river.

3.  I have plenty of supplies and my wife know my expected timeline and planned route.

I continued forward on the "trail" I saw in front of me.  After following it for a bit (based on the number of the animal tracks I see) I'm guessing this is a favorite root for the animals in the area.

After I short walk I come upon Pyramid hill and find my way back onto the foot trail again.  My spikes are working well, the only downside is that I am having to stop and knockoff the buildup of snow, mud and ice that keeps building up on my feet.  On the plus side, traction is not an issue.

I finally reach the challenge target for the trail, the Giant Fluted Cliffs near the confluence of the branches of the river.

Desired destination landmark achieved!

Time to head back to the parking lot.

The climb down wasn't bad, but climbing back up reminds me just how far we descended into the gorge (almost 200 feet).  I take my time climbing back up, but I know that I'm getting close to the time limit that I had given my wife earlier.

Luckily the cell coverage in this part of the trail isn't bad and I'm able to send a message to let her know that I am okay and just enjoying the views.

On the way back up, I run into other people for the first time today.  It's just after noon and a two small groups are starting their hikes for the day.

Trail #6 complete.  I have completed the challenge, but I'm ready to continue on with the remaining hikes.  The plan is still to complete all 9 trails.

Trail #7 of 9 - Franklin Gulf County Park

A short drive from Zoar Valley to North Collins and I'm in the parking lot at Franklin Gulf. Unlike my first hike of the day, I won't be alone on the trails here.  The parking lot is almost full and there is just enough room for me to park.

Franklin Gulf County Park Welcome Sign.

On this hike we are looking for the remains of another cabin.   A direct hike to the remains and back to the parking lot is just over a mile and is a mostly flat hike.  If you wish to do this, head to the left at the trail head and follow the orange trail back into the woods.  

I head to the right and plan to take the long way around to the cabin.   The trails here are muddy and not getting any better. I finally turn around and head down the orange trail in search of the cabin.

There are other hikers on the trails, some with dogs, others with friends and some alone.  Even with all of these people on the trail, it is still quite and the views are amazing.

I'm taking my time this afternoon as this is the last hike I have planned for the day. I wonder along the trail and finally come upon the remains of the Larkin Cabin.  

The Larkin Cabin.

The foundation and chimney are all that are left of what had to have been a great place to get away during it's day. 

Seven trails down, two to go.  

The look of another satisfying day on the trails.

Check back for my next entry where I'll be completing the remaining trails for the challenge.

Hiking Boot Knot Tying "Hack"

ACO Raft Guide Mike Radomski has a great tip to share with everyone who enjoys hiking.  Check it out!  

For more great stuff from Mike, please like his "Outside Chronicles" Facebook page and subscribe to his You Tube channel.

An Epic Day of Hiking - Taking on the WNY Winter Hiking Challenge

Earlier this year I started the trek to complete the Allegany 18 hiking challenge (I will be completing this in the spring), but recently my friend at Outside Chronicles created a winter hiking challenge.  The goal is to complete 6 of 9 local hiking trails.   On each trail you need to locate a challenge marker and take a selfie to show that you were there.

I joined the challenge thinking that it would be fun to just get a few winter hikes in and maybe get a chance to test out my new snowshoes. After reviewing the trail maps, locations and travel time to each hike a new thought came to me.   Is it possible to complete not just the minimum 6 trails, but all 9 trails in a single day.

Total travel time to all of the trails from my home was just over 3 hours.  At this time of year there is about 11 hours of daylight.   It would be tough but I might just be able to pull this off. 

Besides the time and daylight, any number of things could go wrong and I would need all of my extra equipment and preparation to accomplish this.

The weather forecast for the day of my hikes was not winter conditions at all.  I would be hiking in late December in Western New York in 40 degree weather and sunshine.   With the temps and lack of snow, no need to bring the snowshoes.

I spent the day before the hike checking and double-checking my gear and supplies.  Packing my 10 essentials, and then bringing extra clothes, gloves, shoes, and backups of as much stuff as possible.   Each trail is relatively easy to complete but anything can happen so be as prepared as possible.

I also planned to add one additional hike.   I like nice round numbers so the goal for the day is to complete 10 trails.

The day of the hike arrived and I woke up at 6:00 AM to start my day.   The first hike would be the trail o am most familiar with and feel comfortable doing in the dark.

Trail #1 - Lockport Nature Trail

The trail is relatively short and a nice easy beginners hike.   I reached the trail head at 6:30 AM and started up to my objective, a small waterfall that I often hike to when I want to find peace and serenity in the world. I was the only person on the trail and did run into a few deer before reaching the falls. A quick photo and I'm on my way back to the parking lot and on my way to the second trail of the day.

Trail #2 - Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve

The objective here is to locate the Champion Beech Tree.  Based on the map this should be another quick hike.

Reinstein's trails are well maintained and marked and there is a kiosk at the entrance to the park with maps and sign in/out sheets.  Make sure that you check in and check-out on any trails that offer this (even if you have already left your itinerary with others).

It's still early in the day and I'm the only one on the trails when I check in. The trails are a bit muddy but overall wide and easy to follow.   On my way to the marker I stopped to enjoy the views of the pond and the Stone Cottage.

Stone Cottage - Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve.

The beech is a short walk past the pond.  Time for the first challenge photo of the day.  Unfortunately the Champion Beech tree (one of the oldest trees in the area at over 250 years old) was recently declared dead by the preserve.

Photo taken and heading back to the truck for our next hike.   So far we are still on pace to complete the trails by nightfall.

Trail #3 - Knox Farm State Park

Knox Farm State Park takes you through the former estate of the Knox family.  The trails here are mostly grass paths and horse trails. As you walk through the woods take a moment to stop and check-out the lending library in the woods.   It's a great place to sit and enjoy a morning of quiet reading.

The landmark we are looking for here in a a small pond on the outer loop. After walking through a series of horse trails I found the small pond. Picture taken, and on to the next trail.

Trail #4 - Sgt. Mark A. Rademacher Memorial Park/Hunters Creek

The trails at Hunters Creek offer options for horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing. The landmark we are looking for here is the remains of the Kellogg family hunting lodge.

I started down the trails to the right of the trail head and descended down into the gorge.  For the first time today this is starting to feel like a winter hike. The path leading into the gorge is snow covered and icy in many spots. 

Always keep a watchful eye for trail makers.

While the trails are marked there are so many trails criss-crossing through the park that it is easy to get lost or find yourself on the wrong trail. The park does have intersections marked and I found this to be the best way to navigate the trails. I got turned around a few times on the trail but eventually located the cabin ruins (only the foundation and chimney are still visible).

Success!

Four trails down and it is just before noon.   The longest trails are still ahead.

Trail #5 - Erie County Forest - Old Scarbuck Trail

This is one of the easier trails for the day so the plan is to makeup time.   We are looking for "A Bridge Too Far". Stop by the shelter and check the maps.  Cross over the bridge and you can either head left or to the right.   I chose to stay to the right as this is the quickest path to the landmark. The paths on this trail are littered with tree roots so be careful with your foot placement. 

I finally see a bridge on an island off to the side but I see no marking on it saying it is a bridge too far.  However in looking at the topographical map the features appear to match up. The challenge does list GPS coordinates but my phone app is not working here so I cannot verify the coordinates exactly. 

I take a quick picture and head back to the truck.   I'll be meeting up with Mike, the person that created this challenge to do one of the longer trails of the day.

Trail #6 - Sprague Brook Park

For the first time today I pull out my hiking poles. I meet up with a small group at the parking lot and we head up the trails. The trails here are used for hiking, snowmobile riding and mountain biking.

About a mile into the hike I feel my hips starting to tighten up.   I don't want to turn around, but I'm starting to think this may turn into a multiple day adventure. I take a couple ibuprofen and trudge on. I'm moving slower than the rest of the group but still pushing forward. 

Mike passes the time by teaching all of us about tree identification and fauna growing in the park. We finally make it to the uniquely shaped tree and stop for photos before returning to the parking lot.

My hip is starting to feel like that tree looks - old and haggard.

Mike and I talk in the parking lot. I've ruled out completing all nine trails today but perhaps I can still do eternal flame before nightfall. It's just after 3:00 PM so there is still a couple of hours of daylight left. 

While talking I ask Mike about the Bridge too Far marker and what happened to the signs on the bridge. It's at this point I realize I took the picture at the wrong bridge on the trail.

My legs are tired and going back to get the right picture at Erie County Forest and completing another trail before sunset isn't possible so it's decision time....................

Trail #7 - Erie County Forest - Again!!

Always have a backup and double/triple check your coordinates when doing a challenge. I wander back into the woods and go back to the first bridge from earlier in the day.  I return to the trail and continue moving forward.

At this point I come to a wooden plank bridge that crosses over a small ravine.  Unfortunately the far end of the bridge has sink down into the ravine. I walk around to the edge of the ravine and cross to the other side. After a few more minutes of walking I finally spot the Bridge Too Far (complete and intact with signs). 

There it is, "A Bridge Too Far".

Walking back to the truck I realize that my hopes of completing the challenge in one day have been dashed but, there is a positive.   Now I have an excuse to head back out later this week and complete the remaining trails.  To top if off, on the way home I saw this perfect sunset to the end of a great day.

A perfect ending to a great day outside!

Look for my next blog on the completion of this challenge.