Write-up: Paul SirtoliLeader - Paul SirtoliCo-Leader - Dave RockwoodPhoto Credit  - Jim Wasielewski 

I should have realized that trouble could be brewing when 23 tramps in their usual caravan of vehicles parked at the Hinckley State Park entrance where multiple “no public parking” signs were ignored. Even the sign “do not block the gate” was seemingly disregarded by several participants. But I digress. The entourage walked a seasonal gravel road and a snowless snowmobile trail one-plus mile to a scenic picnic/camping site on a sandy escarpment overlooking the reservoir.

Walking on the now relatively dry, frozen flood plain of the reservoir, we traipsed north until we encountered a large inlet creek.  Here we stopped to admire a minor waterfall and have lunch.

Upon our return trip to the escarpment point, the state park was sighted .5-mile further down wide, sandy beach. What was not seen were the three creek channels impeding a direct approach. The group, now divided into adventurers vs. conformists, separated.  Two roads diverged into the wood; the adventurers were in for a big surprise. Mud, snow, steep embankments, flowing water, large, thick ice sheets choking the creeks did not deter this hearty group of aged explorers. 

There was no cry of despair as we struggled along the slippery embankment, with some taking the nearby woods for safer passage around each channel. Sighting a porcupine in a tree provided a brief respite from the challenging journey. Arriving at the backside of the park, there was a collective sigh of relief.  That is, until we walked to the vehicles.  Two DEC law enforcement officers greeted the adventurers.  Arriving before the second group, the conformists threw their leader under the bus, pointing out that he organized the trip, and is responsible for all infractions. Thankfully, the officers were very reasonable, and were duly impressed that that such an aged group hiked 6 + miles.  We (I) were reminded that a permit was needed for a group size of 20 or more.  That said, no severe reprimands or tickets were issued. Our ordeal was christened by Carolyn who delighted our palates with wonderful gluten-free cookies.