Last Tuesday several of the members of the WV hikers (including myself) took advantage of one of the "Lark in the Park" hikes. It was a rare opportunity to do the Dutcher Trail (also known as the "steps" or "ladies" trail) over the private property of the Winnisook Club. The morning started out very cold but the group was enthusiastic. Peter Manning from the Catskill Center organized everyone and gave us a brief overview of the club and then Barbara Redfield, a year-round resident and descendant of some of the earliest club members, shared some fascinating club history. After that we were off on our climb. We stopped briefly for some photos and to take in the different views, but we made good time to the summit. It was very interesting to see the John Burroughs plaque that was installed at the summit in the 1920s on what is known as "Burroughs Ledge". Over the years the trees had risen to block all the views from the top of Slide but in recent months the rangers have been working to open those vistas back up. For me personally it was the first time that I hiked Slide and got a view at the end. After stopping for lunch and a history discussion (with photos provided by the WV hikers leader, Paul Misko), we descended by an alternate route, the Curtis-Ormsby trail. That trail is a little longer than the more heavily used "jeep" trail up to Slide but I think it is a lot more beautiful. All in all, the views from the top were awesome, the trails gorgeous and the company delightful! It was a great day!!
Many thanks to Peter Manning at the Catskill Center for organizing the hike, Barbara Redfield for sharing some great history, and the Winnisook Club for allowing us access to this wonderful gem of a trail!!
Blogmistress Note: The last 2 photos are courtesy of Paul Misko. Thanks Paul!
