Write-up: Bobbie Scarpino
Leader: Bobbie Scarpino
Co-Leader: Carolyn Eastman

Over 20 Tramps enjoyed a beautiful fall day at John Boyd Thacher State Park. Starting on Beaver Dam Rd. outside of the park, the group trekked along the Long Path to enter the park. The views from the edge of the escarpment were breathtaking, as we looked out toward Albany’s capitol buildings, and the mountains on the horizon.

Descending down the Indian Ladder Trail was an adventure with its caves and waterfall to walk under. As we approached the ascent, a young couple were coming toward us from the other direction. Apparently, the young lady had reservations about this trail that ventured along a wet rocky cliff. Her young man reassured her by saying, “If these (old) people can do it, you can do it!” He obviously didn’t know he was talking about Tramps. Of course we can! We do it all the time! Piece of cake!

During our lunch break many of our “youngsters” enjoyed the slide at the visitor center. Not realizing how fast it was, several ended up tumbling onto the rubber mat and dirt at the bottom!

As we continued hiking the rest of the horseshoe around the escarpment, we came upon a “beginners” zipline. Chasing away the little kids, the big kids took their turns on this fun ride through the air.

The trail along the escarpment took our group to the “Squeeze Box,” a structure built to ensure that you are thin enough to continue down the crevice to the rock-climbing area. Nearly all tested their physique to pass through, some successful, some not. Some cheated by getting on the ground and wiggling through the bottom wider opening. Carolyn and Darlene, having passed the test, decided to check out the crevice.

From here we made the return. Our map directions weren’t very clear and a park ranger was even more vague. Fortunately, sense of direction and phone GPS got us back on the correct trail to our vehicles.

Perfect ending to a perfect fun day!