Race to Bear
Wednesday, November 4th, 2009
Southwest Massachusetts. Richard, Dave, and Loren about to set out on a twelve mile hike up Race Brook falls, across Race Mountain, down into Sage’s Ravine, into Connecticut, up Bear Mountain and back to Rt. 41 where our second car is parked.
This is a nice hike although we ran out of time and didn’t "summit" on Bear Mountain, instead taking the Paradise Lane trail under the east face of it.
The "summit" of Race Mountain, one of my favorite summits on our hikes so far. Nice views in all directions.
Dave looking east on the south ridge of Race Mountain. The walk along this ridge (about 1/2 mile) is the best part of the entire hike with spectacular views east down into the valley.
Me posing stupidly on a beautiful stone bridge crossing Bear Rock Stream.
The bottom end of Sage’s Ravine with the water higher than we expected. There was no easy place to cross so Loren took the lead and walked in fast running water at the top of the falls, using his sticks for balance. Dave followed easily but my first step wasn’t so good and I went in up to my knee with my right foot. I made it but felt like a clod with a wet leg the rest of the trip.
Tip: with high water carry Keens, Tevas, or Crocks and a towel and wade across.
Even with this mishap it was a great hike and we had a blast.
Sounds like you guys had a fine time on that very long hike. What a view you had from the ridge of Race Mountain! The Canon PowerShot 1200IS delivered excellent fall colors too, good that you had it along to document your hike and share with us.
Gary: I’m going to take you up there when you come back here in December, providing the weather cooperates.
I can hardly wait to do that long hike with you, even though I know my “dogs” will be barkin’!
Gary: Keep up your walks on the coast and you’ll do just fine. All of our legs bark on these hikes but they shut up after a couple of Torpedos.