This is it: The big one. The annual Arts and Crafts Fair in Schroon Lake, one of the oldest and finest arts and crafts fairs in all of upstate New York.

The 49th year of this giant arts and crafts fair is Saturday, July 15, 2017. This mass of white tents, with over 100 vendors, is set up on the shore of Schroon Lake. They will be busy from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for your browsing pleasure.

For the lake

This tradtition began as a benefit to finance taking care of the lake. One of the displays is from Warren County Soil and Water Conservation. They will explain how the watershed works, as it moves rainwater and snowmelt until it becomes part of the lake.

Doesn't the lake take care for itself? Well, it could use some help. Invasive species are a serious concern, necessitating funds for milfoil harvesting and scientific studies. There's the need for a certified lake manager as a consultant and underwriting the fees involved in CSLAP. That is the Citizens Statewide Lake Assessment Program, a volunteer lake monitoring and education program managed by New York state's Department of Environmental Conservation and Federation of Lake Associations (NYSFOLA).

The whole fair is sponsored by The Schroon Lake Association, which formed in 1911 and has been protecting the lake ever since. All profits from the fair go toward responsible lake management. In addition, they are raffling off a Hornbeck canoe to cover additional conservation efforts. Tickets will be $20 each, with only 300 tickets being sold.

Hornbecks, from nearby Olmstedville, are the famous ultra-light canoes that can be portaged with one hand. I've paddled one, and it's a fine boat for our lakes and rivers, with responsive handling and a delightful feel.

For the senses

The folks from Adirondack Kettle Korn are going to be there, and the scent will fill the tents. This is a treat worth showing up for all by itself, according to their many fans.

Look for the Lion’s Club Snack Shack, too. They specialize in summer treats like freshly made lemonade and shaved ice. This also raises money for lake maintenance.
I have been informed that the famous "Amish Baker of Fort Plain" will be returning with her amazing pies and cookies. Last year, when she was only 11, her stand was cleared out in two hours. Now, she has probably grown in power. Get to her place early!

Remember to drop by the Silent Auction Table, with its SLA member volunteers. These items are donated by fair vendors and area merchants to help raise money for lake projects. They will also have plenty of membership materials and informative brochures.

There will also be live entertainment throughout the day, to make everyone's ears happy.

For the beauty

While there will be plenty of tasty treats, there's also going to be a feast for our eyes.

There will be lots of wonderful decorative options available. Get an authentic Adirondack chair, or choose among the many artists who work with wood to create frames, mirrors, candle holders, and other lovely items. There will be candle and soap makers there, too.

Explore the practical with the many potters and ceramic artists, like David J. Coleman and his Fawn Ridge Pottery. He specializes in fine quality, handcrafted stoneware that are as practical as they are beautiful. He can also produce one of a kind artworks, like the plate, below, known as "Waterfall On Brown."

Another local favorite is Northeast Living Lights, who concentrate on stunning Adirondack-themed lighting ideas. Their philosphy is to use real ferns, leaves, cedar, or hemlock on handcrafted shades. I love the way these elements are, as they say, "illuminated when the lamp is on and hidden when it’s turned off." They create lamp bases with cast metal or actual tree trunks with roots.

Another item which is both utilitarian and a work of art.

A girlfriend and I are already excited about the jewelry, too. I hear there will be a vendor with antique button jewelry, one of my areas of interest. Our other halves have been alerted; some mad money will be required.

One of the fine features of an Adirondack summer is our many delightful craft fairs, and this is one of the biggest and best. If you love this kind of thing, you owe it to yourself to explore its many possibilities.

Take a weekend and find a place to stay. Explore our delightful dining. Find another fun event on our events calendar.

For David Hughes, of Newcomb, New York, there is nothing better than getting up and going out to do something big first thing in the morning. “It’s such a great way to start the day,” he adds. While many of us are tucked in bed or making an early breakfast, David is out hiking. And, honestly, after listening to him speak, I don’t know why I’m not out hiking at dawn more often.

Live. Experience. Hike.

According to David, and, not surprisingly, many others, the Adirondacks is a special place. Whether we’re discovering something for the first time or revisiting an old favorite, the grand beauty and scale of this place is almost too much for words. There is so much to experience each day. And, thankfully, the Adirondacks is filled with opportunities to explore. Hiking is one option. “It doesn't matter what month you’re out there hiking, the Adirondacks are absolutely beautiful,” says David.

Turns out, it also doesn’t matter what time of day you’re hiking either. “Hiking at night is definitely different,” David revealed. “It can be a little frightening. It’s got its pros and cons, depending on the hiker's comfort level.” Indeed, when the woods are dark, it seems like a different world. Preparation is important. There are a few things hikers can do to prepare for a safe hike before dawn, but the most important is to make sure you have a headlamp, and a backup one. And some spare batteries. Good, sturdy hiking boots, extra layers, and poles are also highly recommended to help you navigate the trails.

When you hike during the day, you can see everything: every root, every rock, every tree. You can look down the trail to see what’s ahead. But when hiking before sunrise, that view is limited. “You can’t see what’s coming up,” says David. “Your focus is right immediately in front of you. You are just concentrating on what’s illuminated by your headlamp.” To me, there’s something poetic about that. Not just in David’s words, but in the notion itself. Be in the present. Hike for right now. Spend less time focusing on what you can’t see ahead and more time figuring out how you’re going to get over the current root. Hiking in the early morning hours is not for everyone. I understand that, but we can all appreciate “the now.” Maybe that’s what hiking in the Adirondacks is all about.

Good karma

One of David’s favorite hikes is Mount Adams, a remote fire tower peak located in the heart of the wild Adirondack backcountry. Mount Marcy, the tallest mountain in the state, is only 6-miles away as the crow flies. This is truly a wild place.

But the fire tower links it all back to humankind. In the early 1900s, huge forest fires swept through this area. In the fall of 1903 and the fall of 1908, the landscape may have looked a little different than it does today. Thousands and thousands of acres were burned. In an early fire detection effort, New York state began to implement a fire observation station program. Some mountains were badly scarred and observers could stand atop bald, rocky summits and see for miles. Others needed a way to see above the trees on the summit. Thus, the fire tower observation station system was born. 

Across the Adirondacks, even New York state, there was a network of these fire towers, staffed by observers. The observers lived on their mountains and spent the fire season keeping a watchful eye on the land in hopes of spotting forest fires before they got out of control. As David notes, it was a huge responsibility to be part of that larger picture. When describing the observer's job, David uses words like “proud” and “admirable.” While the fire towers are no longer staffed (there are far more efficient forest fire detection methods now), we can visit the structures that still stand to pay homage to those who worked so hard to protect the Adirondacks.

That’s some good karma.

David’s philosophy is “the more you give, the more you get.” No, we aren’t talking about material things here. He’s talking about doing good deeds. Practicing good stewardship. The observers from the 1900s did their part to protect the Adirondacks, and now David says it’s up to us. Pick up litter. Respect wildlife. Good energy will be given back to you if you do your part today.

The observers are gone, but their “offices” and homes are not. Along the trail to Mount Adams, you’ll find the observer’s cabin. Today, it’s overgrown, seemingly left behind and forgotten. But it’s another reminder that there have been people before us who literally put their civilized lives on hold to protect Adirondack wildness.

Catch a sunrise

To David, a sunrise hike is “better than a cup of coffee.” It kick-starts your day. By the time you get back to your car, “you’ve accomplished so much, so early.” There is inspiration in every dawn, on every path, and in every valley. Reminiscing after an early hike, David says, “it’s easy to appreciate the beauty above the valleys and hills.” But, more importantly, being outdoors, especially before dawn, connects us to nature in a new way. Whether you’re visiting the Adirondack Hub for a day, a week, or a whole season, do as David says: “Get out there and do something you don’t normally do. Put a different twist on things.” Just don’t forget the coffee.

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The Dawn Patrol, a series of videos created by Adirondacks, USA, follows incredible locals as they share what the Adirondacks and their favorite outdoor activities mean to them. Join us for scenic wonders and unforgettable moments as the sun rises.

The Dawn Patrol series:

Episode 1: Mark

Episode 2: John

Episode 3: Beth

Episode 4: Mitchell and Bethany

Episode 5: Ali

Episode 6: Amanda

Episode 7: Erin

Episode 8: Keith

Episode 9: Stacy

Buck Mountain

The Adirondacks are just loaded with "Buck Mountains" and "Buck Hills," and today’s short stroll was one that I had not yet visited. Saturday was one of those days where I had a few hours to get in some fun and adventure before I had to get back to the daily routine and get some work done in the garden. I set off in the borrowed puddle-jumper that I am using while my car is being repaired, and wasted no time in getting to the starting point. Buck Mountain is located off the access road to the Vanderwhacker Mountain Trailhead and in the Vanderwhacker Mountain Wild Forest.

Vanderwhack Mountain Wild Forest

The access road, which I believe is also called Moose Pond Road, was in okay condition - at best. My low clearance vehicle had to maneuver around the higher exposed rocks with care to not rip off what’s left of the muffler. I located a starting point along the road, almost directly north of the mountain, where there just so happened to be a parking spot for one car. Located at the back of this parking location was an old trail, slightly messed up from deadfall, but easy to see and follow. “Excellent,” I thought. I figured I could use this, what I assumed was an old fisherman’s trail. It didn’t lead me in the right direction, but it did get me along the brook to a nice location where I could cross it. Several decent sized boulders, lined up perfectly across the babbling brook, aided my crossing immensely. The sun beaming down on the green brook moss made for a glorious early morning atmosphere.

I was now in the wilds of the Adirondacks and was at the base of this particular Buck Mountain. A bit of scratchy balsams blocked my quick passage, but for only a couple hundred feet before the hardwood forest opened up the world in front of me. The forest floor was lined with Dutchman’s breeches, not yet flowered, and Canada lilies also waiting to do the same. It was like this mountain was still waiting for spring, and the wildflowers were still a bit behind. The forest remained very open and then came the steep slopes of the mountain, which I could see on the map and hoped would create some viewing opportunities. The scattering of duff-covered rocks gave me a landmine of deep holes and loose rocks, but the steep slopes never gave me more than a glimpse through the trees.

Some views of the High Peaks

 

I could see a bit to my right that there might be possible viewing areas, but I decided that I would summit first. The top was what appeared to be a small cleared mound. “Do others climb up here?” I wondered. I wasn’t so convinced, but the summit was a bit odd. It was time to check out the steep slopes a bit more to the west. I worked my way down to them, but the slopes, while steep, still offered no views over the much taller trees. Peek-a-boo views existed through the leaves and as I made my way along the steeper slopes I got decent glimpses of Vanderwhacker Mountain and eventually the High Peaks. I was intrigued and convinced that I would get a view, so I stayed atop the cliffs and worked my way around. Up and down over the contours I eventually found myself back just below the summit, I had made a complete loop almost all the way around the summit cone. But, to no avail. Alas, I started my descent. Staying on the same course as my route up, the descent was flawless and I popped out right at the brook crossing I found on the way in.

It was short, and it was good - would Buck Mountain make the cut of best views in the region? Probably not, but it was a fun little adventure and you never know what’s up there unless you go find out. Maybe Buck Mountain is too short a hike for you, but there are many other trails in the Newcomb area that just might suit your needs. And heck, it’s only a stone’s throw from Schroon Lake and all they have to offer!

Exploring the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness

5 Family-Friendly Hikes

The Pharaoh Lake Wilderness is located north of Schroon Lake with Route 74 bordering it to the north, East Shore Road to the west, and a small portion of Route 8 at the south end. The wilderness area is 1,100 acres in area, with around 70 miles of trails, and over three dozen bodies of water – not to mention the miles upon miles of streams, brooks and wetlands. With an area like this, and so much to offer it’s hard to imagine just reducing a blog to five go-to locations. I have to admit it was tough for me to decide, but you don’t have to, it’s all amazing and should be visited. These five I decided would be excellent locations for visitors of all ages and abilities, and would even be good for hiking with a baby carrier backpack if so desired.

Grizzle Ocean Loop – 5.0 miles, round trip

This is a lollipop loop by design that circles around the body of water, but starts and ends using the same trail. This trail can be located by following Route 74 out of Schroon Lake toward Ticonderoga. After about 13 miles you will come to Putts Pond Road on the right, turn here. Drive this to the end to Putnam Pond State Campground. There will be a small fee to use when the campground is open, but during the off-season it is closed and free to enter. Pass by the booth and take the left up a small hill and into a parking area on the left. Trail is located at the far end of the trailhead parking. From the trailhead you will follow along a nice flat trail that passes by Putnam Pond to your right. There is a short climb before a rather long descent leads to a major intersection: right leads toward Treadway Mountain, and left leads to Grizzle Ocean and beyond. Continue left on Grizzle Ocean trail, and after a short climb you will soon come to the split for the loop. The loop is a fantastic hike that approaches and leaves the shore of this small back-country Pond. Certain areas of the pond are known for their cranberry growth, if you look closely you might be able to locate a small patch. They are edible all year-round, but in the fall after a frost or two they are exceptionally sweet. Once you finish the loop, return using the trail you followed in.

Treadway Mountain – 7.8 miles round trip

This small peak has some very good reviews - as it should, it’s one of the best in the area with its rocky top and scenic vistas. It’s hard to match. To get to this trailhead follow the directions listed above and follow the Grizzle Ocean Trail to the split mentioned. From the intersection take a right and continue around Putnam Pond for a bit longer to where the trail for Treadway Mountain comes in on the left. From here you will start a moderate climb that will swing you through an attractive forest with mixed vegetation and rocky steps. As you approach the summit, many views will start to appear and the summit ridge is an exceptional location for near endless photography.

Berrymill Pond – 4.0 miles, round trip

As one of my favorite ponds to visit on a regular basis, I have to recommend this beauty. To get to the trailhead follow the above directions for Grizzle Ocean and Treadway Mountain. But the trailhead is out of the front side of the parking lot. This trail can be a bit wet and muddy at times and especially in the spring, but I guess you can say that about any Adirondack Trail. I hiked this trail one year when the red newts were in full swing. They were babies and covering the trail, basking in the warm sun on the rocks and cooling down by playing in the water around them. Playing I say lightly, they don’t move too fast in most cases. But it was a neat experience and very hard to hike with the fear of stepping on them.

The trail does climb around 350 feet in elevation, nothing too steep, but a consistent up. There is an excellent spot on the peninsula where lunch can be had looking out over the water’s edge. The trail does continue past the pond giving other looks at the water, but eventually you should turn around since the trail would bring you out many, many miles from your car.

Goose Pond – 3.0 miles, round trip

Goose Pond is a wonderful back-country pond with excellent vistas and a true back-country feel, with just a short hike. To reach the trailhead for Goose Pond follow Route 9, north out of Schroon Lake. Locate Alder Meadow Road on the right and follow here to Crane Pond Road on the left and turn here. Continue to the end where there is a large parking area. Crane Pond Road continues, but is technically closed to vehicular traffic, even though not enforced - it is a wilderness area. Please park at this location and don’t attempt to drive the road. You will have to hike the Crane Pond Road for about 1-mile to the Goose Pond Trail on the right. The trail is located behind a huge white pine. The road is an easy walk and scenic in its own way. Once on the Goose Pond Trail you will be able to enjoy the silence of a wilderness trail. It’s only 0.6 miles back to the Shore of Goose Pond and the route is very easy with little change in elevation.

Gull Pond – 1.0 mile, round trip

Another one of my favorite ponds in the park, it just has a nice feel of being in the forest - and the rock cliff on the eastern shore looks pretty cool too. To get there follow Route 9, north out of Schroon Lake. Locate Alder Meadow Road on the right. Follow Alder Meadow Road for 3.75 miles to the trailhead on the left. From the trailhead you will have only a half mile hike back to the pond, but it will be an enjoyable half mile. The trail has a slight climb to it as you approach the pond. The shore is lovely and open in many spots making for a perfect location to have a picnic, if the weather cooperates. Looking across the shore you can see the rocky cliff area of Smith and Leland Hill.

As I mentioned these are only five locations within the 1,100 acres that the wilderness compiles. You should also take time to explore Pharaoh Mountain, Rock Pond, Lost Pond, Pharaoh Lake, Crane Pond and so much more. Interested in seeing what else is out there in the Schroon Lake Region, see what you can find at our website.

Fall is in the air, and in the kitchen. This time of year the Adirondacks is ablaze with fiery colors and warm kitchens. Schroon Lake, with its shimmering blue lake located right off Main Street, is perfect for leaf peeping and eating fall treats. Check out these not-to-miss fall delights around town.

Pumpkin Spice Latte at 9 Mile Coffee

Sure, every cafe has some sort of riff on pumpkin spice. But this pumpkin spice is made onsite, along with the cafe's selection of baked goods. Pair a pumpkin spice latte with a pumpkin muffin and now all you need is a jack o’lantern to round it all out. 9 Mile Coffee has moved right across the street to its sleek new location that has been completely renovated. 

Artisanal bread at North Woods Bread Co.

This might be the perfect combination: a bakery with fresh coffee and baked goods inside a unique Adirondack furniture and gift shop. Stop by North Woods Bread Co. for the fresh bread but stay for the gifts. Pine Cone Mercantile is magnificently curated with Adirondack crafts and high quality furnishings. The cafe is stocked daily with freshly baked artisanal bread that you can smell throughout the store. Options have included rosemary/lemon pain de campagne and German peasant boules. So, pick up a warm loaf, butter it up, and head toward the lake which is just across the street.

Wood fired pizza at Sticks & Stones Bistro and Bar

Sticks & Stones stays open all four seasons. The interior has a cozy lodge feeling with its handcrafted wooden bar and tables, a canoe hanging from the ceiling, and a wood fired oven right behind the bar. With a full bar and menu, this place gives a warm feeling during those crisp fall days. The menu always includes a special pizza of the day, while offering classics like margherita.

A fall stout at Paradox Brewery

This gold standard brewery is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Paradox will soon be relocating into their new and bigger location offering stellar views of the High Peaks. For now, you can still find them at their location on Route 9. They will be releasing a fall stout, and have a rotating series, called “off trail,” that changes monthly. Sit back with a cold one paired with a hot IPA pretzel for the perfect fall treat.

Sugar donuts and apple cider at the Adirondack General Store

Tucked into the hamlet of Adirondack is this timeless general store with a cafe, full service restaurant, and market filled with treasures, fishing tackle, and cool Adirondack ephemera. Pick up a donut and some apple cider at the cafe and enjoy them at the store’s outdoor picnic area with tables bathed in sunlight, right along a gentle stream. It’s the perfect location to enjoy a treat on a chilly fall day.

Ready to eat? Work up an appetite by hiking in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness, or visit Circle B Ranch for a guided horseback ride to enjoy the fall foliage. Schroon Lake is a great fall destination so book your place to stay today!

 

 

 

 

Summer is in full swing, and June's warm weather and long days encourage us to fill our calendars with outdoor activities and seasonal celebrations. One significant event that takes place this month should definitely find space on your calendar, particularly for Christian music lovers. It's a Christian music festival, right in the Schroon Lake Region. With late-June temperatures warming our bodies, this festival's music will warm your soul and launch you into a spectacular summer season.

The Festival

Worship in the Adirondacks is a two-day festival held June 23 and 24 at the Word of Life Ranch on Route 9 in Pottersville, a few miles south of the hamlet of Schroon Lake. This venue serves as a western-themed summer camp for youths grades 1 through 5. As a camp, it features horseback riding, a petting zoo, archery, and even a weekly rodeo, along with a myriad of other outdoor activities. During the June 23 and 24 weekend it comes alive with the reverberations of uplifting music. Anticipate a large crowd to gather at this event!

Word of Life partnered with The Lighthouse Events to host this festival. The Lighthouse Events organizes great Christian concerts all over New England and beyond. This is their second annual event at this Word of Life venue, and there are plans for more in the future. Last year’s festival drew approximately 2,000 attendees. As ticket sales soar an even bigger turnout is expected, and this facility has plenty of capacity to accommodate everyone.

Event Organizer

I spoke with Jeff Wall of The Lighthouse Events, who also organizes many other highly acclaimed, Christian music festivals.

“This is a very family friendly event,” he told me. “You will find children in attendance with their parents, and even grandparents; yet this is not what you may think of as 'grandma's music' by any stretch.”

The festival features top, even Grammy-award-winning Christian music performers.

"Christian music is the third most popular and best-selling form of music enjoyed today," Jeff informed me. Performances feature elements and flavors of a wide variety of musical genres, including pop, rock, and country. The line-up for the festival includes over a dozen bands and performers, and is pretty impressive indeed.

Just a Few of the Scheduled Acts

Steven Curtis Chapman is an American singer, songwriter, record producer, author, and more. He has earned more awards than any single recording artist in Christian music history. His awards include five Grammys, 58 GMA Dove awards, and an American music award. His appearance at the Worship in the Adirondacks festival is scheduled for late Friday, the 23.

 

Another headlining band is Newsboys. They are a Christian pop/rock band originally founded in Queensland, Australia, and they are now based out of Nashville, Tennessee. Of 17 studio albums released, six have been certified gold. They have been nominated for several Grammy awards, and in 1999 received the Nashville Music Award of Contemporary Christian Album of the year. Their recently released single “The Cross has the Final Word” is getting rave reviews. See the Newsboys’ Worship in the Adirondacks performance late Saturday evening.

Unspoken is another highly acclaimed Christian band. They've had four straight top-American-Christian singles in their career, including “Who You Are.”

The Ranch and Amenities

The Word of Life Ranch is the perfect host facility for the music festival, with plenty of outdoor space surrounding a central main stage. It is also within steps from the scenic shore of Schroon Lake. Concerts begin mid-day on both days and end between 10 and 11 p.m. The event is rain or shine, so attendees should come prepared. Jackets for cool or rainy weather are recommended, and even pop-ups or canopies are permitted in certain areas. Bring blankets or lawn chairs for outdoor seating.

The dining room at the WOL Ranch will be open during the event, as well as their snack bar for snacks, burgers, hot dogs, pizza, and such, but local vendors will also be in attendance to enhance the many offerings. You can plan on a wide variety of food to accommodate everyone’s tastes and preferences.

So get moving, last-minute planners. As I write this tickets for the festival are still available, with some options. Two-day pricing options are the best buy, and an even better buy — if you can gather 10 or more firneds — is the group rate. Prices are best if you pre buy, as they increase at the gate. Word of Life tells me there is still on-site camping space available for tents or RVs, but the onsite cabins and lodging options are sold out. Find information at Word of Life.

If the “comforts-of-home-type lodging” is your preference, check out the many options available in nearby Schroon Lake. You'll find everything from posh B&Bs to your own individual cabin. Expand your weekend through Sunday to explore the charming community of Schroon Lake and discover treasures in the unique shops along Main Street, as well as great food at our many dining options.

Have an uplifting, tuneful weekend.

Matt and Tiffany Gregson love to stir the pot. No, not like that. This couple’s kind, creative, and welcoming aura is about as far from controversial as possible. The stirring is all about ingredients, materials, and ideas.

Stirring Creations, a rustic furniture and homemade soap gift shop run by Matt and Tiffany, focuses on the function and beauty of the natural materials used, helping create a product that is artistically beautiful, functional, locally-made, and entirely inspired by nature. Matt, who has been making rustic furniture for years, started by making wooden spoons. Hence the stirring. The shop in Schroon Lake has since evolved to offer unique, environmentally-friendly, handmade gifts. I had the opportunity to visit Matt and Tiffany this past spring to learn more about Stirring Creations and the people behind the products.

From the forest ...

Immediately when I pulled in the driveway at Stirring Creations I noticed a picnic table. I soon learned that this was no ordinary picnic table. Matt had made this one himself and it was one-of-a-kind. The breeze picked up a bit, carrying a fresh scent of lilac, and I couldn’t help but imagine having a meal at this table with my family on a warm, sunny summer day. It’s not hard to see the effort, passion, and care Matt put into this table. And the cedar picnic table was just the tip of the iceberg. Each piece is a work of art and a labor of love.

Inside, I was invited into a room with end tables, stone bowls, art, and stone holders for soap, sponges, and business cards. When I say that I was floored by how incredible the products are I don’t intend for it to be taken lightly. My eyes were quick to find a sink, polished and shiny, awaiting a newly decorated washroom. This display room wasn't all about Matt, though: featured brightly on the wall was artwork by the Gregson's daughter. She also made one of the tables for sale. And she's still in high school! 

What is most notable about the furniture Matt makes is the amount of time that goes into each piece. A lot of the stuff isn’t made in one day or even in a few hours. Off the top of his head Matt was able to tell me how long each piece took to complete, and the geologic/ecological history of each piece. When you spend as much time as Matt does with rocks and limbs, you become a homemade geologist and ecologist.

He also told me that each rock and limb used in his furniture and decor was taken off private property; Leave No Trace ethics are important to follow. One rock used frequently is anorthosite, seen below. If it looks familiar, it's because anorthosite is the same kind of rock found on the moon! 

My favorite piece that was currently for sale at Stirring Creations was an end table that had a fossil in the stone! And the legs were crafted with fallen lilac branches. Simply stunning.

… to the home

Stirring Creations is much more than rustic furniture, though. Matt’s designs are just half of the operation. Tiffany also creates functional products for eco-conscious and curious shoppers. Tiffany and Matt say her natural soaps were born from a funny story. As a craftsman and sculptor, Matt’s hands were obviously subject to his intense work. Commercial soaps just made things worse. So, with determination and careful study, Tiffany began to make homemade, detergent-free soaps. As she experimented with different ingredients and combinations, more and more people began to request soap! Thus, a new product line was born.

Tiffany is constantly stirring up some new, interesting combinations by blending together gifts from mother nature. I think I sniffed each of the varieties when I was visiting, and can confirm they all smell wonderful. In addition to natural ingredients, some of Stirring Creations’s soaps are made with beer. Yes, that’s right. Beer! And beer from Paradox Brewery nonetheless. The alcohol must be cooked out of the beer before its used, but once it’s in the soap, the sugar in the beer gives the soap a really nice, fluffy lather. This is a great gift for the beer lover in the family!

Stirring Creations’s soaps are specifically made for people with sensitive skin. Whether you have sensitive skin or not, I highly recommend using some. I have been using a bar and my skin has never felt softer. Beyond soap, Tiffany also has a line of natural bug deterrent, soy candles, bags, and more!

Visit Stirring Creations

The Stirring Creations shop is open 7 days a week, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. It’s located on Old Schroon Road, just south of downtown Schroon Lake. You can also pick up products at the Keene Valley Farm Market, which is on Sundays at Marcy Field. Or order online. But the Gregsons say for the best selection, visiting the store is the way to go. Only so much can be transferred to markets and fairs. The shop is always fully stocked! Check their Facebook page for the most up-to-date information.

While you’re visiting the Adirondack Hub, make sure you pencil in some time for dining and outdoor exploration. With Schroon Lake as your basecamp, a little shopping at Stirring Creations paired with a mellow hike and a trip to Paradox makes for a perfect day.

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The last two images (one of unpackaged soap and one of a bowl, end table, and sink) were taken by the Gregsons and used with permission.

Experience the High Peaks one bite at a time

The Adirondack Hub is known for its breathtaking winter landscapes and endless outdoor cold-weather adventures, but it also boasts a vibrant food scene that’s just as inviting. From cozy mountain lodges to charming local cafes, the region is brimming with unique dining spots that capture the flavors of the forest and the warmth of small-town hospitality. Whether you crave wholesome comfort food or a farm-to-table meal crafted with local ingredients, the Hub offers something to satisfy every palate.

After a full day of winter adventures in the High Peaks—whether cross-country skiing through snowy forests, snowshoeing along scenic trails, or exploring frozen waterfalls—there’s no better way to unwind than by indulging in the local dining scene. The Hub’s eateries are perfect for refueling and relaxing, offering everything from casual post-hike bites to elevated meals that showcase the region's rich flavors. Enjoy locally brewed beer or steamy cups of coffee paired with a warm, hearty winter dish, all while gazing out at snow-capped mountains. It's the perfect reward after an exhilarating day in nature!

Paradox Brewery

If you're exploring the Adirondack Hub, a stop at Paradox Brewery is a must! This local craft brewery offers a fantastic selection of refreshing beers, including 35 taps on-site. With a laid-back atmosphere, scenic views, and a spacious outdoor beer garden, it’s the perfect spot to relax after a day of adventure. Their full menu features mouthwatering pub fare like pizzas, sandwiches, and shareable snacks that perfectly complement their craft brews. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., it's a great spot for both food and drink!

Newcomb Cafe and Campground

Warm up this winter with a cozy visit to Newcomb Café and Campground! On a chilly day, there's nothing better than their hearty breakfast and lunch options, from fluffy pancakes to savory sandwiches, all served in a welcoming, rustic atmosphere. Whether you're fueling up before exploring the snowy trails or just looking for a comforting meal, this spot captures the warmth and charm of the Adirondacks, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Open Wednesdays and  Thursdays from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., it's the perfect place to enjoy a hot coffee and a delicious bite on a frosty winter morning. 

Sticks and Stones

For a unique dining experience in the Adirondacks, visit Sticks and Stones, where delicious wood-fired pizzas and hearty American fare are served in a warm, rustic setting. Whether you're craving a casual meal or a night out with friends, their menu has something for everyone, from fresh salads to sizzling steaks, all complemented by an excellent drink selection. Open Wednesday and Thursday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday to Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sticks and Stones is the perfect spot to enjoy great food in a laid-back, inviting atmosphere.

The Brown Swan

Discover the charm of lakeside dining at The Brown Swan, located within The Lodge at Schroon Lake, offering a delightful culinary experience paired with stunning views of the lake. With a menu that highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients, The Brown Swan serves everything from hearty breakfasts to flavorful lunch and dinner options, including seafood, steaks, and creative vegetarian dishes. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. for breakfast and lunch, and 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. for dinner, it’s the perfect spot to savor a memorable meal while enjoying the relaxed ambiance of The Lodge at Schroon Lake.

Pitkin's Restaurant

Experience the warm and welcoming atmosphere at Pitkin's Restaurant in Schroon Lake, where hearty meals and friendly service come together. Known for its delicious breakfast options, including pancakes with Adirondack maple syrup and savory omelets, Pitkin's also offers a variety of lunch and dinner choices featuring fresh, local ingredients. Whether you're stopping in for a quick fuel-up or savoring a leisurely meal with loved ones, this cozy spot is perfect for all occasions. Open Monday and Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Thursday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Pitkin's is the ideal spot to energize before your outdoor adventures or recharge afterward, ensuring you're ready for all the excitement the Adirondacks offer!

Trail Break

Welcome to Trail Break Restaurant in Schroon Lake, a triumphant rebirth of the beloved Drake’s Motel and Restaurant, which delighted locals and visitors for over 50 years. Now restored and renovated under new ownership with deep roots in hospitality, Trail Break brings the best of tradition into the modern era. Enjoy a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can savor a delicious menu featuring classic favorites alongside innovative new dishes. Open Monday and Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Trail Break is the perfect spot to gather with friends and family for a memorable dining experience that honors the rich history of Schroon Lake while embracing the flavors of the season.

DeCesare's Pizzeria

Satisfy your cravings at DeCesare's Pizzeria, where delicious, hand-crafted pizzas are made with the freshest ingredients and a passion for flavor. This inviting pizzeria offers a variety of toppings and specialty pies, with tasty sides like garlic knots, and salads, making it a perfect spot for a casual family dinner or a fun night out with friends. Open Thursday through Sunday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., DeCesare's is your go-to destination for a satisfying meal to warm you up during the winter season!

Explore more!

As you indulge in the diverse dining experiences in the Adirondack Hub, don’t forget to explore the abundance of outdoor activities, cozy lodging options, and unique attractions that this stunning region has to offer. From exhilarating snowshoeing and cross-country skiing adventures to cozying up by the fire in a charming lodge, there’s no shortage of seasonal activities to enjoy. So, bundle up, hit the trails, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of winter in the Adirondacks—where unforgettable memories and cozy experiences await!

The snow is abundant, the days are sunny, and Gore Mountain events are hot.

Max out your snow enjoyment at Gore Mountain with a choice of events which feature special programs, focused learning, and money-saving offers.

 

MLK Weekend

A two-day Holiday Camp over MLK Weekend is designed for children aged 4-12 years. They can learn, or advance in, skiing and snowboarding. Get them started off right with these all-abilities classes, or help them stretch their skills with personalized instruction.

Bolster your child's confidence with a program which will include the child's lift ticket, lunch, and supervision each day. This lets parents get some trail time and maybe even some together time.

On Sunday, February 14, there will be a Torchlight Parade and Fireworks Spectacular. Enjoy great views from the sundeck as the dusk comes alive with a torch run and fireworks (as seen in the header photo, above.) Open Pit Grille and Food Court will be serving refreshments, with live music and apres-fun at the Tannery Pub.

Pick Your Focus

It's not only the children who can enjoy weekend clinics for skill building. Gore has For Women Only weekends for ladies 18 and up.

Gore's best women instructors will help you with personal goals and challenges. It includes breakfast, lunch, video analysis, gear discussions, lots of trail time, and the opportunity to wrap up the first day with a complimentary wine and cheese party.

The second day is all about building on the tips from the certified coaches, working on turns, and even some synchronized skiing and riding to really keep those moves in the groove.

Gore does not neglect anyone as more weekend classes include an Intro to Telemark or a Trees and Steeps Telemark clinic. Go advanced with Glades & Glory and Master the Mountain.

All classes repeat throughout the season. Choose your level and choose your weekend.

Wait, there's more

Remember, every non-holiday Wednesday of the season is a $48 lift ticket when you bring any unopened Coca-Cola beverage. It's Why Not Wednesdays!

Present the ticket sellers with any unopened Coca-Cola product, which includes Dasani water, Minute Maid, Nestea, Barq's, or Canada Dry and you'll save! Mid-week lodging deals will also have you saving big.

Beat the crowd and have more of the mountain to yourself.

There's more mid-week fun on Monday, January 29, with the Gore Mountain Restaurant Race on the recreational race course.

It's a way of supporting your favorite restaurants and watching some thrilling competition. The race will take place on The Arena on a dual slalom course with red and blue gates.

This event promises lots of fun whether you race ($5 to register and $5 dining coupon for participating) or just want to cheer the racers on.

We know you can't wait!

Find a place to stay. Fuel up at Gore or one of our many dining spots. Find out more about Gore.

 

Ask some people and if they know (or care)\ they'll probably tell you I'm a trout fisherman – fly rod in hand, wading the small creeks and streams stalking the wild brookie.

Shhh. Don't tell anyone...

I think pike might be right up there with the colorful native salmonid.

It might have had something to do with pulling a 42-incher out of a far northern lake, but for quite a while I've been hooked on the toothy fish.

This particular day was no different. We don't always target pike; there are many lakes in the area that hold a variety of species.But if I know they're in there, I'll take some time and throw a lure or two just to see if I can entice a bite. Unless we're on a water that is specifically, say, a bass lake, Steve and I will often target different fish to see what's biting.

It was getting colder, but the ice hadn't locked up thelake just yet.... kind of like now.

I had on a big spinnerbait hoping to aggravate the northerns into a chomp. As usual, they didn't disappoint. You'll hear many fishermen say that pike will take anything, and then again some will say they're picky eaters. I think they're just mean and live like the old grumpy guy down the street who yells "get outta my yard" out the window every day. Give 'em something that antagonizes them a bit and they'll take it.

If you're targeting northerns, give the spinnerbait – a bright-colored spinnerbait – a try. Spoons will also bring them in. You want to go with a big spoon, with a lot of bend that creates a real stir on the retrieve. (And there's a reason many North Country fishermen have that tried and true red and white version, the Dardevle, in their tackle box.) A soft plastic jerkbait might also tempt them into a strike and, if the regs allow it, any number of baitfish will lure them in – a sucker or shiner. And you might not be able to find anything more exciting than running a top-water lure when pike are in the mood. A smallmouth is one thing, but a large mouth full of teeth is another.

While it may be best known for its lake trout and landlocks and the fishermen who target them, Schroon Lake also holds some pike and you my just find some solitude in the weedy bays and backwaters pike cruise for dinner. Once it's frozen, they can be a blast on tip-ups; be prepared,however, with a pretty good spool of line. If they're big enough and feisty enough, they'll take it a long way.

But don't think that you have to stay on the big lake to have a chance. Some of the smaller waters in the region have their share of fish, notably Paradox Lake at the outlet of Schroon, and Rich Lake over in Newcomb.

My fish took the hook and I knew right away I was in for a fight. Under and around the boat, I took my time, as I have a tendency to just horse them into the boat like the bass pros do on TV. Only problem is, I'm not a pro and this wasn't a bass. As Steve stood by ready to grab the fish should it surface, it went on another tear, down and under the boat again. Time soon became of the essence as I was planning to put the fish back to fight another day and didn't want to release an exhausted, spent fish.

It made its last run to the side of the boat and Steve (with gloved hand) reached out to scoop it up. (We'd later wonder why he just didn't use the net sitting on the bottom of the boat.) Pictures were taken and the pike was successfully sent back to the deep to terrorize the perch and aforementioned bass.

That, I thought was a blast. Can't get much better, I wouldn't think.

But wait...

Pike on a fly? That might be the ultimate.