Not every fishing trip starts off with a 2-hour drive. But when the weather calls for blue bird skies and 20-degree weather, you make the drive to a lake you have never fished before.
It’s always intimidating fishing on a lake you don’t know because, well, you don’t know it. We had done some research on Schroon Lake and we knew where we wanted to ice fish on the lake and we also knew that it was going to be deeper than most lakes we were used to.

After setting up base camp we started drilling holes and setting up the tip-ups. After the first hole we realized that our tip-ups were not set up to fish in water that was 150 feet deep.
So we found some spots closer to shore where it was shallower and set up in water where we knew we had a better chance to catch fish. Once we were all set up, we sat back and enjoyed the view and waited for a flag. The view was absolutely breathtaking.

Lunch time on the ice is an experience in its own. For us, we usually bring dehydrated camping meals because they’re easy to cook and filling. We also enjoy bringing out stews and soups and lots of coffee. A compact camping stove is our go-to for boiling water and warming up our meals. It’s always so nice eating a hot meal on a cold day on the lake. On windy days we will eat in the shanty for a break from the wind but if it’s a day like today we’re outside almost the whole time.
If you don't pack your own lunch, check out all of the delicious dining options in the area - depending where you set up, you can walk to many of them!

“FLAG UP” and we both took off running.
There is no way to explain this feeling and it never gets old. The first move is to check the line to make sure that it is moving, then it’s go time. You start by feeding the line to the fish through your hands. The trick is to be very careful so the fish isn’t spooked. You then set the hook and start pulling the line in. Most of the time, you have to try to tire the fish out which ends up feeling like a game of tug of war. Then you pull the fish up through the hole.

We didn’t have as many flags as we would have liked, but that’s how it always goes. We couldn’t call it a bust with the weather and the view we were offered. The Schroon Lake community was beyond friendly and the people that we had spoken to at the boat launch gave us some helpful “first timers” advise before we went out.
Overall it was a great day fishing and we will definitely be returning with the hopes of catching a lake trout through the ice. You should book a room plan your own ice fishing getaway and see if you can too!
If you're up for a challenge, there's still time register for the upcoming 26th annual Schroon Lake Ice Fishing Derby!

---

This week in related ADK news:

Snowshoeing: Tupper’s Triad

Family XC: Dewey Mountain

Lesson 1: snowplow to S turn

Snowboarding: best kind of board mtg

Fat biking: Blueberry Hill trails

Family fun: snowshoeing for all ages

Breads and sweets and more

Tucked away in the back corner of the Pine Cone Mercantile on Schroon Lake’s Main Street is one of the best hidden gems in the region. If you love baked goods, run — don’t walk — to the North Woods Bread Company!

Sporting one of the freshest, cleanest-looking signage walls I’ve seen in a long time, NWBC is a powerhouse with a tiny footprint. Owner and baker, Edward Marks, has provided a much-needed addition to the retail scene in Schroon Lake. On the day I visited, Edward and his wife Lisa were hard at work labeling, selling, and going about the day-to-day business in their respective retail spaces. Lisa operates the Mercantile, and Edward the Bread Company. More on the Mercantile later.

A major change of careers

Edward, donning one of those long, ankle-length white aprons I love, came out to chat with me about his breads, their story, and his business philosophy. In 2014, Edward, a former antiques dealer in New York City, along with wife Lisa, a former fashion designer, made the decision to move full time to their summer retreat in Schroon Lake and chuck their respective careers in the Big Apple. The Mercantile and the bakery opened to their first customers in late summer of 2015. So far, they're very happy with what they’ve accomplished since then. The bakery has become a mainstay in the community in the 14 months or so it’s been open. Edward’s one big philosophy is keeping everything he sells affordable so that everyone in the community can benefit. The prices are definitely affordable.

 

Too good to make it home!

I left the shop with an array of items to take home. Truth is, most of them didn’t make it home with us. For a little less than $10.00, I left with a muffin, a scone, two mini-boules and a 1 pound bag of homemade granola. The pumpkin muffin was the first to go and was absolutely scrumptious! It had just the right amount of sweetness, not to overpower the flavors of both the pumpkin and the subtle spices. And it was dense and rich. The streusel topping was like nothing I’ve had before. You’ll have to pick one up next time they offer them as it’s impossible to describe! Just know it was amazing. Same goes for the cranberry/orange scone (another one of the items that didn’t make it more than 10 miles up the road). The subtleness of the flavors and the perfect amount of sweetening and light drizzle of orange icing made for one of the best scones I’ve ever eaten.

An array of awesomeness...

In the bread department, the offerings of the day included Black Pepper and Fig Boules, Caraway Rye Rustic Loaves, Multi-grain Seed Boules, White and Whole Wheat Sandwich Loaves and Minis/Half Loaves, as well as a couple of day old loaves at half price. I brought home one each of Black Pepper & Fig, and a multi-grain mini boule. They were equally as amazing as the muffin and scone.

Edward also makes his own granola. This is the deal of the century. For just $4.95 you get a pound of really wonderful homemade granola!

The North Woods Bread Co. is open Wednesday through Sunday form 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. I would highly recommend you arrive early in the day for the best selections. As previously mentioned the prices are very, very reasonable. Each day Edward posts the list of what’s in the bread cases for the day on the North Woods Bread Co. Facebook page. He rotates the variety very nicely throughout the week. Sweet treats are generally available only on weekends, and are mostly made by Lisa, who also assists Edward when needed. It pays to have each other close by for help when needed!

In addition to baked goods, coffee is also available, as is a selection of locally produced cheeses from both North Country Creamery in Keeseville and Sugar House Creamery in Jay. I’ve sampled cheese from both these producers in the past and can attest they are some of the best available anywhere.

Don't forget to browse the mercantile

As a side note, make sure you take some time to browse the Pine Cone Mercantile since you have to pass through it on your way to the Bread Company (smart design there!). Edward’s wife Lisa is the proprietress. She’s created an impressive display of furniture, home decorating accents, and gifts in a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s so cozy I just wanted to sit down for a while and read a book on one of the very comfortable couches! There is something in just about every price range from gifts to furniture. One of the pieces is a dining room table made from reclaimed barn wood, made by Storied Boards in Lake George.

If you are planning a visit and expect to spend a night or two, make sure you check out the lodging options. Maybe I’ll run into you in the bakery. I know I’ll be making a lot more visits to this wonderful place!

---

Put these places on your ADK must-visit list!

Bitters is bang-up

A seriously local brew

The in on Deer’s Head

Sweet smell of chocolate

Squeaky cheese

Cocktail creations

Follow the Melody

Five Select Trails in the Schroon Lake Region

Winter shouldn’t be a reason to not bring your four-legged buddy hiking with you, so why not bring them up with you next time you visit the Schroon Lake Region? There are tons of trails that are perfect for both of you, the only problem is choosing which one. Here are 5 short-and-sweet destinations that would make a good start.

Crane Pond

This hike can be found at the end of Crane Pond Road just north of the Hamlet of Schroon Lake. Located in the vast Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness you will have ample opportunities to venture down side trails to other beautiful locations such as Pharaoh Mountain and Goose Pond. From the trailhead you will need to snowshoe or ski the remaining portion of the road to its end at Crane Pond Road. This final portion of the road is closed to vehicular traffic. As for your pooch, this road hike is perfect. The footing is typically very solid which will help keep your dog’s paws on top of the majority of the snow.

Severance Hill

This short 2.5 mile roundtrip hike off Route 9 will bring you and your hiking partner a bit higher. Located just north of Schroon Lake it’s easy to access and fun to hike. Positioned on the east side of the Hoffman Notch Wilderness you can check out the landscape from a different point of view. This snowshoe will bring you under the Northway through a large hiker culvert to access the wilderness. On the other side you and your pet can enjoy a gentle to moderate hike up one of the more popular peaks in the area. With outstanding views you won’t want to turn around, but there’s so much more to see.

Lost Pond

Lost Pond is located in the Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness and you will be starting just east of the Putnam Pond State Campground off Putts Pond Road. This road can be found off Route 74 between Schroon Lake and Ticonderoga. This trail gets a decent amount of winter activity making the trail nice and solid for all users. Cross-country skiers use this trail quite often to access Lost Pond, but very few users actually go around the pond in winter. Whether the loop around Lost Pond is broken out or not, it is a very enjoyable trail to follow.

Spectacle Pond

Spectacle Pond is located on the western edge of the immense Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness and will give you a unique look at this side of the recreational area. This 3.5 mile round trip excursion brings you along a very mild trail and a sweet babbling brook, whose water runs clean and crisp. A typical hard-packed trail made popular in winter by cross-country skiers will bring you back to a hidden pond where brisk breezes and sparkling snow will make you feel relaxed and happy to be there.

Big Pond

Big Pond is just that, a big pond. Located at just over 1.5 miles from Hoffman Road you will have a short enjoyable ski or snowshoe through the Hoffman Notch Wilderness. Your dog will love this trail, at least mine did. With a flat course through the forest your dog can do the usual routine of run out and run back as much as they would like. Outstanding views await you and your pet from Big Pond as well as from Lower Big Pond on the way in.

Like the ideas of these five destinations? Check out what other snowshoe outings there are in the area. Then, once you’ve worked up an appetite be sure to stop by one of the local shops for a nice bite to eat. Staying in the area for a few days, see what Schroon Lake has to offer for lodging that’s pet friendly.

A restaurant roundup, that is

Once upon a time, the Adirondacks were alive with the sound of neighing, galloping hooves, and perhaps, just maybe, the occasional “giddyup!” Amid the rugged greenery of forested mountainsides and winding river valleys, an array of dude ranches, overnight horseback riding camps, and Western-themed attractions called this part of the Adirondacks home. You could lock your dad in the stocks at Frontier Town before a stagecoach thundered past pulled by horses, sleep under the stars and ride every day, or meet a real, honest-to-goodness cowboy or cowgirl.

I am not the best rider, but I do fancy myself a bit of a cowgirl and I’m kind of sad that there aren’t as many ranches around as there used to be. Let’s be honest: eating beans off of a tin plate sounds quaint, but is that really the life you want every day when you’re on vacation? Wouldn’t you like to pair your barbeque with a cool, crisp craft beer? I thought so. Fortunately, the Adirondack Hub still has plenty of equestrian atmosphere, along with an array of cowgirl-worthy restaurants designed to make your boots dance with joy. So let’s say goodbye to the chuck wagon, and say hello to decadent flavor!

9 Mile Coffee

Forget diamonds, coffee is a cowgirl's best friend. Whether it's a perk up before an early trail ride or an icy treat after visiting the herd at the Adirondack Buffalo Company, the goods at 9 Mile Coffee in Schroon Lake are there for you. There's a latte to love here (I can't take credit for that line, sorry), including a food menu that's a big step up from standard fare. Think: nutella croissants, lavish breakfast sandwiches, and bagels slathered in maple cream. Cinnamon rolls are synonymous with ranch house food, and the cinnamon rolls at 9 Mile are a testament to that frosted, sweet goodness.

Paradox Brewery

From brewing for friends and family to a popular 25,000 square foot brewery, Paradox Brewery has always been about crisp, distinctive flavor. Founder Paul Mrocka and his team focus on exceptional ingredients, careful craftsmanship, and pure goodness. The Paradox Pilsner is a refreshing pour, while lovers of maltyness need to try the Get Off My Lawn (bonus points for a great name!). Pair your cool ones with elevated pub-style food. We're partial to the bratwurst on a German bun with a side of sauerkraut, along with the decadent charcuterie board. With such dreamy food and drink, you'll find it hard to tear yourself away and get back in the saddle!

Frontier Town Gateway

If you visited the Adirondacks in 1950s and 1960s in the summer, you might have spotted a lot of kids wearing cowboy hats, silver sheriff's badges, or neckerchiefs. Chances are, they'd been to Frontier Town, a popular Wild West theme park in North Hudson. Every day was full of stagecoach robberies, shootouts, and horseback riding shows. Ads for Frontier Town, which closed many years ago, claimed it offered "The Best of the West in the East," but now a new owner has rejuvenated part of the original park property and, with diverse food options and the Adirondacks' most popular Indian and Pakistani food, the Frontier Town Gateway offers what we would say is the best of the east in the west. Hot, fresh food is available every day at the 1895 Grill, while Saturdays are extra flavorful with the Taste of Lahore nights. Frontier Town Gateway celebrates the equestrian-themed past of the area with decor, souvenirs, and memorabilia. Lasso up a rodeo burger or our favorite samosas and enjoy!

Trail Break at Schroon Lake

Okay, with a name like that, how could we not love this restaurant? More than just the name, however, Trail Break is an excellent spot to sit back, rest your booted feet, and savor the rustic, wood-paneled atmosphere over a great meal. Pay homage to the reason we're cowgirls in the first place and tuck into the NY strip steak, or fancify your plate with the roast duck. After all, you're on vacation so you might as well treat yourself! Trail Break also carries a lengthy menu of craft beer and cider, so you can have fun selecting just the right stout, IPA, or ale to accompany your meal.

Just like any roundup, there are a few dogies that escaped our eagle eye! Learn more about all of the Adirondack Hub's dining options, from pizza to poutine! While you're here, find a great lodge to soak your feet and hang your hat!

Nestled away amongst the towns of Newcomb, Minerva, North Hudson, and Schroon Lake, the Adirondack Hub is the ideal winter getaway you should take this season, and here's why!  

1. Outdoor Lovers Paradise!

The Adirondack Hub is an outdoor lover's paradise, offering a range of wintery activities perfect for all adventurers. Whether you're an avid cross-country skier seeking the thrill of gliding through wilderness areas or a nature enthusiast looking to snowshoe your way around the lakeside, this region has you covered. Both the Hoffman Notch Wilderness and Pharoh Lake Wilderness offer a wide variety of winter activities sure to fill your time!  With beautiful landscapes and abundant snowfall, the Adirondack Hub serves as the perfect base camp for all your winter adventures. It's a place where the possibilities are as vast as the wilderness itself, and where the call of the great outdoors is answered with open arms, ensuring that every winter outing is a memorable one.

2. Adirondack Cuisine to Die for!

Dining in the Adirondack Hub is sure to satisfy any craving!  After a day of winter adventures, the Paradox Brewery in North Hudson is the ideal stop, where you can indulge in crafted brews and wood-fired pizzas that just hit the spot. Schroon Lake boasts a variety of restaurants to choose from, each offering its unique charm. Sticks and Stones delivers a quintessential Adirondack dining experience, while Pitkins on Main Street is your go-to spot for a mouthwatering breakfast. For a special treat, the Lodge at Schroon Lake welcomes the public to its Brown Swan restaurant, conveniently located on the property. Whether you're looking for a post-adventure refuel or a romantic dinner with a view, the Adirondack Hub has you covered!

3. The Perfect Wintery Lodge for your base camp! 

Beginning your day at the Lodge at Schroon Lake is the perfect way to embark on a wintery adventure. This recently rehabbed gem in the Schroon Lake area provides everything you need for an unforgettable experience. Nestled amid the snowy landscape of the lake, the Lodge offers a cozy space that's perfect for creating cherished memories. And for all our downhill skiers and snowboarders, the Lodge at Schroon Lake is a convenient distance from Gore Mountain and will even be offering a shuttle for guests! Whether you're seeking relaxation by a crackling fireplace, breathtaking views of the wintry wonderland, or easy access to outdoor activities, this lodge has it all.

4. Peace and Quiet, no one else is around!

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Adirondack Hub is the opportunity it provides for solitude amidst its vast wilderness. With its extensive network of trails that wind their way over thousands of miles, you'll find yourself in the position of having the unspoiled beauty of nature all to yourself. Who could complain? Whether you're traversing a snow-covered path on a winter morning or exploring the rugged terrain during the quieter seasons, the Adirondack Hub offers a unique chance to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in a world where it's just you and nature. 

5. Conveniently Located 

Nestled directly off the Adirondack Northway, the Hub is a remarkably convenient destination for those in search of the ultimate winter adventure. Its prime location makes it the perfect starting point or stopping place for your outdoor escapades. Just looking for a day trip to get away? No problem! Whether you're a seasoned explorer looking to hit the trails or a winter enthusiast seeking new adventures the Hub ensures you're never far from your next great adventure. 

So, make the Adirondack Hub your next stop this winter! We promise you won't regret it!