Saturday, July 23, 2005

RiverDogging Fitch's Bridge Access Site

Took Granddog to Golden Glow to visit and check on Willie and Bree, who are house-sitting. On the way, I let her wade the river's edge at an older access site adjacent to Fitch's Bridge to the Glow. The Chemung is very low right now, and the flats are all rocky, just perfect for a little dog to explore.

Some fishermen, but no catches in evidence. Saw lots of insects skeetering across the water, but nothing rising to them. Once again, as I often will, caught myself wishing for a canoe. Can't imagine that Ellie would be terrible thrilled with such an arrangement, though.

If you are new to this site: scrolling down will show our latest access ramp, as well as things to see around the river, itself.

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Little Pond

A brief history. There used to be a huge slide, pictured in black and white. Mr. Fitch didn't own the slide or the bridge. He was an unfortunate individual who drowned attempting to ford the Chemung. This lovely river is treacherous indeed. Always was, apparently. Posted by Picasa

Lovely launch area. Plenty of parking and rather well-kept. There were two fishermen, as well as a couple ladies enjoying the shade of the bridge itself. Posted by Picasa

A view towards the City of Elmira. The land at right is actually an island. Ellie wallowed a bit, whining all the while. Not sure why, maybe the smell of the dried river bottom? Posted by Picasa

Brand, spanking-new Fitch's Bridge. The river is very low, exposing the rocks that are usually underwater. Posted by Picasa

A view upriver towards Corning, New York, on a perfect Summer's day. Posted by Picasa

Wild grape is found all over the Northeast. Remember that Leif Erickson called it Vinland. Posted by Picasa

Except for the road, this entire area is woodsy. Wear heavy slacks to protect your legs, the brush is quite dense. Oh yeah, and you want to listen and watch for rattlers, especially this year. Posted by Picasa

It's easy to forget that the bridge is brand-new. Until I looked up from underneath. Shiny, shiny, new, new! Striking. Posted by Picasa

Ladies and Gentlemen, we thank you and salute you! Posted by Picasa