Write-up: Bobbie Scarpino

Leader: Bobbie Scarpino

Co-Leader: Lori Waterman

            On a spectacular autumn day, 27 Tramps journeyed 90 miles to the shores of Lake Ontario to experience one of New York State’s natural wonders. We were met at the entrance by the park ranger who explained how the bluffs were formed. They are drumlins made up of sediment left behind by the glaciers. Located right on the edge of the lake that looks more like an ocean, they are worn away by the waves and wind into many tall, unstable spires. They are constantly changing, eroding 12 inches every year.

The Bluff Trail took us directly to views above the earthen towers. They look like they should exist out west, not in New York State! The ranger, a bit full of gloom and doom, warned us not to go down the 180 steps to the shoreline below because the lake is unpredictable, the shoreline narrow with slippery rocks, and pieces of the bluffs could tumble down unexpectedly and kill us. But the lake was unusually calm and clear, and well . . . Tramps have an adventurous spirit! About half the group ventured down to get a spectacular view looking up at the earthen stacks from the shoreline. I’m happy to say there were no mishaps! 

  A stop at Riley’s Bar and Grill on Sodus Bay made for a great ending to the day’s wonderful adventure.