Backpacking trails for beginner?

[whistand]

I have been hiking for years and just started ultralight backpacking this summer. Any suggestions for this weekend?
Thanks,
Wendy

[mike]

When you say, "Backpacking", this usually means overnighting in the woods on a longer hike. Is this what you mean? If so, you might try the Escarpment Trail from North-South Lake to Windham High Peak. You start out at Schutt Road, and take the escapment trail. Then climb up North Mtn, over to Stoppel Point. Then climb down to Dutcher's Notch. then up Arizona and Blackhead. Then down and across Acra Point to Windham High Peak. At the end you come out on Rt 23. Most of the hike is pretty easy, with the exception of Blackhead & Arizona Mtns. It is about 25 miles one-way.

[whistand]

WOW! 50 MILES ROUND TRIP. Not sure I can do that in the time I have available. Will check you your suggestions and see if I can make it a bit shorter.

[whistand]

BTW Mike, I do mean staying out in the woods for days, but I only have off Th-Sunday.

[dave]

I believe that there is a taxi service on the mountaintop. Ask mike.

[mike]

Yes, there is a Taxi service in Hunter. I think they also have a place in Windham. I will see if I can find the number.

She could also do the WHP -> Acra Point -> Blackhead -> Black Dome - Thomas Cole -> Camel's Hump. But, you still need a ride from Barnum Road to Rt 23. You could hike it out also.

From Barnum Road you can hike up Big Hollow Road and take the trail over Elm Ridge back to Rt 23.

Just an idea.

[mike]

Try one of these two taxi's:

Smiley's Transport‎ - (518) 589-6533‎
Hunter Mountain Taxi & Limousine‎ - (518) 589-5100‎

Most hikers that have used them, were very happy with them. Just make sure you have cell phone receptions at the end of the hike.