The Gansett Gazette

October-November
2012

From the Chair

Our Chapter's Annual Dinner Meeting is a wonderful time to recognize and celebrate our amazing Chapter Volunteers, to vote on the slate of incoming Executive Committee members, and to hear about a great outdoors adventure. This year's Annual Meeting will be held on Saturday, November 10th from 5:30 to 9 pm at the beautiful Save the Bay facility in Providence. This year's program will be by Andrew Skurka, a World class hiker who will give a slide presentation on his Alaska-Yukon Expedition. We will also be presenting our Chapter's most prestigious awards as well as celebrating those service volunteers who have given so much through activity leading, trail work, and special projects. Please join us on November 10th for a very festive evening. See the registration form for more information.

See you outdoors,
Bonnie England

Cardigan Lodge Fall Harvest Festival
October 19-21

This highly acclaimed event is back by popular demand. We will spend two days and two nights at the AMC’s beautiful Cardigan Lodge at the foot of Cardigan Mountain. A wide variety of physical and social activities are planned providing something for everyone - including the return of Saturday night Contra Dancing! Families, couples, and singles of all ability levels are welcome. Details listed in trips.

Narragansett Chapter AMC
Leadership Roster

Chapter Chair-Bonnie England
Chapter Vice-Chair-Debbie Mitchell
Secretary-Matt Putnam
Treasurer-Tom Eagan
Membership Chair-Robin Kuznitz
Activities Chair-Chris Shafer
Communications Chair-Volunteer needed
Conservation Chair-Linda Pease
Leadership Chair-Ed Poyer
Trails Chair-Dav Cranmer
Backpacking & Northern Hikes Subchair-Ed Poyer
Biking Subchair-Marcie Madsen
Local Hikes Subchair-Carol Baldwin
Technical Climbing Co-Subchairs- Peter Barlow
and Brian Phillips
Flatwater Paddling Subchair-Linda Pease
Sea Kayaking Subchair-Michael Krabach
Skiing Subchair-Sue Rollins
Young Members Subchair-Scott Disnard
Family Outings Subchair-Debbie Mitchell
Webmaster/Photographer-Mike Krabach
Publicist-Shannon Kelley
Archivist-Volunteer needed.

Chapter Annual Meeting
November 10, 2012

This year's annual meeting will be held at the Save the Bay campus in Providence (see registration form). Non-members are welcome. Below is the slate of candidates for the Chapter's 2012/2013 Executive Committee and subchair members. Communications and Family Outings positions are open. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Debbie.

Chair  --  Debbie Mitchell
Vice-Chair  --  Bob Tessitore
Secretary  --  Matt Putnam
Treasurer  --  Tom Eagan
Membership Chair  --  Robin Kuznitz
Activities Chair  --  Chris Shafer
Communication Chair  --  volunteer needed
Leadership Chair  --   Ed Poyer
Conservation Chair  --  Linda Pease
Trails Chair   --   Dav Cranmer
Past Chair  --  Bonnie England
Local hikes Subchair  --  Carol Baldwin
Biking Subchair  --  Marcie Madsen
Northern Hiking Subchair  --  Ed Poyer
Flatwater Paddling Subchair  --  Linda Pease
Sea Kayaking Subchair  --  Mike Krabach
Family Subchair  --  volunteer needed
Young Members Subchair  --  Scott Disnard
XC Skiing Subchair  --  Sue Rollins

There are many other volunteer positions open in the chapter. All the committees need leaders to organize and lead trips and events. After becoming familiar with the type of activities you enjoy and attend, consider becoming a co-leader and then a leader. The more leaders we have, the more variation in trips we have, and it takes the load of the leaders who shoulder most of our trips. I'm sure some great orator coined the phrase, “The more the merrier!”.

Trip Registration

A reminder on registering for all of our activities. All our trips (almost all) require attendees to register prior to attending. Register with the leader (L) of the activity to find the time and place of the activity, and any requirements as to experience and equipment needed. Some trips prefer you to register with (reg/w) someone other than the leader. Be sure to meet any deadlines for registration and payment.

New Trails Chair is Dav Cranmer. We all thank Dav for volunteering for this important position. Also many thanks to our past Trail Chair Elise Del Barone for her time and leadership in the Trails Committee.

Leaders and Committee members, who are you? Our leaders and committee members are volunteers who enjoy donating their time and expertise for the benefit of the AMC, so that our members can enjoy the outdoor opportunities we offer. The Narragansett Chapter has a trip leader and committee member profile page to credit and introduce our leaders and committee members to the membership.

If you are a trip leader, a committee member, serve in some other capacity for the club, or served as an active past leader, and have not submitted a profile, we encourage you to share a profile with the chapter. Submitting information for the profile page is strictly voluntary, but in the spirit of the AMC, I hope most of you will contribute.

Local hikers take notice, Fluorescent Orange must be worn in Rhode Island State Management areas starting the third weekend in October. Full details are on the web site in the Local Hikes committee page.

Got any good photographs? If so consider entering the AMC 2012 photo contest. Entries must be in by Nov. 18th. Check out the rules and what the competition is. Read more...

Our Meetup.com now has 385 members and counting. Members that sign up list all the types of events that we offer as events that they would be interested in. Dave Natale has been the most prolific event organizer, leading local hikes for our meetup events. Social and kayaking events have been listed with limited success. Many of the members list biking as an interest. Hopefully biking leaders will add biking trips to the Meetup listings.

One down, forty-seven left.

On August 22nd my daughters (8 and 10) summited their first “4,000’er” by hiking to the top of NH’s Mt. Jackson. Reaching the summit marked the achievement of an open ended goal my older daughter set a year ago after we discussed some of the hikes I had recently completed. Upon looking at the topographical map in the lobby of the AMC’s Highland Center, she said, “my first 4,000’er is going to be Mt. Jackson”. Two hours later, when I pointed out Mt. Jackson from the summit of Mt. Willard, nearly 2,000’ feet below Jackson’s summit, she visibly paled and re-considered her decision. We talked about it and agreed that it didn’t have to be done any time soon and that it was an excellent goal to have. Read about Matt's family adventure.

ACTIVITIES

Tue., Oct. 2. Ski Committee Dinner Meeting. Members interested in leading and/or planning ski activities calendar, as well as new members who would like to meet like skiers are encouraged to attend. Contact Sue Rollins for reservation at area restaurant. L Sue Rollins (401-521-7188 6 to 8 PM, swrollins@cox.net)

Wed., Oct. 3. Bob Cillette Memorial Hike and Social. Hike for friends of the late Bob Cillette. Meet at 6pm at Easton Beach parking lot. Registration required. Rain cancels. L Janet Harris ((401) 272-6772), CL Herrick Spencer ((401) 723-1974)

Wed., Oct. 3. JB Hudson/Breakheart/Shelter Trails hike. 7-8 mile 4 hour hike in Arcadia Management Area, moderate pace. Bring snacks, lunch, water. 9:30am start. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net), L Margie Parsons (401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net)

Thu., Oct. 4. Fort Nature Refuge hike. (new) Join us for this pleasant hike on Audubon Society land. We will meet at 10 am at the trial head parking lot located on Rt. 5 in N. Smithfield. Bring water and snacks for this appx. 4 mile hike. E-mail for more info. L Carol Baldwin (ctbaldwin36@yahoo.com), CL Elaine Latorre (elainelatorre@verizon.net)

Fri., Oct. 5-8. White Mountain Day Hikes Columbus Weekend. Take advantage of the long weekend to enjoy the White Mountains at their finest. We will utilize trails and peaks with plenty of views. Some options for hikes are Mount Jefferson, ascending via the Ridge of the Caps Trail and descending via the Jewel Trail, Mount Moriah via the Carter Moriah Trail, or Mount Moosilake. $175 covers 3 nights stay in a motel, 3 breakfast and 2 dinners. We will be cooking our own breakfast and dinners at the motel.This trip is for fit, experienced hikers who enjoy a group experience. Register with Hsin-Chien. Send payment to L Denise Poyer, 56 Small Pox Trail, West Kingston , RI 02892. ((401) 783-6623, denisepoyer@gmail.com), CL Hsin-Chien Tai , reg/w Hsin-Chien Tai (hsinchien.tai@gmail.com)

Sat., Oct. 6-7. Rock Climbing - Gunks. Climbers capable of 5.6 routes or better. Trip size may be limited due to leader to second ratio. L Sarah Rich ((401) 338-3955, saeandpetzl@gmail.com)

Mon., Oct. 8. Hike the Trails of Camp Yawgoog. What better to do on Columbus Day, than Explore some New Trails at Camp Yawgoog. Plan to Hike some New & Familiar Trails. Must be comfortable hiking on Rocks. While the Hike is about 7 miles, I have a few shortcuts, for those who need to Hike less. Meet at 10:30 am. L David Natale (401-739-9606 anytime, igb@att.net)

Wed., Oct. 10. Hike and Social, Lincoln Woods. Meet 6pm at Lincoln Woods. It's a treat to see the evening sunset reflecting off the pond. Bring flashlights. L Herrick Spencer (401-723-1974, spencer295@cox.net)

Wed., Oct. 10. Ben Utter/Escoheag/Mt Tom trails hike. Beautiful 8 mile hike starting at Stepstone Falls, hike along the river, lunch on Mt. Tom ledges. Car spot involved. 9:30am start. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net), L Margie Parsons (401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net)

Wed., Oct. 10. Young Members Monthly Social. (new) Come out and meet other outdoors loving Young Members, plan some trips, and have some food and beverages with us! Meet downstairs after 6pm. L Scott Disnard (sdizzy@gmail.com)

Thu., Oct. 11. Wolf Hill hike. (new) We will be hiking appx. 4 1/2 miles in the Smithfield Land Trust. Some ups and downs and possibly a view of the Bay if it's a clear day. Bring water and snacks. Meet at 10 am on Overview Dr. next to the Smithfield Police Station. Rain cancels. L Carol Baldwin (ctbaldwin36@yahoo.com), CL Elaine Latorre (elainelatorre@verizon.net)

Fri., Oct. 12-14. Owl's Head Fall Hike. Looking to bag one of those elusive peaks on your list. Join the leaders on a trek to the summit of Owl's Head. Expect a full day of moderate but steady pace hiking and exiting by headlamp. 18 miles. For very fit hikers. Includes two nights lodging at motel in Lincoln. L bernardo Aumond (baumond@yahoo.com), CL Scott Sprague, reg/w Scott Sprague ((401) 934-3103, dadders1954@hotmail.com)

Sat., Oct. 13. Mt. Holyoke. Hopefully foliage season. Moderate paced 7.7 mi. with many ups and downs . L Steve Harrison, CL Sue Warthman , reg/w Steve Harrison ((401) 270-3363 6-8 PM, hikersteve@cox.net)

Sat., Oct. 13. Tillinghast Pond Management Hike (TPMA). Meet at 9:00 am for a 6-7 miles hike to learn and explore this new pristine area with historical and geographical facts of the TPMA provided by preserve volunteer and hike CL Mike Parker. Ideal area to view the Fall tapestry of colors. Moderate hike. Rain will cancel the hike. L Maria Earley (401-789-8331 7:00PM-9:00PM, momearley@netzero.com), CL Mike Parker (Mike.parker@cox.net)

Sat., Oct. 13. Hike with dogs. Hike/walk the Carolina North Trail in Richmond with dogs, appx 4.5 miles. L Mercedes Rivero (marh08@gmail.com), CL Bonnie England , CL Judy Van Wyk

Sun., Oct. 14. Burlingame River Trail. 4-5 mile hike in a less traveled part of Burlingame. Stop at overlook by the Pawcatuck River. Hopefully foliage will be good. Rain cancels. 10:00 start. L Katherine Mears (401-348-9413 7-9 p.m., medtho@cox.net), CL Colleen Quattromani

Tue., Oct. 16. Green Falls Pond Hike. 7 mile hike starts in Yawgoog, circle around the pond in Pachaug State Forest, through a breathtaking gorge and back. Moderate to strenuous sections. Bring water, lunch, snacks and sturdy boots. 9:30am start. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net), L Margie Parsons (401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net)

Wed., Oct. 17. Hike and Social, W. Kingston. Meet 6pm at the Bike path at the Kingston Train Station. Bring flashlights. L Sid Wax ((401) 849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com)

Fri., Oct. 19-21. Cardigan Fall Harvest Festival weekend. Sponsored by the Narragansett Chapter. This highly acclaimed event is back by popular demand. We will spend two days and two nights at the AMC's beautiful Cardigan Lodge at the foot of Cardigan Mountain. A wide variety of physical and social activities are planned providing something for everyone - including the return of Saturday night Contra Dancing! Families, couples, and singles of all ability levels are welcome. Tent sites are available, with an additional charge for meals. See more info and registration here. L Mike Martin (hikencree@hotmail.com), L Tom Grasso (thomas.grasso@pw.utc.com), L Chris Shafer (christopher.shafer@dem.ri.gov), L Mike Krabach (mkrabach@cox.net), L Linda Pease (linda.pease@cox.net), reg/w Bob Tessitore ((401) 595-5273, bobtess@gmail.com)

Sun., Oct. 21. Fall Foliage Hike, Wolf Hill & Mercer Lookout. View the Foliage from Mercer Lookout & other High Points. This is a 6 Mile Hike, with 2 Hills to Climb & plenty to see. L David Natale (401-739-9606 anytime, igb@att.net)

Sun., Oct. 21. Lincoln Woods and Butterfly Farm Hike. Lincoln Woods with a cross over to Butterfly Farm This is a moderate hike of 6-7 miles with a 10 am start. The foliage should be as good as going to New Hampshire. We will meet at the entrance off of Rte 146. Enter park turn left or right and park. Call leader only if you need more info. L Richard Sullivan (401-338-2880, grampydick2001@yahoo.com)

Wed., Oct. 24. Hike and Social, Wickford. Meet 6pm behind Wilsons of Wickford. Bring flashlights. L Richard Sullivan (401-338-2880, grampydick2001@yahoo.com)

Thu., Oct. 25. Francis Carter Preserve Hike. 6 mile easy hike on woodland trails. This is the Nature Conservancy's largest nature preserve in Rhode Island. Bring water snacks. Lunch/late breakfast at local diner afterward. 10am start. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net)

Sat., Oct. 27. Scenic Norman Bird Sanctuary guided interpretive hike. Hike out to Hanging Rock and explore exhibits of birds and other things we may see on hike in the natural history museum. Approximately one and a half hour hike. Fee $2 per person (reg fee is $7).. Maximum of 15 participants. Hiking boots, lunch/snack/drinks. L Larry Rollins (401-521-7188, rollinslf@excite.com) CL Sue Rollins. www.normanbirdsanctuary.org

Sat., Oct. 27. Help Restore Blackstone Park. Work from 9:00-noon. Construct water bars, reduce erosion, spread woodchips. Sunday is rain date. Bring water, gloves. A chance to make new friends while working on a great project. L Jack Schempp (401-331-4553 7-9, jschempp1@gmail.com), reg/w Chris Shafer (401-789-8331 7-9, christopherShafer@dem.ri.gov)

Sat., Oct. 27. Narragansett Trail Hike. (rescheduled from Sunday) The Narragansett Trail has a Waterfall, & a Journey thru a Gorge, that will make you wonder if you are still in reg/w.I.. Must be comfortable hiking on Rocks !! Hike is 6-7 miles long. Meet at 10:30 am. L David Natale (401-739-9606 anytime, igb@att.net), CL Corey Mott

Sun., Oct. 28. Hike with dogs. Hike/walk with dogs. Location will be Steere hill Farm in Gloucester. L Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com), L Mercedes Rivero (marh08@gmail.com), CL Judy Van Wyk

Sun., Oct. 28. Family hike Diamond Hill State Park. (new) Come join "RI Families in nature" for a family hike at Diamond Hill State Park in Cumberland. We'll meet in the parking lot at 2:00pm and begin our hike promptly at 2:15pm. Be sure to bring plenty of snacks and water. Once a former ski slope, Diamond Hill offers spectacular views and a fairly gradual climb to the summit for young ones and older kids to enjoy.We will take the wooded path from the paved road to get to the summit (easily identified by the old ski lift footings) for a total of about 1.5 miles. This is a moderately challenging hike for kids.This is a non-AMC event. L Debbie Mitchell (401-743-4192, dmitchell@thebravergroup.com)

Tue., Oct. 30. Arcadia Trail Hike. Beautiful 7 mile hike in the Arcadia Management Area. Hunting season has begun, at least 200 square inches of orange required. Car spot. Call for location. 9:30 start. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net)

Wed., Oct. 31. Halloween Hike and Social, Providence. Meet at 6pm Hope High School Parking lot. Safe, visible, comfortable walking costumes are welcome. Rain cancels. L Janet Harris ((401) 272-6772)

Fri., Nov. 2. Reel Rock Film Tour. (new) Reel Rock Film TourFriday November 2nd 7:00 p.m.RISD Auditorium, 17 Canal Walk, Providence, Tickets $10 at REI in Cranston and $15 at the door. L Sarah Rich (saeandpetzl@gmail.com)

Sat., Nov. 3. Parker Woodland Hike. (new) We will hike the 6 1/2 mile loop at a moderate pace. Bring lunch, water, snacks, poles and hiking boots are recommended. Meet at 9:00 am. Rain will cancel. L Carol Baldwin (ctbaldwin36@yahoo.com), CL Kerri Green (401-258-5317, kegreslp@gmail.com)

Sun., Nov. 4. Hike and Seek. That's right, Hike & Seek. Me & my Band of Renegade Hikers begin our Quest to locate various points of interest. After a brief head start, it is up to you, The Tracker, to find us before we complete our task. It is up to the Trackers, to devise a plan & out guess the Renegades. Which way did they go ?? If you are up for a challenge please give me a call. Space is limited, call early. L David Natale (401-739-9606 anytime,igb@att.net)

Tue., Nov. 6. Blue Hills Skyline Trail Hike. 7+ mile end to end Skyline Trail hike. Tough hike with lots of ups and downs. Sturdy boots, water, snacks, lunch. Early departure from RI for a long day w/car spot. Call for meet time. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net), L Margie Parsons (401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net)

Wed., Nov. 7. Hike and Social, Providence. We will meet on Water St. next to the river at 6:00pm. Hike the east side and enjoy the fall weather. Bring a flash light. L Herrick Spencer (401-723-1974, spencer295@cox.net), CL Janet Harris

Sat., Nov. 10. Big River Fall Foliage Hike. Join us on this easy accessed to trail head hike just of of exit 6 on Rt95 going south. Take a left turn after the exit on to Rte 3. The meeting place is on your left hand side a thousand feet down at the edge of the road. If headed north take a right hand turn on to exit 6 and then a following left turn onto Rte 3. Bring water, and hiking shoes for this 2-3 mile hike. We will go for lunch nearby after the hike. Rain cancels the hike. Start at 11:00am. L Herrick Spencer (401-723-1974, spencer295@cox.net)

Sat., Nov. 10. Narragansett trail bridge replacement. (new) Help needed by AMC Narragansett chapter trails committee in a small project. Assist in carrying lumber and tools to work site and then help in removing existing bridge and replacing with new one. Bring water, snacks, hiking boots or equivalent with good tread and work gloves (or we loan you a pair). Meet 9 AM. Call for further details and directions. Computer access not available in short term, so please communicate by phone only. L Christopher Shafer (401-789-8331 until 9 PM, Christopher.Shafer@dem.ri.gov)

Sat., Nov. 10. Annual Chapter Meeting and Dinner. Join us at the "Save the Bay" building for our annual Chapter meeting Saturday evening. In addition to our "short" business meeting and awards presentations, we will have as our featured speaker Andrew Skurka, a World class hiker who will give a slide presentation on his Alaska-Yukon Expedition. Andrew will also give a lightweight hiking clinic before the meeting at 5:15. (note time change) Come and see members you may have not seen for awhile. Catch up on the latest activities you may have missed during the Summer. See Registration form for more info and to register. L Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com), L Debbie Mitchell (dmitchell@thebravergroup.com), L Robin Kuznitz (RMD@PSH.com)

Sat., Nov. 10. Bowling Social. (new) Hi all, plan to meet at Old Mountain lanes in Wakefield at 8Pm. http://www.oldmountainlanesri.com/. L Chris Turgeon (turgeon77@ymail.com)

Sat., Nov. 10. Veterans Cemetery Walk. (new) Join us as we honor our veterans and walk the grounds of the Exeter Veterans Cemetery. Meet at 10am at the main entrance. L Richard Sullivan (grampydick2001@yahoo.com)

Sun., Nov. 11. Veterans Day Tribute & Adventure Hike. First we pay Tribute to our Veterans at the WWII Memorial located on Wolf Hill. Then we will explore some new Trails I have been wanting to explore. Must be comfortable hiking in non-familiar territory. There will be Hills to Climb & some Rocks to Hike on. Bring hiking shoes, snacks, drinks, & poles, if you use them. Also, bring any Veteran Stories to share. Meet at 10 am. L David Natale (401-739-9606 anytime, igb@att.net), L Linda Pease (401-351-2234 7-9pm)

Wed., Nov. 14. Hike and Social, Jamestown. Meet at 6pm at Jamestown Ferry dock. Bring flashlights. L Sidney Wax (401-849-2595, sid_w@yahoo.com)

Wed., Nov. 14. Beach Pond South, Arcadia Mgmt Area Hike. 7 mile hike using Tippecansett, Dye Hill, Brushy Brook and Hemlock Ledges trails. Great hike. Bring lots of water, snacks, lunch. 9:30 start. L Margie Parsons (401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net), L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net)

Sat., Nov. 17. George Washington Management Area hike. (new) Join us for an 8 mile hike on the Walkabout Trail developed by Australian sailors while they waited for their ship, HMAS Perth, to be readied. Bring water, snacks, (orange) vest, hiking poles if you use them. We will meet at 10 am George Washington Management Area parking lot. E-mail leader for more information. L Kerri Green (401-258-5317, kegreslp@gmail.com), CL Rebecca Swagger (rebeccaswagger@hotmail.com)

Sun., Nov. 18. Hike with dogs. Hike/walk Duval Trail, Perryville with dogs, appx. 5 miles. L Judy Van Wyk (Peacefulpeople@yahoo.com), CL Leslli Kelleter, CL Mercedes Rivero

Sun., Nov. 18. History hike on Barn Island. (new) 4.5 mile scenic hike on land adjacent to Venture Smith's land. Venture was a freed slave who was a real estate mogul starting in the 1770s when it was against the law for a slave or freed slave to own land. How did he do it? More interesting, imagine having a wife and child and being sold. Learn about this extraordinary man and enjoy the views. Google Barn island in CT and Venture Smith freed slave. Sneakers ok except if it's just rained. Bring Lunch/drink. L Linda Pease (401-351-2234, linda.pease@cox.net), CL Colleen Quattromani (860-389-0751, cqkayaker@aol.com)

Fri., Nov. 16-18. YM Fall Hut Weekend Hike to Cannon & NE Cannonball. (new)This event coincides with the NH chapter Young Members Weekend. Cost for AMC members is $30.33/night including tax. Stay Friday, or Saturday, or both. We will hike from Lonesome Lake hut up to NE Cannonball and possibly on to Cannon Mountain, and then loop back down to our cars. Be prepared for full winter conditions, microspikes required. L Scott Disnard, CL Sarah Keats (slkski@gmail.com), reg/w Scott Disnard (sdizzy@gmail.com)

Tue., Nov. 20. Long Pond & Yawgoog trails hike. (new) 8 mile hike with some steep sections. Explore the interesting variety of trails around Yawgoog Scout Res. as well as the Long Pond/El Pond area. Please wear sturdy boots, bring water, snacks, lunch. Heavy rain will cancel. 9:30 start w/short car spot.. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net), L Margie Parsons (401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net)

Sat., Nov. 24. Hike with dogs. Hike/walk Tillinghast Trail W. Greenwich with dogs, appx. 5 miles. L Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com), L Judy Van Wyk (Peacefulpeople@yahoo.com), CL Russ Miller

Sat., Nov. 24. North South Trail hike, segment #1. (new) This 9 miles hike takes you along the Ct-RI border Trail to the MA-CT-RI TRI-State Marker into the Douglas State Forest to the beginning of the RI North-South Trail and MA- Mid-State Trails to the Mid-State Bench (the NS and Mid-State Trails) back through Buck Hill Wildlife Management Area. Meet at BHMA parking lot 10 am sharp to spot a few cars to the fire tower on Buck Hill. All participants must wear 500 sq. inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange clothing and hiking boots are recommended. Bring water, snacks and expect to hike for appx. 4- 4 1/2 hrs. L Pam Hill (pjsh40@aol.com), CL Carol Baldwin

Sun., Nov. 25. Walk Off The Turkey Hike, Snake Den, Johnston. Great trails and views. Walk off the turkey at a comfortable pace. New members, young/old members, families welcome. Hiking boots req'd, lunch/hydration/snacks. L Linda Pease (401-351-2234, linda.pease@cox.net), CL Karen Rudio (508-761-6449, karenrudio@comcast.net)

Tue., Nov. 27. Winter Gear Seminar. (new) This seminar is for three season hikers who are interested in getting into winter hiking. You will have the opportunity to learn about and discuss the clothing and gear you will need to stay warm and safe while hiking in winter. Clothing, footwear, snowshoes, crampons, and other equipment will be demonstrated and discussed by AMC Northern Hikes Winter Leaders. Co-hosted with REI Cranston. Register at www.rei.com/cranston. L Charles Killam (Charlie.Killam@gmail.com), CL Steve Harrison

Wed., Nov. 28. Hike and Social, Wickford. Meet at 6pm behind Wilsons of Wickford for a different and full moon hike through Wickford. Bring flashlights. L Richard Sullivan (401-338-2880, grampydick2001@yahoo.com)

Nov. 28. Young Members Monthly Social and OWL PROWL. (new) Come meet other YM at this Audubon event! Meet for pizza before-hand if there is interest. Bundle up and join a night hike on the Fort Refuge in search of owls. We will call for different species of owls as we travel through mixed and pine woods. While we never know if we'll actually get to hear or see an owl, participants will be sure to learn a lot and have a great night hike. Wear warm socks and shoes or boots and dress warmly. Bring a flashlight. Hike will be canceled in the event of inclement weather or icy trails. Meet for Pizza at 6pm at: Bob and Timmy S Grilled Pizza, 621 Pound Hill Rd, North Smithfield, RI 02896O, meet at Audubon at 6:50pm Fort Nature Refuge, (Rt. 5), 1443 Providence Pike, North Smithfield, RI. L Scott, reg/w Scott Disnard (sdizzy@gmail.com)

Wed., Nov. 28. Escoheag/Mt Tom trails & ledges hike. (new) 7-8 mile hike in Arcadia Management Area. Hike the entire Mt Tom trail. 500 sq. in of orange required. Sturdy boots, water snacks, lunch. 9:30 start w/short car spot. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net), L Margie Parsons (401-743-3405, mpkayak@cox.net)

ADVANCE NOTICES

Sat., Dec. 1. Bluff Point Sate Park, Groton CT. Approx 5 mile, beautiful view of Long Island Sound, if lucky might even see a submarine. Bring water and lunch or snack. If icy, bring stabilIcers. Torrential rain or heavy snow cancels. Start 10:00. L Katherine Mears (401-348-9413 7-9 p.m., medtho@cox.net), CL Colleen Quattromani

Sun., Dec. 2. Casual Winter Hike at Rome Point. (canceled) Join me as we hike the many Trails at Rome Point. This is a relatively flat area, there's only one "hill / incline". Plan to stop at the beach and maybe see the seals that spend the winter in R.I. Leave your Orange at home hunting is not allowed at Rome Point. This hike is 6 miles, but there are options to do less. Meet at 10 am. L David Natale (401-739-9606 anytime, igb@att.net)

Wed., Dec. 5. Hike and Social, Fort Adams. (new) Meet at rear entrance road at bathroom on the right, in the small parking lot, 6pm. Bring a flashlight. L Thomas Freeman (hotdealtom50@cox.net)

Sat., Dec. 8. Hike Fisherville Brook Wild Life Refuge. (new) Meet at 9:00 for a 5 miles easy 2 loops trail in the Fisherville Wild Life Refuge. Beautiful time of the year to enjoy the outdoors. Bring water, and snacks. Rain will cancel the hike. L Maria Earley (401-789-8331 7-9pm, momearley@netzero.com)

Sat., Dec. 8. Hike Narragansett Trail - Segment 1. Young Members Sponsored. Come hike the first of three segments on the Narragansett Trail from Ashville Pond, through scenic Ell and Long Ponds, through Camp Yawgoo, up to Green Falls pond, through the gorge, back down to Sand Hill Road. This will cover 8.5 to 9 miles with some rock scrambles and muddy patches. Hiking shoes and orange required. Bring water and a lunch! We will meet at 9:00am to shuttle cars. L Scott Disnard (sdizzy@gmail.com), CL Corey Mott , reg/w Corey Mott (cwmott08@gmail.com)

Tue., Dec. 11. Arcadia Trail/Arcadia Management Area hike. (new) Beautiful 7 mile hike in the Arcadia Management Area. Previously cancelled because of "Sandy". Please wear at least 500 square inches of orange required. Bring water, lunch, snacks. A short car spot. 9:30 start. L Marcie Madsen (401-364-6538, marcie18@att.net), L Katherine Mears (medtho@cox.net)

Sat., Dec. 15. Hike with dogs. Hike/walk Browning Farm Woods Trail, Perryville, appx. 3 miles. L Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com), CL Russ Miller , CL Lesli Kelleter

Sat., Dec. 15. Step by Step Mt. Wachusett. (new) Learn the basics of winter hiking. Short hike with much time given to information and demonstration. Check out leaders winter gear and why they carry it. L Stephen Harrison, CL Mike Mcquinn, reg/w Steve Harrison (401-270-3363 7-9 pm, hikersteve@cox.net)

Sat., Dec. 15. Intro to Winter Hiking. (canceled) If you have never tried Winter Hiking, this is the hike to try. The Trails crisscross so you are usually 1/4-1/2 mile from your car. The Dirt Trail is very flat and there will be scenic water views. Plan to hike anywhere from 2-6+ miles. Best part hunting is NOT allowed, leave your orange at home. 10 am start. L David Natale (401-739-9606 anytime, igb@att.net)

Sun., Dec. 16. North South Trail segment #2. (new) Hike the second section of the NST from Buck Hill Rd. to George Washington Management Area around 7 miles. We will meet at GWMA at 10 am to spot a few cars to Buck Hill to start our hike south. Orange vest required. Bring water, snacks, lunch and wear hiking boots. Rain cancels. L Carol Baldwin (ctbaldwin36@yahoo.com), CL Pam Hill

Sun., Dec. 23. Pre-Holiday Hike. (canceled) Holiday Stress Relief Hike. Climb the Ledges of the Mount Tom Trail & enjoy the Beautiful Panoramic Views. This is a 7 Mile Hike. There is No Shotgun Deer Hunting this Weekend, but still where Orange. Meet at 11 am. L David Natale (401-739-9606 anytime, igb@att.net)

Sun., Dec. 23. Rome Point hike. (new) This is a 3-4 miles hike at Rome Point in North Kingstown with a chance to share eggnog and cookies along the way. L Richard Sullivan (grampydick2001@yahoo.com)

Sat., Dec. 29. Family Hike John F Chafee Preserve/Rome Point. (new) Bring family and friends for a short hike (~2 miles RT) at Chafee Nature Preserve/Rome Point, North Kingstown. Marine biologist Dr. Kathy Vigness-Raposa will provide binoculars and a spotting scope for a close-up view of harbor seals, if we are lucky, along with family-friendly fun facts about seals in RI and the history behind Rome Point. L Debbie Mitchell (401-743-4192, dmitchell@thebravergroup.com), CL Kathy Raposa (kvigness@aol.com)

Sun., Dec. 30. Walk off Christmas in Uxbridge. Scenic hiike along the Blackstone River from the Visitors Center to historic Plummer's Landing and Lookout Rock. Depending on conditions traction devices needed. Hiking boots, lunch/snacks/drinks. L Linda Pease (401-351-2234, linda.pease@cox.net), CL Barbara Flagg (bakayaker51@verizon.net)

Tue., Jan. 15. Hike with dogs. Hike/walk Weetamoo Woods, Tiverton with dogs, appx. 5 miles. L Judy Van Wyk (Peacefulpeople@yahoo.com), L Bonnie England (bonniedune@aol.com), CL Lesli Kelleter , CL Russ Miller.

Sat., Jan. 26. Hike with dogs. Hike/walk with dogs to Rome Point, North Kingstown, appx. 4 miles. (L) Mercedes Rivero (marh08@gmail.com), CL Russ Miller & Lesli Kelleter.