Day Hike to Wolf Pond

 

My friend, Jay invited us on hike into the woods for some good food and companionship. The goal was to hike into Wolf Pond off Blue Ridge Road (in Minerva according to Google Maps) and stay for a few hours while John cooked us some burgers and cheese steaks.  We couldn't resist the offer. 


Sunny was in a crazy mood and ready to go! I had to put the leash on his chest hook to avoid being dragged the entire two and a half miles to the lean-to.



The hike was very pretty, indeed. The first two thirds of it were gorgeous pines with very little in the way of brush obstructing our view. The trail was mostly dry with only a few soggy pits along the way. All of the actual crossings had extremely well-maintained bridges for crossing.  There were a few ups and downs to the hike, but nothing really major. The later part of the journey felt a bit close as the brush was more overgrown and thicker.



Jay brought along Zuko who is Sunny's very good friend. In this photo, you can really see the dichotomy of the shoulder season.


The lean-to is in very good shape. So is the thunder box!


This side trail to the East side of camp leads to running water for drinking.



John got busy cooking and the others started gathering a couple of fallen trees.



I helped with the wood.



The food was delicious. We enjoyed a few drinks and conversation by the fire.



With the snow and breeze, I was very glad to have my new Marmot top layer while sitting.



Sunny and Zuko enjoyed each other's company.



Look at him!



The view from the pond shore is actually quite beautiful, featuring Wolf Pond Mountain and Boreas Mountain. I guess Boreas is only accessible via private trails, though I'm not sure whether climbing it is considered poaching or not.



Sadly, we had to vamoose a bit after 3:00 in order to be home at a reasonable time on a Sunday. Sunny and I took point on the way back and I think we still made decent time. It helps that the trail is so well-maintained. I recommend this trail for anyone as a day hike or as a multi-day camping trip. I suspect it's very popular in the summer, though.

It was a lovely time in the woods which absolutely has helped keep me recharged this week.  I'm looking forward to one or two adventures in December.

 







Location: Wolf Pond, NY 12989, USA

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