This past spring, my husband and I rode our motorcycles down and back up the Blue Ridge Parkway — in its entirety — as part of our trip to visit my mother in Hilton Head, S.C. It was early in the season, and we had the 400-mile scenic highway almost entirely to ourselves.

Now that warm weather has arrived, we frequent the Adirondack’s own Blue Ridge Road during our recreational travels on two wheels. And, despite its scenic beauty and popularity with those "in the know," we often have it all to ourselves, too. This is a must-ride, and a highlight of the route from Newcomb to Schroon Lake.

Here’s the route:

Depart Newcomb on 28N toward Minerva.

Shortly after passing the hamlet of Tahawus, the Blue Ridge Road (County Route 84) is on the left.

This 19-mile road is a treat — there is a mix of fun corners and wide open, scenic straightaways. One of the straight areas is near the Adirondack Buffalo Company, with outstanding views across fields to the south.

You'll share the road with a variety of other outdoor lovers. Biking in the Schroon Region is popular for a reason — it's a great base camp with a range of roads for your Adirondack adventures.

Eventually, the road ends just after crossing under Interstate 87 in the town of North Hudson near the Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Campground and the former entrance to Frontier Town, (which is, incidentally, where I recently launched my kayak to paddle the Schroon River!)

The end of the road intersects with Route 9. Take a right and travel several miles, going straight at the blinking red light into Schroon Lake. It’s fun to ride through town, but I always take a short diversion to see the views of the lake, park, and beach on Dock Street.

Dock Street loops back to Route 9. From here, one can ride the Adirondack Marathon route, which circumnavigates Schroon Lake itself, (but do it in the opposite direction compared to the runners).

Head south on Route 9 for about 8 miles, and take a left onto Schroon River Road. This soon intersects with Adirondack Road and swings around the base of the lake. Follow Adirondack Road to the hamlet of Adirondack, and take a left at the General Store to continue on Adirondack Road.

Follow this windy, rolling road all the way to the northern end of the lake and take a left onto Alder Meadow Road. This takes you back to Route 9.

Take a right to follow Route 9 north until you arrive at the blinking red light, and take a right onto Route 74. This is a nice ride that passes Paradox Lake, and then crosses a causeway over Eagle Lake. The road ends in a long downhill with views of Lake Champlain as you descend into Ticonderoga, where Route 74 meets 9N and 22 at an intersection with a red light.

Feel free to explore Ticonderoga, and then follow this link to the continuation of this ride into the Lake Champlain Region!

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In related ADK motorcycle news:

Riding the 'Dacks

This isn’t a secret to seasoned riders, but our resident experts will tell you that although the roads of the Adirondacks lend themselves nicely to touring by any mode of transport, exploring them by motorcycle provides the rider with an even deeper appreciation of, and connection to this pristine landscape.

Our motorbike-riding tourism marketers share some of their favorite rides (and highlight a few classic twisties) on the well-maintained roads that wind through the charming communities across the region. Follow along as they showcase one big loop in 8 segments - or choose your region du jour for a shorter spin.

 

A camping adventure is right around the corner!

Imagine stepping out of your tent to the sound of birds chirping, the fresh scent of pine filling the air, and a stunning sunrise casting a golden glow over a serene landscape. Backcountry camping, even when it’s not too remote, offers a perfect blend of adventure and comfort. For those who crave the thrill of nature without venturing too far off the beaten path, this type of camping is ideal. Let’s jump into the fun and excitement of camping in the wilderness, close enough to civilization for convenience but far enough to feel like a true escape.

Picking the perfect spot

When choosing your camping spot, there are options around the entire Adirondack Hub, providing a balance of wilderness and accessibility. This makes your adventure both exciting and manageable!

Here are a few backcountry campsite options that are all first come, first served, and don’t require an all-day trek to reach.

Roosevelt Truck Trail

The Roosevelt Truck Trail offers two accessible camping sites that can be driven to with a Motorized Access Program for People with Disabilities (MAPPWD) permit. It sounds scary, but it opens up opportunities to experience backcountry camping if you are unable to hike over varied terrain. The sites on the Roosevelt Truck Trail are firm and level, with accessible picnic tables and privies. Located in a boreal habitat, animals here, especially bird species, are typically found further north. It’s a unique location, one you definitely want to check out! The best part, if you are hiking in, is that the first campsite is only about 1.0-mile from the parking area off Route 28N.

Wolf Pond

Clocking in at 2.3-miles, the trail to Wolf Pond is worth checking out for a day-trip, but for those who want to extend their outing, a new lean-to at the end of the trail is a great place to hang up your boots at night. There are some ups and downs along the trail, but the striking scenery, especially of the High Peaks across the water, make it all worthwhile. And if you want to add fishing to your Wolf Pond bucket list, the pond is typically stocked with native strain brown trout. Here, you won’t spend your whole day hiking, so you have more time to relax at the lean-to and enjoy the peaceful forest.

High Peaks, with a cultural twist

Great Camp Santanoni is a fine piece of Adirondack history, but it’s also a great place to backcountry camp. And there are plenty of sites! Eight designated primitive tent sites are in the immediate area, plus two lean-tos. The path to these sites is a little longer than the previous two options (5-miles one-way), but it is along a road which the Department of Environmental Conservation and its partners use to access the Great Camp for maintenance and administrative purposes. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Robert C. and Anna Pruyn were entertaining guests at the sophisticated Great Camp Santanoni, enjoying all that the Adirondack wilderness had to offer. In 2024, you can try out a more rustic version of this at a primate campsite. Gravel bikes are also permitted on the Newcomb Lake Road, so this is one spot where you could bike to camp!

Pharaoh Lake Wilderness

It doesn’t have the high elevation mountains of the High Peaks Wilderness, but the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness is equally dramatic and impressive. To accommodate campers in this 46,283-acre Wilderness, there are 38 designated primitive tent sites throughout the area and 14 lean-tos, all on a first come, first served basis. Many of these sites are around the Wilderness’s namesake, Pharaoh Lake. Sleep here and wake up in the morning feeling refreshed as the vocal Common Loons and other bird species sing. Depending on where you’re starting from and where you plan on going, trips can greatly vary in length, so it’s best to get a guide book and map to make the best plan.

High Peaks Wilderness

If you’re on your way to becoming an Adirondack 46er, you have probably heard of Dix Mountain and the Dix Range. These five mountains are demanding. While some people opt to do all five in a very rugged 16-20-mile day-trip, camping out is another option that can split up your time so you can spend more time enjoying the journey instead of powering through it! There are multiple primitive tent and lean-to sites available.

Helpful tips and tricks

Packing for a wilderness camping trip is like preparing for an epic treasure hunt. You need all the essentials, but with a touch of flair. A tent that’s easy to set up, a sleeping bag that will keep you warm, and a sleeping pad make all the difference. Your camp can be functional and fun! Don’t forget to check the weather before you head out, have a fully stocked First-aid kit, and know the local rules and regulations.

If you’re still not sure you want to go backcountry camping, try a frontcountry site at a state-run campground or a glamping site! Both are good step stones.

The joy of disconnecting

One of the best parts of camping is the chance to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature and your companions. Leave the screens behind and immerse yourself in the simplicity and beauty of the great outdoors. These sites in the Adirondack Hub, even though not too remote, offer delightful escapes filled with adventure, relaxation, and a touch of wild fun. It’s about finding that sweet spot where you can enjoy the wonders of nature without straying too far from comfort. So, grab your gear, pick a nearby nature spot, and embark on a camping adventure that promises the best of both worlds. Happy camping!

Are you sick of turkey yet? Us too! Thankfully the Adirondack Hub has you covered for all things NOT turkey-related. Now, Thanksgiving is a wonderful time, family comes together, delicious food is eaten, and of course LEFTOVERS! There is no Thanksgiving without leftover turkey, potatoes, stuffing, and pie! We all know and love a Thanksgiving feast, but come the 3rd or 4th day of eating the same thing it gets a little old. Luckily the Adirondack Hub is full of delicious restaurants that are perfect to stop at for a post-Thanksgiving meal. 

Newcomb 

Newcomb Cafe and Campground 

Open Thursday through Monday 8 a.m.- 3 p.m. The Newcomb Cafe and Campground serves up some of the best down-home Adirondack-style cooking. From delicious breakfasts to scrumptious lunches the cafe is a must to stop at. Their fluffy pancakes with real ADK maple syrup are simply amazing! Bonus: they have a smaller store attached with locally crafted gifts and items perfect for anyone on your holiday list! 

Lake Harris Lodge

Open Thursday through Saturday 4:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. Nestled right along Lake Harris, the Lodge is a beautiful and delicious spot to stop for dinner and a cocktail! The menu boasts with different flavors from steaks and chicken to scallops and pasta, the meals and specialty holiday cocktails are always a hit! While there, you can pick up a gift certificate for a special someone as a holiday gift!

North Hudson

Paradox Brewery 

Open Wednesday through Thursday 12 p.m. - 8 p.m., Friday through Saturday 12 p.m.- 9 p.m., and Sunday 12 p.m. -6 p.m. We may be biased in the Adirondack Hub, but Paradox Brewery is one of the best breweries to stop at and enjoy a locally crafted brew and delicious wood-fired pizza! Sometimes all you want is something simple to to enjoy and what's simpler than a pizza and beer? Plus their merchandise makes for a perfect gift! 

Schroon Lake 

Sticks and Stones

Wednesday through Thursday 4 p.m. - 9 p.m., Friday through Saturday 11:30 p.m. -10 p.m., and Sunday 11:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. Sticks and Stones has always been a fan favorite and there's a reason for that! They have a killer array of food perfect for everyone; wood-fired pizza, steaks, pasta and so much more! Their lobster ravioli with Alfredo sauce is sure to hit the spot every time. Of course, a gift certificate from them would look really good under the tree!

9-mile Coffee

Open Monday through Friday 7 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. 9-mile coffee is your go-to coffee stop! They have signature holiday lattes and classic brewed coffee ideal for everyone in your family. It's also a great spot to grab a quick and delicious breakfast sandwich! They also have merchandise and gift cards perfect for the coffee lover on your list. 

Pitkins Restaurant

Open Monday through Tuesday 8 a.m.- 3 p.m. and Thursday through Sunday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. For over 100 years, Pitkin's Restaurant has been serving food to its customers and it goes without saying that it has been a go-to stop for all those years. Some of the best Adirondack meals are served at Pitkins. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are sure to blow you away and keep you coming back for more.

Schroon Sandwich Shop 

Open daily 8:30 am-3 pm. New to the Schroon Lake scene is the Schroon Sandwich shop. They are creating delicious cold and hot sandwiches perfect and simple to grab and enjoy! Their "Triple S special", which includes a sandwich, soda, and side special is a great and delicious option for that perfect afternoon meal.

We hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with family and yummy food. But after the Thanksgiving lull when you're tired of the same meal, look to any of these great restaurants and cafes to pick from! Even if you don't buy a meal you can always pick up a gift card for a special someone this year and support the local businesses!

1. Sleep-easy at this old-time speakeasy

False walls, hidden closets, a secret hallway, and a bar with a one-of-a-kind New York history are just a few of the special features you will find at the Silver Spruce Bed & Breakfast. This cool post-and-beam home dating back to the 1790s was reinvented in the 1920s for the prohibition era. The past owner, Sally Miller Smith spared no expense, topping off her 17-room addition and elaborate liquor hiding places with the bar she purchased from Manhattan’s original Waldorf Astoria Hotel before it was torn down in 1930. Sally set up this unique piece in the basement, where it became the focal point of her wild parties in the speakeasy formerly known as The Tavern at The Schroon River Falls.

2. More than it seams

This quiet B&B retreat offers panoramic views of a beautiful brook, pond and the surrounding Adirondack Mountains. The B&B is located along Trout Brook Stream on Trout Brook Road near the Hoffman Notch Wilderness area just to the north of downtown Schroon Lake. Here you’ll find great hunting, fishing, hiking, biking, skiing, snowmobiling and all your sewing and alteration needs. …Wait, what?!! Rocky Acres Inn Bed & Breakfast is home to the on-site Rocky Mountain Sewing and Alterations where you are invited to stay at the Bed and Breakfast for an Adirondack vacation and bring your sewing and alternation needs with you. Rest and relax while having your garments renewed: have your formal wear altered; get your hems, zippers fixed up; detail your uniforms and aprons; and don't forget to have your curtains, pillows, and pet needs customized.

3. 12,000 reasons you will want to visit

The Adirondacks are known for pristine beauty and untouched landscape, and at the Elk Lake Lodge you can literally get away from it all on their 12,000 private acres. The Elk Lake Lodge says, “This is a world that is unchanged in hundreds of years - a timeless place that offers a unique wilderness experience, a place to enjoy the silence, the clean air, the unspoiled natural beauty that are increasingly rare in modern life.” Ranked in Outside Magazine as one of the “Ten best wilderness lodges in North America,” this little gem in New York State is easy to get to, close to everything - yet somehow away from it all. Be a guest on its privately-owned forest preserve surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains. Run by a single family since the middle of the last century, the Elk Lake Lodge has been in operation in the same spot since the mid-nineteenth century. It is place that change rarely touches.

4. Rough it with style

The Scaroon Manor, is a New York State owned campground with a distinguished past. Notably, it was the location for filming of the movie Marjorie Morningstar with Gene Kelly and Natalie Wood in 1957 and soon became an elegant destination resort for the rich. Although the Manor was torn down when New York State bought it in 1967, the resort’s exceptional features such as the historic amphitheater, and the 1200 feet of shoreline and beautiful beach remain available to guests. Today, Scaroon Manor Campground is available for day use and overnight camping on the 240 acres of land. The current campground consists of: 60 campsites, hot showers, flush toilets, picnic areas, picnic pavilion, swimming beach, boat docks, and trailer dump station. Motor boats, rowboats, and canoes are welcome. It is also handicap accessible.

Find your Adirondack Basecamp

Discover a unique getaway of your own, the Schroon Lake Region has a variety of lodging options, from motels, cabins and lodges, to B&Bs, private rentals, and camping - pick the one that resonates with you. Perhaps pack your pic-a-nic basket, and take the family to Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks or try something offbeat like Betty's Funny Farm. Take a look for yourself and see - there is so much to be explored here.

 

The Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival will be celebrating its 20th year in 2016. This event has become known as one of the premier running events in the Northeast, giving runners breathtaking views as the run along the shores of Schroon Lake, NY.

The following is a first-hand account of what to expect on race day, and why so many runners love this great event! Read on, lace up, and join us on September 25, 2016 as we race in the beautiful autumn air!

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Submitted by guest blogger: Alison Muse

Lacing Up In Schroon

In 2001, I ran the half-marathon of the Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival as a training race for the NYC marathon. I’m not very good at maintaining long-term relationships but I have one with this race.The scenic beauty, challenging course, and incredible volunteers have brought me back to Schroon Lake almost every year since 2001.

The race is held on, or around, the last Sunday in September, within days of my birthday. Because of that timing, I have been in the same five-year age category for the last six years which can be a curse when it comes to running.

Original Color Run

This time of year in the Adirondacks is spectacular and few other races can match the incredible scenery of this locale. The half-marathon course winds around the bottom of the lake, starting in the town of Adirondack and finishing in the Village of Schroon Lake. The lake is visible almost the entire time and the autumn color of the surrounding trees will take your breath away — which may not be a good thing during a race.

The first five miles along the eastern shore are relatively flat and I always find myself thinking “this is not so bad.” The transition occurs at the Word of Life camp. The kids are amazing; they are out in force, cheering enthusiastically, and offering encouragement and Cheerios. (Cheerios stick really well to sweaty palms!)

When I leave the Word of Life camp, I know I am about to enter the pain cave. My thighs will be screaming after the next few miles. This is the challenging component of the course which is described in the brochure as long, rolling hills. It sounds bucolic, doesn’t it? I become a motivational speaker at this point, silently chanting to myself “you can do this” and I can! Conquering those hills gives me an incredible sense of accomplishment.

Why I Love Schroon Lake

Behind every race is a group of dedicated individuals and the volunteers for this race do a masterful job. It is a small community that really gets behind the weekend of events and I am so impressed, and rewarded, by their commitment to providing a great experience for the participants.

The exposition, packet pick up, aid stations (fig newtons and M&M’s – how great is that?), post-race set up, including massage tent and homemade goodies, are really well organized.

Plus, the volunteers are friendly and supportive. Each year, at one of the water stations, one volunteer uses binoculars to spot my bib number. Another volunteer uses that info to look up my name and then the whole group becomes my personal cheering squad. It is so awesome and one more reason why I love this race.

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Plan to join us for the annual Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival! Before and after the race we have comfy places to rest your head and fabulous restaurants ready to fill you up! Bring the whole family and plan on checking out the beautiful fall colors with a short hike or a scenic drive. Discover for yourself why Alison and so many others return to the Schroon Lake Region each year - we'll see you soon!

Save your knees and gain two extra feet

“What should I look for in a trekking pole? Do they really make a difference?”... I get questions like this a lot while out on the trail. While trekking poles are relatively simple to use, they can be confusing to purchase. Not only are there several different brands out there to choose from, but you have key features to consider like materials, basket size, suspension or no suspension, grip ergonomics, weight, etc... What I am going to attempt to do now is give you a bit of an overview and a lesson in trekking poles.

Brands of trekking poles:

There are too many brands to list, especially since every outdoor retailer and company seems to slap their name on a pair of trekking poles. Most all snowshoe makers have their own trekking poles as well, designed mainly for winter travel. For today, we will talk about a few that are truly in the limelight as being the best and most dependable. Many of these are inexpensive, heavy and very basic. Komperdell, Leki and Black Diamond create the most widely used trekking poles in the business. They are also some of the best with warranty as well. Komperdell is reasonably priced and often the company that will slap another name on the stem as advertising. Once you get into the Leki and Black Diamond brands you can drop a bit more pocket change, but you'll get a set of poles that will last a very long time if you use them as intended.

2-section vs. 3-section:

A two-section pole is much stronger three, typically made of aluminum, and better for skiing or in situations where durability is a factor. A three-section pole has the advantage of collapsing to a much smaller, portable piece of equipment. The third section however is much less durable due to its smaller diameter. I use two-piece poles for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing because I need durability for when I face plant on a downhill section of the trail. I use three-section poles when I am hiking and even bushwhacking (on occasion). If I find they are too cumbersome while bushwhacking they collapse small enough to fit in my pack out of the way.

Materials:

Aluminum – is much heavier, and much stronger, and is a great choice for skiing due to better durability. Aluminum is the least expensive option.

Carbon fiber – is much more expensive, but is super light. The durability isn’t as high, but they can take some light abuse.

Fiberglass - is similar to carbon fiber but a bit less expensive. The durability is also similar to carbon fiber and should be treated as such. You find fiberglass in cross-country ski poles quite often.

Grip:

This is a personal preference I have found to be somewhat important. While many grips are made of rubber some are made of cork. The biggest complaint of cork is how fast it gets dirty and they seem to gain an odor after many uses (I can attest to this). Some grips are slightly bent for a more ergonomic feel with less strain on the wrists. Rubber, depending on the quality, is the most popular grip. If the quality is low, you can end up with black hands after a long day of white-knuckle hiking.

Basket size:

There are two basket sizes available, and some poles come with both so that they can be switched out for different uses. The smaller one is for non-snow conditions and the large one is for winter (snowshoeing and skiing). Some hikers prefer no basket when snow is not in the mix, but with no basket you won't have a stopping point in soft terrain. The larger basket in summer can get in the way and get hung up on rocks and roots.

This may sound silly but… a common error is a hiker placing the large basket over the small one, this is not correct. One must be removed first. If one is not removed the other will fall off during the course of the day.

I prefer no basket during non-snow months and especially while bushwhacking. The basket, no matter the size, seems to get hung up on rocks, roots, and branches. In winter I highly recommend the big basket or a snow basket, the added floatation will be an immense help.

Suspension:

Many poles now have a spring suspension built into the shaft or a cushion just below the grip. This suspension helps on the descent to take a bit of pressure and shock off the arms, legs, knees and back. This is also a personal preference, but the suspension does come with a higher price tag.

On some poles the spring suspension can be turned on and off with a half twist on the body. The cushion suspension is always on. Some find that suspension on the uphill climb hinders the power production your arms give you, and often lock it off.

Locking mechanisms:

There are two locking mechanisms on poles.

Twistlock – this is the original method of adjustment. The largest downfall to this is the internal locking sleeves tend to get worn out and become smooth. To fix this you can replace the sleeve or use a bit of sandpaper to roughen it back up so it will grip. In the field, use course sand or a rock to roughen up the surface temporarily.

Flicklock – this is a simple locking adjustment where only a flick of the thumb locks down the pole section. The tightness can be adjusted in the field with your thumb nail or a dime. The flicklock simply pinches the two poles together to keep them from collapsing.

Do you have more questions on trekking poles? Go online to get them answered or stop into a local gear shop, maybe while you’re there, pick up a set. Many places rent trekking poles, so you do have the option to try before you buy. Need a good place to use them? The Schroon Lake Region has a ton of places to go.

The Adirondack Hub is full of four great communities including Schroon Lake, North Hudson, Newcomb, and Minerva. With so many places to explore and adventures to be had, we’re narrowing it down to how you can spend one day in the Adirondack Hub. 

Start your day right and grab a coffee at 9 Mile Coffee Co. They recently moved their business across the street into a newly-renovated building. The owner, Andrew, did most of the work himself to transform this building into a beautiful modern style coffee shop.

Pro Tip: If it’s a hot day try the frozen lemonade or a frozen coffee. Add a flavor shot like maple, vanilla, or caramel for an added pick-me-up. 

After you’ve got your morning coffee fix, take a walk down Schroon Lake's Main Street to browse some of the shops. If you’re looking for a special gift to take home, stop at The Pine Cone Mercantile. It's full of unique Adirondack gifts, but there is also a market section stocked with local produce and other goods. And if you need a sweet treat, head to the back of the store to North Woods Bread Co. for some homemade bread or baked goods. It’s like three different experiences in one store! 

Barkeater Outfitters is another new addition to Schroon Lake. They have custom Schroon Lake and Paradox apparel, along with some general Adirondacks-themed apparel. There is also a new classic-style candy store, Pit Stop Sweet Shop, with lots of fun sweets that will remind you of your childhood (and make your kids super happy). The Towne Store down the road has you covered with Adirondack decor, books, and gifts, jewelry, camping supplies, toys, and more. 

You’ll need lunch to refuel, and Pitkin's Restaurant is the perfect spot right on Main Street. Owner, Adam, and his wife also recently purchased and renovated this building. Pitkin’s has been a classic in Schroon Lake for years. It now just has a new and improved look. They also just added an outdoor patio area, which is perfect for the warm but crisp days of autumn.

Our recommendation: The Paradox Panini. This grilled sandwich has roasted turkey, swiss cheese, apple slices, bacon, and cranberry mayo on sourdough with a side of soup, coleslaw, or fries. 

Next, head to the Schroon Lake Beach! Everyone loves the Schroon Lake Beach with its wide, sandy beach area and amazing views. The swimming area is roped off and lifeguards are on duty until 6 pm. You’ll see sailboats, paddlers, and other boaters go by as the day goes on. The playground is nearby, or you can pick a bench and sit in the shade. Stewart’s is within walking distance, and so is the rest of Main Street, but sometimes you might even find the food truck at the beach with hot dogs and snow cones. 

Travel just outside of Schroon Lake, down route 9, to North Hudson where you’ll find Paradox Brewery. The only brewery in the Adirondack Hub, it’s a favorite among community members and travelers alike. Paradox recently moved to a much larger location just outside of the new Frontier Town Campground. Their tasting room will hold roughly 90 people, but they’re operating outdoors right now. They built a new pavilion, and there is a wrap-around, covered deck on the outside of the tasting room with beautiful mountain views. Owner Joan and her husband Paul are the greatest happy hour hosts. On the weekends they have food trucks, but during the week you'll find Joan whipping up delicious soft pretzels. 

Pro Tip: Try the Beaver Bite IPA or the Overbite Imperial IPA to pair with your mountain views. 

Nothing ends the day like a sunset adventure. Grab your canoe, kayak, or SUP and head to one of the many bodies of water in the Adirondack Hub for a sunset paddle. Schroon Lake allows for easy access and amazing views. The water is as refreshing as the vibe in this small town. Take a deep breath and enjoy it as the sun sets on a great day in the Adirondack Hub. 

 

It's About Thyme for pumpkins

Pumpkin picking is the event of the season. While there may not be a red carpet, the pumpkins this year take the spotlight! It's About Thyme Farm includes a pumpkin selection that is off the charts, with red, green, yellow, and even white pumpkins to decorate your home or carve into! While the pumpkins are hard to miss, the farm also has an ample amount of apples on the property, ready to be picked. Venture across the farm's sprawling acres and search for the perfect patch, or the perfect treat! Not only is the farm a little oasis for the season’s best produce, their farm store is healthily stocked with the tastiest treats and merchandise of the season. As if you didn’t need more of a reason to visit It's About Thyme Farm, the farm is offering free donuts and cider Saturdays and Sundays all throughout the pumpkin picking season. Munch as you peruse the fields of pumpkins, or treat yourself once you’ve collected your pumpkin army! 

I pick, u-pick

When you arrive at the farm, you’ll find glorious fields dotted with pumpkins all over! Combing through pumpkin patches is a must during the fall season, so roll up your sleeves and grab your loot. Think of all the pumpkin treats you can make at home! And what's better than your own homemade pumpkin pie? Your own homemade apple pie! Luckily, the farm also has plenty of delicious apples for everyone to take home, perfect for pies, crumbles, or maybe just a snack with lunch. Picking apples and pumpkins is a great way to help support local farms, and a sure way of knowing exactly where your food is coming from. Pretty neat!

P.S. While you’re scooping your pumpkin, don’t forget to harvest the seeds and throw them in the oven for a tasty snack that’ll last until Halloween, or maybe just a few days.

Fall florals

Mums are what makes fall sparkle. In all different colors and sizes, mums are the perfect addition to your front porch, the end of the driveway, or your business’s fall display! The farm is fully stocked with all your mum needs. Choose from a variety of colors, and watch them bloom again and again! Mums look especially beautiful next to a nice pumpkin arrangement, so picking these guys up together is probably best. Some advice: as the nights get colder, you’ll want to cover your outdoor mums at night in a blanket or towel, as fall nights are getting colder by the day!

Halloween is here

Break into the spooky season this year with the Farm’s Scarecrow Walks! Follow a trail full of mystery, spooky legends, and Halloween mishaps! You’ll never know who you come up across. An adventure awaits full of scary skeletons and ghouls on your trail. Don’t forget to get a picture at the end with the Farm’s giant hay bale mascot. When you’ve made your way back from the land of the undead, check out the farm store for all your costume needs. Halloween is fast approaching, and what better way to prepare than with a costume, fast and simple!

Gift shop

When you’re all pumpkin'd out, explore the farm’s gift shop. Find the season’s best in jams, baked goods, and locally made gifts! Every year you’ll find new locally-made creations. This season explore blown-glass masterpieces! Choose from driftwood and glass sculptures, to intricately designed jewelry and dishware. Get lost in the intricate designs and unique shapes that each piece takes. These beauties are made right at the farm and are ready to become a part of your family! Prepare for the upcoming Christmas season with hand sculpted ornaments that’ll light up the tree and the rest of your home!

 

Visit today

Gather your fellow pumpkin lovers, or apple lovers, or even donut lovers, and visit the farm today! You'll find everything you need for the fall season, all in one place. While you're in the Adirondack Hub, make sure to visit our neighboring towns, festive eateries, and gorgeous lakes! Take in all the fall season has to offer today.

To a lot of people, winter is not a season for fun. But maybe... you just haven't gone to the right place, or tried it in the right way.
Sometimes, it can be amazing to simply shift your perspective.

Fun bundling

There's a saying in the Adirondacks that goes, "There's no bad weather, only bad dressing for it." I have found this to be very true.

A warm coat that covers your whole torso, attention to shutting down drafts with proper scarving and gloving, boots with thick socks, and a flattering hat does a lot to keep us warm and cozy — while still allowing you to enjoy the invigorating air and gentle sounds of winter.

In addition, a lot of our winter weather is much less chilly than it looks. The alpine climate has dry air, which does not conduct the cold. A sunny day with no wind means coat open and sunglasses on, in great comfort.

Don't look at the temperature number. Look at what the trees are doing. The still air of winter keeps the chill enclosed, just as the moisture in the air has been locked into the frost, snow, and ice.

See what you're missing by lurking indoors during the chill?

There's a special diamond brightness to the Adirondack winter landscape. To see bare trees sparkling against a clear blue sky is something we can only truly experience by getting outdoors and taking it all in.

Add the right elements to your wardrobe choices and you might be surprised by how warm and happy we can be, to the point where you can loosen up and shed layers as your bodies adapt.

Find out more about dressing for the weather with the blog Sledding Fashion.

Consult an expert

Another good tactic to get started is to attend a fun event designed to get the most out of winter. For instance, you can attend Newcomb's Winter Fest to enjoy guided activities with a bunch of great people.

Gore Mountain is a great place to get started. Even if that is from the very beginning.

Rent the gear you need, from easy snowshoeing, to exploring trails on cross-country skis, to racing down the mountain. There are all kinds of levels to try.

There are places to warm up, eat, and socialize all over the complex. By moving from one activity to another, from indoors to outdoors, you never push comfort boundaries. It's ideal for a mixed group of enthusiasts.

The ones who are already involved in winter fun can indulge as much as they want, and the ones who want to enjoy snacks and a good book by the fire, can indulge as much as they want. Everybody can have a good time at their own speed.

Even something like ice fishing is a lot warmer than you might think. The winter days that are great for ice fishing create a kind of balanced weather where it's actually warm, out there on the ice. The bright sun of February and March and the insulating qualities of ice make for a lot of comfort along with the fun activities.

Another fantastic winter outing is also easy to learn, and that's snowshoeing. Cloudsplitter Outfitters, the Adirondack Interpretive Center at Newcomb, and Natural Stone Bridge & Caves have snowshoes available and many groomed and well-marked trails to explore.

Once you are comfortable on snowshoes, most trails that can be explored in the summer becomes a whole new trail in the winter.

Another Adirondack motto is to not let the weather stop us.

Take it easy

There's another enjoyable aspect to having a fun time in the winter. I'm talking about hearty food and lots of it.

There are some wonderful diners, bistros, and pubs to satsify that special winter appetite. It's not only the fun activities that are burning up our energies, it is also our body keeping us warm. This creates a demand for fuel, and a happy, questing, appetite is the result.
It's a very special, very alive, feeling to pile into a booth and see that everything on the menu looks so good. That winter meal, where you're enjoying your body warming up while having so many options to build a new fire in your internal furnace, is one of the delights of this season.

I understand. I didn't used to be a winter fan. And then I moved to the Adirondacks.

If you haven't enjoyed winter before, maybe you should try our version. It is so much better.

Choose cozy lodging. Pick some indulgent dining. Enlist the help of a guide.

The beautiful area around Schroon Lake serves as the backdrop to an unexpected delight. There's a whole summer season of musical shows in this very special place.
Drawing from a talent pool from far and wide, Schroon Lake is home to the Seagle Music Colony, the oldest summer singer training program in the country.

Brainchild of Oscar Seagle

The Seagle Music Colony was created by, and named for, Oscar Seagle. In the year of its founding, 1915, he was a world-renowned baritone who had made concert tours in the United States and Europe. He also recorded albums for Columbia, like his World War I hit, “Dear Old Pal of Mine.”

“There is about the name of Oscar Seagle a glow of brilliant years and extraordinary musical associations. His relationship with the immortal de Reszke and his own position as a master of many singers have made him unique among American artists.” (New York Morning Telegram)

He had ended a long teaching relationship in Europe with his own mentor, the great Polish tenor Jean de Reszke, and was seeking to establish a similar position for himself in the United States. A teaching engagement at the Brown Swan Club drew him to Schroon Lake. By 1922, he had established, and expanded, his teaching duties into an entire Adirondack complex of learning and performing, attracting highly regarded teachers and talented students, including his own son, John.

John Seagle, in his position on the staff of WRGB in Schenectady, frequently used Colony singers, who were one of the first groups to perform in front of television cameras. In 1941 they formed a Colony Opera Guild, performing at the Wikiosko Barn Theatre on Lake George. Even today, the colony is still in the family, continuing under the stewardship of John’s son Peter, his wife Dodie, and their three sons.

It is now considered the “Best Summer Vocal Training Program in the United States” according to Classical Singer Magazine in the year 2000. Over 500 applicants vie for the opportunity to attend the Colony.

Today, the tradition is thriving as a new season of theatrical delights is planned.

The 2017 season

Seagle will kick off their 102nd season with two shows in June. First, there is a Community Concert at Schroon Lake Central School on June 17, at 7:30 pm. Four of their emerging artists will perform a revue of past shows and a mini-preview of the summer season. Second, their traditional opening concert is scheduled for June 24 at 8 pm at the Colony. The program, "Old Friends & New," will feature songs and arias from all 32 of the artists, and will be followed by a reception where audience members can meet and greet the singers. This one is very popular!
Their main season of July and August will take place at the Oscar Seagle Memorial Theatre. They will be staging "The Light in the Piazza,"a stunning 2005 Tony and Drama Desk winning musical by composer Adam Guettel and based on the novella by Elizabeth Spenser.

The above photo from the 2016 production, "The Elixir of Love."

Next up will be "Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead," a hilarious new comic opera with a score and libretto by composer Herschel Garfein, based on the play by the renowned Tom Stoppard. This piano-vocal premiere will showcase a tuneful musical style with lots of comedy.

Mozart classic "The Magic Flute" will be featured in August, with memorable arias, mystical characters, dramatic moments and much humor. It will be sung in German with projected English supertitles and English dialogue.

This is followed by a different kind of classic, "My Fair Lady," one of the most beloved and well-known musicals of all time, in mid-August.

This still is from the 2016 production, "Roscoe."
Check our Events Calendar for details of these performances.

There is more

The Boathouse Theater is a performance space on the shore of Schroon Lake, and will be the venue for "Little Red’s Most Unusual Day," a children's opera which is John Davie’s take on the traditional Little Red fairy-tale, only with Dudley the forest ranger and a man-crazy grandma. Thirty minutes of fun for any age!

There will be the Patrice Munsel Gala which is Seagle Music Colony’s largest annual fund-raising event. A full evening including an elegant dinner, drinks, dessert and dancing, which includes entertainment by the Seagle Music Colony Emerging Artists.

This still is from the 2016 production, "The Music Man."

Another fine fundraiser is the Piano Duo Concert with local pianists Milton Farbstein & Suzanne Fremon. For the Seagle Music Colony Guild Scholarship Fund.

The Guild Scholarship Luncheon is held at The Sagamore Resort, Bolton Landing, NY. A highlight of the summer social season in the North Country!

There will be two Vespers Concerts, a program of sacred choral music and vocal solos. This has been a Schroon Lake tradition for most of Seagle Music Colony's over 100-year history.

The featured evening of song will be called "A Revue" and will close out the season with the fall outreach artists. Let them take you on a journey through memorable songs made famous by Broadway and Hollywood.

Hope to see you there!

Find some charming lodging. Enjoy our dining. Explore all of our performing arts.