Drove out to the old Camp Ayapo in Somers, Connecticut today.  This is a piece of the "middle" missing from the old "Simon's Lost in Hampden" adventures.

Back on January 27th, Wuzzam and I arrived opposite the old camp at the trail-head for the Stevenson Woodlot.  Then, in early February, the 1st & 2nd actually, I had explored the Skyline Area and Minnechoag Mountain area as well.  The Hill 880', Pine, Rattlesnack, Perkins and Ayapo are what remained for exploring.

So today, it was to the easiest missing spot;  Somers Open Space has been improving the trails around Ayapo for a few years now.  It was really enjoyable to see the hard work placed into this wonderful area.

Back in the 1990's, DL and I fished Hurd's Lake several times a week, in our Old Town Canoe with our spaniel Dusty always in the boat as well.  We spent several years in that water.

Then, for a couple years in the early 2000's,  JC would attended summer camp at Ayapo.  I would drive out most Friday afternoon's with Tippi to pick him up.  

This spot really holds some wonderful memories for me, and today only helped further cement them in.  Ended up with 3.8-miles after a light snowfall.

New signage with an accurate map!

 Looking back across Hurd's Lake from the north

Twenty-years ago today, February 22nd, 1998, I directed the second WMAC Snowshoe Series Race at Dubuque State Forest in Hawley, Massachusetts.

1st Annual Hawley Kiln Klassic 7-Mile Snowshoe Race

February 22nd, 1998 - Hawley,  Massachusetts

The event had 8 starters and finishers, including Old Farmer Tom who tried to snowshoe and mountain bike through the course.  We wrapped up an awesome first ever weekend of snowshoe racing, and were on our way!