We are partnering with Friends of Poke-O-Moonshine for a new kind of trail project this Saturday, February 5 at 9:30 a.m. at Poke-O-Moonshine in Lewis/Chesterfield. 

We will investigate a potential trail route that would go from the Poke-O jeep trail to Trout Pond Road.  David Thomas Train, of the Friends of Poke-O-Moonshine will lead this back-country ski in new snow as we climb up through Lost Oak Valley and then down the long decline to the road.  The distance is about five miles and it is for strong intermediate to advanced back-country skiers.

Here's a quote from David:  "Please emphasize that it's a ski trip for intermediate to higher-level back country skiers.  It would be difficult for novices.  Even though point-to-point distance is only 5 miles, it would be fun to do some side exploring if there are other woods roads." 

We will meet at 9:30 at the jeep-trail trailhead which is on the west side of NYS Route 9 between Lewis and Keeseville, about 1 mile south of the closed Poke-O-Moonshine State Campground.  It is at the bottom of a hill.  Coming from the south, it is about 3.5 miles north of Trout Pond Road on Route 9.

The ending time is uncertain, a guess would be 2:00 but don't hold us to it. 

What to bring:  Back-country skis, lunch, water, hot liquids, and non-cotton clothing in layers.  Snowshoes may be helpful for the initial part of the trip.

Request:  Please let us know you are coming by replying to this email and include your phone number.  Thanks.

Our next trail project will be on Saturday, February 19th.  The project is not yet certain but at this point, it looks like we will hike/ski/snowshoe the existing CATS trail to add trail markers, note where directional signs are needed, clear any fallen trees, and make a list of other improvements they might need.  We hope to see you then. 

♫♫Happy Trails♫♫