The flags are planted in spots that we frequent but have been mostly inaccessible until this past week because of the lack of trail maintenance. However, this past week trail maintenance began in earnest throughout the mountain freeing miles of tick-hiding, thigh hide weed-grass and brush.
We wanted to give other mountain explorers - hikers, bird-watchers, mountain bikers, small game hunters, anglers, campers and horse back riders something to look for and to look forward to while on the mountain!
The 13 flags are planted in plain view and each of them represent a favorite, significant location on the mountain. The 13 flags also represent the 13 original colonies in the formation of the country and serve as a metaphor for the wild independence of the mountain.
Whether the skeletal, foundational remains of a one room school house, a man-made waterfall or the boundary lines of an old apple orchard - the flags offer insight to the industrious nature of the region's settlers - not to mention great photo opportunities!
The flags also acknowledge the freedom we have to explore, wonder and wander. You never know what you might find on the mountain!
While scouring the mountain for flag-sightings, bring along an extra bag to pick up trail trash.
The mountain, wild-life and Charlie Browne will thank you. And remember to sign-in at the trail head every time you visit the mountain. Mountain use helps to determine levels of funding for trail, park and wildlife management area maintenance.
Post your BSM flag photo with the hashtag #13flags on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.
(The flags will be removed Thanksgiving weekend 2017.)
*Between hikes, Lillian Browne writes about the environment, politics, crime and business in Delaware County. She is a NYS licensed outdoor adventure guide exploring the world around her, one step at a time, with her dog - Charlie. Follow her on Instagram @catskills.unleashed on Twitter @catskillsunleashed or on Facebook/Catskills Unleashed. www.CatskillsUnleashed.com - #unleashyourpotential and #getanewleashonlife
