Our virtual journey begins at the yellow Phoenicia-East Branch Trail head which is accessible from the NYSDEC parking lot on Ulster County Route 47 in Oliverea (Town of Shandaken). From here we will be hiking over 3 miles through varying terrain and breathtaking scenery. Two of the advantages to hiking in the winter that we hope to exploit are the additional views and the less-crowded trails. The winter views are generally better for two reasons; there are no leaves, and there is greater visibility due to the decreased humidity in winter. Let's embark and see if this is true!
	Shortly after signing the NYSDEC trail register, you will cross a tributary to the headwaters of the Esopus Creek. It is believed that the Esopus gave birth to fly-fishing here in the United States. The overhead vegetation at this elevation (2,500') is dominated by American beech, eastern hemlock, sugar maple, white ash, and yellow birch, all typical of northeastern hardwood forests.
As you continue, the trail becomes a bit more rocky and many large boulders begin to appear. If you have the time, explore the rocks along this first part of the trail. Don't be surprised if you find plant fossils that date back millions of years. You will notice that the contrasting colors of the yellow birchs and eastern hemlocks really stand out along this first portion of the trail.