The South Mountain Conservancy has announced that the final trail work day of the season will be Sunday, December 4, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The Conservancy invites all to help repair trails near the Mayapple Hill picnic area. Trail building and maintenance is rewarding work, but strenuous and only for volunteers 15 years or older. Volunteers should bring solid footwear and a friend. The Conservancy will supply work gloves, tools, and water. The event would only be canceled by steady rain. Trail work will resume in the spring on the first Sunday of each Month (except for July 4 and Labor Day weekends).

Directions to Mayapple HIll parking lot: Go a half mile north of Northfield Avenue on Pleasant Valley Way, turn left and go up hill on Cedar Lane. Make a left into the parking lot. (Note: Half of the access road may be blocked by a fallen tree — go around it.) 

The Conservancy also announces the Final 2011 Hikes:  

Saturday, December 3 (10:00 – 1:30):  ELMDALE TRAIL: This trail has undergone several changes making it more sustainable and a little more challenging. About 4 miles at a moderate pace. Meet at the Locust Grove parking area on Glen Ave. Leader: Lou Nocito 973-953-7099 (cell).

Sunday, December 11 (10:00 – 12:00): OAKDALE LOOP: A stroll of about 4 miles at a moderate pace with only one moderately uphill section. Meet at Oakdale Picnic Grove off of Cherry Lane, about 0.3 miles south of the light on Northfield Ave., or one mile north of the light on South Orange Ave. Leader: Lou Nocito 973-953-7099 (cell).

Saturday, December 17 (10:30 - 2:30): GREAT CIRCLE: Last Hike of the season. Hike will go from Locust Grove along the Lenape Trail with a break at Hemlock Falls, returning along the Rahway River. Bring a snack. About 5-6 miles with some uphill sections. Meet at Locust Grove opposite the First Aid Station on Glen Ave. in Millburn. Leader: Lou Nocito 973-953-7099 (cell).

There is no need to register; just come to the meeting point a little before the starting time. All events are free. Steady rain automatically cancels a walk, intermittent showers do not. All hikes are appropriate for children 10 and older with their families. Younger children may come with their families when indicated. Bring your own water. Ending times are only estimates and may vary due to the weather, or the pace of a particular group.  Call the leader if you have questions.  For further information on starting sites, see www.somocon.org.