|
|
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
        
 Reporter |
Summary: Dyken Pond was created after a dam was built to control the flow of the Poesten Kill for the the mills downstream. Today, it is the location of a nature preserve for the benefit of the public. It offers varied ecosystems for the casual hiker to explore - from beech-maple forests to spruce-fir swamps. Because of the location on the Rensselaer Plateau, it is often much cooler than lower elevations. A map and informational brochures are available at the kiosk near the parking area. I did a long counter-clockwise loop hike of the perimeter trails: Abbt Farm (unmarked), Otter Creek (yellow), Long Trail (white), Spring Trail (red), Long Trail (white) and finishing with a short road walk. From the parking area, head up the grassy hill and past the white building to begin this hike. If you continue walking past the barricade along the road, you will reach the canoe launch site on Dyken Pond in 5 minutes. Trailhead: From Troy, go east on Route 2 to Cropseyville. Turn right onto Blue Factory Rd (CR 79) at the wooden Dyken Pond sign. Go for 2.0 miles, and then turn left onto Madonna Lake Road (CR 80). Proceed for another 2.2 miles, then bear right onto Dyken Pond Road - a narrow gravel road. The center is at the end of the road in 2.2 miles. (Lat:42.723 Lon:-73.435) Trail Guides for Dyken Pond: Natural Areas of Rensselaer County 2nd edition by Glen Martin Editor (Environmental Clearinghouse of Schenectady) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Rensselaer County Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by George Senft, who has posted 26 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Nick on 7/8/2008 4 stars only because I'm afraid to say any one hike is my favorite. A great place to bring young kids as the trails have educational stops along the way. All the trails were in good condition and I took the LONG TRAIL all the way around. The trails on the other side of the swamp are a little more difficult but if you have the time to explore it shouldn't matter to have to back track at a dead end a few times. If you have time after the hike Dyken Pond is a short walk from the parking lot. I'll definetly hike these trails again. It's the most natural group of trails I've hiked yet. 
Reviewed by Kristen on 7/29/2006 This is a beautiful area. This a great hike for the nature lover. I was disappointed however with some of the trail conditions. The trails closest to the pond were in excellent shape, however the trails that are on the other side of the main road were highly variable. More than once we were confused as to how to stay on the trail. Entrances to trails were often unmarked or poorly marked and many of the trail markers were faded and easy to miss. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: New York Hiking, New York Trails, New York Hikes, Rensselaer County Hiking, Rensselaer County Trails, Rensselaer County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||