Concerned that your summer “to do” list is going to interfere with your time on the water?

Not to worry.

These hot August days were made for “getting all your work done during the day” and “fishin’ early and late.”

If you’re looking for a quiet paddle on a pond or lake at a relaxing pace, or a quick and productive fishing outing on your boat, stick to sunrise and sunset.

Once the kids roll out of bed and grab some breakfast, chances are they’re heading down to the lake, especially with the daytime temps we’ve been experiencing. Mom and Dad will outfit the boat for a day, probably tow behind an inner tube or two for some fun and there go the fish, headed down to the depths.

Recreational boat traffic on some of the region’s larger lakes can be pretty significant during the dog days of August, and it can make for a tough time for an angler, particularly if you’re trolling.

You may find a quiet bay or backwater if the lake is big enough, but you’ll miss out on the solitude that many look for.

As the temperatures soar on either side of the noon hour, it’s best to leave the fish alone, anyway, especially if you’re plying the area’s trout streams. Water temperatures are extremely important to the trout, from regulating their body temperature to holding enough oxygen and when the stream thermometer inches it’s way toward 68 degrees or so, neither are working very well, and it’s time to get that yard work done and come back later.

Sure, you can still catch fish, although they might be a bit more sluggish in the warmer water. But if you’re a proponent of catch-and-release, the warmer water makes the “release” end of the statement a dicey proposition.  You’re not the only one stressed by an afternoon in the 90s; but you have options. The fish? They’ve got no place to go and no choice but to live with that 100 percent humidity. The energy they’ll use to get to your fly and the fight after they’ve taken it won’t leave them much to go on once you’ve let them go.

If you’re headed to the stream, however, to catch a few for the dinner plate, don’t worry about it, but remember, you’re going to have to get that fly right in front of their nose; they aren’t moving very far during the dog days.

So that leaves a fish-early-or-fish late scenario for a lot of anglers.

I’ll opt for fish early. It’s going to be cooler at sunrise and the overnights (hopefully, they’ve been clear and cool) have dropped the water temperature to acceptable levels. If we’re really lucky, we may have even gotten some rain overnight. And, honestly? There’s nothing more I hate than getting on the stream and slowly losing sunlight. I’ve got a hard enough time tying knots and these small flies. It gets exponentially frustrating the darker it gets. At least if I hit the stream in the dark, I know it’s only going to get better.

And later, when it gets really hot – too hot for yard work – there’s always that inner tube.

Before all the state paved highways and backroads, the easiest way to move around the Adirondacks was via the intricate system of rivers and lakes that flow through the six-million acre park. Loggers, guides, and hunters used these waterways to avoid dense forests and otherwise challenging terrain. Today, the rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds that make up the Adirondacks are not only used for transportation but for recreation as well.

The domed-shape of the Adirondacks lends itself to water flowing down river north, south, east, and west. What does that mean for recreational paddling the Adirondack Hub? Well, that just means you can paddle headwaters where the water’s journey begins! The rivers that start here are the Hudson, Opalescent, Boreas, and Schroon. On top of those, there are tons of lakes and ponds of all shapes and sizes where every paddler can find something to enjoy.

The mighty rivers

315 miles from where it empties into the Upper New York Bay, the Hudson River begins its long, diverse journey through the Adirondacks and Hudson Valley. You may know the Hudson as the wide, gentle river in New York City, but here in the Adirondacks, it’s very different; near Upper Works, you can practically jump across. In Newcomb, accessing the Hudson is as simple as putting in at the Lake Harris boat launch. From the launch, paddlers can enjoy a calm lake before heading into the Hudson. The river can move swiftly, and within a mile of leaving Newcomb, you’ll reach a set of rapids known as Long Falls. There are other rapids along this route, but all can be carried around. For that first mile after the boat launch, paddling on Lake Harris (which is a beautiful lake to paddle by itself) and the Hudson are wild and placid.

The Opalescent River is a truly wild river. If you want to get away from developed shorelines to find peace and solitude, this is the place. It is a wonderful pairing with a paddle on the Hudson. The water of the Opalescent can be quite shallow, but it is a delightful paddle nonetheless. As it winds and meanders through the forest, you'll find sandy beaches on the bends and magnificent views of some High Peaks and surrounding mountains. You may only be able to travel 1 mile up the Opalescent from its confluence with the Hudson, but in high waters, further travel may be possible.

For a more accessible route closer to town, the Schroon River is the perfect choice for a day trip. Its slow current and abundant wildlife make for a great outing. For the most adventurous paddler, the Boreas River is great whitewater.

New paddles in town

The best part about paddling in the Adirondack Hub is that there’s always something new to explore. Within the last few years, two new paddling destinations have been opened to the public. The Essex Chain Lakes Complex has eighteen bodies of water to paddle, ranging from the small Chub Pond to the 216-acre Third Lake. Conveniently, the Hudson River actually flows from Lake Harris to here! The Boreas Ponds also offer paddlers something “new,” as this tract was officially opened to the public within the last five years. Both locations have stunning views, serene paddles, and great opportunities to view wildlife. Moose and river otters are frequent visitors here.

Quiet lakes and ponds

There are lots of other lakes and ponds ready for you to dip your paddles in the water. Some are wild and remote, and some are located closer to town. Henderson Lake is a picturesque option that sits in the shadows of the High Peaks. Oliver Pond is small, and while nearby Balfour Lake is larger, both see little visitation. You might spend more time paddling with the loons! 

In North Hudson, Courtney Pond sits right by Route 9 and is only about six acres in size, making it a great spot for families testing the waters to see if they like paddling or just want to get out on a pond that doesn’t have motorboats.

Eagle Lake is developed and has motorboat access, but it’s a wonderful place to paddle. Paddlers can put in at a DEC launch in a quieter corner of the lake and then venture under Route 74 (seriously, it’s fun!) out into the main lake.  At the far end, there’s a sandy beach and a lean-to for picnicking or camping.

Love your lakes and ADK

The magic of the Adirondacks is the result of previous generations taking a long view and protecting the mountains, lakes, and rivers within the Blue Line. That tradition continues today as we support and encourage everyone to practice Leave No Trace ethics which help protect the lands and waters of the Adirondacks. By pledging to Love Your ADK, you’re committing to protect, among other things, lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds. For paddlers, that means being mindful of the spread of aquatic invasive species by cleaning and drying all boats and equipment. Many of the lakes in the Adirondack Hub are pristine, and we know you’d like to help keep them that way!

Another thing to keep in mind if paddling in spring: don't forget your PFD! Air temperatures may be warm, but waters can remain cold for a lot longer. Life preservers are required to be worn from November 1 to May 1, and must be in your craft during all other times. Children under 12 must wear a PFD all times when paddling.

Of course, this isn’t a totally comprehensive list of all paddling destinations in the Adirondack Hub. If you’d like more suggestions, talk to local guides or outfitters for recommendations, or even get rentals if you don’t have your own gear. 

Above all else, enjoy your time on the water this summer!

Piece of the past

If you combine all of the gifts we’ve received, travel souvenirs we’ve collected and event swag we’ve been given, we have about 26.2 million t-shirts at our house. Though I have some favorites that I refuse to give up, older shirts eventually become painting garb, then rags before outlasting their usefulness and being thrown away altogether.

The other day, though, I was surprised to find a survivor that I hadn’t seen in eons. Though obviously my husband had added it to his workshop wear of late, it had gone unnoticed by me for 17 years - that is until it became the first t-shirt I grabbed from the dryer to go running that day. When I saw the logo on it, I realized that I had donned a piece of history.

The shirt is from the Inaugural Adirondack Marathon, which was held in 1997 in Schroon Lake. Seeing it brought me back at least 18 years to a meeting that I attended with about 6 other people one evening. Someone in the group had circumnavigated Schroon Lake itself in a car and noticed that the drive was almost a full marathon distance.

Thus began a community’s quest to create an annual event - the Adirondack Marathon, with the tagline: “The most beautiful 26 miles 385 yards you’ll ever run.”

Evolution of Race

The first year, I was one of the many volunteers who supported the sanctioned event. My t-shirt categorized me as “emergency personnel”, and my post was to help with traffic detours. Though I wasn’t issued a flashing light or anything, I’m sure the bright red shirt that has more recently been used as a painting smock helped to identify me as a person of great importance and top-notch emergency services caliber.

In 1997, 421 runners finished the Adirondack Marathon. Last year, over 1,500 runners registered for the weekend’s events, supported by over 700 volunteers.

Participation numbers continued to increase following that first successful event. Hand cycle and wheelchair divisions were added, and in 2001, a half-marathon was added, too.

In 2003, 5k and 10k races were added to the Festival weekend, and in 2009 a 2-person relay was added. A 4-person relay was added in 2012.

Right now, over 400 runners are registered for the 2014 marathon (the cutoff is at 500), and 650 are registered for the half marathon. 36 states are represented, and a number of countries from around the world, including Mexico, Brazil, Sweden, Germany and Canada.

 

Those beautiful miles and yards

That marathon begins with an exciting mass start on Main Street in Schroon Lake. The Half marathon starts at 10am at the 13.1 mile marker, so that both races finish at the scenic Schroon Lake Town Beach on Leland Avenue.

The course begins heading north on Route 9 to a right onto Alder Meadow Road, (which is also the road to Crane Pond and some of the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness hikes I’ve enjoyed.) Runners take a right off Alder Meadow Road to East Shore Drive along the eastern shore of the lake. The course stays relatively flat for the first three and a half miles but quickly gains elevation to 1,100 feet by the six mile mark.

Miles 4-12 feature some short, challenging climbs - this is the hardest part of the race. The good news is that they are very SCENIC challenging climbs, with nice views of Schroon Lake. The course eventually goes through the town of Adirondack and around the southern end of the lake back to Route 9 and rolling terrain that goes north again to the town of Schroon Lake and the finish line at the scenic town beach.

Festival

The race has become a full weekend of activity, earning its moniker as a “Festival”, with the 5k and 10k and Kids Fun Run on Saturday, followed by the Full and Half Marathons on Sunday.

One of the great features of the marathon itself is the Pace Bears. These are leaders who will support runners who want to meet their finish time goals. For instance, if a runner is aiming to finish in 4 hours and 15 minutes, there is a Pace Bear at the race start assigned to that finish time with whom they can run the race. The Pace Bear keeps people on pace to meet their goals, provides support and encouragement, and can be a great social aspect to the race.

There has always been a fundraising aspect to the Adirondack Marathon. This year, event organizers are pleased to offer the “Racing for Good” fundraising campaign, which supports organizations that serve individuals and families who face catastrophic circumstances. Donations via the online Crowdrise site will benefit 6 carefully selected organizations in the region. Learn more (and donate!) on the Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival “Racing for Good” page.

In addition to the races, the Festival features a Race Expo on both Saturday and Sunday that features running retailers, clubs, events, and health and fitness specialists, and is open to the public.

Here’s the full schedule:

Friday, September 26

6-8 p.m. - 5K/10K packet pickup

 

Saturday, September 27

7-8:30 a.m. - 5K/10K registration

9:30 a.m. - 5K/10K start

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. - Race Expo & Packet Pickup

2 p.m. - 1K Children's Fun Run

3 p.m. - Strategy Session with former Runner's World shoes & gear editor Jeff Dengate, a 6-time finisher of the Adirondack Marathon.

4:45-6:30 p.m. - Pasta Dinner

 

Sunday, September 28

6:45-8:15 a.m. - Packet pickup

7 a.m. - Early Bird marathon start

8:40-9:05 a.m. - Half-marathon and relay buses depart

9 a.m. - Marathon and relays start

1 p.m. - Half-Marathon awards ceremony

2 p.m. - Marathon awards ceremony

2:30 p.m. - Course closes

4 p.m. - Postrace party at Witherbee's

 

Race or Ride

The 18th Annual Adirondack Distance Festival is set for September 27-28, 2014. Visit the Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival website for more information and to register for any of the races!

And/or, like me, perhaps you’d like to review the course map and try this route via bicycle. I plan to wear my newly-found old but bright-colored t-shirt for the occasion!

 

Kim Rielly is the director of communications for the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism

In case you missed our top-rated social posts from the past year, here you go!

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Video:

The Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival was amazing this year, as usual!

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Photo:

Lake ahead!

Time to hit the lake!

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Blog:

Go big!

Schroon Lake fishing is awesome whether you choose the big lake or a backcountry river! Check out our fishing blog to learn more.

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As the snow settles in and we realize the year is quickly coming to a close, we're looking back and giving thanks for all the great adventures we've had this year. Check out these top posts you may have missed:

High on the Coast

Cast, climb, clip in

Cool as ice

Tri to discover us

Going up?

Just Ok

Ski, eat, repeat

This year plan to go ADK for the holidays!

Let's hit the road!

As a recent college graduate, I currently find myself preoccupied with a heavy combination of work and summer classes – both of which keep me more than busy during the summer months. A little too busy, as they often prevent me from engaging in some of my favorite outdoor activities. Camping certainly being one of them. I remember when I was younger, as I think back to my teen years, I would do anything to get out of the house and enjoy the outdoors as much as possible.

Recently, I channeled my inner-kid when I was presented with the opportunity to spend my Sunday afternoon at Medcalf Acres Riverfront Campground. This was exciting news as I haven’t been camping in what feels like years. So, I hit the road for a quick 50-minute drive before arriving in beautiful Schroon Lake.

Plenty of Great Attractions!
My intentions were to walk around the campground and check it out because I want to plan a weekend trip with some of my close friends in the near future. Long story short, I will most definitely be going back for a couple of nights. And sooner rather than later as I was very impressed with what they had to offer.

Upon arrival, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect because it’s been a while since I’ve last gone camping. I was also unfamiliar with the area. In fact, this was my first time in Schroon Lake and I have to say, I really enjoyed the surrounding area, the town, and the many local shops and restaurants located on the main strip. When I first arrived at the campsite, I saw that there were plenty of different activities and attractions available for the guests. The place was packed with RVs and tents set up throughout the various lots. As I continued walking around, I noticed there were hardly any open lots – I could tell that this is a very popular spot to camp during the summer and fall months. And boy, I wasn’t wrong.

Bring the kids!
As I walked slowly through the campsite enjoying the outdoors and observing everything it has to offer, one thing in particular that stood out to me was the fact that there was this sense of a very family-friendly atmosphere. As soon as I walked in, I noticed the visitor's office where there were people standing outside talking and laughing as they were petting their dogs. I quickly took note that this is a pet-friendly campsite which is always a plus for all the dog lovers out there!

After about twenty minutes of walking around, It didn’t take long for me to realize that this is a great place not only for adults to get away and relax, but for children and families to hangout and have fun together as well. Unfortunately, it was a rainy overcast day when I visited, so there weren’t many people outside but I could still tell how alive the place was.

Other campsites I have been to in the past don’t necessarily provide many activities for children but this place seemed to have it all. As soon as you enter the campground, on your immediate left stands a huge open area consisting of playgrounds with a pirate boat swing set where kids can play for hours on end without getting bored. As a child, I would’ve loved this place. I’m actually upset I’m just finding out about this now looking back at all the fun I could've had here.

There is also a nice space to shoot some hoops if you’re into basketball or want to get some exercise on the trails nearby. At Medcalf Acres, I would be surprised if kids ran out of things to do because the campground offers endless amounts of fun and activities for everybody. There is also a really nice mini-golf course available which stands close to the visitor’s office as soon as you arrive.

As I continued walking down one of the paths, I noticed there was a river that runs through the back where guests are able to kayak, canoe, and fish. Talk about a pretty cool spot to cool down after being out in the blazing sun all day. It seemed to me that everything here is very close in proximity as well. This, in my opinion, is very convenient considering you don’t have to do much traveling. Everything is right there in front of you.

Secluded yet convenient
Another great quality of this campsite is that it appears to be secluded and out of the way – but in actuality, it's only a couple miles off the highway and still very close to the busier part of town. If you are trying to stay somewhere where you feel like you are miles from home, yet still have the convenience and luxury of being close to all the action and somewhat in town, then this is the place for you. As I was on my way out, I also noticed that there is a small beach about a mile or two from the campsite. It was marked private but it has beautiful views of the lake and is within walking distance from the campsite. You truly get the best of both worlds here!

All in all, I can say that I am very excited to get back out here for a couple days and enjoy the various attractions and activities that the Medcalf Acres has to offer! The Schroon Lake Region is an ideal base camp for all your Adirondack outdoor activities, whether it be hiking some of the areas highest peaks or taking the canoe or kayak out for a day trip on the lake! I'm hoping to avoid the rainy weather the next time I'm here in Schroon, but I'll be prepared regardless and will be ready to experience what I believe will be an all-around great Adirondack camping trip! Check out all the great places to pitch your tent and park your camper in the Schroon Lake Region!

 

The Schroon Lake Region stretches far and wide, allowing for dozens of possibilities for cross-country skiing. Schroon Lake village makes for an excellent basecamp location for a long weekend or an extended vacation with the family, so why not pull back the covers and stay a while. We will fluff your pillow, feed you, pamper you and make you wish you never had to go home; besides, there’s nothing like a warm room waiting for you after a day of skiing the trails.

Below you will see a short list of Nordic skiing destinations that will fall into the easy to moderate user level. There are so many more to choose from, but here is a start that will branch you throughout the entire region.

 

 

Crane Pond – Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness – 4.0 miles RT

Crane Pond is an access to much of what the Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness has to offer. Utilizing an old woods road this ski is a very easy approach to the back-country. From the end of Crane Pond Road you will find a rather large parking area where your ski will start from. You will be on the extension of Crane Mountain Road which is no longer open to motorized vehicles. The grade is very mellow with little change in elevation. Skiing past Alder Pond to your right you will also gain the benefit of the vistas over this long narrow body of water. Located at the end of Crane Pond Road is a short spur to an old boat launch onto Crane Pond, a foot trail will continue to the right and heads toward Pharaoh Mountain.

Lost Pond – Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness – 4.0 miles RT

From the opposite side of the wilderness area rests Lost Pond. Lost from what, no one is sure. The trail is a fairly flat one in the beginning but will slowly climb through forest. The grade is never too demanding making it quite forgiving for cross-country skiers. Once at the pond you will notice that the trail loops around it. The loop is not recommended for Nordic skiing but on occasion has been used for such. The slopes tend to be too rocky and steep as they flow down from Abes Hill.

Bass Lake – Hammond Pond Wild Forest – 6.4 miles RT

Bass Lake can be approached from the East or the West; this description is from the east off Ensign Road near North Hudson. This ski will bring you through a pristine area, which gets rather heavy use, mainly from locals. Skiing in this area is excellent and shouldn’t be missed. This trail feeds you through a tall forest on a rather mellow grade with only a couple small short steeper pitches. You will ski high above Berrymill Brook and to the north end of Berrymill Pond before turning a hard right and heading west to Bass Lake. If you want to shorten your trip you can stop on the eastern shore of the lake or continue along the shore to the western portion where additional viewing is had.

Hammond and Black Brook Ponds – Hammond Pond Wild Forest – 4.4 RT

This ski is located from the same parking lot as the Bass Lake Trail above, but heads off on a secondary trail that gets much less use, but is still a decent late-season ski. There is a slight bit of climbing in the beginning as you quickly come to a short spur trail to Hammond Pond on your left. Hammond Pond is well worth the 0.3 mile spur. Back at the main trail you will remain on a moderate course that is on the side hill of Berrymill Hill. A small descent to cross Black Brook will come in before your final approach to one of the Black Brook Ponds. This pond no longer holds water and has been overcome by grasses. But, with the cover of snow, you would never know.

Big Pond – Hoffman Notch Wilderness – 3.0 miles RT

Your skiing adventure here is on a mostly level trail and it will remain so for the majority of the trip. The start brings you through an attractive forest of large growth trees as you pass over what looks to be an old woods road. Soon you will drop slightly down to a bridge crossing near a long narrow pond where you will have a neat view out over the snow covered ice. The trail will climb slightly and head over a couple of small rolling hills before you can see Big Pond through the trees to your left. Big Pond is slightly off the main trail but can easily be reached by using a path that will lead you 100-feet downhill to the shore. The path may need to be walked rather than skied, but you can make that choice. Looking out over the massive “Big” pond there are outstanding vistas welcoming you.

Have Skis Will Travel

Now that we've caught your attention, what trail will you choose? Don't forget your camera, catch those awesome moments and share them with us on our Schroon Lake Region FB page! Want to try out some additional cross country trails, snowshoe treks, or maybe a little downhill skiing or family tubing fun? We are just waiting for you to explore all we have to offer. What are you waiting for!?

It's not just bears who need their caves in the winter. We can have fun with our own, human version.

Our winter wonderland offers fun ways to explore something new, and for a very reasonable outlay, too. The abundant outdoor options, with dining and lodging that is "just right," adds up to a great time.

Here's my day. It was great fun.

Extraordinary Wilderness

This is what I'm talking about:

This vista from one of the snowshoe trails at Natural Stone Bridge and Caves has plenty of "wow factor."

In the summer, this is the only cave attraction in the Adirondacks, but it is an amazing one. The Stone Bridge itself is solid marble, and a marvelous sight in any season.

During the 16th century, Portuguese explorers named this structure Ponte de Dios, or "Bridge of God."

The ancestor of the current owners, Jacob Van Benthuysen, was gifted the site in the 1700s for his Revolutionary War service. Early on, it was the site of a sawmill, powered by the ever-running water that flows through the caves. Lost logs can still be seen inside the cavern.

In the winter, the proprietors open their extensive set of snowshoe trails through the glories of this amazing geologic area. We have a lot to choose from, like the short and scenic route around the waterfalls and cave opening, to the "Experts Only" trails which are located near the top of the mountain.

That's thirty-six trails and fourteen and a half miles -- plenty of territory.

The terrain has more than a skill range; it offers a whole mountainside of sights. There's the Natural Stone Bridge cave opening, frozen waterfalls, and ice flows. The river underground keeps flowing all year. It is how nature created the sinkholes, boulders, and vertical ledges.

There's faster moving natural features too, what the attraction calls "local residents." Look for large fallen trees and pencil-sharpener stumps that indicate beaver industriousness. Small cave dens shelter fox, rabbits, fishers, and pine martins. There are tracks in the snow from deer, bobcats, coyotes, turkeys, and squirrels.

I showed up on a gorgeous sunny day, and rented snowshoes and poles, all day, for only $5.00. This is a real bonus if you don't have our own; my own snowshoes finally gave it up and I have not replaced them yet.

The attraction is open Friday through Sunday, from 10 am to 4 pm. We are still in the shorter days of winter, so make sure to arrive early enough to enjoy all this place has to offer. The all-day pass ranges from adults at $13, down to children under five who are let in free.

The many bridges and walkways, the provided map, and the clearly marked trails, all make navigating easy. Even for me, who is somewhat -- challenged -- in that respect.

But even if we didn't bring a compass, we can point our hand, straight out to the side, at the sun. Now we know that is East (in the morning) which means we are facing North, or West (in the afternoon) and we are facing South.

If the sun is overhead, it's lunchtime. Break out those trail goodies and find a bench, log, or rock for some authentic al fresco dining. That's the Adirondack way.

Exploring Made Easy

Snowshoeing is a great way to get out into the snow, from pre-school kids to... people who only feel like kids.

I heartily recommend getting or bringing the trekking poles. They are very useful for negotiating narrow or tricky terrain, and if you are new to snowshoes, it will help you extricate yourself from stepping on your newly acquired clown feet.

This is Bobcat Ledge, a stunning expanse of rock that rose from the earth's depths.

Be sure to bring a camera, too, because we will be offered amazing vistas, huge rock formations, and delightful patterns of sunshine and shade dappled along the forest paths.

Here we see the contrast between the deep shade under the evergreens, and the amazingly sunny forest where the birches and maples live.

Natural Stone Bridge and Caves also offers a fully-guided evening tour on Saturdays. This 2-3 hour guided snowshoe tour offers stories and amazing sights, but if you start running out of steam, you can return to their lodge any time using the Trout Brook Trail. At the end, there is a campfire, marshmallows for toasting, and hot drinks. Those Portuguese explorers wished they had this waiting for them.

If you didn't get to see it all, or would love to come back, just add a season pass for $5, and take to the trails all weekend, or, all season.

A Fine Finish

By this time, I am hungry like a bear. Just fifteen minutes north on scenic Route 9 is my destination for tonight's dining and lodging, the village of Schroon Lake. It is a charming little town on the shores of Schroon Lake, the lake.

I will be having dinner at Sticks and Stones Bistro. This is a happy, welcoming place, and I hit the first snag of my day: there are so many good things on the menu I really have trouble choosing. Steaks, seafood, wood-fired wings, maybe the fig & goat cheese salad?

But the owner drops by to assure me that he imported his pizza oven from Naples, Italy. And they have gluten-free pizza. While he likes the regular kind better -- "Everyone does," I say with a sigh -- he is proud of all his efforts.

I chose the Meat Your Match, with pepperoni, proscuitto, pancetta, and hot Italian sausage. It is so delicious I have no room for dessert. Must return: the dessert menu features such delectable choices as Adult Root Beer Float (made with vanilla bean ice cream and "hard" root beer), gluten-free molten lava cake, and tableside S'mores. I can bring my own gluten-free graham crackers if it comes right down to it.

After the exertion of the day and this wonderful meal, I am ready for a good night's sleep. In summer, the Caves offer their own cabins, but since it is winter, I have a cute little cabin booked at the Maple Leaf Motel.

I am utterly charmed by my temporary cave. From the stained-glass window in the door to the deer in the forest mural on the wall, from the high beamed ceiling to the wall-inset gas fireplace, it is a warm, dreamy, Adirondack kind of place.

I know that where most people live, motels are frightening places. But not our Adirondack motels. Despite their reasonable price range, they have anything a traveler might want; clean, simple, and with a fridge and microwave to make longer stays more afforable. They have often been in the family for generations, and they usually have the owners on the premises, answering questions and making sure everything is to our satisfaction. There's often a wide range of lodging available such as a cabin like mine, or a suite with a hot tub; just ask.

I washed up with the complementary organic citrus soap, and curled up with my latest book downloaded onto my iPad with the free wifi.
This is my kind of wilderness experience. Just enough wildness, plenty of comfort, and some very delightful caves.

Find your own "cave." Explore all our dining. Go fast on snow at nearby Gore Mountain.

An amazing sculptor once called Newcomb both her home and her inspiration.

Anna (Vaughn) Hyatt Huntington was known, both then and now, as an artist whose specialty was animal and garden figures.

Immersed in nature

Anna arrived in New York City in 1902, having established herself in the Boston area with small animal sculptures. She soon established herself as an artistic force to be reckoned with, gaining international attention with her 1915 Joan of Arc monument, showing Joan astride a horse, standing in the stirrups. This was New York City’s first monument dedicated to a historical woman.

She met railroad magnate Archer Huntington at a Beaux Arts ball sometime after the above portrait was painted. She attended dressed in costume as Joan of Arc. They married in 1923 on what was both their birthdays, March 10. Archer had been married, and divorced, before, but this match was to prove a close and loving union. Anna stated: "My greatest good fortune comes in having a husband whose encouragement and guidance is in absolute sympathy and gives me a freedom to work that is the lot of very few artists."

Archer bought the camp on Arbutus Pond in 1899, but the property continued to be developed by famous Adirondack architect William West Durant. This was then split into Huntington and Arbutus Lodges, which became their summer retreat.

Archer liked to fish and Anna found it a perfect place for her to prepare field studies of the natural forms she used in her art. The forms of living creatures, be they animal, vegetable, or human, was a lifelong interest of Anna's.

The shores of Arbutus Pond, just behind Huntington Lodge, show off the natural beauty of the area. Here Anna had a studio where deer, goats, and donkeys wandered in and out. They were used as models.

Art and philanthropy

Archer Huntington had been adopted by Collis Huntington, a founder of the Southern Pacific railway, when his mother married. As the only heir, he received a massive fortune, which he was to invest in artistic ventures, grants for parks and gardens, and, as he put it, "Wherever I planted my foot, a museum grew up." This was to total 15 museums by the time of his death in 1955.

Both Archer and Anna were passionately fond of animals, especially in the wild. They were to donate their Adirondack property to the New York College of Forestry (to become part of the State University of New York) in 1939. The 15,000 acres would create the Anna and Archer Huntington Wildlife Forest. They requested it be used "for investigation, experiment and research in relation to the habits, life histories, methods of propagation and management of fish, birds, game, food and fur-bearing animals and as a forest of wild life."

Anna's famous statue of Diana, the huntress, was a celebration of triumphant female energy. The goddess of wild animals and of the hunt was so beautifully realized it became internationally famous. Until 1928 there was a miniature version of it as the hood ornament of a car, the Diana Moon, produced by the Moon Motor Car Company.

Challenges and triumph

Anna was in a period of great creative inspiration in 1927 when she contracted tuberculosis. For the next decade, she would chafe at her doctor's orders for bed rest and inactivity. In 1930, seeking a mild climate for her in the winters, she and Archer purchased Brookgreen Gardens in South Carolina. This former rice plantation had gone back to nature, giving Anna something of a blank canvas for her to create the nation’s first outdoor sculpture museum.

While the Adirondack period of her life was over, the influences were never to leave her, any more than her passionate interest in nature ever left her.

Huntington Lodge is now the property of the Newcomb campus of the State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry. But Anna's sculpture still belongs to the world.

You, too, can be inspired by the lovely nature in the Adirondack Hub! Pick your own lodging. Enjoy a range of dining. Explore art and nature.
 

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References

Header photo: cast of the hand of Anna Hyatt Huntington, 1935, Aluminum. Lent by the Hispanic Society of America, New York, NY.

Insights into the Huntington marriage from "Energy and Individuality in the Art of Anna Huntington, Sculptor and Amy Beach, Composer," by Myrna G. Eden.

The Adirondack spring

Spring in the Adirondacks can be moody. The promise of warmth and sun are often met with the realty of a chilly rain or even snow. In fact, a birding trip I was scheduled to guide in early May has been postponed due to a forecast of 40 degrees and rain. Such is the Adirondack spring.

But spring is here, and we will be watching the temperatures climb even if some days it doesn’t feel like it. After all, our lakes, ponds, and waterways have been opening up for weeks, marking the beginning of paddling season, and I’m starting to feel the urge to get on the water.

And so it is time to unearth my paddling gear for the season and to loosen up my paddling muscles. I’ve been cross-country skiing all winter, so I’m sure I’ll be ready to push my way through the water, but I still like to initially start with simple paddles to make the physical adjustment and to avoid blisters on my hands. Here are a few other tips for spring paddling to help get you started.

Clothing

I usually bring along an extra set of clothing whenever I go paddling in case I take an unexpected bath, but during spring and fall it is especially important to do so. While the air temperature can be warm and the sky sunny, the water in our lakes and streams will remain cold well into June, a misleading juxtaposition of temperatures which paddlers must be aware of. The best rule of thumb is to dress for the temperature of the water, not the temperature of the air. I also usually leave an extra set of clothing (including a warm fleece and warm socks) in the car and bring other clothes and a towel in a dry bag in the canoe so I can change quickly if the need arises.

While cotton is a comfortable fabric for general use, it is a terrible insulator when wet, so stick with wool and synthetic layers like fleeces and wool blends to make sure you can stay warm. In addition, while paddlers should always wear their personal floatation device (PFD or life jacket), they should also realize that in the event of a cold water dunking, that their PFD is an insulating layer which can help keep the core of their body warm. Use it.

This all holds true, even for uneventful spring trips when no one capsizes or gets wet. After all, spring weather is often quite changeable, spring mornings crisp, and the days often end with falling temperatures on spring evenings, so be prepared with extra layers (and a flashlight and headlamp!) if you are out toward evening. Extra food (good in case you need more calories after getting chilled) and water are also important, as always.

Spring sun and fast-flowing water

I often like paddling during cool times of day, particularly the evening, skipping the hot bright sun of mid-day. But spring offers the advantage that mid-day is generally quite pleasant and not baking as it can be during the summer. That opens up more of the day to folks like me, but we all need to be mindful that we’ve been cooped up for months during winter and that our skin hasn’t yet adjusted to the sun. I wear sunscreen all the time, but I find it to be particularly important during the spring. So put sunscreen on your list and be sure to use it or be prepared to pay for your oversight later, feeling the burn while you invest in a tub of aloe.

Paddlers taking a trip on flowing water should also be aware that the spring current will likely be swelled with snowmelt and spring rains. After all, we currently have flood warnings in many places across the North Country. While this may be a boon for whitewater paddlers, flatwater types may not be happy if they find they are struggling with a fast current. So check the flow rate before pushing off, particularly if you plan to paddle out and back to the same point without the help of a shuttle.

The same is true of downed limbs, trees, and other strainers. They can show up at any time during the paddling season, but they are common in spring after the winter has knocked down its share of branches, and before folks have been able to cut out trees and limbs which may be blocking the route. Attempting to push away from such obstacles, particularly in a fast current, is a good way to capsize, which can be dangerous since strainers can trap people. Do not do this; if you find yourself lodged on a tree or branch, a good adage is to “lean into your troubles,” to help free your boat up from the impediment. Once again, do not try to push away from it, particularly if you are paddling with the current. Better yet, plan ahead and keep your speed under control so you can negotiate such obstacles safely without pushing up against them quickly.

Leave No Trace

Finally, the start of any season – whether paddling, hiking, birdwatching, or skiing — is a good reminder to us all to practice Leave No Trace ethics. That means things like leaving no food, food waste (such as banana peels or apple cores), or trash which can be unsightly or cause problems for wildlife. It also means using canoe launches which aren’t negatively impacted by us, such as avoiding soft launches which become mucky from footprints, and by not trampling ground cover and other plants on our way to the water. We also need to be cognizant of wildlife, respecting and not disturbing them while we paddle. I love watching wildlife, and enjoying them is one of the biggest reasons why I paddle and explore the outdoors, but it’s important to do so without causing them any stress.

If we do all this, we should be ready for an excellent and adventurous paddling season! Plan your spring and summer paddling trips today by checking out our lodging and dining pages.

 

 

Ever wonder what happens to a popular warm-weather attraction when the cold weather descends and the snow starts to fly? Last season we got a chance to solve this mystery and enjoy some quality girl time along the way!

Setting the stage

So, it’s a relatively warm winter day with temps reaching a balmy 23 degrees. Considering the recent below chilly days, it almost feels like spring. It’s time to get out and try something new. And, if there is one thing I have been long overdue at trying, it’s snowshoeing.

My partner-in-adventure is Gabrielle, she’s home from college on winter break and it's time to catch up on all of life's happenings. And, since 6-year-old Oliver is in school, this is the perfect time for the two of us to hit the trails for something a bit more involved than snow angels.

We head south out of the High Peaks and start our scenic one-hour drive to the southern Schroon Lake Region. Our destination? Natural Stone Bridge and Caves.

Summer attraction turned winter destination

Now, I have been passing the sign for this attraction located off the Northway exit 26 for as long as I remember. But I haven’t actually been here since I was a toddler (and that was quite a long time ago). I was totally psyched to find out that it wasn’t just a summer attraction. In recent years, it has become a popular winter destination. Visitors can throw on their snowshoes, or rent equipment on-site, and hit miles of awesome trails on most Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. (They also have extended holiday hours and can arrange group tours on weekdays.)

We pulled into the driveway and found the store 'Open' sign. We were promptly welcomed by Greg, who has been running the family business for the past 15 years or so. He cheerfully greeted us and after establishing how much time we had and our level of experience, we had a plan of action. He explained all the little details: how to read the trail map, which routes we might want to take, what we should expect to see, what we should be aware of, etc.

Greg was also happy to share some of the history surrounding the place. It has been in his family since the Revolutionary War when a soldier relative was awarded the land. It went through a few changes of ownership (grandparents, aunts & uncles) until Greg became the most recent Rock Guy in charge.

Time for a lesson!

We hadn’t brought our own gear, so we were quickly suited up with the proper equipment and given a quick lesson. Now, you may be questioning the fact that we got a lesson - but here is where I must once again note how clumsy I am. I had never even tried on snowshoes, so Greg explained how the crampons worked, foot placement, and which way to work the intricate-yet-super-easy lacing system. (No problem, I got this!)

We are ready to go and at the suggestion of Greg we decide to take the Stone Bridge Cave Loop and then move on to a few of the longer paths that connect to it. We planned on a few miles and probably an hour on the trail. That seemed like a good starting point, and a great way to try out a new activity.

What to expect as you hit the trails

Within minutes we are out of view of the office and surrounded by nature. The trails are very well-marked and there are cool viewing spots and interesting objects to spy along the way.

Upon departure we had been given a laminated map to wear (smart move) as well as a card with alphabetical markers that explain different features that we may spy along the trail. For example, the letter J spied upon a tree was explained as pileated woodpecker holes. I think one of my favorite things was the light-hearted humor that was melded so seamlessly into some of the descriptions. To totally paraphrase one of the notes which identified a white birch, it ended with something to the effect of 'watch out when you look up, the tops fall off first.' A true fact, but a fun, informative way to pass along the info.

Little did we know that we might run into Sasquatch along the way, things just kept getting more and more interesting.

While I wouldn’t say we took a strenuous route - as a matter of fact, we weren’t anywhere near the expert trails - there were some decent hills and even an area with a rope ladder to ease the climb.

We were soon in a great groove, and I have to admit I wish we had had more time - there are 14.5 miles of trails to explore and we hadn’t even done a quarter of the property. But, it was time for us to head back to the office and on to our next adventure - a warm lunch and some shopping and exploring in Schroon Lake.

Preview of summer season fun

As we made our way back toward the check-in area we took a quick tour of some of the summer season activities which are offered in addition to the Cave and Adventure Tours: gemstone mining, disc golf course, climbing wall, playground, ice cream stand, picnic area.

The store is full of fun items from locally produced items to exotic rocks and postcards. Who doesn't need a new coffee mug to remember their trip by? I can't say no!

Winding down

We returned our gear and Greg took a few minutes to highlight some of the winter activities. As mentioned earlier, there are self-guided tours which are available from 10am-4pm from Friday-Sunday. In addition there are Saturday Moonlight Evening Snowshoe Tours at 6pm by prior reservation (these fill quickly - call to ensure your place!). There’s also a great little fire pit area and hot cocoa to warm up with after a day on the trail. Yum!

Depending on the amount of time you have and your level of experience, you can expect to check out part of the summer trail going over the Stone Bridge and down to Mediation Isle for a close up view of the Stone Bridge, Sawmill Waterfalls, and ice flows. Other trails include geological features including: sinkholes, large glacial erratic boulders, and vertical ledges.

And, of course, there’s lots of local animal activity. You’ll encounter large trees and stumps felled by beavers, and tons of tracks in the snow (deer, rabbits, squirrels, bobcats, coyotes, turkeys, fishers, pine martins, and more). We saw evidence of this within minutes of starting our walk - of course, we have no idea what we were looking at, do you?

Here's a hint on the below pic - I couldn't make any phone calls until it dried out :)

Natural Stone Bridge and Caves will definitely be on our summer tour list. While I don’t think my little guy would enjoy snowshoeing for any great distance (he likes to ski and run and 'go super-fast’), he will LOVE digging rocks and running trails and exploring caves once the weather is warmer. And, I can’t lie, after looking at the pictures of the many Tour Adventures - I can't wait to return and actually see the caves! (Check out the summer adventure pics on their website.)

Next up?

What a great day. Tried a new activity. Visited a new (very old) attraction. Got to walk some awesome trails and got some great girl-bonding time. Now that I have a little experience it's time to search for some other great snowshoeing trails in the Schroon Lake Region. Heck, I may even try downhill skiing again, Gore is right up the road, and so is the small hill in Schroon Lake! I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again - I love the Adirondacks and all there is to experience! What should we do next? Suggestions happily accepted :)