The Road Less Travelled-Stoney Pond State Forest

Volume 5-Stoney Pond NY State Forest

The exceptional winter conditions continue as I find myself exploring yet another NY State Forest. NY State has so much public land to offer. This one is located in Erieville, NY, not far from Morrisville, NY.

Even though we had a recent sleet/freezing rain event, the skiing was still excellent when I visited the 1469 acre Stoney Pond NY State Forest. The 44 acre pond was created in the late 1950s to provide wildlife habitat.

The 13 mile trail system here is groomed by a group of volunteers, although not track set for cross country skiing. This provides a packed down surface good for skiing, snowshoeing, or just hiking.

This seems to be a very popular winter destination as there were about 6 cars at the small parking area when I arrived. I’m talking central NY State popular, where a few cars is popular.

Upon arriving, I could see the kiosk and sign in register located only about 50 feet from the trailhead, down a fairly steep trail. Seeing the packed down trail and since it was a cold crisp day (which translates to fast skiing conditions), I decided to carry my skis to the kiosk. There I signed in and viewed the trail map.

I headed down trail #1 which is the main trail that leads to quite a few other trails that branch off along the way. The first half mile was a challenge to say the least. A steady downgrade, with many turns.

I don’t have telemark skis nor am I experienced in the technique, which allows turns to be made while cross country skiing. The conditions were so fast, therefore I headed for the side of the trail in the deeper snow to slow down my descent. I slowly made my way down.

Once I reached the small beaver pond that lies a little above Stoney Pond, the trail leveled off. The real fun began. Gliding along on the cold fast surface. A skier’s delight. Home again in the forest.

Once past the beaver pond, the trail looped around the entire perimeter of Stoney Pond. The loop was probably a good healthy mile as it followed fairly close to the pond. At various spots along the trail, new benches were placed for scenic viewing or just a good rest.

At the far end of the pond, the view was beautiful. Since I was now out in the open, the wind made the 20 degree air sting on my face. But it felt good. Call me crazy. But after sweating a little on the protected part of the trail, it felt good.

I quickly made my way across the dam to the woods and back on the trail towards the kiosk. Up past the beaver pond. Oh yeah, then the uphill section that I carefully had to descend when I stated.

The herringbone technique again came in handy. Up I climbed. By the time I reached the kiosk and signed the register, I was pretty tired. A good 3 miles skied.

I definitely will return here to explore some of the other trails in this forest.