Albany Pine Bush-Rapp Barrens

While out running some errands after work this afternoon I decided to do a short walk in the Albany Pine Bush-Rapp Barrens section.  I parked in the small parking pull off along Lincoln Ave(Rapp Road North) and grabbed a trail map at the informative kiosk.

I began by turning left(clockwise) on the red trail heading east-southeast, soon dropping down to a bridge crossing over the headwaters of Patroon Creek.

The trail cuts through recent habitat restoration areas which leave it pretty open and vulnerable to gusty NW winds.

The red trail closely parallels part of Rensselaer Lake for a bit, providing a sense of tranquility for a few moments.  Any sounds of nature are quickly replaced by the sounds of rushing traffic from the Northway however. 

On a bright note, the water views are quite nice through this stretch, if you can block out the sounds of passing cars.

The trail becomes paved and turns right(NW) passing briefly between the Interstate on your left and the lake on your right.

This section of the trail was fully exposed to the cold northwest winds, which had me shivering.  A lone jogger(the only other person I saw on the trail) didn't seem to mind however.

One particular stretch of trail runs side by side with the Interstate before thankfully turning sharply right away from the road.

Within just a couple of minutes I arrived back at the car, completing a nice and easy 1.7 mile stroll.