Tricky weather conditions, trail etiquette at Henry’s Woods
The weather can’t decide what it wants to do. The ice underneath this new layer of snow is making my microspikes investment worth every penny. We’ve dropped my child off at her lessons and only have a limited amount of time to get out and enjoy the new fallen snow. I don’t mind keeping my own kid waiting a bit. She understands that we need to compromise with our schedules and she can always use any lag time to finish her homework.
Henry’s Woods is a 212-acre lot, easily accessible from the Bear Cub Road. Henry Uihlein was an Olympic supporter and humanitarian who left a lengthy legacy in the form of the Henry Uihlein II and Margaret A. Uihlein Foundation, Heaven Hill Farm, the Cornell University Uihlein Farm and much more. The free, multi-use trails welcome anyone willing to be respectful of trail etiquette. I’ve experienced all sorts of athletes, dogs, and casual walkers on my time on the trail. Most of the time, I’ve only experienced considerate hikers and enjoyed friendly dogs.
I don’t believe that people are really meaning to be rude, but perhaps they don’t understand what trail etiquette means. So I thought perhaps I could help with a few simple tips. I’m not meaning to come off as obnoxious. It’s because I remember being a novice hiker and being grateful that someone helped me learn to be more considerate of my surroundings.
So here just a few guidelines. If you are using snowshoes or Microspikes stay to the side of the trail. Please don’t walk in the ski tracks. If the trail looks to have more than 8 inches of snow, please use snowshoes.
Microspikes won’t help in deep snow. Don’t posthole. It’s not fun for you if you are struggling through the snow and the holes left behind can be dangerous for the next person. Please don’t rest at the bottom of a hill or around a bend. The person coming around the corner can’t always see and both of you may get hurt.
Henry’s Woods is located off Old Military Road in Lake Placid. Turn onto Bear Cub Road and the entrance to the trailhead is an immediate right. The trails abut the Elderwood of Uihlein Lake Placid property. The parking lot is a half circle so it is an easy drive in and drive out situation.
Diane Chase is the author of the “Adirondack Family Activities” guidebook series, “Adirondack Family Time: Your Four-Season Guide to Over 300 Activities.” For more family-friendly activities go to www.adirondackfamilytime.com.