Rattlesnake Hill is named after the Timber Rattlesnake, but we’re unlikely to see any at this time of year in the areas we will hike. Like many of the State Forests and Wildlife Management Areas, Rattlesnake Hill WMA has a history of settlement in the late 1800s and farm failure in the early 1900s. We’ll walk on 2 of the old roads and see at least 3 old house and barn foundations. The loop will be approximately 2 miles and take 1.5 to 2 hours.
After the hike we’ll go to Anderson’s Frozen Custard in Dansville for anyone interested in the best frozen custard in NY.
If you live south of Rochester this hike is for you. If you live to the east, you’ll probably find the drive to be too much, unless you want to make a day of it and visit friends/family or other sight seeing.
RSVP and Cancellations
Please respect the trip leader and update your RSVP if you sign-up but then are unable to attend. If you attend without RSVP-ing it is possible that the hike may have changed without notification.
Trail Conditions
The hike starts with a climb of about 100 ft in the first half mile, then the walking becomes easier. I climb slow, so if you’re fast you’ll have to wait for me at the top. We’ll travel on old roads (sometimes muddy), through a pine plantation, and in bush hogged fields (stubbly grass and brush). I would classify this hike as medium difficulty.
What to Bring
Dress for the weather (you’ll probably heat up on the initial climb, but the upper pastures could be cool). Sturdy soled shoes will make walking in the fields much more pleasant. Bring water and a snack if desired.
Location and Directions
Please let the hike leader know if you want to meet in Dansville to car pool or be led to the hike.
For detailed directions from your location use the address and your gps or an online mapping program. This map will lead you from Main Street in Dansville: https://www.google.com/maps/dir/42.5610644,-77.6961036/42.5174269,-77.8264672/@42.5155918,-77.830028,16.5z/data=!4m2!4m1!3e0
Ossian Hill Rd changes to Linzy Rd in Ossian. Scott Hill Rd, Bonner Rd, and Scoville Rd all branch to the left after you pass through Ossian – keep taking right hand forks. Linzy turns into Dannack Hill Rd, which is a dirt road, generally OK condition, but you probably don’t want to drive 55 mph on it!
We’ll meet at the 2nd trail head on the left, after the snow plow turnaround. It’s the last trailhead before the gate at the end of the road. There is parking on the right. If that’s too wet there is parking across from Ebert Rd, and also at the first trailhead (where we will end the hike). They are only about a tenth of a mile apart.
Onsite Facilities There are no facilities onsite, and no nearby businesses. If you’re coming through Dansville you can stop at Tops on Rt. 36 and buy a coffee and use their facilities. If you use TP in the outdoor facilities make sure to bring a zip lock baggie so you can carry it out (TP is so gross to find in the woods).
Additional Information
http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/24443.html
Approximate Distances
Rochester - 50 miles
Ithaca - 100 miles
Auburn - 100 miles
This free event is open to members and non-members of Women Outdoors. Non-members are invited to join us on two events to see what you think. The third time's a charm - we'll ask you to join Women Outdoors at that point. You can join now by clicking on Join Us.
