avatarDan Pfeifer

Summary

The article recounts an enjoyable mountain bike ride through Hunts Pond NY State Forest during peak fall foliage on Columbus Day, emphasizing the beauty of the changing seasons and the author's appreciation for nature and outdoor activities throughout the year.

Abstract

The author describes a memorable mountain biking excursion in Hunts Pond NY State Forest, highlighting the vibrant fall colors that were at their peak on Columbus Day. The piece reflects on the advantages of living in the Northeast, particularly the stunning seasonal changes, and showcases the area's appeal for various outdoor activities such as walking, camping, fishing, and ice fishing in the winter. The author extends an invitation to readers to embrace the changing seasons, mentioning a citizen science birdwatching project and the joys of cross-country skiing in the winter months. The narrative concludes with the author's enthusiasm for the upcoming fall activities and a reminder to appreciate the present beauty of autumn leaves.

Opinions

  • The author believes that this year's fall foliage is particularly impressive, describing it as "definitely awesome."
  • Hunts Pond is a favored destination for the author, who enjoys visiting it year-round for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
  • The author values the sight of others enjoying the park, considering it a positive aspect of visiting the forest.
  • There is an expressed enjoyment of the changing seasons, with the author looking forward to winter activities such as birdwatching and cross-country skiing.
  • The author contrasts the busyness of summer with the relaxing downtime that winter provides, suggesting a preference for the slower pace of the colder months.
  • The anticipation of snow is seen as re-energizing, with the author appreciating the crisp, bug-free winter conditions for outdoor activities.

The Road Less Travelled-Enjoying Awesome Fall Colors at Hunts Pond NY State Forest

Volume 26-The Fall Colors Were Peak on Columbus Day Here in Central NY

Hunts Pond/Author Photo

Welcome Back. Some years the Fall leaves are so-so. Some years they are downright awesome. This year they are definitely awesome. Everywhere you look, the colors are beautiful. It is definitely a huge advantage of living in the Northeast.

Hunts Pond/Author Photos

This past Monday, Columbus Day, I took advantage of some cool but sunny weather to take a mountain bike ride in Hunts Pond NY State Forest, between South New Berlin and New Berlin, NY. If you follow my articles you know that this is one of my favorite destinations year-round. Following is an article from a ski outing almost 2 years ago. It definitely looks different in the winter:

I enjoy riding the approximately 3-mile access road and camping loop. Most times, there are others there walking, camping, and/or fishing. In the winter, ice fishing is very popular here. No matter the time of year, it’s nice to see people out enjoying the park.

Author Photos

Most times, after I finish the park loop, I continue my ride on nearby Hunts Pond Road, going a mile or so in both directions, The scenery is wonderful and riding on a paved road after riding the gravel road is a pleasure. On this day I rode a total of 7 miles, which is about average for me.

Views From Hunts Pond Road/Author Photos

Learn to Enjoy Fall/Winter

Although many dread the thought of winter coming, I try to embrace it. I love the change of seasons. I look forward to birdwatching, and a favorite citizen science project of mine will be starting soon:

Also, I still enjoy cross-country skiing and the beauty of winter. I’m lucky that I can still get out and enjoy this activity. Don’t get me wrong, come April I’m ready for warmer temperatures. But for now, I feel like I’m getting ready to hibernate. To me, winter represents a chance to slow down, relax, and settle in. It gives me a break from mowing, gardening, and all the chores of summer. I enjoy summer and all its busyness, but I need a break for a season.

Once it starts to snow, it re-energizes me, and I am ready to get out and enjoy. No heat, no humidity, and no bugs. Cold crisp temperatures. To me, it’s so refreshing.

For now, however, I am still enjoying Fall and the beautiful colored leaves.

Author Photo
Awesome
Fall
Photography
Life Lessons
Seasons
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