Dates ........ THR SEPT 23, 1999
Miles ........ 18.8 miles
From ........ NY - RPH Shelter
To ............. GRAYMOORE FRIARY ball field pavilion
Weather ... 40 degree, clear A.M., Sunny, warm, 72 degree day

THR SEPT 23, 1999

CANOPUS LAKE - Fahnstock State Park

BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS - PIZZA started off some guys' morning. I had my muffins and pastry, packed up and hit the trail. Climbing Shenandoah Mtn, I have a great view back to the Taconic Parkway. At the summit, a panoramic view of the whole area is presented from its bald rock top.

I come to the Canopus Lake overlook and spend a few moments enjoying another pristine lake view. There are four paths leading from the overlook - which one is the AT? I can't see any trail markers. I end up in a blind canyon of rocks. I climb back to the top, spot an undersize trail marker on a sapling and go on my way. I pass the lake's northeast shore and meet a day hiker that just recovered from Lyme disease. I continue on a high, rocky ridge cliff edge reminiscent of PA trails. Then I hike through Fahnstock State Park. There I marvel at the laid up stone trail that was built in 1874 as a path for ore carts.

At a stream crossing where I filter a fresh quart of water, Slip Knot and Rolling Tide catch up to me. Slip Knot has not been feeling well - I decide to stay with them. My original plan was to hike to the area overlooking the Hudson and set up camp there but since he is not feeling well, we decide to hike together to the Old Albany Post Road and roadwalk the last few miles to Graymore Friary - where he'd have help if he needed it. On the way I find an OLD BOTTLE in the woods. We walked into the campsite at the Friary's ballfield about 7 P.M. A northbound man and woman (hiking separately) were already there. I took advantage of the Friary's cold shower. My feet and especially my left knee are bothering me - but Ibuprofen is keeping things in check and it is not nearly as bad as this spring's hike.