Winter snowshoe hike will follow the O&W Rail Trail

MOUNTAINDALE, NY — The Mountaindale Community Development Project will host a free snow hike along the O&W Rail Trail between Mountaindale and Woodridge on Sunday, January 24 at 1:00 p.m., starting at the new train station.

Everyone is encouraged to bring their snowshoes and cross-country skis and participate. The event will begin inside the train station with a warm up stretch, lead by local yoga instructor Janet Gula, of On the Mat in Mountaindale Yoga Studio.

For those without snowshoes, Lisa Lyons of Morgan Outdoors of Livingston Manor will have a supply on hand to rent for the afternoon’s festivities. Renters should call 845/439-5507 to reserve snowshoes on a first-come, first-served basis.

The trail is an easy five-mile round trip on relatively flat terrain with interesting sights. Participants will go at their own pace, while enjoying the winter flora and fauna, and can pick the distance that fits their ability. Dressing in layers is encouraged, especially wind-resistant jackets, warm socks, hats and gloves. Geocachers will enjoy bringing their GPS devices to locate treasures along the route. Afterward, participants may choose to warm up with hot homemade soup and fresh bread donated by Nonni’s Trattoria. Purchase of the soup and portions of the snowshoe rental fee will benefit Mountaindale Renaissance beautification efforts this year.

For more information call 845/434-4747.