A collection of events that celebrate and commemorate the Catskill Park on its 106th birthday. Co-sponsored by the Catskill Mountain Club and the Catskill Center for Conservation and Development.

Saturday, OCTOBER 2 - Apple Tree Pruning & Cider Making Workshop - 9AM-12PM

Celebrate fall with the Catskill Forest Association! Properly pruned fruit trees grow vigorously, efficiently allocating the sun’s energy to making delicious and abundant fruit. The first half will cover pruning while the other will teach how to make your own cider. $10 CFA members/$15 non-members. To pre-register or for more information call CFA at (845) 586-3054. Event will take place at the CFA office in Arkville.

Directions: CFA is located on State Route 28 west of Fleischmanns and one mile east of Margaretville opposite the Delware and Ulster Rail Ride.

Saturday, OCTOBER 2 - Hike to Mt Tremper Fire Tower - 9AM

Join Forest Ranger Ellenbogen along a hike up Mount Tremper. The old woods road trail leads past an old quarry, a spring and two lean-to’s. The trail reaches the summit at 2740 feet which has a restored fire tower offering spectacular views of the Catskills. Remember to wear proper footwear (hiking boots), bring water/food and be prepared for changing weather conditions (the summit is often cooler and windier). Remember to ask about fire tower volunteer oppurtunities; 5.5-miles, Moderate-Difficult; approximately 4-5 hours; no dogs please; Pre-registration is required by 10/1;

Saturday, OCTOBER 2 - Fall Foliage Volunteer Trail Building Event - 9AM

The Huyck Preserve and Biological Resesarch Station is in the midst of building a new six mile trail through the northern 1,200 acres of the Preserve. When completed it will effectively double the total trail mileage available and link up to the Long Trail, a New York State Primary Trail in Partridge Run. The Huyck Preserve is a nationally renowned biological field station where we work to "Connect people to nature through research, education, recreation and conservation." Come out and spend the morning exploring and helping to create this new trail at near peak color in the forest. Free BBQ lunch to follow, please bring a side dish or dessert to share. Bring closed toe shoes, long pant, a water bottle and work gloves. 3-4 miles; 3 hours;

Saturday, OCTOBER 2 - Kaaterskill Rail Trail Hike from MTHS to Laurel House Rd - 9AM

In fitting with the Town of Hunter’s Preserve America Community designation, the GCSWCD Watershed Assistance Program, the Town of Hunter, and MTHS are working on opening the old Ulster and Delaware Rail Road as a public trail from the Mountain Top Historical Society property to Laurel House Road for recreational, historic and cultural purposes. This walk will orient visitors to the route presently planned to access the railroad bed from an old town road, Featherbed Lane. Excursions off the railroad trail to two scenic vistas, Sphinx Rock and the top of Kaaterskill Falls will treat visitors to the geologic wonders of the clove through the commentary of Dr. Robert Titus, The Catskill Geologist" and Bob Gildersleeve of the MTHS. 2.5-miles, Easy-Moderate; approximately 4 hours, bring a lunch; leashed dogs permitted; Pre-registration is required by 9/30;

Saturday, OCTOBER 2 - Loop Hike over Indian Head Mountain - 10AM

Join David & Carol White, authors of "Catskill Day Hikes for All Seasons" on this loop-hike in the northern Catskills. Hike over 3,573-foot Indian Head Mt. and enjoy many spectacular views, interesting terrain and forest. Approximately 6 hours; 7 miles; Difficult; No dogs please; Please bring a lunch and plenty of water; Pre-registration is required by Friday, Oct. 1.

Saturday, OCTOBER 2 - Red Hill Fire Tower Hike - 10AM

Come hike with Aaron Bennett (Catskill Mountainkeeper) and Alan White (The Catskill Center for Conservation and Developent) to this beautiful, secluded Catskill Mountain fire tower. The 60' Red Hill Fire Tower was the last one staffed in the Catskill Mountains (de-commissioned in 1991). Rather than tearing it down, the NYSDEC put its future in the hands of dedicated volutneers who were able to restore and re-open it for the public's enjoyment in 2000. The old observer's cabin at the summit has been turned into a museum that honors all of the observers that once watched over the soutern Catskill Mountains - which we will visit. Throughout the hike, Aaron and Alan will talk about the land use history of the area, the current threats to the forest and region, and much more. From atop the tower, we will also point out the various mountains and valleys from this elevated position offering a 360-degree view. Participants should bring a lunch and plenty of water; Good hiking boots a must; 2.5-miles, Moderate; approximately 4 hours; dogs are permitted; Pre-registration is required by 9/30.

Saturday, OCTOBER 2 - Woodland Valley History Hike - 10:30AM

Join the Catskill 4000 Club on a hike to a great view near the head of Woodland Valley. Along the way, get an ear full of local history and stories about the bark peelers, John Burroughs, and others. I'll even throw in some tips on hiking and survival. Bring rainjacket, sweater, flashlight, and lighter, lunch and drinks. NO DOGS Please. Cold/Windy or showers postpones hike to Sunday. This is a moderate/ difficult hike of about 4 miles, and 5 hours, with some uneven rocky places. Group size limited, so you must register by Friday, Oct. 1st, by 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, OCTOBER 2 - Pine Hill Folk Festival - 11AM - 11PM

Join the Pine Hill Community Center for this terrific event! Schedule is as follows: 11:00am-12:30: World Music of the Catskills - Performance / Workshop w/Celtic (Deborah Osherow & T. G. Vanini), Native American (Evan Pritchard), & Jewish music (Richie Chiger); 12:30-1:30: Storytelling w/ Story Laurie, Craig Apolito, others TBA; 2:00-4:00pm: Folksongs of the Catskills w/ Pat Lamana. ALL ARE WELCOME TO PARTICIPATE; 4:00-6:00: Afternoon Concert: James Krueger, Elly Wininger, Whitman and Pantell; All Day Around The Center: Locally made food, artists & artisans, demonstrations, workshops, Children’s Activities; 7:30-8:15: Mike & Ruthy; 8:30-9:30: Saturday Night Bluegrass Band; 9:30-11:00: Contra Dance w/ live band & caller (Instruction) with Rosie Newton, Stephanie Jenkins & Ed Lowman $15/day, $10 evening concert and contra dance. Discounts for children and seniors.

Saturday & Sunday OCTOBER 2nd & 3rd - Tours of Woodchuck Lodge - 11AM-3PM

Tour naturalist John Burroughs' rustic farmhouse where he spent the last ten summers of his life, 1910-20. Burroughs Memorial Field (Boyhood Rock and Burial Site) is a short walk up the road from the Lodge. Picnic tables available. Bring a lunch; dogs permitted; Tours last no more than one hour; FREE;

Sunday, OCTOBER 3 - Hunter Mtn Fire Tower via the Spruceton Road - 9AM

At 4040 feet, the Hunter Mountain Fire Tower is located at the highest point of any fire tower in New York State. The views are dramatic and the hike is an enjoyable journey. We'll meet at the trailhead on Spruceton Road at 9 AM, and head up the 3.5 mile hike to the fire tower (1950' elevation gain). A volunteer with the Catskill Fire Tower Project will have the cab open at the top so we can enjoy views from inside the fire tower. The 7-mile round trip will take most of the day so pack lunches; Difficult; No dogs please. Pre-registration is required by October 2 at 4pm.

Sunday, OCTOBER 3 - "Hike and Write", Giant Ledges - 10AM

On this moderate hike we'll stop three or four times to do writing exercises and share our work. Suggested for poets, journal keepers, anyone who finds inspiration in nature. We'll meet at 10 am at the Giant Ledge parking area, have lunch at the Ledges, and return. Bring a notebook and pen, plus a favorite poem or excerpt of nature writing to share aloud with the group. 4 miles (approx. 4 hours); Moderate; no dogs please;

Sunday, OCTOBER 3 - Hike from Big Pond to Alder Lake - 10:30AM

Join Laura Battelani, Board member of the CMC, for a pleasurable hike along the Touch Me Not trail from Big Pond to Alder Lake and participate in some minor trail maintenance. This is a moderate hike of about 5.8 miles round trip. It is advised not to wear shorts as the blackberries are in profusion. Bring lunch for Alder Lake and plenty of water, gloves and clippers. 5.8-miles / 5 hours; Moderate; for their safety, dogs are NOT permitted;

Sunday, OCTOBER 3 - "Siuslaw Model Forest Ramble" at the Agroforestry Resource Center - 2PM

Explore a variety of habitats including streams, ponds, meadows, and various types of woodlands that encompass the Siuslaw Model Forest. There will be interesting demonstrations to see, including an American Chestnut nursery, and tree identification information. You will also learn about different trail features that prevent erosion and help preserve water quality. All this with the breathtaking Northern Catskills in view. 1 mile (approx. 2 hours); Moderate; no dogs please; Pre-registration required by 9/30.

Monday, OCTOBER 4 - First Growth Hemlock Forest Exploration - 9AM

If you've ever been curious about what constitutes a first growth forest in the Catskills, here's your chance. Join Catskill forest historian Mike Kudish and Roger Wall of the Catskill Heritage Alliance for a bushwhack into what may be one of the oldest hemlock stands in the Catskills. We'll follow the Giant Ledge trail to the Giant Ledge/Woodland Valley fork. From there we'll bushwhack south up the summit of 3,040-foot "Bazzania Bump." On this first-growth knob we'll assist Dr. Kudish in a careful dating of the trees. This is a exploratory off-trail natural history hike for experienced walkers. No dogs please. Bring food, water, and appropriate layers of clothing. Steady rain at the beginning of the day cancels.

Monday, OCTOBER 4 - Step Trail Up Slide - 9AM

Hike a trail with some history up the highest mountain in the Catskill Park. The Step Trail has some views not available on the "main" trail up Slide. The hike is less than 6 miles and is about the same difficulty as the more well-known trail. Rain may cancel. Well-behaved dogs ARE allowed.

Monday, OCTOBER 4 - Outdoor Skills Hike - 11AM

If you're fairly new to hiking, join the Catskill 4000 Club on a hike to a great viewpoint in Woodland Valley. Topics covered will include: What gear to take on a hike, smart hike planning and leading, what to do if you get lost, and finding shelter and water. Some local history will be shared in between. This is a moderate/ difficult hike with some rocky/ uneven areas, and is about 3 miles and 5 hours long. Bring rainjacket, sweater, flashlight, lighter, lunch and drinks. NO DOGS Please. Group size is limited so you must register by Sunday, October 3rd, by 8:00 p.m. Cold/ windy or showers cancels or postpones.

Tuesday, OCTOBER 5 - Frick and Hodge Ponds - 9AM

Hike some of the most beautiful terrain in the Catskills which is not on a mountain. Hike will use the Quick Lake Trail passed Frick Pond and then the Flynn Trail around Hodge and back to the car. Who can resist Iron Wheel and Junkyard Junction? Distance in 6.5 miles. Rain may cancel. Well-behaved dogs ARE allowed.

Tuesday, OCTOBER 5 - Winnisook Ramble - 9:30AM

Join Barbara Redfield of the Winnisook Club and Peter Manning of the Catskill Center for a morning jaunt to learn about some of the club’s history and current stewardship activities. We will visit weather research sites that are providing scientific data for studies on climate change and acid rain; and we will hike through a virgin stand of balsam fir and enjoy views from the cliffs above the lake. Returning to the lodge, we will have a picnic lunch. 3 miles; Approximately 3 hours; Moderate level of difficulty; please bring a lunch; no dogs please;

Tuesday, OCTOBER 5 - Strutting with Strollers at the Ashokan Reservoir - 4PM

Join Catskill Mountainkeeper Regional Director Aaron Bennett, and his sons Hudson and Samuel (and their stroller) on a 2 mile walk along the Ashokan Reservoir. Enjoy the onset of fall colors that surround this massive reservoir while learning about when and why it was built, as well as the names of the surrounding mountains, and much, much more. With any luck the bald eagles that inhabit this reservoir will be nearby - bring your binoculars! This walk is publicly accessible, no DEP permit needed. Bring snacks and water; 2-miles; Easy; Dress warm as it is usually quite windy;

Wednesday, OCTOBER 6 - Trout and Mud Ponds - 9AM

Hike to Russell Brook Falls and two secluded ponds in a nice 5 mile loop. Find out the options that exist for camping and longer hikes when you return to this beautiful area. Rain may cancel. Well-behaved dogs ARE allowed. Well-behaved dogs ARE allowed.

Wednesday, OCTOBER 6 - Catskill Mountainkeeper End-to-End Hike on West Kill - 10AM

Join Wes Gillingham (Program Director) and Aaron Bennett (Regional Director) of Catskill Mountainkeeper as we ascend West Kill Mtn, the sixth highest Catskill peak (3,880'). To recognize this, the 106th anniversary of the Catskill Park, we will climb this massive Greene County mountain by traversing a portion of the rugged Devil's Path Trail. In addition to seeing gorgeous Diamond Notch Falls, Wes and Aaron will talk about the Catskill Park and Forest Preserve, the land use history of the area, the interesting geology we'll see, potential threats to the region, and of course point out the surrounding mountains and valleys from the terrific viewpoints just below the summit. Participants should bring a lunch, snacks, and plenty of water; Good hiking boots a must; 8-miles, Difficult; approximately 6-7 hours; dogs are permitted; We will spot cars at one trailhead and depart from another.

Thursday, OCTOBER 7 - Vly and Tunis Ponds - 9AM

Hike to two small and very secluded ponds on this 5.5 mile out and back hike. Pass by a remote area of the Beaverkill on the way to Tunis Pond. Some off-trail hiking and bushwhacking required. Rain may cancel. Well-behaved dogs ARE allowed.

Thursday, OCTOBER 7 - Hike "Section 2" of the Dry Brook Ridge Trail - 9:30AM

Learn what it takes to maintain a trail in the Catskills from CMC Board member Laura Battelani. Laura is also an active member of the NY/NJTC and trail volunteer since 2002. Many trails available for adoption. Bring lunch, water and gloves and clippers if you like. Approx 5.80 miles. Moderate/difficult level; for their safety, dogs are NOT permitted; Pre-registration is required.

Thursday, OCTOBER 7 - Paddle the CANNONSVILLE RESERVOIR! - 10:30AM

PLEASE NOTE: THIS HAS EVENT HAS BEEN RE-SCHEDULED TO ITS ORIGINAL LOCATION - A PADDLE ON THE CANNONSVILLE RESERVOIR, BECAUSE OF THE IMPROVED WATER LEVEL.

Join Catskill Mountain Club board members Ann Roberti and Jack "Tailgate" McShane, and members of the Andes Hikers "paddling group" on a canoe and kayak paddle on the tranquil and picteresque Cannonsville Reservoir. This is a gentle paddle of 3 to 4 hours round trip; Easy-Moderate; please bring a lunch; no dogs; Pre-registration is required. For detailed information on the Cannonsville Reservoir Boating Program, visit www.nyc.gov/html/dep/html/watershed_protection/cannonsville_boating_program.shtml.

Thursday, OCTOBER 7 - "Outdoor Recreation in the Catskill Park" - 6-8PM

Talk and Presentation by NYSDEC Region 3 Director Willie Janeway and author Marty Podskoch!

The Catskill Center and the Catskill Mountain Club invite you to attend a presentation on outdoor recreation opportunities in the Catskills.
The Lark in the Park, created in 2004 to mark the 100th anniversary of the Catskill Park, is a ten-day celebration held each fall and marked by range of outdoor events in and around the Park. Willie Janeway, Regional Director of NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, will cover the history of the Catskill Park, DEC’s role in the Lark in the Park, and discuss the connections between the Park’s recreational resources and the regional economy.

Marty Podskoch is the author of Fire Towers of the Catskills: Their History and Lore, among other books. He will present a slideshow on the region’s fire towers and talk about the tremendous views, wonderful hikes, and many stories connected to the fire towers. Marty will be available to sign his books after the program.

Each of the lectures will be followed by questions and answers and group discussion. The event will take place from 6-8PM on Thursday October 7th at the Catskill Center in Arkville. Refreshments will be provided.

Friday, OCTOBER 8 - Neversink Unique Area - 9AM

Hike one of the newest sets of trails maintained by the NYNJ Trail Conference. The hike will be not less than 5 miles with options for up to 10 miles depending on what the group would like to do. There are several waterfalls and views of the Neversink Gorge along the way. Trails are relatively flat except when approaching the river. Rain may cancel. Well-behaved dogs ARE allowed.

Friday, OCTOBER 8 - Dry Brook Ridge Hike - 10AM

We will hike the Dry Brook Ridge/Pakatakan Mountain in Margaretville. This trail mixes somewhat steep sections with somewhat flat sections. We will hike 2.6 miles until we intersect the German Hollow trail, which we will then take for .75 miles to the German Hollow Lean-to. This Lean-to was smashed by a number of trees last winter, and we will take a look at result. 6.8 miles; 5 hours; Moderate; bring a lunch; dogs are permitted;

Saturday & Sunday OCTOBER 9th & 10th - "Taste of the Catskills - Food, Wine, and Beer Festival"

This family-friendly event that will showcase the food, beer, and wine of our region. With a variety of vendors including farmers, value-added food producers, and restaurants, attendees will learn how food travels from farm to fork during the fun-filled autumn weekend on the grounds of Maple Shade Farm, a family-run farm in Delhi. The area’s most talented musicians will provide entertainment all weekend. Saturday’s events will culminate with a gourmet dinner prepared entirely from local ingredients, paired with local beer and wine. Following dinner, a bonfire and barn dance will keep your feet tapping.Sunday will feature the area’s first Bocce Tournament as well as a Pig Roast featuring Maple Shade’s prize-winning Berkshire Pigs. There will be lots of kid’s activities including Maple Shade’s Little Farmer Day on Saturday, and children will be able to meet the Dairy Princess and enjoy the 4-H fair. On both days children can visit the pick-a-pumpkin patch, navigate the corn maze, and pet farm animals. There will be live children’s music each day at noon.

Saturday & Sunday OCTOBER 9th & 10th - "Plattepalooza 2010"

Countdown-to-Winter-Celebration at Ski Plattekill where there will be fun for the whole family! Ski/Bike Swap Sale, Live Music, Bike Races, and more. Ski & Bike Swap Sale (15% of proceeds benefit our volunteer Ski Patrol) - Bring up all your old mountain bikes, skis, the snowboards your kids outgrew and come shopping yourself! Live Music all weekend long! Fall-foliage Sky Rides (FREE for everyone who buys a season pass!) HUGE outdoor bbq & mouth-watering season beverages! Face painting, bounce house, skicrow contest, scavenger hunt and MORE!

Saturday, OCTOBER 9 - Fall Foliage on Slide Mountain - 9AM

Join Frost Valley Natural Resources Coordinator Reid Bauer on a moderate climb to the top of the highest peak in the Catskills. Along the way, we'll take breaks to review the natural and cultural history of the mountain. Participants should wear hiking boots and bring rain gear, water, lunch, and a camera. This hike involves a steady climb of 2,000 feet over uneven, rocky terrain. Moderate-Difficult; 6 miles (approximately 5-6 hours); Dogs permitted; Please bring a lunch;

Saturday, OCTOBER 9 - Table Mtn and the East Branch of the Neversink River - 9AM

A moderately strenuous hike of about 8 miles round trip from the Denning Parking Area trailhead to the top of Table Mountain. We will cross the East Branch on two large bridges put in by the DEC three years ago and climb to the top of 3,847 foot Table Mountain. There is a good viewpoint at the top and along the way. This is an out and back trip. Moderate-Difficult; 8 miles (approximately 6 hours); Dogs permitted; Please bring a lunch;

Saturday, OCTOBER 9 - Overlook Mountain Fire Tower Hike - 9:30AM

Join Overlook Fire Tower volunteer Dawn Hamilton on a guided hike up Overlook Mountain to the fire tower for the annual "Lark in the Park". The hike will take up to 11/2 to 2 hours. The trail is an old carriage road that takes you past the ruins of the Overlook Hotel and on to the fire tower. Once on top, the hikers will have access to the fire tower, exhibit cabin and "Views for all Seasons". Hikers should wear good hiking shoes and bring a lunch and water. The trail is 2.5 miles long and rises 1400'. It is considered a moderately strenuous hike, the first half being the more difficult.

In case of foul weather, the hike will be cancelled. Check www.weather.comand use zip code 12498 (Woodstock, NY) for the weekend forecast.Any interested hikers should meet her at the Overlook Mountain trailhead parking lot - Meads Mountain Road, Woodstock NY, at 9:30 AM.

Saturday, OCTOBER 9 - Wittenberg History Hike - 9:30AM

Join the Catskill 4000 Club on a hike to the summit of the Wittenberg. This mountain is rich with stories; some funny, some serious, and some mildly disturbing. You'll hear most of it as we climb up to one of the best views in the Catskills. This is a long and very difficult hike of about 8 miles, and takes about 8 hours. This trail has some very rocky and steep places with some minor rock climbing. NO DOGS PLEASE. Bring rainjacket, sweater, flashlight, lighter, and Lunch, energy snacks and at least 2 quarts of drinks. Group size is limited, so you must register by Friday, October 8th, by 8:00 p.m. Cold/ windy or showers postpones hike.

Saturday, OCTOBER 9 - Traverse over Windham High Peak and Burnt Knob - 10AM

Join David & Carol White, authors of "Catskill Day Hikes for All Seasons" on this loop-hike in the northern Catskills. Hike the northern Catskill Escarpment from Black Dome Valley over Burnt Knob and 3,573-foot Windham High Peak. We'll spot some cars at a different trailhead. Approximately 6 hours; 7 miles; Difficult; No dogs please; Please bring a lunch and plenty of water; Pre-registration is required, and essential by Friday, Oct. 8 (as they will be leading other Lark hikes during Columbus Day weekend and unable to respond to messages after that date).

Saturday, OCTOBER 9 - Huckleberry Point - 10:30am

Join Mark King of the Nature Conservancy and Alan White of the Catskill Center on a hike to Huckleberry Point. Just as the leaves turn in the northern Catskill Park, this moderate trek will lead to the magical Platte Clove up onto the lower flanks of Kaaterskill High peak and then out to a rocky promontory with terrific views of the Hudson Valley, Platte Clove, and the Indian Head Range. 5-mile roundtrip; mostly gradual ascents; Moderate; bring a lunch;

Saturday, OCTOBER 9 - Ride the Rails and the Trails! (Train and Bicycle Ride)- 10:45AM

Back by popular demand, you are once again invited to partake in a "multi-modal" excursion of the Delaware and Ulster Railroad and Catskill Scenic Trail. Beginning in Arkville, we will board the historic rail-ride with our bicycles and set out for Roxbury. At Roxbury Station, we will pause for lunch in historic Kirkside Park and then begin our cycle on the newest section of the Catskill Scenic Trail, taking the trail to the headwaters of the East Branch of the Delaware near Grand Gorge. Returning to Roxbury for a 3PM departure, we will sit back and enjoy the scenic return trip. "Mountain" or "hybrid" bicycles and helmets required. Bike rental options include Arkville-Bikeville in Arkville (845-586-5637) or Catskill Outback Adventures in Big Indian (845-254-9888). (Please rent bicycles and purchase tickets early - we must be ready to depart at 10:45 AM). Please bring lunch. Train ride is $12; Bicycle and helmet rental, as applicable; Mileage is 20 on train, 10 on bicycle - approximately 5 hours; Moderate level of difficulty;

Sunday, OCTOBER 10 - Bike Ride and BBQ at Lippman Park - 9:30AM

Join the Renegades Mountain Bike Club for an intermediate/advanced ride lasting approximately 3 hours in Lippman Park, in the Town of Wawarsing (Ulster County). The ride is not terribly technical but expect quite a bit of elevation change. If enough people sign up and there is interest in doing a shorter easier ride we can accommodate that as well. Following the ride, the Renegade Bike Club will be hosting a FREE BBQ for those that sign up.

Sunday, OCTOBER 10 - Ashokan High Point Autumn Hike - 10AM - 4PM

Enjoy a hike on Freeman Avery road along Kanape brook and up to Ashokan High Point in October when the blueberry bushes turn deep red. There will be views of the Shawangunk Ridge to the South and the Southern Catskills including the Burroughs Range to the North. This is a moderately paced 8 mile trail hike, total elevation gain 2,200 feet, maximum elevation 3,080 feet. For the more adventurous there will be an optional short bushwack through Wagon Wheel Gap to Little High Point. Participants should wear clothing and footwear appropriate to the season and to rough trails. Please bring adequate water and a lunch. Well behaved dogs are welcome. Approximately 5 hours; 8.1 miles; Moderate-Difficult; dogs permitted; Bring a lunch;

Sunday, OCTOBER 10 - Hike to Palenville Overlook for Great views and Old Quarries - 10AM

Join David & Carol White, authors of "Catskill Day Hikes for All Seasons" on this loop-hike in the northern Catskills. Visit a lesser-known destination on the escarpment below North-South Lakes Public Campground. The hike is a nice loop from the Catskill Mountain House site near South Lake, up past Boulder Rock, along the Escarpment Trail to a horse trail that descends to a very interesting place on the escarpment with great views. Approximately 5 hours; 5 miles; Moderate-Difficult; No dogs please; Please bring a lunch and plenty of water; Parking fee into North-South Lake Public Campground. Pre-registration is required, and essential by Friday, Oct. 8 (as they will be leading other Lark hikes during Columbus Day weekend and unable to respond to messages after that date).

Sunday, OCTOBER 10 - Neversink Headwaters Stream Tracking - 10AM - 4PM

On this Neversink "Stream Tracking" Hike, Mark Vian, Restoration Ecologist with NYC DEP Stream Management Program, will apply the principles of animal tracking to understanding the role of streams in the Catskill regional landscape evolution and ecology, using the river's headwaters as a case study. Discussion will focus on numerous stops to illustrate the interplay of hydrology, geology, ecology and the physical "signs" of these. Participants will receive some printed materials, so advance registration is required. Rain or shine; waterproof hiking boots or waders recommended. Approximately 6 hours; 3.3 miles; Moderate-Difficult; No dogs please; Bring a lunch;

Sunday, OCTOBER 10 - Children's Hike & Scavenger Hunt (10-11:30AM); Tan Bark Trail Hike and Artist Day (12PM)

From 10-11:30AM, bring your family to a children’s hike and scavenger hunt to the "gnome forest" and gnome house building with Mary Garraffa . Meet at the trailhead before 10am. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

12PM - Hike the historic 2-mile loop with two stunning viewpoints. We will stop for lunch along one of the viewpoints- please bring your own food/snacks and water. Scavenger Hunt handouts available for kids to do along trail. While the hike is a relatively short distance, there are some steep and rocky sections typical of the Catskills. Please wear appropriate footwear. There will also be several local artists on the trail creating artwork inspired by the trail. Observe and interact with them in their natural habitat! Moderate; dogs permitted.

Monday, OCTOBER 11 - Long Pond to Mongaup and Back - 9AM

Hike from Long Pond to Mongaup Pond and back in a 10-mile loop. Very challenging due to distance. Elevation gain is not too dramatic at any one time. If this loop scares too many people away, shorter routes in the same area are available. Rain may cancel. Well-behaved dogs ARE allowed.

Monday, OCTOBER 11 - Balsam Lake Mountain Fire Tower - 9:30AM

A moderately paced trail hike to one of the Catskill Mountains restored fire towers with members of the current volunteer crew. The hike will include historical information, a scavenger hunt and numerous points of interest from the fire tower if the views allow. The mountain is also one of the Catskill high peaks and the site of the first fire tower in New York State. Approximately 5 hours; 6.5 miles; Moderate-Difficult; Dogs permitted; Please bring a lunch and plenty of water; Pre-registration is required by October 7.

Monday, OCTOBER 11 - Escarpment loop over Acra Point - 10AM

Join David & Carol White, authors of "Catskill Day Hikes for All Seasons" on this loop-hike in the northern Catskills. This section of the Northern Escarpment is a less-visited, lovely ramble with several viewpoints and we'll visit the Batavia Kill Lean-to where the Batavia Kill originates and enjoy its cascades on the descent. Approximately 4 hours; 5.1 miles; Moderate at a relaxed pace; No dogs please; Please bring a lunch and plenty of water; Pre-registration is required, and essential by Friday, Oct. 8 (as they will be leading other Lark hikes during Columbus Day weekend and unable to respond to messages after that date).