Fall walk: Hop Field Trail, Thacher State Park, Altamont

This trail offers a bit of everything!  A loop running through woods and a large wetland, with some wooden bridges over muddy areas, then out into open fields.  The wetland portion can be very wet, so be prepared for mud.  Leader: Susan Toohey.  Directions: From Rt. 146, Main St. in Altamont, continue straight onto Rt. 156 west, ascending the hill past the Stewart’s Shop.  Follow Rt. 156 for around 3 miles, turn left onto Route 157 East, and follow this past two junctions with Rt. 157A; parking is about 1 mile past the Visitor Center, just past the overlook.  The parking fee is $6 — a good inducement for car pooling!