Summer is still happening, and so are events at the Boathouse Theatre.

This delightful venue is right on the shores of Schroon Lake. It was once the actual boathouse for Bogle's Hotel, built in 1874. Stub Bogle (I was unable to discover if this was a given name or a nickname, and if so — why?) also operated a business which repaired and rented boats. The boathouse served hotel patrons and the passengers from the New York City steamboats, who were arriving in Schroon Lake.

Today, the building — beautifully maintained indoors and out, is used by the Schroon Lake Arts Council for plays, concerts, and workshops. It's part of a lovely downtown recreational area, which includes the bandstand, town beach, and much-photographed gazebo.

No one could ask for a lovelier spot than this lively stretch of lakefront.

Monday night acoustic jams

Every Monday evening, all through October, come for the acoustic jams from 7 to 10 p.m. Musicians are welcome to bring their unamplified acoustic instrument. Join the local amateur musicians — everyone takes turns playing their favorite tunes.

Audience members are welcome to attend with free admission and enjoy a delightful jam that's never the same twice. Stewart's, a local favorite source of coffee and ice cream, is just up the block, easy walking distance.

So pick up some treats and enjoy the music.

America's hometown sound

On August 22, 2017, at 7:30 p.m., the Boathouse will welcome Runaway Home. This Panoramic-Americana band hails from Nashville, TN. They describe their sound as hailing from diverse musical backgrounds: "whiskey-smooth and harmonically strong, with a plaintive and rootsy edge."

This is a band that loves traveling, with their name celebrating the open spaces just outside the windshield. They seek out small venues and welcoming communities.
With guitar, mandolin, and fiddle, they combine soaring harmonies with the help of Mark Elliott's voice, who trained as an opera singer. Gary Culley is equally known for his fine guitar playing and original songwriting.

Since 2011 the band's goal has been to create music to make people smile, with self-declared sincerity, and "a sort of child-like glee." The core duo has recruited many different fellow musicians to explore possibilities and then blend them together.

Together they have crafted a unique sound which won them the coveted Kerrville New Folk Award, among others.

Marcia Campbell of Nashville’s WSM Radio: “Runaway Home delivers a gem with their timeless collection of music that takes you to another place. Great songs, strong vocals, and sweet harmonies!”

Well-traveled folk singer

Dan Berggren calls himself a "tradition-based songsmith" who calls the Adirondacks his birthplace and home. But he has carried his sounds all over the world, a sentiment which is reflected in his latest CD, "This Planet We Call Home."

He will be presenting this release at a special show on Tuesday, August 29, 2017, at 7:30 p.m.

Dan Berggren was raised in the Adirondacks, growing up on the land farmed by his mother's family for generations. He worked in the woods with forest ranger and survey crews. Now an award-winning musician and educator, he has taken the stories and songs he heard from local friends and neighbors and used them to cross many borders.
His style captures that spirit of the Adirondack Mountains.

Through the years, Dan has ranged far from New York state with his music; his tunes have taken him from Vermont to Kentucky to Texas, and also the British Isles, Eastern Europe and Central Africa. He has performed with orchestras in Fredonia, Ithaca, and Syracuse in New York, and in West Virginia and Indiana, performing his songs with symphonic arrangements.

Dan's original music has been featured nationally on public radio and television, earning praise from near and far. Bill McKibben, American environmentalist, author, and journalist, says: "Dan is a throwback to the old role of the folk singer...he's articulating things that need to be said right now."

Set the music free

Folk lovers can also enjoy an Adirondack Folk Music Festival on a Sunday afternoon each August. Free open attendance in the town park — bring your chairs and enjoy.

Every year there's usually a free children's show, too.
This Boathouse Theater is kid friendly, non-smoking, and all access.

Buy 2017 show tickets online — advance tickets may be purchased up to 7 a.m. on the day of the show, with tickets available at the door starting at 7 p.m.

Have fun this summer! The Schroon Lake Arts Council wants to be a part of that goal. Their mission is to cultivate, promote, foster, sponsor, and develop the understanding, taste, and love of the musical and visual arts in their community. They declare: "We are constantly striving to meet this goal and we welcome your participation and your ideas."

The not-so-secret, secret, swimming hole

Ever have one of those special places that you think belongs just to you?

As a child, that was a little quasi-beach just north of Schroon Lake. I can remember the first time my dad brought me to this secluded spot. He pulled off on the side of the road in seemingly the middle of nowhere. All I saw was a small herd path and a lot of trees. I had no idea where we were going, what a treat I was in for, or that it would soon become one of my favorite spots and one of my best childhood summer traditions.

We climbed out of his old Bronco, and I grumbled about being bored and wanting to do something fun. Fun = the town beach. Why, oh why, couldn’t we just stick with the norm? I mean, come on, can you imagine anything more enticing to a kid than a beach on a hot summer day? There were floats to swim out to, a playground to explore, and a fabulous hill to roll down. Try to beat that, Dad!

Challenge on

My father grew up in the Adirondack Hub, and, surprise, knew a good deal more about all the area had to offer than I did. I remember days spent climbing Mt. Severance — still one of the best trailheads I have ever encountered — voices echoing in darkened tunnels as cars zoomed over our heads.

Then there were fishing and hiking trips where we would drive east toward Ticonderoga. Remember how it felt as a kid to drive through the twisting Eagle Lake narrows, the car feeling like it was going to dip you into the water at any moment?

There were always new lakes like Paradox, Peaked Hill, and Putnam Pond to explore and places to jump in and cool off - if for just a moment while passing by.

We explored backroads out toward Minerva, stopping at Donnelly Beach on a hot summer day to cool off. Sometimes, back in the days when it was allowed, we would head to the town dump on select evenings and watch as the bears meandered near the cars, looking for a treat or two. Sometimes a bit too close for comfort for this little girl.

There was always an adventure waiting on our next vacation, and even now, years later, I still love exploring the Schroon Lake Region and making memories on the lake. But the day my father ditched the beach and we headed north for a ‘surprise,’ he really hit gold.

To this day, whenever I have time, I take the ride north between exits 28 and 29. It’s a scenic drive that always brings back fond memories.

Have you guessed my secret?

Nowadays, this spot is a bit easier to find than that day in the Bronco. A few decades have passed (yes, I just aged myself) and this favorite swimming hole has grown up a good deal more gracefully than I have. I still love to visit, and the memories of how it used to be still hold a special place in my heart, but I am glad that it is being enjoyed by so many other adventurous explorers — some things are just too good to keep to yourself.

With a dedicated parking lot, picnic spots, and an easily spotted trail, the Schroon River is an awesome spot to spend a lazy summer afternoon.

A natural hot stone massage awaits for those so inclined. Lay back, relax, and let the water lull you into a state of total relaxation as the Adirondack rocks warm you up and soothe those aching muscles.

With several smooth, long rock formations along the shoreline there is usually ample space to claim as your own. I have been known to happily grab a book and chill out along the rocks for a few hours. I'm a sucker for a good summer read, soaking up the sun, and totally losing track of time. Of course, that’s my idea of fun.

And, while that is more of a late-spring adventure, throughout the summer you’ll often see groups of enthusiastic tubers (is that a word!?) slowly floating along with Schroon Lake lake as their destination.

So, while my favorite "secret" spot is not so secret anymore, I still love to visit and enjoy a day at the north Schroon River. As a matter of fact, this year I introduced my son to the fun. We happily spent an hour with him playing in the natural pools, collecting smooth rocks, and searching for treasures in the shallows while I took advantage of the free massage.

Next up I feel an adventure is in order! I haven't been tubing down the river yet, but after chatting with this happy group of water-lovers, it's on my list! Grab a picnic lunch, a tube from the Schroon Lake Department Store, and head to River Road. Who's ready to make some memories and hit the water with me!?

The Upper Hudson Recreational Hub is home to some of the most beautiful mountains, lakes, streams, and ponds you will ever lay your eyes on. An area so small you have to zoom in multiple times on a map to find them. And yet, somehow, they make up some of the most picturesque views in the eastern United States. Upper Hudson Recreational Hub is home to these five towns: North Hudson, Minerva, Newcomb, Long Lake, and Indian Lake. Filled with adventure, history, beauty, and miles of protected wilderness, we're positive you'll be visiting these five towns sometime very soon!

North Hudson

Get closer to nature than ever before in North Hudson. Home to lush New York State Forest Preserve lands in and around the area, the opportunities for outdoor adventure are endless. North Hudson is uncommonly filled with plenty of lakes and waterbodies, including Wolf Pond, Blue Ridge Falls, Moose Mountain Pond, Round Pond, and Boreas Ponds.

Spend as much time on land as on water! Try horseback riding, cycling, and hiking. Looking to become a 46er or just looking for a challenging yet rewarding hike? Try tackling the Dix Range; there's a trailhead for the mountains located right on the outskirts of the town. For more information, check out the North Hudson town website.

Minerva

When you visit Minerva, you’ll quickly learn why the town is touted as “Nature-lover’s Paradise.” Centrally-located and tucked away deep in the Adirondack mountains, Minerva intertwines its community with the breathtaking natural beauty of the environment around it.

Take advantage of all Minerva has to offer by visiting unique swimming holes, fishing on the lake, or hike nearby Moxham Mountain. While you’re here, there’s always some sort of live event happening to enjoy, like a concert at Donnelly Beach or a concert in Courtney Park. Or come back during the beginning of September and celebrate Minerva's Irish Day with the locals. You don't want to miss out on an opportunity to stay and enjoy a getaway in Minerva. To see the events happening during your visit, be sure to check out the Town of Minerva website.

Newcomb

Town of Newcomb! So much history and adventure packed into such a tiny town. This brilliant small town houses historic gems and tastes of American progress all throughout history. Take a step back in time and visit the lives of the ultra rich of the 19th and 20th centuries by visiting Great Camp Santanoni. Relive history with relics like the MacIntyre Blast Furnace, and learn about the once booming mining industry of the Adirondacks. For all our history buffs, make sure to come back for the annual Teddy Roosevelt Weekend that features tours and reenactments of Presidents Rossevelt's midnight ride to presidency.

The AIC (Adirondack Interpretive Center), part of SUNY ESF’s Newcomb Campus, is home to miles of trails that will take you through lakeshore, forest, and wetland ecosystems. Working towards that 46er badge? Enter the southern access point to the High Peaks at the Upper Works trailhead! Find endless amounts of fun and history during your stay in Newcomb. Visit https://www.newcombny.com/for more!

Long Lake

Discover Long Lake, New York, the unspoiled playground of the north, boasting friendly folks, family activities and unsurpassed Adirondack beauty. From the mountain tops to the lakeside, Long Lake has it all to enjoy the perfect vacation. Centrally located in the Adirondacks, Long Lake is a four-season destination with abundant outdoor recreation to keep visitors busy: enjoy music by the lake on Friday nights, or stop by for the annual “Heart of the Park” craft fair happening in the beginning of August; for the adventurer in you, participate in the 90-miler Adirondack Canoe Classic that passes right through Long Lake. Spend a weekend with the locals and attend Octo-Bear-Fest. There are endless events and adventures waiting for you in Long Lake! Check out the Town of Long Lake website for more.

Indian Lake

Located in the center of the six million acre Adirondack Park where its residents, both natives and newcomers, make their home in a cherished place to live, work, and play. When you get here, you’ll understand why Indian Lake is “Naturally Different.” Surrounding itself with mountains, lakes, streams, even waterfalls, the adventurer in you will never get bored! Whatever the season, Indian Lake knows how to keep you coming back for more. In summer, experience Music in the Park with the Summer Concert Series. Check in often to visit our historic summer festivals and parades! The fun doesn’t stop after the warmer months, either. When the leaves start to change around here, Indian lake welcomes the fall season with weekend after weekend of festivals and festivities like the Great Adirondack Moose Festival! To learn more about all our seasonal events, visit the Indian Lake website. Regardless of which town you decide to stay in, you truly cant go wrong with any choice! Each town offers adventure and beauty you have to see with your own eyes to believe, there is truly nothing quite like it. Just because you're staying in one town or another doesn't mean you can't travel to another one. All five towns are conveniently located close to each other to ensure you don't miss out on anything during your visit! 

Where will you be staying this summer? Visit the Adirondack Hub and Adirondack Experience websites for more!

Update 2/12/15: It's time! I just read this blog recalling Kelly's first ski trip to Gore, and now I'm chomping at the bit to try it out for myself. I mean, c'mon how cool does this local ski mountain sound? I'm sure it will be just as great an experience as my recent snowshoe trip to the Natural Stone Bridge & Caves! Have you skied Gore lately? Feel free to share your insider tips with this beginner, I need all the help I can get!~ Kim

Getting excited for ski season

Last year was my first time taking runs at Gore Mountain, I went with a friend and co-worker, Nicole (she skied and I boarded). It was an ideal first experience, the kind where you feel instantly welcome, a home away from home of sorts, and I can’t wait for a return trip. Along with my day at Gore, I had to stop for work in the nearby town of Schroon Lake. It was fun to spend a bit of time in a town I usually just pass by when driving down the northway to Saratoga Springs, Albany, or NYC. From the highway you don't even get a glimpse of what you're missing. The little taste I got of Schroon Lake during my winter adventures brought me back to explore the lake in the summer on my boat and now I’m looking forward to planning a more extensive ski trip.

Choosing a Base Camp

Gore is a popular New York ski destination because it’s easy to get to, and nearby Schroon Lake in the Adirondack Park makes a great base camp for a winter getaway. During my ski trip last winter we spoke with a few different Gore pass holders who lived in Albany and down near NYC, and they highly recommended staying in Schroon Lake when they ski at Gore. For these guys it had become an annual tradition as their weekend winter and holiday retreat. This is what really inspired making this trip happen.

I searched adirondackhub.com’s lodging pages to find some options as to where to stay on my trip. I found a number of cabins & cottages, motels, private rentals and B & Bs. Looking at the list of several cool inns, my eye caught the Silver Spruce Inn B&B - a historic speakeasy I toured years ago and have always wanted to stay at - however after a quick visit to their site, I learned I will need to save that one for a summer trip (May-October to be exact). There is however the Schroon Lake B & B - a well-appointed classic bed and breakfast, the Paradox House Gallery - a great retreat for artists, and the whimsically named Tumble Inn - just beckoning you to well, tumble in. There is also talk of a new place that's about to open just in time for the winter season - I'm excited to find out a bit more about what they'll offer. Luckily, I'm just reaching out to friends now with this information and once I have a head count of who's in, I will decide if we go the route of an inn or B&B, a rental or cottage, or a cozy motel.

Skiing and Snowboarding - Sometimes it’s the little things…

First Impressions

So as I was saying last year was my first time taking runs at Gore. Right from the moment we pulled into the parking lot, I was pleased by the proximity of the parking to the slopes, the short walk to the lodge, and especially, for me, the small town feel. Even though it’s known for attracting skiers and riders from the city, I felt like a welcomed guest among a mountain of locals. We had a great time as we met a variety of people, I don’t know if it was the day we were there but it was a very social experience, from walking to the lodge, gearing up for the first run, and riding the gondola, to lunch, and après-ski at the base lodge bar.

Nicole making sure I adhere to the rules of the park

On the snow

Hitting the slopes, the quality of the snow is what I really noticed first. We hadn’t had any recent snow, yet there was great coverage, quality grooming, and nice soft snow that you could really get an edge in. There was a variety of runs to enjoy and explore… in fact I’d say I only got to see about a 1/4 of what the mountain has to offer, I’m excited to see the rest. I like jumps and the occasional rail, and found the terrain park had a nice variety and progression… I realize I haven’t mentioned it yet, it was also my first time on snow that season, so I enjoyed starting small and progressing up to the larger jumps, and just plain skipping a few I wasn’t ready to hit yet.

Some friendly locals we enjoyed meeting

Après-ski

One thing that can really make a ski area great is a good après-scene. The bar at Gore was friendly, warm, and had an inviting layout and nostalgic ski/snowboard decor (on the wall was a Burton snowboard that brought me back to when I first fell in love with snowboarding). This is definitely a great place to be after a day of skiing or riding… but maybe just for a hot cocoa or two - après-ski is another great reason to head back to Schroon Lake. Two places I'm looking forward to checking out for dinner and drinks are Witherbee’s Carriage House, known for its old-school gondola mounted outside, and the Sticks & Stones Bistro & Bar, a newer establishment with warm, friendly service, great food and Adirondack charm.

Witherbee's and the Gondola (photo above and below)

Bar at Sticks & Stones

Soup Sampler at Sticks & Stones (from last season's visit)

What else to check out in Schroon Lake

Ski & Tube for Free
In Schroon Lake at the Municipal Golf Course you will find the Schroon Lake Ski Center - where you can ski and tube for free! This awesome family friendly hill offers a tow rope and a concession stand at an unbeatable price. Schroon Lake also has an outdoor ice skating rink, and is a great spot for ice fishing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. It's a great place to get away from it all, relax and enjoy the Adirondack winter, and it's just a short drive to so many Adirondack attractions. The next time you're heading this way, plan on jumping off the Northway between exits 27 & 28, you'll find friendly-folks and great places to stay in the Schroon Lake Region!

That best friend can be someone with us since kindergarten, or someone we just met who is wonderfully compatible. It can be someone we've been married to for years, or someone we can imagine being married to for years.

Whatever the connection, one great way to strengthen it is to get away to a fun, and different, kind of place where there's not a lot of competing obligations and distractions. A time devoted to having fun, together.

The space we might need to catch up on all those things we are too busy to share as much as we would like.

Dog friendly, too! Don't leave the four-legged part of the group behind. They love water and the woods and treats too, of course.
Here are three ways to craft that special "bestie" time in the Adirondacks.

Out on the water

Schroon Lake, the town, and Schroon Lake, the lake, comprise one of the major boating centers of the Adirondacks. Once the home of elaborate resort hotel complexes, it is now more of a Bed & Breakfast and historic Inns center. But the lake has not changed a bit.

The same timeless mountains ring the far shores, the marina is as busy as ever, and the thrill of the wind in our hair makes for a lot of shared smiles.

There are eight different kinds of watercraft available for rent, so the right fit shouldn't be a problem. Go fast with a classic motorboat, or go slow with a couple of stand­up paddle boards.

We can have fun on the lake without actually getting out on the lake. The beach is one of the most delightful in all of the Adirondacks (though of course this status is highly disputed). There are large expanses of soft sand that face the south for maximum sun, a swim-out diving platform, a lifeguard, and a terraced slope perfect for picnics and sunbathing.

There are vendors for lunch, treats, and drinks, while the entire park complex is just steps away from downtown, so it's easy to venture just a bit further to find something different if the spirit moves you.

At your own pace

An active weekend in the Schroon Lake Region is the opposite of busy. Whether we want to scale a mountain or stroll through patches of sunlight along a burbling brook, there's plenty to enjoy, with no crowds or pressure.

I find nature is great for filling the senses without being overwhelming. Birdsong, rustling leaves, and chuckling water are easy to pay attention to, or not. Being in nature leaves a lot of space for conversation.

One great way to prepare for an outdoor day is to have breakfast at Adirondack General Store, Deau's Mount Severance Country Store, or Lazy Moose Garden Market for a hearty start and a packed lunch. There are an abundance of picnic places, and the length of the trail doesn't matter so much when there's a meal with us.

If we are looking for that slow romantic meandering kind of trail, Cheney Pond Trail is highly recommended. This old truck trail makes for easy walking to the serene scenery of the pond, which is ringed with magnificent trees. There's a picnic table waiting for that lakeside lunch, and the trail is wide enough to walk hand-in-hand.

Walk along water with extended trail systems like Rankin and Little Rankin Ponds. Choose a pond trio like Courtney, Shingletree, and Holiday Pond. Add a saddle climb between Greenough and Clap mountains with Round Pond and East Mill Flow, which leads to many trail intersections.

Bring the other best friend, who will love smelling all the new stuff and will be happily worn out by the end of the day. No matter who comes along, a walk in the woods is an ideal way to catch up with each other amid the beauty of nature.

Random easy

The Schroon Lake Region is a great place to do a lot of nothing at all. This is one of my favorite ways to get out with someone, and just wander around, ready to explore any whim. Schroon Lake has a charming downtown area with interesting shops and plenty of pubs and restaurants.

That's not all the shopping, either. There's interesting places to choose from along the area's highly scenic roads. Big places like Gokey's Trading Post has a little bit of everything, and Adirondack Buffalo Company offers a range of treats, Native American crafts, and real buffalo.
There's also the focused and interesting, like the specialty furniture at Adirondack Rustics Gallery, cute embroidered items at Paradox Crafts, the candles, soap, and carvings at Stirring Creations, and the stunning quilts at Aunt Polly's Material Girls.

Find local brews at one of our fine pubs or head for the source at Paradox Brewery. Find out more about where to find desserts in our Valentine's Day blog, Sweets for your sweetheart.

There are lots of ways to have a sweet, sweet, time.

Look over delightful choices and choose the ideal lodging. Pick the food that matches your mood at one of our dining establishments. Ramp up the fun and plan on visiting for one of our many events.

 

Mid-winter in the Schroon Lake Region means EVENTS!

• Snowshoe hikes at the Adirondack Interpretive Center
• Bird walks at the Adirondack Interpretive Center
• Full moon parties
• Great camp tours
• Chili cookoff
• Fishing derby

 

Coming up during the next few weeks, there's lots to keep you busy and it's all about the outdoors when it comes to events.  

Take a hike at the AIC...

The Adirondack Interpretive Center in Newcomb has a fairly full schedule this month, some of the best of which are its Snowshoe Hikes and Bird Walks.  Join one of their naturalists for outings into the wild forest surrounding the AIC and learn about your natural surroundings. You can learn about the winter bird population while getting some exercise on the Audubon Bird Walk, or join in one of the Snowshoe Hikes held weekly during February. 

"Snow" Moon party

February's full moon is also known as the "snow moon", and aptly so! This year it falls on Valentine's Day! In nearby North Creek (just a 20 minute drive from Schroon Lake), the day brings the North Creek Ski Bowl Full Moon Party with 1/2 price tubing and twilight ski tickets. The Ski Bowl turns on all the lights for this great evening of fun and celebration of the Full Moon.

Great camp Santanoni tours

On select weekends this winter the NYS DEC and Adirondack Architectural Heritage (AARCH) will open up historic Great Camp Santanoni for tours during the dates February 15 - 17 and March 15 - 17. The self-guided XC ski or snowshoe tours to Camp Santanoni will include historic interpretation by members of the AARCH staff upon arrival at the camp. The staff will be in residence at the Camp for the weekend.  The trip into Camp Santanoni is a 9.8 mile round trip on the gently sloping carriage road. 

Calling all chili cooks!

Schroon Lake's 3rd Annual Chili Cook off takes to the stage on February 22 at the Mountainside Gymnasium. Cooks will compete in the categories such as Best Meaty, Best Veggie, People's Choice and Best Chili from a fire, ambulance or rescue squad. 100% of proceeds go to Schroom Lake EMS. The event begins at 11:30 am, with tallying of votes and announcement of winners at 1:30 pm. 

Who can catch the biggest fish?

Hooray! This year the ice in Schroon Lake is ample depth to hold the 22nd Annual Schroon Lake Ice Fishing Derby. Join in on March 1st and 2nd and try to catch the biggest fish from daylight on Saturday to sundown on Sunday in the designated waters of Schroon Lake. There will be three categories this year - trout, northern pike and salmon - and cash prizes!  Don't miss this very popular event!

If you haven't already made plans to spend a night or two, check out our lodging options. See you around the events circuit in Schroon Lake!

The spirits call

I recently spent a full day exploring a couple of really interesting places in Newcomb. After leaving our first stop, the Adirondack Interpretive Center, we enjoyed an awesome lunch at the High Peaks Kitchen and Campground in Newcomb on Route 28N. The food is great and inexpensive, and the service is terrific. I’d recommend a stop here for breakfast or lunch since they serve both.

After lunch we headed directly to the ghost town of Tahawus, an amazing place to visit!

A spectacular drive

About 4 1/2 miles east of the High Peaks Kitchen and Campground you'll come to a sign directing you to Tahawus. After turning left onto Tahawus Road, it's about a 7 mile drive into the wilderness off Route 28N. Follow the winding road along the upper reaches of the Hudson River and the shores of Sanford Lake. The views are amazing and the scenery even more spectacular with the beautiful fall foliage the day we were there.

A note to first time visitors - seriously don't be concerned about being on a back road going deep into the wilderness. There is plenty of traffic on this road as it leads to the major southern trailhead into the High Peaks Wilderness area. There are a lot of people coming and going on the road most of the time. The weekday we were there we met at least 5 or 6 cars coming out as we were going in and about the same when leaving. On the weekends expect to see a lot more. Trust me, you won’t be alone!

A real mining town in the wilderness

The funny part about Tahawus (originally named Adirondac) is that it sits at the very end of this very well traveled road. I imagine that's exactly why they chose this location for the High Peaks trailhead - because the road was already there and it would save hikers seven miles!

Tahawus was the company town of the Adirondack Iron Works, an iron extraction and smelting company, operating from 1827 to 1857, after which it lay dormant for a number of decades. According to Adirondack Park Agency documents regarding Tahawus, "Throughout its existence the Adirondack Iron Works operated two farms, the blast furnace and forge, a puddling furnace, charcoal and brick kilns, trip hammers and a grist and saw mill. The Village consisted of 16 dwellings and a building with a cupola, used as a school, church and a general assembly room." The very first bank in the Adirondacks was opened in Adirondac and it was obviously a thriving community deep in the wilderness - check out the history of Tahawus, the 'moving village.' The iron business failed mainly due to the presence of another mineral in the rock, titanium, which made it difficult and expensive to get a pure iron product. Eventually AIW gave up on its operation and left it abandoned in 1857.

It was near here in 1901, on the trail to Mt. Marcy, that Vice President Teddy Roosevelt was informed of President McKinley's imminent death from a gunshot wound, and became McKinley's successor as President of the United States (see below McNaughton Cottage).

A ghost town

Over the years, mining operations were started and halted in Tahawus or nearby, the last of which was National Lead Industries, actually down the road about a mile from Tahawus. Ironically, this company opened to mine the mineral which was partially the reason the first company failed. Forty million tons of titanium were extracted before operations ceased in 1989 and the mines closed permanently. The little town of Adirondac was left to decay.

An effort to restore and interpret the mining town is underway with at least one building being worked on and many interpretive signs erected just recently. Walkways have been constructed so the public can walk around the 50-foot-high blast furnace that remains on the hill above the wheel house. According to the interpretive sign on the observation deck above the wheel house, it housed "three overshot water wheels that drove a blast engine that forced air to the blast pipes in the furnace above, pumped water to cool the tuyeres, and powered the drop stamps on the charging bridge" of the giant blast furnace (and if you know what all that means, you're better than me). It's a mighty impressive thing to look at in person and these photos cannot do it justice. A visit to the site is totally required to understand and be a part of what once was an amazing process. The interpretive signage is very beautifully done.

ABOVE - The McNaughton Cottage - Vice President Theadore Roosevelt stayed here on his trip into the Adirondacks in 1901, during which he became president.

Do yourself a favor

You really must visit the ghost town of Adirondac (Tahawus) and see it for yourself. It's fascinating and really cool to stand in the middle of the road and imagine you're a resident in the mid-1800s. We walked and poked around a bit. The homes for the most part are completely beyond repair with the exception of McNaughton Cottage. The forest has also grown up around the buildings on the road. The homes on the other side of the river were easily viewed when I was there the last time, but not now. Only one is visible if you know right where to look.

Most of the 10 buildings, with the exception of the McNaughton cottage, are structures which were built by the Tahawus Club between 1890 and 1930. McNaughton is the only building dating back to the original Adirondack Iron Works.

ABOVE - the fireplace in this house is still in perfect condition!

We walked up the trail that was supposed to lead to the cemetery from the High Peaks trailhead, but were unsuccessful in finding it. It's there and you'll have to try to find it. I think it'd be pretty cool to visit Tahawus on Halloween night and see if any old miners come out to greet us!

Spend some time in the region

What better way to explore the ghost towns, back roads and everything the Schroon Lake Region has to offer than spending a few days? Check out our lodging options and book a stay while you do your exploring. See you in the woods somewhere!

Buffalo in the Adirondacks? Also known as bison, these animals are not native to the Adirondacks.
But, like so many others, it turns out they like it here.

The Adirondack Buffalo Company is based in North Hudson, on the lovely Blue Ridge Road.

Let them roam

The closest we can get to the buffalo is the coin operated telescope on the deck. These are giant animals with strong protective instincts and weak eyesight.

Not petting zoo material.

As of May 9, 2016, the American bison is our national mammal. And a fine choice it is. A male bison, or bull, stands six-feet tall and weighs up to 2,000 pounds. As in a "ton."
Baby bison are born from March to May, and start out red. That's probably so Mom, with her poor vision, can spot them more easily. As they get older, they become more brown, as seen on the left in this picture.

There's a lot of suspicion and pointy things in this picture.

As seen in their spring shaggy coats, bison can grow so much thick, insulating, fur that snow can land on their backs... and not melt. Their practice of eating the grass and churning it up with their hooves keeps the vegetation healthy, and fertilized. They are very low maintenance. Bison survival is all about being "left alone." As seen above, the females watch the babies (far left) and the males watch for danger.

As Steve Ossenkop says, "They pretty much take care of themselves."

From the herd

Steve became interested in bison through a friend. When he and his wife Dorreen bought their 120+ acre farm in North Hudson, they decided that what it was missing was a buffalo herd.

I must admit, I kind of want one, too.

In addition to all kinds of buffalo meat products, their store is a wonderland of interesting Adirondack and Native American items. I loved the row of birdhouses and trucks at the entrance. They have that "elves live here" ambiance I want in a birdhouse.

They have a wide variety of woven clothing, household decoration, handmade quilts and table runners, knitted hats and afghans, along with rustic wooden pieces like candle holders and knickknack shelves.

I loved browsing the store. They have caught me at a good time; we are moving soon. I remarked on their many nature-themed sofa pillows, which would look great on my green couch.

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Of course.

These were made by a local craftsperson, and she "made them like envelopes," Doreen explained. "So you can throw the covers in the washer and not mess up the pillow part." There were landscapes and forests, eagles, ducks and owls, along with wolves, bears, and horses.

Many items have a Native American motif, and some are made by Native Americans. Framed art and artisan crafts are also part of the stock.

Bison are a totemic animal for Native Americans, integral to tribal culture from both a practical standpoint (food, clothing, shelter, even tools and fuel) and their spiritual significance. That is why, even though bison were not native to the local Six Nations people, Steve and Dorreen have reached out to local Native Americans, both as vendors and customers.

They have gathered a wonderful collection to choose from. Lamps with handmade bases and wooden Adirondack bedframes are perfect for that cabin, while I enjoyed browsing their collection of painted river rocks and embossed "worry stones" in many mineral shades.

And the goodies. My goodness, there were lots of delightful goodies: baked goods, old fashioned candies, trail mix and snacks, cold drinks, many varieties of coffee, and their own line of condiments, pickles, sauces, and jams.

There was even a rack of used books. Trade in that novel you just finished, and pick up another one from the rack, for just a few dollars.

This is a wonderful destination in itself, but also part of a highly scenic drive along Blue Ridge Road. Just a few minutes before the store there is the easy hiking path which leads to Blue Ridge Falls, with lots of vantage points to view a long section of tumbled rocks and lively water.

The store will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day for the summer and fall season of 2017. This is a great stop before reaching that cottage, rental, or motel room with kitchenette where you can settle in and enjoy all the area has to offer.

Summer grilling and some bison ribs, steaks, or burgers? With Adirondack Buffalo Company's own ketchups, mustards, and pickles? With pie and pound cake for dessert? Yes, please.

I got a peach pie and a couple of new sofa pillows in black bear and bison. They will just have to stay at opposite ends of the couch.

I will be back.

Find some lovely lodging. Enjoy one of our local dining spots. Find more fun shopping.

Every autumn season I try to visit the charming mix of trees at the Adirondack Interpretive Center in Newcomb. This educational nature complex has everything for an immersive fall foliage experience, from groomed trails for hiking to knowledgeable guidance from staff in the natural history museum.

Know some trees

A certain kind of foliage is unique to certain regions of North America, which supports the largest variety of deciduous trees whose leaves change color as winter approaches.

Environmentally speaking, the Adirondacks is very much like New England. Only the giant glacier dug lake, Lake Champlain, got in the way when state boundaries were being drawn. Still, anyone who is a fan of "New England foliage" needs to consider that this area not only contains all the trees most needed for a spectacular foliage display, there are six million acres of them.

Perhaps no other tree is so prized for its leaves as the lovely sugar maple, which is also the state tree of New York. The leaves move through several shades of green during the growing season, then are among the first leaves to turn, moving from yellow, to orange, and then blazing red into the fall. Sugar maples are known for their picky preferences, too, needing a highly specialized climate of freezing nights with mild days.

Other species are important in the best foliage mix, such as the birches and beeches who contribute shades of yellow and rusty reds through the fall. Exercise those tree spotting skills by knowing that birch trees have double-toothed leaves, with small teeth bordering the larger teeth. Beeches are single-toothed, with all teeth the same size. Easy!

The AIC system of trails features a lot of shoreline views, for twice the color possibilities.

Know some science

Thanks to the information and classes offered by the Aidrondack Interpretive Center, I know that much of the best fall color comes from a forest known as "northern hardwoods type," which their trails provide in abundance.

For an excellent "warm-up," the AIC recommends the 0.6-mile Rich Lake Trail. This trail has views of Rich Lake and Goodnow Mountain for a preview of what other trails are doing at any point during the fall. This is an easy access trail for all age and skill groups, with outlook platforms and benches to get full enjoyment out of the hike.

Tree leaves have different kinds of pigments which combine at different strengths at different times of year. During the growing season of spring and summer, the green pigments (chlorophyll) are so abundant they mask all the other colors. Early in spring the yellow pigments (carotenoids) have a strong green-gold presence until the green gets up to full speed. Then, in fall, the green fades and lets other colors dominate, such as the orange which brightens as the yellows are joined by the red and purple (anthocyanins) pigments. These are especially strong in maples and oaks.

Goodnow Mountain itself is a six mile round trip with great views, especially since there's a restored fire tower on the summit.

Know some options

AIC has staff and interns devoted to learning, and teaching, about the natural world. The most intensive such program is their annual Philosophers' Camp, modeled after an Adirondack tradition.

In early October for the past four years, the AIC recreates the original Philosophers’ Camp enjoyed by Ralph Waldo Emerson and a band of intellectual adventurers in 1858. They camped in the Adirondacks with guides, calling themselves "freemen of the forest" as they declared nature would let them lose the restrictions of civilization, with the goal of breaking down societal and professional boundaries for the easy exchange of ideas. Though the Civil War disrupted everyone's plans to regroup, the trip became famous when Emerson composed "The Adirondacs," which was about the special power of the Adirondack wilderness:

Nature spoke
To each apart, lifting her lovely shows
To spiritual lessons pointed home.

There are lots of presentations, school groups, and guided outings held at the AIC. As seen below, AIC intern Andrew and Wildlife Conservation Society intern Alex teamed up for a program on beavers for the Newcomb Youth Program.

Passing on the joy of the natural world is the mission of the Adirondack Interpretive Center, which is reflected in their name. Whether I want to "read the subtitles" to have the science of the Adirondacks interpreted for me, or just go it alone in the poetic nature that is so easy to enjoy here, I find the AIC to be one of my favorite places.

Especially in the fall.

Settle into a great place to stay. Explore more hiking. Keep up with our Foliage Report.

This week in ADK news:

A little night life

Tee up with some color

Culture, cheese, and coffee

Oktoberfest for everyone

Four ways to foliage

Hiking rules!

Take it easy in Long Lake

 

A new take on a familiar place

It's fall in the Adirondacks! The Adirondack Hub is always a special place, and becomes even more enchanting during the season of autumn. The well-known and iconic spots for leaf peeping and photo taking never disappoint, but just off the beaten path are some rather spectacular spots that you might not have heard of. Immerse yourself in fall color from a new perspective – you might just find something extra to love in the heart of autumn! Here are a few of our favorites: 

Blue Ridge Road - wheeled adventure

For an absolutely spectacular scenic fall ride, you won't want to miss Blue Ridge Road, stretching for approximately 20 miles between Newcomb and North Hudson. You'll enjoy views, views, and more views along this beautiful, winding Adirondack road. Blue Ridge Road is part of what is known as the Grand Loop that connects the small towns and wilderness of the Schroon Lake Region. You won't want to miss a stop at Blue Ridge Falls, located just outside of North Hudson in the small hamlet of Blue Ridge. Visible from a small pull-off at the road, Blue Ridge Falls is a picture-perfect spot to stop for a rest. Or, take the short hike down to the water's edge to picnic or sit on the rocks and listen to the water flow.

Moxham Mountain - hiking & mountain climbing

If you're up for a moderate hiking challenge and have a few hours to spare, you'll want to put Moxham Mountain in Minerva at the top of your list! Immerse yourself in the autumn woods along a beautiful trail that winds its way through different forest types, an impressive wetland, and has no fewer than a dozen overlooks, each with its own interesting and stunning view. You'll find tons of photo opportunities on the way to the top, with overlooks of Gore Mountain and the wetlands and ponds of the Siamese Ponds Wilderness, and views from the peak offer some unique and amazing views of the Hudson River. This round-trip hike is approximately 5.5 miles with an elevation gain of 1152 feet, giving you lots of opportunity to enjoy the trail and leaving you plenty of time for another outdoor adventure or a trip back to town for a little shopping. Plus, you get bragging rights for climbing a mountain!

Mt Severance - hiking & lake views

Looking for something sensational but don't have a ton of time (or energy)? For a shorter, quicker climb with less elevation gain and awesome views, visit Mt Severance in Schroon Lake. WIth a round-trip distance of just under 2.5 miles, an elevation gain of 725 feet, and amazing views of Schroon Lake, Pharoah Mountain and Paradox Lake from the top, Mt Severance is a can't miss experience for every hiker and elevation seeker. This is also a great snowshoe hike, so enjoy the climb this fall among the brilliant changing leaves and plan for a return excursion during the winter months!

Pharaoh Lake - hiking and fishing

If hiking to a remote lake and fishing the day away sounds like the perfect fall adventure, you'll be delighted with a visit to Pharaoh Lake in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness area, and even more delighted with the brookies and lake trout you'll find there! At 442 acres, this lake is one of the largest lakes in the Adirondacks that is completely surrounded by Forest Preserve lands, and the approximately 4-mile hike in (depending on your route) is extraordinarily beautiful in the fall. The lake is accessible from several different trailheads in the area - check out the DEC website for additional details and directions. If you're up for even more of a challenge, you can carry an inflatable boat or lightweight canoe in and paddle the lake! 

Upper Works - historic site & interpretive trail

For a unique leaf peeping experience, head to Upper Works. The drive out is spectacularly beautiful, especially in the fall, and the entire area is rich with Adirondack history! As you make your way to the parking area at Upper Works, you'll pass by an old blast furnace, a remnant of the area's mining history. Stop to view the impressive old structure and informational displays at the site, then continue on to the parking area at the site of the old town of Adirondac. This is where you'll find the old MacNaughton Cottage, best known as the place where Teddy Roosevelt began his midnight ride after learning that President McKinley's death was imminent. Just beyond the cottage lies an interpretive trail that guides visitors along the site of many of the old structures that were a part of this mining hub. Upper Works is also the southern access point into the High Peaks Wilderness, and a jump off point to many other adventures.

Henderson Lake - paddling

From the parking area at Upper Works, a short 0.3 mile carry will get your non-motorized boat on the glistening waters of Henderson Lake in the High Peaks Wilderness. The portage is a slight climb but cart friendly, and totally worth the effort. Henderson Lake is wonderfully calm and quiet for paddling and enjoying everything about the splendor of a fall day, and feels delightfully wild, given its relatively easy access and close proximity to the popular nearby hiking trails. The waters of Henderson Lake are often described as "glassy", "mesmerizing" and even "dizzying", when viewing the reflections of the surrounding mountains. 

Donnelly Beach - hiking and paddling

You might be familiar with Minerva Lake and Donnelly Beach in the summer season, and it's also a spectacular autumn destination. Aside from being easy to get to and blissfully picturesque, it's a fantastic spot for photographing reflections in the water. You can also hike and boat here – there are some easy hiking trails, and a boat launch where you can get your non-motorized boat onto the water and enjoy paddling the quiet setting and exploring the lake's three small islands.

Gore Mountain - scenic gondola ride

For a unique experience with options for a wide range of autumn adventurers, Gore Mountain in North Creek is a dream come true! Sweeping views of the High Peaks and southern Adirondacks are in store from the mountaintop, and how you get up there half the fun! Gore Mountain's scenic Skyride offers a great way for families with small children or folks who are a bit uncomfortable with heights to get to the spectacular views at elevation safely and comfortably. The 8-passenger gondola cabins can fit strollers, wheelchairs, walkers, and even mountain bikes. From the top, choose to hike, picnic, or bike down. Spend an hour or all day playing on the mountain or just relax and take in the sights.

No matter how you choose to experience fall in the Adirondack Hub, you'll love the time you spend here. Cozy lodging, comforting meals and big adventure await. Plan your visit today – the leaves are calling!