The Great Outdoors....Before They Close it

Thacher Park, NY

I have probably mentioned in a previous post that New York State (like many) is having some financial difficulty right. One of the things they are going to do to try and save some money.......close the State Parks. I have been told this will be one of the last weekends to access several of the parks in the area so I thought I better see one. The sun was out too so it really wasn't a bad day for a walk through the woods.

Something I found along the way. I still find all the mail boxes along the side of the road fun, especially when they look old and interesting.

It really was a quick 30 minute drive from Albany to the park. The GPS got lost a few times....and this time I really do mean the GPS. The roads have changed a bit due to construction and I haven't updated my maps since I bought it so as long as I followed the signs and not the GPS through certain sections.......it was alright. And I have learned when I am not paying attention....left and right sound the same in a British accent (don't ask me why).

Anyway, I eventually made it to the park. My first stop was at the Scenic Outlook. Surprisingly, there was a lot to see from there. The day also gave me a chance to practice using some of the settings on my new camera. I am still a long way off from having it figured out but I seem to be getting better at it. Here are some pictures from the day.

You may or may not recognize that as the government buildings around Empire State Plaza and the Capitol. I never realized how many trees and how green the city was until I looked at it from above.

About half the parking lots looked like this. It will be a real shame when in a few weeks they all do.

Sorry, I just find this funny. Do people really find throwing things off a cliff fun?

The trail markers I was attempting to follow. Not sure I did a very good job but I didn't get lost in the woods and I was able to find my car again so it's all good.

Wouldn't be a hike in the woods if there wasn't a water fall.....

.......and a stream.

Another look at that cliff.

All in all a few great hours in The Great Outdoors. Let's hope the politicians come to their senses and keep the park open.

Julie