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ADIRONDACK GUIDED BACKPACKING
NTP TRAIL PISECO TO UPPER BENSON
WINTER 2004

March 13, 2004 - March 21, 2004

Meet Ana Maria, Andreas, and Kaspar

Ana, Andreas & Kaspar outside Whitetail Run Yurt prior to their departure for a Adirondack backpacking trip.
March 13, 2004
Ana, Andreas and Kaspar all arrived for an extreme winter excursion.  They were to attempt the NLP trail from Piseco to Upper Benson.

We picked Ana up at the amtrak train station in Amsterdam, New York. Upon her arrival to Back To Basics she was given her pack and snowshoes for the trip.

We picked Ana up at the train station in Amsterdam.  She is currently attending NYU but from South America.  It is not only her first wilderness excursion, but also the first winter she ever experienced.

Ana checked into the Crow's Nest Yurt

Ana was placed in our Crow's Nest accommodation, and popcorn kept her company for the first few evenings.

Ana was pleased with her yurt accommodation

Ana and Kim
March 14, 2004
Sunday morning after breakfast, it was time to pack for tomorrows winter backpacking tour. Everyone was nervous, but excited.
It's exciting to pack your bag for the first time. Try to make it as light as possible but don't forget anything. Then, weigh it.... (Ana)
Pack Weights upon departure
Ana - 45 lbs
Kaspar - 31 lbs
Andreas - 57 lbs
Dan - 65 lbs
Kim - 55 lbs

Andreas and Kaspar in Whitetail Run Yurt

Andreas & Kaspar (father & son) stayed at Whitetail run prior to their backpacking adventure through the first section of the Northville-Lake Placid trail.  Kaspar is 10 years of age, and determined.

Kaspar seems pleased with his new yurt accommodations, and also liked the Adirondack Bunk Beds.
Kaspar wanted a backpacking remote adventure with his Dad, and Andreas (his father) was all for it.

Father and Son Getaway in the Adirondack Mountains
Andreas and Kaspar outside Whitetail Run Yurt.  Andreas and Kaspar are living in Conneticut, but are originally from Switzerland

Kaspar, Andreas, & Ana waiting for their first snowmobile ride at the x-c ski lodge in the Adirondack Mountains.
Kaspar, Andreas, & Ana at Arctic Circle X-C Ski Lodge, awaiting their first snowmobile ride from owner Al Gessinger.

Ana had never experienced a snowmobile nor a winter. She did enjoy her first snowmobile ride.
My first ride in a snowmobile (Ana).

Some of the language barriers did exist between Ana and Us, but we worked them out well. We did have a few words to work out. Snowmobile instead of Skimobile.
Our neighbor (Al Gessinger) and the owner of the Arctic Circle Ski Center, graciously provided our guest with their first snowmobile ride ever.

Kaspar got to experience some Adirondack XC Ski grooming during his snowmobile ride

Kaspar even got to participate in grooming the cross-country ski trails during his snowmobile ride.

Kaspar was very pleased with the sled

Al asked Kaspar how his ride was and Kaspar replied awesome, but Al thought he said awlful.  Kaspar was very pleased with his first snowmobiling ride.

Popcorn had a wonderful time to. This whole group pampered him constantly.

During Kaspar's snowmobile tour, Andreas played snowball with popcorn.  Pop couldn't of been happier.

Andreas seems very pleased with his adventure

Andreas' turn for the snowmobile

Coming up the hill to the Arctic Circle Cross-Country Ski Lodge

Al & Andreas return from the snowmobile trail

Everyone was extremely grateful to Al for a time well had

All had a great time thanks to Al

Kaspar relaxed out front of the NY Ski Lodge

Kaspar outside the Arctic Circle Ski Center Lodge, waiting for Dad (Andreas) to return.

He even took time to pamper popcorn also
He did have time to play with Pop

Adirondack Cross-Country Skiing at its best. Ana and Kaspar try X-C for the first time and did a wonderful job
After snowmobiling; Ana and Kaspar decided to try Cross-Country skiing for the first time.  

They did decide to check in on Andreas at Whitetail Run Yurt

Andreas settled down to a good book and a cat nap, while Ana and Kaspar took to the cross-country ski trails.

This winter excursion was enjoyed by all

Both Ana and Kaspar did a fabulous first time job

Kaspar was determined during his crosscountry endeavor.

Adirondack Cross-Country Determination

Time to kickback and relax prior to the winter camping backpacking tour

The night before the groups departure for the trail.  We all sat down to a Lasagna dinner at the Main House.  Andreas chose the Adirondack Chair.

Ana decided to send her family some pictures and emails the night before departure into the unknown.
Last e-mail to Colombia before the hike.
Ana chose to contact her family before departure
Kaspar and Pop relaxed for the upcoming journey
Kaspar decided on a cat nap in front of the woodstove with Pop
All put in a long day of packing, playing, and the Adirondack Air.

March 15, 2004

The car is packed and the troops are ready for an Adirondack experience
OFF TO THE WILD BLUE YONDER

Ana was a little nervous prior to departing to the Piseco, NY trailhead for a winter backpacking excursion into the unknown wilderness of the Adirondacks.

Ana prior to here guided backpacking trip.  Time for the ride to the trailhead.

We will explain later were the snowshoes go. All are a little nervous about this Adirondack tour.

Andreas has his snowshoes ready

The ride to Piseco trailhead resulted in absolute silence. Dan didn't help by letting everyone know that the temperature was dropping to 25.
Nervous.

Off to the Trailhead. Andreas and Kaspar anticipating the trip.
The ride to Piseco trailhead

One of your Adirondack Guides is also a raving lunatic. He tried his best to relax the group during the drive to Piseco.
Dan was in the mood for singing before the trip started, but we were all too nervous to follow his tune!!  Meanwhile, Pop was trying to breath in the back of the car....(ANA)
Nobody ever said your Adirondack Guides would be normal!

Kim just ignores Dan and keeps driving. Not feeding into this.
We drove Route 10 through Arietta.  The roads were slick from the 3" of snow we received last evening.

Try a guided backpacking trip through the Adirondack Mountains.
HERE'S A GROUP READY FOR ACTION

We decided to pack the snowshoes shortly into the trail. The weren't needed just yet.
The goal for the first night was Hamilton Lake Stream Lean-To (3.6 miles)
Ana what happened to your walking stick????

We think Andreas packed Kaspar judging from the size of the pack.

Kaspar's there somewhere

We decided on breaktime and our last home-made lunch. From here on out MRE's

Time for our first break

Kaspar enjoyed lunch and the break

Kaspar heading to Hamilton Lake

Ana heading to her first Lean-To experience in the Adirondack Mountains

Kaspar decided to try some Adirondack Swimming in 25 degrees.
Our first stream crossing ended in a soak and wet Kaspar in 25 degrees weather.  Immediate action was taken by all to put him back to warm and dry.  During the process Andreas ask "what no picture for this"?
Dan proceed to break out the camera

Kims concern was hypothermia. All made sure Kaspar was warmed and dried quickly.
Kim more concerned with Kaspar then the picture

Ana was getting tired and cold, but knew we had to get Kaspar back up to par.
Getting tired.

Ana & Pop during our first break along the NTP - Piseco to Whitehouse.
Our first break for our last homemade lunch along the NTP

Wilderness backpacking provides excellent choices for lunch.
Last home-made lunch before the MRE's

We found out later that Kaspar saved part of his sandwich for the following day (great conservation)!!!
Priest's Vly is wonderful anytime of the year. The winter gives a whole different appearance to the terrain.
We stopped for another break at Priest's Vly

Our last break prior to reaching the Adirondack Lean-To.
Everyone was getting tired, but enjoyed the views

Father and Son enjoying a wonderful remote destination in the Adirondacks.
Kaspar and Andreas at Priest's Vly

Hamilton Lake Stream Lean-To during a winter camping trip.
We finally arrived at Hamilton Lake Stream Lean-To.  Andreas and Dan gathered wood for the fire, while Ana and I filtered water from the stream.

Everyone was cold, tired, and hungery upon arrival to camp.
Dan was asking me to smile for the picture, but I couldn't smile. I was so cold, I could only grab my toes and try to warm them up (Ana).
Didn't take long for this group to unpack

Time to relax, get warm and prepare dinner for the evening.
Ana finally did get warm, but with six layers, a handwarmer, and popcorn.

MARCH 16, 2004
Looks like a rough morning for this group.
MORNING

Popcorn even seems tired and we haven't even begun the day. He would prefer to still be in the lean-to sleeping on Ana's sleeping bag.
Popcorn's ready for another day

Socks a little stiff Kaspar?
Kaspar decided to check on his socks in the morning.

Hamilton Lake Stream provides a wonderful stop along the NTP for your relaxation.

A brilliant view from Hamilton Lake Stream Lean-To - A winter scene not to be forgot.  

Leaving Hamilton Lake Stream and venturing South to Whitehouse

Everyone packed and ready to move on to Whitehouse (2.8 miles)
Goal to get to Whitehouse and set up camp.  Winter Storm Warning in effect for possible 7" of snow.

Leaving Hamilton Lake Stream provides several opportunities to experience the small creeks and hardwood forests.

Ana and Kims first break heading out of Hamilton Lake Stream.  A wonderful opportunity to snap a picture of Andreas and Kaspar cresting the ridge.

Ana seemed pleased with her backpacking progress from Hamilton Lake Stream into Whitehouse. She did a wonderful job with this backpacking tour.
Ana motivated greatly during the winter trex into Whitehouse

This trip into the remote Adirondack was enjoyed by all who participated in this backpacking guided trip.
Ana and Pop spent alot of time together during this wilderness trex.

The last rest stop prior to arriving in Whitehouse. Even the Adirondack Guides needed a rest.
Kim was exhausted, but knew Whitehouse was just over the crest

Ana and Pop explore the suspension bridge at Whitehouse during their winter excursion.
Ana and Pop at the Suspension Bridge in Whitehouse

Setting up camp in the Evergreens at Whitehouse
Time to set up camp

All the tents are up and ready to bunker down for the possible snowstorm.
A cozy spot to bunker down for the night

Andreas and Kaspar arrived safety at Whitehouse to spend a great evening under the Southern Adirondack pines even with the Winter Storm Warning in effect.
Upon arrival to Whitehouse; Andreas and Kaspar dug our a great place to place their tent for the evening.

Kim was cold upon arriving at Whitehouse during the winter NTP excursion. Dry and warm clothes a necessity prior to finishing the winter camping chores.
Time for warm dry clothes prior to finishing the nightly winter camping routines at Whitehouse.

Ana during her extreme winter camping experience at Whitehouse along the NTP.

Ana seems pleased with her new accommodation for the evening.  Pop is also taking the time out to check out the evening facilities.

Everyone decided on a different MRE for the evening, but we all did choose a warm campfire to discuss the days trail.
The evening dinner of Meals Ready To Eat choices:
Beef Teriayki
Chicken Stew and
Spaghetti with Meatsauce

All worked hard today during their backpacking and survival preparations. A relaxting evening for all.
Ana & Kaspar decided on a warm meal around the campfire, while Andreas took in a cat nap prior to dinner.

Adirondack campfires are the best time to discuss the trail events and woes of the day.

The Adirondack campfire was a warm welcome to us all.  We enjoyed a great meal along with the daily trail concerns.

Picture of Ana during our winter trex of the NTP trail in Whitehouse.

The previous Winter Storm Warning did develop into a foot of snow for our morning awakening.  Ana - you alive in there!!!!

Backpacking the Adirondack Wilderness in the Winter of 2004
Andreas & Kaspar's tent faired a little better than Ana's

Campfire wood after a 12

The first daily chore wood for the fire.

Kaspar did a wonderful job during his winter camping excursion.

Kaspar arose to the new fallen snow, but did appear quite cold.
Where's your jacket??????

In the Summer many fisherman, hikers, and campers frequent this area, but during our winter backpacking tour we were it.
The Adirondack scenery was beautiful with the fresh snow cover

Even the hiking boots take a while to warm up in the winter. Nothing like putting your foot into an ice cold boot!

Andreas arises to the Winter Wonderland.  Boots a little stiff Andreas?

Winter Camping is an extreme that many do not attempt during their lifetime. This group experienced alot of pro's and con's during their trip.

Kim does find humor in watching Andreas attempt to put his boots on.  Been there Done that!

We did let Ana know it wasn't wise to close the outside vents of the tent. She did get cold and the vents were closed. She arose to an inch of ice on the inside of her tent.

Ana was the last to arise that morning.  Her turn to attempt the boots.

Ana did endure two nights and three day of extreme winter camping and conditions and was very pleased with her accomplishment.
Ana awoke this morning at Whitehouse not feeling well.  Never experiencing a winter or the extreme Adirondack conditions.  She felt it better to return to Back To Basics.  We were concerned about her health and immediately revised our plans to get her to comfort.  We immediately asked for a group vote, and the decision was that Kim would take Ana out through Whitehouse; while Dan proceed thru with Andreas and Kaspar.  Ana not use to the harsh winter conditions, did do her best and was able to complete the trail from Piseco to Whitehouse.

Whitehouse provided a beautiful winter wonderland in the morning.
A view taking by Ana the morning in Whitehouse after the new fallen snow.

Ana and Kims depature through Whitehouse into Wells, NY

Ana and Kim packed up camp and proceeded out of Whitehouse into Wells.  The trex out was uphill and after the foot of new snow it did provide a tough 9 mile trex.

 Ana was informed that it could be a short day or a very long day due to the terrain, new snow, and if a ride could be obtained easily. She did withstand a long stretch out.

During Ana and Kim's trex out; Ana was still willing to be pictured.  This photo is just one of the ascents out of Whitehouse into Wells.   Ana did tire the last mile out of Whitehouse and a ride was obtained by two gracious individuals road side.  We were thankful for their presence after a long day.  We arrived in Wells at 4:30 and called Douglas for a ride back to civilization.
Douglas arrived at 5:30 and drove us to the Piseco trailhead to retrieve the truck for our return home.  Ana and I stopped at Canada Lake Store for our evening meal of hamburgers and returned home exhausted from the days excursion.

A comfortable break heading to Mud Lake Lean-To from Whitehouse

After Ana and Kim's departure; Dan, Andreas, & Kaspar headed for the goal of Mud Lake Lean To (3.05 miles)

Andreas & Kaspar's arrival at Mud Lake Lean-To. The downed tree was a very memorable part of the Adirondack scenery.
Mud Lake Lean-To was reached and the group was very pleased with the endeavor.  Popcorn immediately kicked back to relax.

Andreas and Kaspar experienced the ups and down of any extreme adventure trip. They endured a rough trip with many emotions.

This father and son experienced what survival in the wilderness mean't from step one till the end of their Adirondack backpacking trip.

Mud Lake views along the NTP trail. A remote hiking backpacking experience.

The remote area of Mud Lake is a wonderful wilderness area to explore

A beautiful winter scene along the NTP trail - Mud Lake

Winter provides an excellent time to discover the road less traveled

A perfect destination for a remote vacation getaway

A winter scene of solitude and beauty.

Andreas and Kaspar take in the winter scene at Mud Lake Lean-To.
A great father and son vacation trip to the middle of nowhere

NTP trail from Mud Lake to Silver Lake
The goal today 5.8 miles to Silver Lake Lean-To.  Andreas and Kaspar refuel for the long stretch.

This that trigger the mind during your family vacation in the Adirondack Mountains.
An interesting specimen

Andreas during a break along the NTP trail in winter 2004

Andreas shrunk?

Kaspar & Andreas had a difficult hike out of Mud Lake, but still enjoyed the remote trip.

Kaspar & Andreas had a rough day, but still enjoyed the Adirondack scenes.

This section of the NTP is currently in disarray as of Winter 2004. Due to the harsh winter many trees are down and the trail markers are hard to locate in some sections.
The goal of Silver Lake lean-to was not going to be reached today.  Due to the harsh winter many trees were down along with a flooded vly.  At one point it took Dan, Andreas, and Kaspar 3 hours to locate the trail markers.

The alternative location along the NTP that evening was Canary Pond.  A wonderful tenting area for the evening right along the shore of the pond amoung the evergreens.

ADIRONDACK CAMPING AT ITS BEST
Andreas & Kaspars site was just as nice.  No need to fight for a prime location in the dead of winter.

A winter vacation that provides all the extremes for your next family vacation or remote getaway.

The evening campsite prepared to prefection, where is everyone!!!!

The technology that is available in a survival situation is outstanding. Consider shoe shoes for drying your laundry.

Campfire hole craters allow for excellent feet warming.  The shoe shoes worked great for our laundry drying.  The previous nights laundry resulted in duct taping Kaspars pants "oops".

Kaspar and Andreas break along the NTP trail after leaving Canary Pond. The first goal of the day is to reach Silver Lake Lean-To.
The following morning, we were slightly off track by spending the night at Canary Pond.  Our next goal was a push to Rock Lake for another Adirondack Camping Adventure.

Kaspar head from Canary Pond to Silver Lake Lean-To.
Kaspar was tired, but at the age of 10 endured his first extreme winter camping adventure like a trooper.

Andreas during his rest along the NTP. Heading out from Canary Pond into Silver Lake.

Andreas seems a bit cold, wondering why your bringing the collar of snow with you?  

Be a survivor in the wilderness - experience the extreme sport of winter camping.

The road less traveled, but well worth the effort.

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION STATE OF NEW YORK TRAIL MARKERS. Just incase you don't know what these are after all this time looking at them.

DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT THIS IS?????

Silver Lake Lean-To along the NTP trail. The journals provide a humerous along with a summary of current trail conditions and woes.

At Silver Lake Lean-To for a rest stop.  Andreas decided to write in the Journal regarding his extreme adventures.

Your Adirondack Guides like this area of the NTP. We find it relaxing and breathtaking.
A glimpse of Silver Lake through the treeline

Silver Lake during a winter backpacking trip into the wilderness of the Adirondack Mountains.
Andreas continues his journal writing as Kaspar watches the fallen snow.  The new joke of the day is "it's snowing".  

Blue Ridge Mountain in the winter along the Northville-Lake Placid trail in the Silver Lake Wilderness.
An excellent winter view of Blue Ridge Mountain along the NTP

Andreas, how far is it to civilization. Looking for a meal besides an MRE and a hot shower.
Andreas view the map heading out from Silver Lake.  Kaspar taking a need rest while Dad looks at the topo.

Heading from Silver Lake toward Rock Lake along the Northville trail.
Dad still looking at the map. We told you the last mile seems to take forever in a day.  

The terrain and trail are hard in the winter and do provide slower going.
Rock Lake wasn't reached this evening.  Tents were pitched about a mile north of Rock Lake.

A father & son bonding experience until the very end. A memory that will last forever.

Andreas and Kaspar view the Topographical map on the way out.  Today will be the day - UPPER BENSON!!!!!!!!!!!!!  This is one of Kim's favorite pictures of the trip.  FURTHER GROWTH OF A FATHER & SON.

Andreas and Kaspar's crossing of WEST STONY CREEK.
Crossing the West Stony Creek, almost there guys bring it home.
(1.6 miles to go)

1.6 MILES to complete the wilderness trip from Piseco to Upper Benson.
Andreas & Kaspar have endured a lot.  No turning back now only the grand finale.  PUSH PUSH PUSH

A PUSH TO THE EXTREME THAT MANY WOULD NEVER DARE TO CONSIDER IN A LIFETIME. GREAT JOB GUYS!!!
ROAD CLOSED GUYS, GOTTA TURN AROUND AND GO BACK.
Andreas and Kaspar during their last few steps of completing the trail from Piseco to Upper Benson.  

After a six day haul, Andreas and Kaspar arrived safety in Upper Benson ready for relaxation, food, and a hot shower. WELL EARNED
THE MOMENT OF TRUTH AND ACCOMPLISHMENT!!!!!!!!

Kaspar resting up after his extreme wilderness excursion.
Upon arrival back, the feet needed tending to.  Kaspar enjoyed the massage along with a cat nap while awaiting dinner.  Dinner tonight:  Prime Rib, Seafood Chowder, Twice Baked Potatoes, and Chocolate Eclair Cake.

Andreas played cards with Taryn and Rachel following his return to Back To Basics.
Andreas played a game of Go-Fish with Taryn & Rachel while awaiting Dinner. It was either that or sleeping.  Both Andreas and Kaspar upon weight in lost about 5-7 lbs during their wilderness excursion

"We arrived yesterday and spent the first night here.  We just weighed our backpacks, mine ways 31 pounds my Dads 57 pounds."

"Kaspar and I had a safe trip back.  We arrived in the middle of the
afternoon.  Kaspar has been proudly showing his presents to everybody who
wants to see them.  He especially likes the headlamp. I have been relaxing
looking at my mail and the newspaper.  I also checked out the website of our
trip again - the pictures bring back wonderful memories.  In a couple of
minutes we will have dinner together, the "Aelplermaggrone" are already
being prepared. Dominique will send the recipe soon.

It is hard to believe that tomorrow will be Go Back To The Daily Routine.
Kaspar and I will certainly miss the wilderness, but we are already making
plans to repeat this experience in some form.

Thank you again for this exceptional week.  Kaspar and I enjoyed every minute
we spent with you.  Kaspar says he is missing Popcorn."

Andreas and Kaspar




© Back To Basics Adirondack Wilderness Adventures 2004