During a meet-and-greet before the hike, we each shared our most recent hike and it was fun to hear about everyone’s adventures in a variety of other places. At Deer Lick, cool temperatures and our friendly companions made for a delightful Fall hike. 
Ten of us savored this WNY gem on a 4-mile trail known for its gorge views and old-growth trees, some over 100-feet tall. We started the hike on the white trail that passes a rare chestnut tree and eventually leads to a ridge overlooking the South Branch of Cattaraugus Creek. We paused near Bear Point to take in the gorge views, converse and have a snack. Sugar maple, beech and hemlock are the predominant trees here, but tulip and black cherry trees are also present. We returned to lower elevation, switched to the yellow trail, and got a good look at Deer Lick Falls, which was relatively robust. Beautiful maidenhair ferns and fungi of all sizes and colors provided a nature treat. Giant grapevines, a deer sighting, and blooming partridgeberries added to the fun. It’s a wonderful time of year for hiking in scenic places with ADK friends.
– Janet and David Kowalski