USS Accord Watkins Glen Weekend - 28-30 September 2007
USS Accord’s 18th annual Watkins Glen Weekend is upon us. Those of you who have never been to at a Watkins Glen Weekend before may be wondering what would be best to wear and to bring on this excursion.
The first thing you need to know about Watkins Glen is that, much like Ithaca, the weather on any given day is something of a crapshoot. The weather probably won’t deviate too much from the predicted weather, though, so make sure you check the weather reports for both Ithaca, NY and Watkins Glen, NY before leaving home. If the reports show at least a slight chance of rain, it is recommended that you at least bring a small umbrella, and perhaps a poncho. (In the event of significant rain, Accord has a backup plan to go to the Corning Museum of Glass.)
[Editorial note: Current long-term forecasts for the event call for partly cloudy skies at 68 degrees, with negligable variation over the weekend.]
In terms of temperature, late September can be all over the map. Again, check the weather reports, but your best bet is to dress in layers. Remember, you’re hiking around two miles total here; you may start out cold and then wish to shed a layer two after you get moving. Also, wear appropriate footwear. Hiking boots or sneakers that won’t skid on the rocks would be optimal; nice shoes or anything with heels are right out.
Finally, onto accessories! Some Accordians have chosen to brought a walking stick on the hike before, but it’s certainly not necessary. I would, however, highly recommend you bring a camera. Watkins Glen State Park has many beautiful sights to behold which can be captured digitally (or with film, if you so prefer). Cell phones may be helpful in case of an emergency; I’ve never found a significant problem getting cell reception on the trail. A bottle of water will be helpful for thirst quenching.
And there you have it: What to bring and wear to Watkins Glen Weekend!
September 23rd, 2007 - 1:55 pm
I’d add that the temperatures inside the gorge tend to be as much as 15-20 degrees cooler than the air temperature in the parking lot, both because the gorge interior is shaded from the sun so much of the day and because there’s a creek with cool water flowing. Unless you’re a serious northerner who likes cool weather, you’ll almost certainly want a fleece or other jacket for some of the walk.
If you’re bringing a camera, bring film or memory cards and batteries. Yes, you can buy those at the Glen. Yes, they overcharge for them just like any tourist attraction.
Don’t bring brand new hiking boots; your feet will not be amused. Bring something that’s already broken in.