Jim Schug Trail

So I pushed beyond the boundaries of Ithaca into another town: Dryden, in search of some outdoor activity. Most of the New York State Parks that I researched were closed due to winter maintenance but I plan on visiting them in the future so stay tuned. Hopefully this wonderful weather lasts a little longer to melt the rest of Cayuga Lake and afford me several locations to choose from, but I did my best. Dryden is about 15 minutes from Ithaca on Route 13. The drive is very easy and you cannot miss the huge sign welcoming one to Dryden. From there I pulled into a municipal parking lot located in the center of main street. With my waterproof boots, large jacket, wool neck-warmer and my valentine I walked towards the Jim Schug Trail entrance. What seemed to be the backyard of Dryden residents turned out to be a 4.2mile long trail covered in thick snow that culminated with a view of Dryden's largest lake. From the tracks that were already made in the snow we noticed that pets were allowed as well as cross-country skiers. (I have yet to cross-country ski but if one were a beginner, the Jim Schug Trail would definitely be a great place to start) 4.2 miles from the beginning of the trail to the lake, but remember it is 4.2 miles from the lake back to the beginning of the trail. So around 9.4miles of walking in total. The trail level is not difficult in anyway but with a little more snow and colder conditions, difficulty level could be pushed to medium. It was a perfect day for a walk. Sunny, 22 degrees out (although it felt as if it were 15), clear skies and an uncrowded path. Benches every 1/2 mile line the trail in order for walkers to keep track. Be warned the walk there goes by quickly, but don't forget that you have to turn around and walk back to your car! Anyways, a little fresh air is always good to clear the mind and the Jim Schug Trail was successful in doing so. After the trail if you are hungry, good luck trying to find a place. Dryden's selection of cafes and restaurants is pitiful compared to that of Ithaca, it is almost worth it to skip the stop and drive back to Ithaca where the opportunities are endless. All in all the 15 minute adventure coupled with the 2 hour walk was well worth it. My valentine and I enjoyed the sun, each other's company and the great outdoors of upstate New York. 

If you are in the mood for a little of this kind of exercise check out The Jim Schug Trail.