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  1. MattC

    Africa: 17 year old trip report

    Wow. I especially like the birds pics. I think there are a few species we probably won't be seeing in the NE anytime soon. Matt
  2. MattC

    Team Dom attempts Denali May 21 - June 10th

    Amazing. Here's to a safe, fun trip. Summit success would be the proverbial icing. Matt
  3. MattC

    Avatar Award Nominations

    I think DougPauls alligator should get a few points for being the VFTT mascot. ;) Eggs anyone indeed. Matt
  4. MattC

    Red Fox......help please!

    Not sure what will happen if that was in fact mom. If the kits would in fact benefit from any human help, I imagine it would have to come from a trained wildlife rehabilitator to be of any benefit. Perhaps contact the appropriate local agency (the PA equivalent of DEC, whatever that may be) and...
  5. MattC

    2 catskill questions?

    Also, as for Overlook, I wouldn't worry about the snakes, just the fact that you are aware of their being there indicates that you shouldn't have a problem. Peakbagr is probably correct that the summit itself is the mostly likely spot where they might be seen basking. If they are out, just keep...
  6. MattC

    2 catskill questions?

    Interesting question-if you are talking all in one day, you might be trying to squeeze in a lot. Like Mudhook, I'm assuming when you mention wanting to hike Kaaterskill Clove, you mean Kaaterskill Falls? The Clove itself has a major road through it, although there are places you could pull off...
  7. MattC

    Catskill 2 night backpack ideas

    Great suggestions above, but I'll toss in another just to add to the difficulty of choosing. :D I'm surprised no one has yet mentioned the eastern Devil's Path peaks, all found within the Indian Head Wilderness. You could use the Mink Hollow leanto area as a base camp and hike Plateau and/or...
  8. MattC

    Return to The Catskills -- 5/24-26

    No a "two-fer", but Kaaterskill High Peak is a fun one. Only one peak, but if you're eventually going to climb the 35, you've gotta get up there some time. Nice view from Hurricane Ledge, a little below the summit. From the Palenville side, the trail approach takes you past some good views and...
  9. MattC

    Return to The Catskills -- 5/24-26

    Actually it's Leavitt Peak. ;) Tom suggestions are all great, but I would just add that some off-trail routes can be rough in the Catskills from late spring until the fall die-off. Lots of nettles and thorny stuff in places. Matt
  10. MattC

    The Places In Between

    No, not that book by the guy who walked across Afghanistan, but rather the thread title refers to those various types of open spaces that define the mountains and that provide access, scenic beauty, historical and geological interest, wildlife habitat, water drainage and much more. I'm talking...
  11. MattC

    The carbon footprint of hikers

    I echo Freddy here, at least in regards to my own behavior. My drive limit for a dayhike is about an hour and a half, although I very occasionally make exceptions. I'm lucky enough to live close to some excellent hiking in the Catskills and Shawangunks. If I go to the ADKs, VT, the Whites, etc...
  12. MattC

    The carbon footprint of hikers

    Solitary, no need to feel guilty, but certainly no harm in trying to live thoughtfully. Good thread topic, and there have been some good responses. Matt
  13. MattC

    Cornell and Friday

    I agree and have found hardwoods can pilfer as well, at least the smaller, scrubby stuff. I've had maps pulled from pockets. Burglurizing beech perhaps? Matt
  14. MattC

    Gunks Traverse

    Hey, Fred. The latest news is that as of yesterday afternoon, the fire was pretty much out. They have been in the "mop-up" phase since then. Matt Edit: The fire is contained at this time, not completely out. Weather conditions today are such that they are on standby as they continue mop-up...
  15. MattC

    Backcountry Volunteering

    Thanks Tom. That's actually what got me thinking about this. I did do my first "official" hike lead this past weekend, although I did once lead a small group in the past as a sub for another leader. So, to try to shape the direction of this thread a little more before others start to post, I'll...
  16. MattC

    Backcountry Volunteering

    I'd like to start a discussion about "giving back" as some like to call it. Some of the activities folks engage in include: -trail work -leanto/shelter/privy/bridge construction and maintenance -leading hikes -teaching workshops (orienteering, wilderness first aid, LNT, etc.) -search and rescue...
  17. MattC

    Adirondack Bear Vault® alert

    As I've said before, I wouldn't be at all surprised to see the bears panhandling at Marcy Dam. And having success. No pockets, but maybe a change purse held in the mouth would do. Matt
  18. MattC

    mid-Hudson River water quality

    I have a friend with a sailboat who sails the Hudson, starting from the Rondout Creek in Kingston. He, and I and many others have often taken a dip off the boat with no ill effects. This will often be while anchored in the area around Port Ewen. I will keep in mind Trudy's comments about the...
  19. MattC

    Trail Work

    Pretty exhaustive list of opportunities there. Just one more I could think of, for NY's Mid-Hudson Valley south into Jersey: http://www.nynjtc.org/committees/trailscouncil/crews/index.html Matt
  20. MattC

    Una_dogger's Almanac: Summer 2008 Weather Predictions

    That's great. Enjoy! Matt
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