Cliff Mountain--A winter herd-path tradition

As many of you may know Cliff Mountain, standing at 3944’, is part of the Adirondack 46 High Peaks - but under current criteria that just doesn’t measure up. When the 46 High Peaks were originally measured for height, Cliff was surveyed at being over 4000’ in elevation, later to be revealed as not. Cliff Mountain still resides on the list, as it should, it was one of the original bunch and honestly it adds some good climbing to the mix. Located behind Mount Marcy, Cliff often shares its glory with Redfield, at least for those who want to bag two peaks in one day. Now, when it comes to winter climbing it often gets to be a standalone peak, because adding Redfield on the same day is more than many can bite off. With this being the case some clever winter mountaineers have developed a route, for winter use only, that will gain the climber the summit of Cliff directly from Flowed Lands. The route really hasn’t developed a name, per say, but I have heard it referred to as “Cliff Direct.” Most just call it “that bushwhack route from Flowed Lands.” While I wouldn’t call this a tradition for most, it has become a traditional winter route, for those who know about it.

Upper Works

To access this approach from the Schroon Lake Region it’s rather simple. But first and foremost it’s best if you can stay in the Schroon Lake Region the night prior, because a fresh early start is very important and Upper Works is a short drive away. Follow Blue Ridge Road out of North Hudson toward Newcomb. Just prior to reaching Route 28N in Newcomb, take a right onto Tahawus Road and follow this all the way to Upper Works Road, which will come in on the left. Follow Upper Works Road to its end at the High Peaks Trailhead.

When we reached Upper Works on our last trip we felt pretty good, having stayed so close by the night before we avoided that long drawn out car ride at 3:30 am that we had dreaded even thinking about. We dressed lightly for the ride to avoid getting sweaty in the car and then getting an instant chill once we were out in the parking lot. We shared the trailhead parking with only two other cars, their hoods were well coated in a snow frosting, apparently they had been here for a few days. Now suiting up for the balmy 20 degree, 5:00 am start, we were pleased to not have to wear excessive layers to battle the cold that settled in only a few days ago. A light southwest wind was predicted to bring in near 40 degree temperatures by mid-day, not sure if this was going to be good or bad for snowshoeing – but I knew my digits would be happy.

We moved along the trail as though we were going to be late for last call. But in all honesty, the first portion of this trail along old wooded roads is a cake walk and a great way to gain distance and make some really good time doing it. We also didn’t even know if “Cliff Direct” had been broken out and developed for the season yet. If it wasn’t we would have one heck of a battle on the steep slopes to summit this day.

The trail to Flowed Lands was as hard as concrete, if it weren’t for the traction (and the lack of will to carry them on our back), we could have skipped the snowshoes. Flying by the Henderson Monument I started to get my mind rolling about a near future climb on Calamity Mountain, but that’s another story altogether. Soon we stood at Flowed Lands and were signing into the trail register. What’s this? Someone else was here a few days ago doing this exact route. However, we still didn’t know if they made it all the way or not. The wind was howling and not with that warm breeze we had hoped for. The wind not only battled us, but it also completely covered any sign of a trail over the frozen Flowed Lands. We had a rough idea of the location on the other side so we just angled for the peninsula named Livingston Point. Once we arrived at the lean-to on the point we tried to find any sign of a herd-path. Walking in circles and meandering around like a lost beavers we just decided to go for it. We couldn’t find any herd-path, maybe the other group gave up, or maybe it just wasn’t where we thought it should be. We had plenty of time to make our own route, it wasn’t quite 8:00 am yet. We dropped over the hill near the lean-to and down into drainage for Livingston Pond, then over a small rise to another lowland area and BINGO, there it was. The herd-path, sort of, I mean it was there for sure; faint from being blown over, but good enough to follow.

Flowed Lands to Cliff Mountain

Now on the herd-path we could breathe easier, at least we had a direction of travel that might avoid the massive blowdown fields that were warned about on this side of the mountain. The path gained us elevation very fast and led us over to the main drainage that ran near some massive cliffs. The path never really advanced to the brook but stayed high and offered us almost instant gratification of views. The views just kept getting better as the summits of Iroquois and Algonquin started to pop out over the trees.

Soon we would be brought into the forest where the herd-path avoided most of the thick groups of balsam and spruce, although a few seemed to just push through. The herd-path, as you can imagine, was constructed of numerous small and large switchbacks to avoid minor cliffs and dense stands of conifers, but we were okay with that. The summit was literally right there looming in front of us. A short section of four-legged climbing was involved, but the traction was decent, we knew this would be the crown of the summit, and sure enough, shortly after, we were there. I must say, the views in winter are far more dramatic than the ones in the other seasons. The 4-feet of snow we were standing on sure does help lift you up over the spruce and standing snags. Wide open vistas, High Peaks right in your face, and the motivation to try for Redfield. Okay, I wouldn’t go that far, we really only wanted to climb Cliff, so we did an about-face and descended the herd-path back to Flowed Lands.

We were back at the trail register near Flowed Lands in right about an hour from leaving the summit. It’s not that we ran, we literally just slid off the mountain. The herd-path was now so well developed and steep that we could butt slide and glissade our way to the base of the peak in no time at all. The remaining 4-miles or so came a bit slower. We were so far ahead of schedule we just moseyed our way back to the car.

Taking my advice and staying over in the Schroon Lake Region? Book now online. Bet you’ll be hungry after the hike, or need a carb-loaded pasta dinner the night before, we also boast some great places to eat. Rather be guided to the summit in the High Peaks, maybe Cliff – our local guide services are here to oblige.

There’s no better basecamp for adventure in the Adirondacks than the Adirondack Hub. Our snow-covered winter communities create the perfect environment for locals and visitors to get out and enjoy the fresh air while providing all the amenities needed for post-adventure relaxation. This region is an epicenter for outdoor enthusiasts, so much so that the activities are so numerous, that it might be hard to choose which ones to do! To get you a head start on planning your adventure in New York State's Adirondack Hub, here are 8 of the top things you can do on a stay here this winter.

1. Explore on snowshoes

Lace-up your snowshoes and get ready to explore some of the most pristine winter landscapes in the southern Adirondacks. For a chill outing, check out the interpretive trail at the Adirondack Interpretive Center (AIC). And if you’re looking for a longer day out in the Adirondack Mountains, look into the trails that weave their way through the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area near Schroon Lake. You’ve got options on this network, from hikes to backcountry ponds or to mountains like Treadway, and even the namesake Pharaoh Mountain (for experienced snowshoers). From gentle paths to rugged backcountry routes, snowshoeing here is a truly immersive experience—perfect for beginners craving peace or seasoned snowshoers seeking adventure.

2. Cross-country ski trips big and small

For those who crave that gliding rhythm of cross-country skiing, the southern Adirondacks are a slice of heaven. A favorite amongst locals and visitors, especially beginner cross-country skiers or those with families, plan a trip around Santanoni Winter Weekends. At these special events, you can combine hot cocoa, history, and welcoming cross-country ski trails into one day of winter fun. And if you’re coming to the Hub with experience, consider a thru-ski of the Hoffman Notch Wilderness, an absolute classic tour that anyone who’s spent time on skis in the backcountry should get out and do. Aside from these two adventurous options, there are many more ski trip possibilities in the Hub!

3. Ski or snowboard at Gore Mountain

Did you know that Gore Mountain was one of the first ski resorts in the country to form a Ski Patrol? This, among a flurry of other “firsts”, fun events, and recent improvements, is enough to make any skier, from beginner to seasoned slopestyle, want to spend time on this ski mountain. Not convinced? Here are some stats: 14 lifts, 108 trails, 7 mountain areas, 2,537 feet of vertical, and multiple lodges for eating and relaxing. 

If you stay at the Lodge at Schroon Lake, enjoy complimentary shuttle rides to and from the mountain, where a day of fresh powder awaits. Spend the day carving turns, then return to the Lodge to unwind by a crackling fire—a true winter retreat.

4. Ice fish on picturesque lakes

The Hub is known for having some of the Adirondacks’ most productive bodies of water for ice fishing. Bring your tip-ups, warming huts, and patience to our iced-over lakes and ponds, you won’t be disappointed. Try your luck at Lake Harris, Minerva Lake, Schroon Lake, or Paradox Lake. Each lake has its charm, whether it’s Harris’ proximity to the High Peaks or Paradox’s proximity to a brewery that shares its name. If the ice is thick enough in March, the Schroon Lake Ice Fishing Derby draws anglers from near and far and offers a lively community atmosphere and a bit of friendly competition.

5. Connect communities on snowmobiles

Gas up your snowmobiles, get your friends together, and plan out a link-up of the Hubs' many groomed snowmobile trails! Starting from Newcomb, you can ride all the way to Hamilton County, stopping at gems like Newcomb Café for a warm coffee, cocoa, and pastries. The Schroon Lake/ North Hudson snowmobile club manages hundreds of miles of trails, with pit stops at local establishments dotted along the entirety of the network. Riding with friends through the snowy Adirondack Mountains is a special experience, and connecting communities through snowmobiling is a satisfying way to spend a winter weekend.

6. Family fun with ice skating & sledding

Embrace classic winter fun with ice skating and sledding at rinks and hills in Schroon Lake, Minerva, and Newcomb. These towns host family-friendly skating rinks with warming huts so you can sip hot cocoa in between laps. The Newcomb Sledding Hill, Minerva Sledding Hill, and Schroon Lake are all prime sledding spots for a day of laughter, thrills, and rosy cheeks. Combining skating and sledding in these communities keeps you close to many of the amenities, from cozy cafes to delicious lunch stops and main streets. Speaking of…

7. Stroll down Schroon Lake’s storybook main street

Finish any day with a leisurely stroll down Main Street in Schroon Lake, where small-town charm is alive and well. Stop by 9-Mile Coffee for a warm latte, browse unique finds at the Schroon Lake Department Store, and pop into the Pinecone Mercantile, where you’ll find everything from home decor and fresh-baked bread to locally sourced food products. With each step, you’ll feel the warmth of the community’s spirit, surrounded by mountain views and friendly faces. The end of any perfect winter day.

8. Enjoy a pint by the peaks

After a day of winter adventure in the Adirondacks—whether snowshoeing, skiing, or sledding—heading to Paradox Brewery is the perfect way to warm up and wind down. Nestled in North Hudson, this cozy brewery, fit with crackling fireplaces, offers craft beers that capture the spirit of the region, often using local ingredients that reflect Adirondack flavors. The rustic taproom, with its view of snowy mountains, (the hills of the Hoffman Notch and High Peaks Wilderness Areas) invites you to kick back with a freshly poured pint by the fire. Paradox’s seasonal brews are a great match for winter, with rich porters, stouts, and seasonal IPAs that hit the spot after a day in the cold. It’s a favorite local stop, blending outdoor spirit with craft beer culture. We might be biased, but we think winter may just be the best season to stop by Paradox Brewery.

Like what you hear, and want to plan a weekend of adventure in the snowy Adirondack Mountains? Check out our cozy and comfortably-priced lodging options, and start setting your sights on all the things to do here in the Adirondack Hub this winter.

Newcomb is a wonderful destination for spring hiking. There is a mountain that is just the right height, historic sites to explore, and an entire complex of lakeshore and forest trails.

Top to bottom, it is Adirondack hiking that is all within the spring conservation guidelines that avoid damage to trails and delicate vegetation.

One sweet mountain

Goodnow Mountain is a fun trail that even children can handle. And, there's the additional scenic possibilities of a sixty-foot fire tower which commands one of the finest views in the Adirondacks. At 2690-feet tall, it even onforms with DEC requests to stay below 3,000 feet before June, yet offers plenty of hiking enjoyment.

The fire tower, built in 1922, has been fully restored and lets climbers view twenty-three of the forty-six High Peaks. The trail and tower are the work of the College of Environmental Science and Forestry at Syracuse University (ESF) and the Town of Newcomb. The College also owns the 15,000-acre Huntington Wildlife Forest where the mountain is located.

It is part of the ADK Fire Tower Challenge.

The trail starts level, and at the half-mile mark there is a bench to signal the ascent is about to begin. There are boardwalks over boggy places, and an old horse barn marks the 1.6 mile point. Look for the open ledge at 1.75 miles, where there are more benches, and don't be fooled by the descent afterwards; this is to set you up for the final ascent to the summit. It is 3.9 miles round trip.

(photo courtesy Peakery.com)

The mountain was named for Sylvester Goodnow, a homesteader who claimed its base in the 1820s. What a rugged fellow he must have been. Get a brochure at the trailhead to add a self-guided nature experience to this hike.

Walk through history

There are two extraordinary hiking destinations that bring back a fabled past.

Adirondac/Tahawus Mines is the site of an entire mining complex devoted to special iron mines which contained titanium. Now a ghost town, abandoned in 1857, this place once housed mine workers and a forty-eight foot blast furnace for ore extraction.

The mines failed in part because it was difficult to get the right kind of iron from the ore when it was contaminated by titanium dioxide. Ironically, this was the same reason the mines were reopened in 1940; titanium was now far more valuable than the iron itself.

Titanium is a mysterious metal. It is highly resistant to both seawater and chlorine, and is both biocompatible (does not trigger allergies when used in the body) and able to osseointegrate; to knit itself into the bone. It is the preferred substance to use in dental implants. Forty million tons of titanium were mined out by 1989.

Theodore Roosevelt was in Tahawus in 1901 when President William McKinley, who had recently been shot by anarchist Leon Czolgosz, took an unexpected turn for the worst. He had set out for a hiking trip up Mount Marcy when he was intercepted by a mounted park ranger to hear that McKinley was now in mortal danger. Roosevelt set out for the train station in North Hudson to return to Washington DC, and assume the duties of the Presidency.

Camp Santanoni Preserve was once the Great Camp of Robert C. and Anna Pruyn. It is now a 32-acre historic area consisting of three Complexes; Gate Lodge Complex, Farm Complex, Main Complex, and the old carriage road (Newcomb Lake Road) that connects all of them, and provides the only access.

Hiking or mountain biking is allowed, and it is a popular cross-country ski trail in the winter.

Many of the buildings have been lost to fire or mishap, but the architecture is still a stunning sight. This was the first Great Camp to be entirely designed, as a coherent unit, by a professional architect, Robert H. Robertson.

Devoted to nature

The Adirondack Interpretive Center at Newcomb is a wonderful place to feel the beating heart of the Adirondacks. It is a natural history museum and a trail complex.
There are two great rooms with exhibits, comfy chairs, and big windows.

After exploring the displays, you are ready to see these elements in person. The complex has four trails that cover 3.6 miles over 236 acres. There are plenty of water views with Rich Lake, Rich Lake outlet, and Sucker Brook.

One of the things I love about hiking is that most of the time, the weather doesn't matter. Bring a jacket, wear comfortable boots in case of boggy patches, and protect areas that might get chilly if the wind picks up. I always have a hat, because that's where I feel a bit of cold, but others might want thick socks.

The last time I was there, it began to rain, and it didn't even matter. Because I simply retreated into the forest and didn't even get wet. I held off my shoreline walking until the clouds started to clear.

Then I got this picture.

Spring hiking. So dramatic.

From January 1st unitl Memorial day, the Adirondack Interpretive Center is open Friday - Sunday, 10am-4pm. From Memorial Day – Columbus Day, they are open daily 10am-5pm, and closed on Tuesdays.

Enjoy our range of lodging. Experience our dining. Try all our hiking.

When you think of the Adirondacks, the first thing that might come to mind is endless adventure. But we want those adventures to be accessible to everyone. While we can only modify nature to a certain extent, the Adirondack Hub has several attractions and outdoor destinations that make it easy for all to access and enjoy. Here are four of our favorite accessible locations. 

1. Camp Santanoni Historic Site

Camp Santanoni is an incredible historic site open to the public with a number of year-round outdoor activities available and occasional events that take place there. There are also a number of accessible amenities. 

Accessible Features

A horse and accessible wagon may be reserved to travel the Newcomb Lake Road Trail between the Gate Lodge Complex and the Main Complex. Qualified persons with disabilities can ride for free. This service is provided by Newcombe Farms (518-480-1743) through a contract with DEC. Others can ride for a fee. Accessible vault toilets are available at the Gate Lodge Complex and the Main Complex. 12-foot wide covered porches around the Main Lodge are accessible by ramp. Accessible horse mounting platforms are available at the Gate Lodge Complex and the Main Complex.

2. Frontier Town Campground & Day Use Area

Frontier Town Campground is a newly constructed state campground with 77 campsites just outside of Schroon Lake and right next to Paradox Brewery with equestrian features and a day use area. 

Accessible Features

Frontier Town was designed to provide accessibility to people of all ages and abilities and includes many Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant features. The facility's universal design enables everyone, including seniors and families to access its amenities. All campsites, showers, and restrooms are accessible and campsites have accessibly designed picnic tables and fire-making facilities. In addition, the campground features two ADA-compliant horse mounting ramps. There are also three accessible parking spots at the day use area. 

3. Adirondack Interpretive Center 

The Adirondack Interpretive Center is part of SUNY ESF's Newcomb Campus and provides a number of learning opportunities. Inside there are an array of exhibits, props, and publications to learn about the Adirondacks. Outside there is 3.6 miles of trails and a picnic area to eat lunch and experience the beauty of the natural environment. 

Accessible Features

Most AIC facilities and programs are wheelchair accessible. The 0.6-mile Rich Lake trail, managed by SUNY ESF, is in the process of being improved to give users a better interpretive accessible experience as well.

“Birds can nest in winter?”

This is a frequent question I receive when I mention that Red Crossbills are currently nesting in several locations in the Adirondacks — including Newcomb and Minerva. Red Crossbills (Loxia curvirostra) and White-winged Crossbills (Loxia leucoptera) are finches that can nest at any time of year, but they most frequently nest during winter in the Adirondacks. Crossbills feed their young conifer seeds, so they can nest even in the depths of winter if the cone crop is large enough, which is the case this year.

Canada Jays begin nesting toward the end of winter, usually in late February or early March, and their young fledge in late April. With nesting out of the way in early spring, this allows the year-round Canada Jay to spend late spring and summer caching enough food to make it through the next winter.

Great Horned Owls nest in winter also, usually during February. Young are born after a month of incubation. The owlets remain with their parents for a long time compared to other species – until early fall. By nesting in winter, Great Horned Owls give their young enough time to learn how to survive on their own before the following winter.

It’s all about food

Birds are warm blooded animals and much of their behavior, including nesting, migration, and other movements, is all about finding enough to eat. A common misconception is that cold weather is responsible for some bird species migrating. It’s not the cold temperatures, but the changing food sources as a result of those temperatures (especially the effects on insects), that are the impetus for some birds’ movements. Many waterfowl species will stay north as long as they have open water for foraging, and with our rapidly warming climate, the birds are staying longer and longer as the lakes ice over later and later each year.

Interesting Red Crossbill facts

As their name implies, Red Crossbills have bills that are crossed. Roughly half of Red Crossbills have upper mandibles that cross to the right, and half to the left. This unique physical characteristic allows the birds to open cone scales so their tongue can reach the seeds. If a cone is closed, the crossbills will bite off the cone and hold it with their toes as they open it. If the cone is already opened, the birds will use their bills and feet to hang, parrot-like, in all kinds of positions in order to access the seeds.

Male Red Crossbills are red (sometimes orange) and females are greenish-yellow. Both have dark wings and tails.

During nesting, the female Red Crossbill does all of the incubation, and then all of the brooding of nestlings. Red Crossbills are monogamous and the male feeds the female during courtship and incubation, and he feeds the young after they hatch. By the time the young are 5-days-old, both parents feed them. By the end of winter or early spring, it is wonderful to see the heavily striped Red Crossbill fledglings!

The Red Crossbill is considered a mostly western U.S. species as you can see by its range map.

Red Crossbills are “nomadic” birds. They move from place to place based upon the variable nature of cone production, sometimes all the way across the continent. Unlike most migratory birds that nest in one location, winter in another, and then return to the same place to nest, Red Crossbills only show up to breed and forage based on the size of the cone crop.

Both Red and White-winged Crossbills spend a lot of time “gritting” - taking sand and salt from the roadways. Unfortunately, they are often killed by vehicles since they don’t fly out of the way in time. If a Red Crossbill’s upper mandible points to the right, the bird will turn its head to the left to grit, and if the bird’s upper mandible points to the left, it will turn its head to the right to grit.

Whenever I’ve observed Red Crossbills drinking, they are always positioned upside down!

Scientists believe there are at least 10 different Red Crossbill sub-species based on the differences in their calls and songs, and differently shaped bills. Red Crossbills specialize on particular coniferous trees for feeding – some preferring various spruces, pines, or hemlock, etc. Their bills are the perfect size for the particular coniferous tree cones on which they feed. The calls have allowed the scientists at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology to separate Red Crossbills into different “Types,” which are likely different species. I often record calling birds and send the recordings to Cornell for identification. Most of the birds in Newcomb and Minerva are Type 2 birds which have a loud call note. The Red Crossbills recorded in Long Lake are Type 10 birds, which have a softer call note. Multiple “Types” of Red Crossbills will often nest near each other, but they do not inter-breed. If scientists decide to separate, or “split,” Red Crossbills into multiple species, it will be tricky for birders to distinguish them since they all look alike!

With an excellent cone crop on most coniferous trees, this is a terrific winter for observing beautiful Red Crossbills. In Newcomb and Minerva, watch for this species along Route 28N from the scenic overlook in Newcomb to a mile or two east of the Boreas River in Minerva. Listen for their loud, “jip, jip, jip” calls. The best time to look for Red Crossbills is early in the morning just after a new snowfall when the plows have recently salted and sanded the highways. The crossbills will be gritting in the road.

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It always seems like such a gift to have Red Crossbills singing and nesting during the heart of the Adirondack winter!

In addition to great roadside birding along Route 28N, there are many trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the area. And after your outing, there are wonderful places to dine and spend the night.

 

Whether you are pulling your own water gear or arrive with only your kayak shoes and a dream, Schroon Lake welcomes you to their namesake lake. It's over four-thousand acres of fun.

This charming resort town has been famous for summer hospitality since the late 19th century. And when it comes to the lake, nothing has changed.

Historic summer getaway

The Leland House was a resort hotel built in 1871 on the shore of Schroon Lake. It had six acres of gardens, three stories, and room for 125, which was soon expanded to accommodate 50 more. The Victorian-style hotel boasted a front veranda, a two-story porch, and an observatory. It quickly became popular and grew to the point where the main dining room (there was also a children's dining room) could hold 300 people.

As they say in real estate: location, location, location. As seen in this postcard from the 1900s.

Schroon Lake offered plenty of gorgeous recreation with its nine miles of glacier-dug lake backed by the mountains of the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area. As its reputation grew, more and more people built resort hotels in this lovely area.
Eventually, "vacating the city" to escape the summer heat turned into the word "vacation." Yes, the Adirondacks didn't just invent the word, we perfected it.

This postcard was from 1907, when wind or strong arms was the way to get around on the water. In fact, this was a favorite way of courting among young people; just the two alone on a lake, yet visibly not doing anything that would shock turn-of-the-century sensibilities.

The "summer romances" of the resort hotels of upstate New York was such a well-known phenomenon it led to popular Broadway musicals like "Wish You Were Here." The bestselling novel "Marjorie Morningstar" took place at the world-famous Scaroon Manor. Later, it would be a film musical starring Natalie Wood and Gene Kelly, filmed right in Schroon Lake.

This vintage postcard, with a postmark of July 30th, 1920, gives an indication of how this resort town was known for the easy pace and scenic beauty of the Lake Resort culture. In the center is the sign for The Leland House.

Boating has always been a popular way to get out on the lake and view the lovely scenery. Now there are even more ways to enjoy the lake, with kayaks, Stand Up Paddleboards, and inflatables joining the traditional sailboats, fishing boats, and canoes.

Choose your favorite

Whatever you want to do on the water, the Town Dock is a great place to get going.

There's parking and accessibility about a minute from downtown, and plenty of days full of that Adirondack blue water and blue sky. Plenty of room for all, whether you are racing along pulling someone on water skis, or paddling a quiet shoreline looking for scenic photography opportunities.

If you have brought your boat, you might want to explore other local water bodies, like Paradox Lake, a long 896-acre lake with incredible mountain scenery. It is also known for its tranquility, as it is sheltered among hills and forests; one of the most untouched places in the whole of the Adirondacks. Water access is via the campground entrance, and has a hard surface ramp and parking. Further east, Eagle Lake is a prime paddling spot, located right at the edge of the Pharaoh Lake Wildnerness Area.

For those who aren't bringing their own watercraft, Schroon Lake Marina has the variety, and flexibility, you might be looking for.

They include water skis and tubes free of charge with all multi­-day boat rentals, so every skill level can have fun on the water. And for those who like it slow, there are kayaks and canoes. Browse their pro shop for anything you might be missing.

And, they even have Stand Up Paddleboards for their many fans.

Do you just want to start with your "toes in the water"? Then take a Schroon Lake Boat Tour for a one-hour cruise filled with scenic places and local legends.

Town beach

Best beach in the Adirondacks? That just might be so.

If you prefer the water closer to shore, Schroon Lake's Town Beach has fantastic swimming and sunbathing in their lakeshore park. Walk to downtown to find everything you need for a day at the beach, from a picnic lunch to whatever you like to fill that cooler with. There's plenty of ice cream nearby too, perfect for completing any summer day!

However you wish to enjoy the lake, the variety will please anyone in the family. From getting involved with that big beach read to testing those water skis, you can find your favorite kind of lake love at Schroon Lake.

Nostalgia isn’t always bad. It can lead you to try things you remember loving as a kid. Like square dancing. I hadn’t square danced since I was in my elementary school enrichment class where Hot Cross Buns blaring on a plastic recorder was considered music. The afternoons we square danced meant moving to our teacher’s commands and swinging our partner to fiddles. I don’t remember ever not wanting to square dance.

I recently square danced with some friends in the beautiful Adirondack lake town of Schroon Lake. Every Wednesday evening in July and August at 7 p.m. the town of Schroon Lake’s Chamber of Commerce hosts a free public square dance right on the shore of the lake, at the bandshell. In the center of it all is a wonderful dance floor, conveniently made of cement and cordoned off by a stone wall.  As one person noted, “it might just be the most beautiful dance hall” in America, overlooking the shimmering water and a stone’s throw from downtown. People of all ages come out to dance on these evenings and it’s acceptable to come alone, to bring a partner, or to come with a group. Expect to meet new dance partners, of all ages and abilities. I may not be a seasoned square dancer, but plenty of experienced dancers came out to enjoy this tradition with the rest of us.

Square dancing requires a caller and often a live band, so these events are not always easy to come by. Our caller was enthusiastic and instructive, and I happened to partner dance with her husband, which meant I had extra instructions on how to do the moves. Regardless, plenty of people — including children — were eager to teach me since I didn’t know the moves.

Once the music started, the fun began. Square dancing is a group activity so there’s lots of laughing and holding hands with strangers. The name “square dancing” comes from  the shape couples make when they dance. Two couples facing each other makes a square. This square, however, can be expanded into a giant rectangle to accommodate more couples. The shape matters less than the sheer fun of having more people involved.

Our caller began the evening with simpler dances. I learned to do the Do-si-do, bringing me back to those joyful childhood lessons in enrichment class. As a child I didn’t think this, but as an adult I recognized how square dancing is great exercise to great music. Traditionally, the music danced to is performed by a folk ensemble made up of string instruments. Our band was a string trio with an upright bass, guitar, and fiddle. They vary their playlist each week. Square dancing originated in 17th century England and became popular in the U.S. during the early 20th century. Today it is most popular in New England and Appalachia.   

By the third dance I was more acclimated and the moves became more complex, but no less fun. Dancing involved much promenading on the dance floor with my partner. My favorite move involved forming a tower with my partner for other couples to dance under. At no point during this evening did I feel pressure to get all the moves right.

Schroon Lake is a great place to host a square dance because it’s a small community that comes alive in the summer season. It's a beach town with a fresh water lake and it's in proximity to amazing hiking. In town is the unique, high-end craft and furniture store, Pine Cone Mercantile and Provisions, which is also a bakery that serves fresh baked bread and coffee. This store also has a small market that serves fresh produce and goods from local farms. The Strand is the local movie theater that shows indie movies from time to time. Schroon Lake is also home to the Seagle Music Colony, the Word of Life Bible Institute, and 9-mile Coffee, proving it’s an eclectic place. It feels like a small town with its own identity outside of tourism. I honestly couldn’t tell who were the locals and who were the summer travelers during the square dance.

An exceptional part of this evening was the setting, which was not your typical indoor dance hall. We were in a prime location to watch the sunset on the lake. I witnessed kids play football on the nearby lawn and others just lingered about on the grass. One woman parked it on a lawn chair the entire evening to watch us dance.

The final dance of the night was a Schroon Lake original: the Zodiac. It involved some singing and improvising, and the kids in the audience went wild for it. That’s all I can tell without giving it away. You’ll have to experience it for yourself.

Schroon Lake is a great summer destination! Start planning your trip today. Dance, eat, spend time in nature, and rest easy.

It is a truth universally acknowledged that going out to eat is a big part of the fun of going on vacation. You get to try new foods, explore new restaurants, and, since this is the Adirondacks, enjoy great views! Summertime means that the chill of winter has disappeared and sunny days, perfect for dining al fresco, are here. Why sit inside when you can enjoy the fresh breezes and warmth of summer? In the Adirondack Hub, there is a variety of cafes and restaurants with excellent outdoor dining, from coffee shops to the finer dining end of the spectrum. Each one is well worth a visit this sunny summer!

Lake Harris Lodge

Lake Harris Lodge has it all: gorgeous views, cool cocktails, a divine food menu, outdoor dining in the sun or shade, and even glamping tents for a unique overnight getaway! The screened porch and sunny deck at Lake Harris Lodge are ideal spots for enjoying a relaxing, flavorful meal. If you're in the mood for sunshine, try the upper deck! You can soak up some rays (with sunscreen, please!) and the warmth of summer while savoring a cold, deliciously refreshing drink and a summery meal. For a little cool shade with your fresh air, try the screened porch, which feels like a classic Adirondack camp as you enjoy the breeze and the view of Lake Harris.

9 Mile Coffee

9 Mile Coffee, located in Schroon Lake, is a sweet (pun intended) spot to grab a coffee to go, or settle in at an outdoor table for a homemade breakfast or lunch before your next adventure. On a hot summer day, a frozen coffee will get your day started in a cool, buzzy way. Maybe you'd rather try a fresh fruit smoothie or frozen lemonade? The non-coffee drinks are a big hit with kids! Settle in at an outside table and dig in to a fresh pastry, bagel, panini, or the popular build-your-own breakfast sandwich! Everything is so tasty, you may just want to stay all day!

Newcomb Cafe and Campground

Looking for a relaxing spot to savor the scents and sounds of the great outdoors? Stop by the Newcomb Cafe and Campground! You don't have to be a camper to enjoy the cafe, which serves up awesome, hearty diner-style dishes for breakfast and lunch. The staff here pride themselves on making comfort food that will keep you coming back for more. Think: platters of rich, fluffy French toast, homemade sausage gravy, fresh burgers, and special, unlike anything you'll get anywhere else desserts. The cafe and adjacent general store are open Thursday through Monday. Be sure to check out the general store, which sells items made by local artisans!

Pitkin's Restaurant

A local legend with a fresh new spin, Pitkin's has been a Schroon Lake staple for decades. Located downtown, within easy walking distance of shops and, of course, the lake, Pitkin's has recently undergone a big refresh under new, enthusiastic young owners. One of the changes was the addition of a patio for outdoor dining. The new patio enables locals and visitors alike to enjoy Pitkin's great, classic American food in the great outdoors. Open every day of the week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Pitkin's is the spot to indulge in a stack of buttermilk pancakes, fresh homemade pie, a "Schrooner or Later" sandwich, or a classic turkey dinner. As always, save room for dessert!

Trail Break at Schroon Lake

When you're ready to take a break from all the fun you've been having on the water, in the shops, and on the trails, grab a seat outdoors at Trail Break at Schroon Lake! Everything here is made in-house and with a lot of time and love behind it. Here, you can eat as lightly or as heartily as you like, selecting from a menu that ranges from fun salads to big, beautifully cooked steaks. The extensive beer and cider menu means that you can enjoy a cold drink or two while you dine, choosing from an array of craft beers from the area and throughout the state. Are you a snowmobiler? While you're here, plan for a winter trip! Trail Break is right next to the trails, of course!

With so many excellent outdoor dining options in this region of big woods and big water, it may take you a few days to try each one. So why not plan a trip and stay a while? We have snuggly lodging options perfect for a sweet summer getaway.

 

October, 2010 - My husband Kevin and I have had the North Hudson Trail System on our to-do list for a while - and even showed up at the trailhead last spring with our mountain bikes only to find that the trails were still covered with unbikeable icy snow. This perfect fall day, however, we had only colorful leaves with which to contend.

North Hudson Trail systemThe trailhead is near the old entrance to what used to be the Frontier Town theme park off I87 exit 29, and has an informational sign and maps of a series of loops on both sides of Route 9. The 7.7 miles of trails are marked with Red, Yellow and Blue markers and intersect frequently. We took a map, and headed off on the first red-to-the-right.

In less than a quarter of a mile, we were off-trail. Well, to clarify, we were on a trail, but the old falling down log church and ghost town in our sights indicated to us that perhaps we'd taken a wrong turn. We had inadvertently ridden onto the old Frontier Town property, and it was kinda neat to recall how it must have looked when in operation. (Both Kevin and I had been there as kids, but as very LITTLE kids).

As we stopped to take a couple of pictures, a truck came slowly driving in - and stopped next to me and opened his window. Now - I work for the visitors bureau, and am fairly adept at answering questions about the Adirondacks, and used to fielding media inquiries at any time and every day of the week. However, the driver caught me off guard. Apparently where he lives, all of the tourism experts wear bike shorts, a helmet and ridiculous protective eyewear at work. "When was this park open?" he asked. Of course, I immediately fell into character and said that it wasn't as long ago as the condition of these buildings would imply. I told him that I'd been there as a kid, but that it had been closed - I thought - since the 1980's - but that he should check online to verify. He thanked me and started off down the "road' back to civilization. We headed back onto the trails, determined to ride by color successfully. The trails are multi-use, meaning that we could theoretically come upon a horse, walker or other biker at any time, but we had the place to ourselves. We took the red-to-the-right to its conclusion, which turned into a steep singletrack on pine needles - (I made a mental note that red means "more difficult").

The trail system takes up two sides of Route 9, and includes a triangle they called the "beginners trail". We took that to get to Route 9 itself, crossed the road and started off on a yellow trail. I was immediately struck by the landscape: it was like we had inadvertently stumbled on another old theme park. The ground was akin to a pillow, but somehow we maintained traction. I made Kevin ride back toward me so I could take his picture riding on the mossy singletrack.

We decided to take the outermost loops and head back, finding one more steep section of technical riding that included some downed trees for extra points. Most of the trails we tested were far from technical, though, and it was a wonderful ride, along the Schroon River at points, and through primarily evergreen forest. The majority of the trails were rolling, easy terrain; most wide enough for us to ride side-by-side. We concluded that these will be spectacular trails for skiing, and promptly added the trails back onto our to-do list for winter.

-Kimberly Rielly is the director of communications for the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism.

 

Addendum: When I returned home and gained access to the world wide highway of e-information, I looked it up myself. Frontier Town was in operation from 1952 to 1998 (the original theme park effectively closed in 1985). It was developed by Arthur L. Bensen, who had a vision of a theme park where visitors could see American history come to life before their eyes. (The point here, I think, is that the information I provided that guy was right.) There's a site compiled by a fan with pictures and postcards HERE. 

As winter surrounds the Adirondack Hub in a layer of fresh and fluffy snow, it's the perfect time to gather your loved ones and immerse yourself in the season's magic. This winter, create memories that will last a lifetime by exploring the various family-friendly activities the Adirondack Hub has to offer. Unleash your inner child and embrace the joy of winter with these delightful experiences.

Ice skating adventures:

Bring the family to any of the town's skating rinks and enjoy a picture-perfect winter activity. Glide gracefully across the glistening ice on some of the Adirondack Hub's charming ice skating rinks. Regardless of age or ability,  these rinks provide the perfect setting for family fun. Explore the ice skating rinks in Minerva, Newcomb, and Schroon Lake, where laughter and the crisp winter air combine to create an unforgettable experience. As the ice freezes on the lake, look for the Town of Minerva to have a section of Minerva Lake cleared off by Donnelly Beach for people to skate on! No skates? No problem! At the Town of Newcomb ice skating rink, skates are available for free for anyone who might need them! 

Sledding thrills:

For a fun day of sledding, head to the sledding hills in Newcomb and Minerva. Feel the rush as you race down the hills, surrounded by the winter landscape. These sledding hills offer a perfect blend of excitement and snowy scenery, making them ideal for a family adventure filled with laughter and joy. Bonus you won't have to travel too far from the skating rink since they are located right next to each other! 

Newcomb Ski Slope:

Take your winter escapades to new heights at the Newcomb Ski Slope. Featured in the latest article by Forbes!!!  Whether you're a seasoned skier or a first-timer, the slopes of Newcomb provide an opportunity for family members of all skill levels to enjoy the thrill of downhill skiing or snowboarding. Plus it's free. If you don’t feel comfortable skiing or snowboarding, bring your toboggan or sled and ride down the snowy slope. 

Hot chocolate havens:

After a day of winter activities, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate and indulge in sweet treats at some of the best spots in the Adirondack Hub. Visit Newcomb Cafe and Campground, the Lodge at Schroon Lake, Pitkins, or Lake Harris Lodge for a cozy and delightful post-adventure treat. Share stories of your winter escapades over steaming mugs of hot chocolate, creating a perfect ending to your day of family fun.

Escape to the Adirondack Hub this winter for a family adventure like no other. From gliding on ice skates to racing down sledding hills and conquering the slopes, there's something for everyone in this winter wonderland. The Adirondack Hub awaits, ready to be your family's snowy playground this winter.