The Westside Overland Trail

I was on the Westside Overland Trail Thursday morning. I have spent many hours there. It rained like all crazy on me. But it was cleansing. There is something about being in nature in which one is revitalized by her energy and constant giving force. Nature is wonderful. The trail, no matter where it is or where it leads is always wonderful to experience in different elements. Never sell a day short no matter what the weather. I felt great after a two hour walk on the trail. Advice to anyone -- get out there and let Mother Nature nourish your soul!

From Irene Bozogan: December 25, 2001:

There was a light covering of snow on the trail Christmas morning. After feasting on goodies all week long, it felt great to be outdoors and getting some exercise. We took 2 vehicles so that we didn't have to backtrack. Leaving the truck at Brumagin Road and the car at the lot on Route 430, we set out at Point C on the map and hiked to Point E. The distance was to be 2.8 miles.

The trail was in New York State Reforestation Land. The trek was an easy gradual climb with many flat stretches. At times we followed a wandering stream. The trail was well maintained with many bridges and gravel pathways to get us through.

I had wanted to bring some trekking poles, but had forgotten them at the store. I picked up a couple of "walking sticks" along the way as a substitute. What a poor substitute they were! There was a bit of ice along the trail and I longed for a carbide tip that could stick in the ice instead of wooden sticks that just slide over it.

Penny, our Golden Retriever, was our scout. Staying about 20 ft ahead of us she was constantly monitoring our progress and keeping us on track. This dog is very smart! At one point, she started going down a bank. We called her back because it appeared that the trail went straight ahead. She came back and waited at the questionable intersection. Penny was right! There was a trail sign that pointed down the bank.

We ran into a customer from our store while we were on the trail. Lesley recognized our dog immediately! Fun!

Our hike was a little longer than anticipated. Overestimating how far we had gone, we made a wrong left turn down a service road. That mistake probably added about ¼ mile to the route. Our trail's end was marked "E" at Brumagin Road. We headed home knowing that we earned a delicious Christmas dinner. Food always tastes better after exercise. Thank you Lord!