Submitted by guest blogger Susan Repko

When the leaves start turning around Schroon Lake, the common refrain on Main Street is, “this is the best time of the year.” Summer is full of wonderful activities here, but fall is a quiet and gentle season. The crowds have left and the Adirondack chairs on the beach are empty. There’s a whiff of wood smoke in the air and colored leaves sprinkle the sidewalk. Lucky people return in the fall to witness the mountains showing off their colors. The leaves start previewing the foliage season in September, but then burst with color during the first two weeks of October. 

For me, this season conjures up memories of being in a station wagon with my seven siblings. My parents would drive around the area for us to “see the leaves.” We would "ooh" and "ahh" at each turn in the road. I particularly remember walking into Crane Pond with my grandfather, a proud Adirondack guide, where the tall trees were resplendent with yellow leaves. It felt like being in nature’s chapel. The scenic vistas haven’t changed over time but wait for us to discover them again. There are many ways to enjoy this annual explosion of color.

Walk around town

I have a yearly ritual when the leaves peak. Around 8 a.m., I grab a cup of coffee at 9 Mile Coffee and walk to the town park. I love to hear the leaves swish with every step. Settling on a bench overlooking the lake, I watch the fog lift from the water and mountains. Although I’m surrounded by crisp air, I stay comfortable wearing my fleece and holding the warm cup between my hands. The mist moves upward, slowly revealing colors of red, orange, and yellow mingled among the green pines. The sky shows its best blue this time of the year. On a sunny and calm morning, all is reflected on the water and the effect is magnified. It’s quite a performance.  

Drive around the area      

When the leaves peak, my husband and I take our annual pilgrimage through the countryside to see nature’s splendor. With a full picnic basket in the trunk and our dalmatian curled up in the back seat, we drive north on Route 9 and follow the leaves. There’s no destination, just a peaceful journey. Although we drive down the same roads all year, this trip is more of an adventure. Each turn in the road may expose a panorama of mountains in color or a maple standing alone in a field, showing off its reds.  

We take the Northway to Exit 29 and turn left onto Blue Ridge Road. Palmer Pond is located on the left and we like to take pictures of the reflection of the trees on the water. Last year my camera captured a loon swimming into the field of vision with the stunning foliage in the background. That shot is hanging over my fireplace.

We drive two miles further down the winding road with colors blurring to Blue Ridge Falls. When we step out of the car, everything stops. It’s nature-quiet with the sound of splashing water and chattering birds. You can smell the fresh mountain air. Although the waterfall is visible from the road, we like to walk down the trail from the parking area to the river. It’s an iconic Adirondack scene with water cascading over rocks and autumn foliage. 

A short distance down the road we take a right at the sign for Elk Lake Lodge. We drive down a several-mile long road under a canopy of trees in color. From the parking lot we walk up to the lodge and stand at the water’s edge. This is one of the most breathtaking views of the Adirondack High Peaks. Although it’s a privately-owned forest preserve, visitors may enter the property to see the lake. It’s also an authentic Adirondack place to stay and experience nature at its best.  

Walking through the woods

A wonderful way to experience fall in the Adirondacks is to follow a trail in the woods. I love seeing the dappled light on the forest floor and painted leaves peeking around white birch trees. I enjoy meandering down an easy trail with my dalmatian and a few friends. 

There are many places to hike in the Schroon Lake area, but one of my favorites is on Scaroon Manor, a state campground that’s located five miles south of the village. Camping is closed at this time of the year, but you can enjoy the trail during every season. Starting at the parking lot you follow the path along the lake that opens to some of the finest views around. You can look for animal tracks on a long natural beach and read illustrated posters about the famous resort that was once located there. The trail takes about 40 minutes and circles back to the parking lot.

You are invited to see Schroon Lake’s natural beauty and experience its quintessential fall season. While you're here, enjoy our local restaurants and be sure to check out our seasonal special events!

 

This week in ADK news:

Biking Fish Creek and Rollins Pond

Riding Norman Ridge

A historic hike

Night at the (handle) bars

Biking power couple

The amazing apple

Flavors of fall

 

Meet The Lodge at Schroon Lake

For generations of travelers, scenic Schroon Lake, with its sparkling lake, small town charm, and abundant outdoor adventures just steps (or pulls of the paddle) away, has been an ideal, memorable summer vacation destination. In the early 20th century, a handsome, expansive lodge known as the Brown Swan Club opened its doors to travelers looking for something special. Over the years, the lodge changed hands, saw modern improvements, and spent time as a religious camp. When the camp closed a few years ago, there was an opportunity for the spacious property, complete with cottages and activities, to get a new lease on life (no pun intended!) and welcome a new generation of travelers to this special town. After extensive upgrades and updates, the brand-new Lodge at Schroon Lake, which pays homage to the classic Brown Swan Club with modern amenities, is now open. We're ready to stay, are you?

Stay a while, stay in comfort

If you're like me, the idea of an old-fashioned vacation in a sprawling Adirondack lodge has a lot of appeal. Think: wide porches with comfy chairs and beautiful views. Think: sunset rides on a sparkling, vintage Chris Craft motorboat. The Lodge has all of that, and so much more, it's a resort you have to see for yourself to truly believe, especially when it comes to the overnight options. At the Lodge, you have your choice of hotel rooms and suites in the two primary lodges; nine lakeview chalets with two bedrooms, kitchen, living space, and private deck; five secluded cabins; a rustic-inspired cabin featuring suites only; and, perhaps neatest of all, glamping tents! Glamping is what happens when you mix a luxurious hotel stay with camping; no, you won't be sleeping on the ground, you'll be in a spacious tent with a real bed, in-tent electricity, furniture, a deck for lounging, and easy access to bathrooms and more lounge areas.

The selection of overnight options means that you can find peace and quiet away from the Main Lodge, be in the heart of the resort, or even have the freedom to make your own amazing Adirondack meals and enjoy morning coffee on your private deck or balcony. All of the rooms have Adirondack charm, while still being up to date and offering all that you'll need to have a relaxed, rejuvenating, and super fun stay.

Family fun

Although Schroon Lake is home to abundant adventures and activities, from shopping to hiking, fishing, and live music, you really don't even need to leave the Lodge to fill your days with family fun. The wide, wonderful array of activities available to overnight guests is rather astonishing and should intrigue any family looking for a special summer getaway. Want to race remote-controlled boats on the resort's pond? The Lodge has this unique activity twice a week, on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons. (Pro tip: weekday stays are often a bit quieter than weekends!) The whole family, or just the kids, can take part in scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, s'mores and stargazing, create terrariums to take home, and outdoor movie nights.

In addition to these regular events and activities, you'll also have family-friendly options such as on-site mini golf, swimming beach, an indoor pool, paddling, lawn games, game room, and fitness center. Even if you live in the neighborhood, why wouldn't you want to come by for some extra special fun? Oh, and remember how we mentioned fishing? You can do that right here at the resort's stocked fishing pond! I know, it all sounds too good to be true. But it's not and that is so awesome, right?

Indulge your cravings

We know a lot of places call themselves "foodie friendly," but the Lodge at Schroon Lake takes that to a new level of comfort, indulgence, and flavor. Open to the public, the Brown Swan has a classic tavern feel, with farm-to-table menus for breakfast through dinner. Well, through dessert, of course! The food is mouth-watering and offers an elevated twist on standard pub food, like the gruyere-stuffed burger topped with maple-cured bacon, or the short rib poutine. Have you ever had carrot cake flapjacks? Well, you're about to!

Overnight guests also have access to The Bevy, a cocktail lounge off the lobby, where creative cocktails and more inventive meals make family gatherings and fireside romantic getaways that much tastier.

Summer is a special time to get outside, enjoy the natural beauty of the Adirondacks, and make some memories with family and friends. This summer, The Lodge at Schroon Lake promises to offer all of that, plus more, so don't wait to make your reservations! While you're in the Adirondack Hub, just an easy drive up I-87 from the capital district, check out other fun events, attractions, and sweet treats!

This year Earth Day is going digital! I know — that doesn't exactly feel earthy, but that doesn't mean there aren’t great ways to celebrate the natural places we love (ahem, the Adirondacks) and fight for a better environmental future. The 2020 theme for Earth Day is climate action, and while that sounds like an enormous challenge, there are plenty of ways to make a difference this year, even while social distancing. 

The Adirondack Hub truly is an outdoor lover's paradise. Comprised of four towns along the southern end of the High Peaks Region, the area is home to some of the more wild places within the Adirondacks. Whether you prefer remote canoe camping through the Essex Chain Lakes or hiking the High Peaks, horseback riding, or a day spent boating on Schroon Lake, there is an adventure for every outdoorsman. Now that I’ve teased you with a trip you can't take just yet, read on for 5 ways to celebrate Earth Day and the Adirondack Hub at home! 

Plan Future Adventures in the Adirondack Hub 

While it might not be time to visit, or even book an upcoming stay, you can start planning by learning more about the wild places surrounding the Schroon Lake region, and what you will need to enjoy them in the future. Our mountains are special, but they are also rugged and remote. It’s important to know your limits and find an adventure appropriate for you!

Sign the Love Your ADK Pledge 

You found yourself here, so we already know you love the Adirondacks. Now it’s time to pledge to love these mountains a little more by taking actionable steps to recreate more responsibly. Find out more about signing the Love Your ADK pledge here.

Learn the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace 

Understanding the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace is a really great starting point for minimizing impacts when recreating, regardless of the activity. The best thing about education is that it is endless. Even those who are outdoor savvy can work toward being better stewards of the Adirondacks. These principles help. 

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Be Considerate of Other Visitors
3. Respect Wildlife
4. Minimize Campfire Impacts
5. Leave What You Find
6. Dispose of Waste Properly
7. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces 

Host a Community Cleanup (For One)

Trash is everywhere and no one is above picking it up. If you live near a trail system or a safe road that could use some TLC, commit a day to cleaning up! Regularly-scheduled community clean ups may be cancelled this year due to necessary social distancing measures, so host one for yourself.

Join a CSA

We all have purchase power and we can use it to better our communities and ourselves. Joining a community supported agriculture (CSA) farm share, not only guarantees you fresh local vegetables or meat, but supports a farmer near you! Some even deliver right to your door, which means less trips to the grocery store. Double win! 

---

However you choose to celebrate Earth Day, we thank you for caring about our wild places. We can't wait to have you back to adventuring in our region but in the meantime, keep learning more about how to keep the Adirondacks wild for generations to come! 

 

 

 

DID YOU KNOW that Snyder Hill has one of the most fascinating hidden views?

Snyder Hill? Where’s Snyder Hill? Well it’s not far from the town center of Schroon Lake. If you locate Hoffman Road and follow it toward the small Hamlet of Irishtown you will drive right beneath it. From the road you can see it clearly and if you look close you can see the cliffs residing near the summit.

Now, more importantly, to access this summit you will have to have a bit of navigation and cross-country travel experience. While the bushwhack to the summit is very straight forward it helps to know how to use a map and compass and GPS. Private land rests ever so close to the route up this peak and you want to assure that you remain on state land throughout the hike.

If you park your car along the shoulder slightly north of west of the summit, along state forest preserve property, you can work your way up the mountain rather effortlessly. The forest is close to that of a boreal forest but with more tall pines and hemlocks and less of spruce and balsam. With a small bit of deadfall along the ground it is a bit slow going at first but soon opens up to a wonderful hardwood forest. The slopes are very steep in areas and several small seeps or springs make it a tad wet at times. Two parcels of private land nose right up to state land so if you come to the property lines just follow it uphill to stay on state land. Once you pass through that narrow corridor you are pretty much free to roam the summit area. The views are spectacular and the ledge is a perfect spot for a picnic, a nap, or to just feel the nice breeze blowing over you.

DID YOU KNOW that Hoffman Notch Wilderness was planned to have a ski center on it?

It’s true, and I didn’t know it until ever so recently. The nearly 39,000 acre wilderness area was planned to be the third state run ski center. It was in the mid 1960s that there was a proposal to build a ski resort with lifts and over 30 miles of trails on the massive slopes of Hoffman Mountain. It which would also extend a bit further off the mountain onto the steeper slopes of two of the three Peaked Hills just to the east of Hoffman proper. The plan was sponsored by a local Winter Sports Council with support from many local officials. As a group they all pushed the opportunity to bring an economic boom to the region. The idea made it past the county and state legislatures but got voted down in the end by voters. Could you imagine the transformation of Schroon Lake if this were to have happened? Neat to think about.

Today the Hoffman Mountain Wilderness is used mainly by hikers through Hoffman Notch and bushwhackers in search of summiting Hoffman Mountain and Blue Ridge Mountain which are two of the Adirondacks 100-highest Mountains. But if you have never been back to Big Marsh, I highly recommend it, the wilderness experience is wonderful.

DID YOU KNOW that Sharp Bridge Campground is a perfect location to basecamp for the weekend?

Sharp Bridge is a state run campground located off Route 9 just north of North Hudson. Its small quaint stature is also the oldest state campground in the Adirondacks. From the campground you can venture out on the trails and hike back to Shingletree Pond, Round Pond and Triangle Pond without setting foot in the car. A short distance away you can access the backside of the Dix Mountain Wilderness, the Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness, the shops and restaurants of Schroon Lake, the Town Beach on Schroon Lake and dozens more hiking destinations scattered about the Schroon Lake Region. The offerings are nearly limitless. Enjoy fishing? Cast a line in Schroon Brook or walk up the road to Courtney Pond and set a cast for some native brookies. Want to float softly downstream? Visit the Schroon River. Like rock climbing? Check out King Philips, and other rock climbing destinations just minutes away.

DID YOU KNOW that Schroon Lake has some of the most outstanding Lake Trout and Landlocked Salmon Fishing in the Park?

Fishing you say? Why not explore the massive expanse of Schroon Lake itself. With nearly 25 miles of shoreline this lake is worthy of casting a few lines. Whether from a boat or the shore you can surely find a way to do some fun angling. But if you want the best opportunity to latch onto a record-winning lake trout or landlocked salmon you will need to get out on a boat and approach the deep water of the lake. Sure a kayak would work but get your hands on a small boat with a trolling motor and you are sure to reel in a nice-sized fishing story. While much of the shoreline of the lake is private you can access the waters from the town beach area and near the southwest shores of the lake and at Eagle Point State Campground.

This is only a small taste of what the Schroon Lake Region offers, and more surprises wait around every corner. Be sure to come and stay and come back often and see what we mean by “Schroon Lake is really one of the finest places to be."

Blogger's note: Last week, I decided to be a crazy mom and surprise my seven-year-old son with a day playing hooky - his first missed day of the year! We decided to extend our weekend in the Adirondacks' Schroon Lake Region with a bonus Monday meant for holiday exploring and maybe a little playing in the snow, and of course, dining out!

We felt naughty. Skipping school, what rebels we were! Of course, we woke up on Monday morning and Oliver's school was closed for the day - so instead of being rebels, we were just a mom and her kid playing in the snow!

It did however remind me of another time in Schroon Lake, that I could definitely repeat in the near future. And this one I still feel a bit guilty about! Let's do a little rewind back two years, and my wild younger days. :)

---

Guilty, Guilty, Guilty...

I don’t know that I have ever felt quite as guilty as I did when Greg and I walked into the Schroon Lake Bed & Breakfast - sans 5 year old. I mean, we had already enjoyed a fun Tasting at Paradox Brewery, and a fabulous dinner at Sticks & Stones Bistro & Bar - you can check out the details of that part of our adventure in the first installment of our Schroon Lake weekend away blog.

But… there are a few things Oliver absolutely loves, and the fact that I am about to enjoy one of them without him - a stay away from home - makes me feel fairly sneaky, wicked guilty, and more than a tad bit naughty. I feel like I am about to get caught cheating on a test - if I still took tests. Of course, I am too old for most tests, and I am consoled by the fact that there is no indoor pool (the real reason he likes to go away), and like many Bed & Breakfasts children under 16 are not permitted - we soon understand why.

A Welcome Light On A Chilly Night

It’s a late-fall evening in the Adirondacks, meaning a brisk 35 degrees or so. The Schroon B&B is a welcome sight - lit up in a soft glow and just beckoning us to come in and stay for the night. Unfortunately, we are poor planners - we have not made reservations and so we show up unannounced; luckily a sign indicates there is, indeed, room at the inn. We knock on the door and are greeted by our potential hosts-to-be, Sharon and Mark. As we are ushered into the large living room, I am immediately enveloped in warmth - not just from the beautifully blazing fireplace.

The decor is from an older day and age, I feel at home - well, maybe not my home - I could never keep my house this well-appointed! Antiques, flower arrangements, knick-knacks… that’s all it takes. With a huge sigh of relief, I am glad Oliver has been left at home - his tornado-esque ways would have already destroyed a keepsake or two, I am sure.

Sharon assures us there is room available and asks Mark to give us the tour, "he’s the better tour guide." From the entrance door, to our right is the living room - complete with fireplace, sitting area, books, and dozens (possibly hundreds) of movies. Off to the left is a formal dining room including a grand selection of teas, cocoa, and coffee (I’m sold).

We head upstairs. To our left is a luxurious king suite (reserved), to our right an intimate queen room with a sitting room across the hall. And then, at the end of the hallway, we enter the Pine View. This is, of course, my pick. We enter the suite and to our left a grand bedroom opens up before us, complete with an electric fireplace adding to the romantic ambiance. There is a private bath - I realize most lodging has private bathrooms, but when discussing B&Bs this is a question I always ask - I’ve stayed in some lovely properties in Maine, all with shared baths - not particularly to my liking. To the right is a private sitting room complete with fridge, couch, and television - also notable when discussing B&Bs. I open the closet and spy the luxurious bathrobes. This will be our room for the night. I’ve decided.

Back downstairs we fill out paperwork, grab our luggage, and find out the specific etiquette for this lovely establishment. Guests are welcome to come and go - a key is provided for the front door, but quiet is encouraged. We are welcome to take any of the DVDs to our room, and while coffee and baked goods are available around 7:30am, a full breakfast will be served after 8:30am. And, this is pretty cool: Sharon actually asks if we like eggs or have any allergies as they try to accommodate their guests needs. For the record, if it’s made for us, we will eat it. What a treat!

Out And About

Since it’s a Saturday evening and we’re on our own little spontaneous Adirondack vacation, we decide 7pm is too early to call it a night. We head down to Flanagan’s Pub and Grill on Main Street. Now, the last time I was in this Irish Pub was almost 20 years ago. So, wasn’t I surprised when we opened the doors!? I won’t lie, I was expecting a little old-fashioned, hole-in-the-wall, locals spot. Flanagan’s new look (well, new to me) was shocking. Beautiful wooden booths, an open - yet intimate - layout, still the feel of a great locals spot. Clean, welcoming, and a great selection behind the bar; I couldn’t wait to pull up a stool and have a draught (or two). But wait! There was a backroom with a pool table - the night just keeps getting better and better. We grab a couple of sticks and play a few games before the day finally catches up with me.

As we head back to the car we remember there is a fridge in our room. Obviously we should pop into Stewart’s and grab a pint of our favorite ice cream (chocolate peanut butter cup - as if it could be anything else). The thing I love about Stewart’s - no matter the town - is that there are always a few friendly locals enjoying coffee or a snack and looking to strike up a conversation. Tonight, football is the subject at play - and although I have little to contribute, Greg is quickly debating the day’s results. And, I am soon fantasizing about a hot shower, plush bathrobes, and watching a good movie complete with plastic spoons and shared tub of ice-cream.

Sleep It Off

While I manage the first part of my plan, we are soon curled up in a huge bed dozing off as the flames in the fire flicker at our feet. Tonight, there would be no movie. After thinking about this long day which started with a stint outside in the frigid air watching a High School football play-off game, followed by a scenic Adirondack drive, a bit of education and tasting at Paradox Brewery and a dinner out, I can justify falling asleep by 10pm.

We wake to the smell of fresh coffee brewing and something delicious baking. While I would love to lounge here all day, I am also looking forward to talking with Sharon and Mark before exploring a bit more of Schroon Lake and heading home. After an hour or so of procrastinating - because we could, we finally motivate and start our day.

Sharon meets us as we enter the dining room and immediately offers us coffee - a woman after my own heart. There are a variety of juices, and a lemon-zest muffin that I could happily eat every day. Bowls of fresh fruit are proffered before Mark pops out from the kitchen in full chef mode. As he places our plates in front of us, I am overwhelmed. THIS is way more than I had imagined. As an avid hotel-traveler, I was expecting a serve-yourself, family-style breakfast; not a made-to-order plate of edible artistry. Mark gives us the rundown of what is being served, and where the local products came from. I could try to describe the meal in detail but you know that old saying about a picture saying a thousand words, so here you go…

Sharon and Mark are an amazing team. Seamlessly bustling back and forth while simultaneously working, keeping the conversation lively, answering our many questions, and pointing out the many types of birds at the feeders.

We learn about the history of the B&B, how its clientele varies from couples looking for a romantic evening as they pass through town to groups of fisherman visiting for tournaments. The property acts as a welcoming home-base for family reunions, weddings, group events, and athletes and adventurists. And, after staying here, I can confirm the repeat customers are proof that they are offering a great service to the region.

We discuss town and all it has to offer - Sharon is a wealth of knowledge. We learn about the thriving arts community. Mark is a musician and hearing my background in the arts, he immediately lets us know about the monthly Open Mic Nights that happen right down the street and draw a great deal of local talent.

Pack Your Bags

What can I say… at 10:30am we know we need to say goodbye. We have had a great time in Schroon Lake so far, but there are still places to see, mountains to climb, people to meet. We offer Mark our sadly-untouched ice cream which he enthusiastically accepts (did I mention it’s the best flavor, ever?) - it’s the least we could do after such a relaxing night away.

While we stayed at the inn for maybe 16 hours, I feel like we snuck away for a week. And, hey, you know what? There’s nothing naughty about taking a little time for yourself, right? And it should be noted: I didn't even try to sneak out with my robe. Now, eating that third lemon muffin — which was packed by our hosts in a to-go bag for the 5 year-old — well, that might be a bit naughty, but hey, we’ll call it our little secret, ok?

Want to ditch the kids and plan a romantic stay in Schroon Lake? Looking for a taste of the local brews? Hit the trails, then hit the town - Adirondack hospitality is absolutely where it’s at!

 

… on an 8+ Mile Lake

It’s a gorgeous summer morning as we head out of the High Peaks toward the beautiful lower Adirondack tracts, specifically to Schroon Lake. One of my favorite spots to swim, I have never actually been out on Schroon by boat. I’m excited.

This is an exploration expedition I am taking with my co-workers Kelly and Shaun. We live only an hour from Schroon Lake, but know very little about the actual body of water - we are going to change that. Kelly is generously driving her boat and I am traveling with her. We are meeting Shaun in town as he headed down a bit earlier to document a few of the stores and take some 360-spins for the awesome new virtual tour website, adirondacksUSA.com (check out the one below).

 

Munchies and Magic

Since we were heading down from the north, we took Exit 28 - which allows us to drive through town and choose one of the local one-stop-shops to pick up a picnic lunch. Somehow on long trips I always find an excuse to take a break right around the Schroon Lake exits (I-87 exits 26-28) - I am 100% sure it has everything to do with the many choices of homemade baked goods the local stores carry. I am a total sucker for fresh cookies, breads, muffins - you name it, and I never say no to a strong cup of coffee.

Walking into today's shop we are cheerfully greeted by a few locals that are standing around chatting over their morning snack. We looked over the generous sandwich menu and ordered a couple of wraps for ourselves and a sub for Shaun. As our food was being assembled, we took a couple of minutes to peruse the fun and odd (candied crickets!?) offerings at this all-purpose camp store; it’s almost a bit overwhelming to be able to buy your fishing gear, next to your cereal, water guns, magazines, and propane. We grabbed a few cookies, a couple of bags of chips, and - yes, a loaf of homemade bread. By now, our order was ready and we had to laugh when the sub was handed over - it could’ve fed all 3 of us, well worth the price (around $7 if I remember correctly). Our picnic basket was ready, the temperature outside was climbing, the water was calling.

Boats, Beaches, Bays, Boards

Heading into town, we took note of the Marina down a long driveway on our left, and then headed down to the Town Boat Launch, conveniently located adjacent to the public beach, just a block from town. By the time we got the boat in the water and Kelly had toyed with the motor a bit, Shaun joined us, and we were ready to explore - well, explore our picnic anyway - it was after 1pm by now. We headed out past the beach and decided that was a good place to drift and eat while we formalized our plan of action. A couple of cocky seagulls thought this was a good idea as well, and hovered nearby doing lazy circles as they awaited any scraps that might not make it into our mouths - they were sadly disappointed.

Sunblock applied, stomachs filled, and a sort-of plan in hand, we headed north toward the town marina. Finding it was quite a bit easier by land than by sea - or by lake - as the case may be. We followed a set of buoys into a smaller bay at the end of the lake, and then just as we were starting to wonder if we missed it, a channel opened up to our left and we came across the full-service Schroon Lake Marina. The place was hopping - obviously, summer on the lake is a big draw in Schroon. We stopped for a moment to take a few photos, then decided it was time to actually head back out and test the water.

Leaving the channel, we noted what was obviously a local’s hot spot - on the far side of the bay, next to the entrance of the river, a beach only accessible by boat. Families, dogs, guys playing football, teens exploring - this is what we came in search of! Kelly and I took the opportunity to dive in and cool off. The water was awesome, still spring-fed, but warmer than our high-peak mountain lakes. We spent a few minutes chatting with folks and found out that the Marina is actually the only one on the lake - good fact to know.

Now, I am not a water-skier or wakeboarder (I’m not even cool enough to know if those are the hip terms… yes, I said, hip) but my companions were itching to strap on their gear, so off we went to search for an open stretch of calm water.

Schroon Lake is beautiful. I mean, beautiful. Plenty of open water, surrounded by picturesque landscape, mountains peacefully looming in the distance. We are passing boats of all sizes & makes - from sailboats to party barges, and everyone is smiling - really, how could you not be? I can not wait to take a tour in later September or October - the foliage must be absolutely outstanding from this vantage point.

Okay, so, we find the perfect spot and Kelly is first up on her board. Shaun is driving the boat, I’m spotting; and, this is new, I’m given a very quick lesson on how to use one of Shaun’s cameras with the instructions to try to get a few shots. Now, I’m nervous. We are on a boat, with waves, I’m holding a camera that is infinitely more expensive than anything I own, and… I’m clumsy. I do not point this out - I just hold on for dear life and hope for the best.

Kelly takes an awesome ride, and it’s time for Shaun to strap on his ski. We head down the lake to find another calm bay, with 8 miles of water at our disposal, there are plenty of choices and we can afford to be picky. I am still on camera duty - I have still not dropped anything. The sun is shining. This is a good day.

After a couple more rides each, we are at the far end of the lake - literally, within site of the end. About as far away from our starting point as possible. It’s almost 3pm now, time for us all to jump back in for a last swim and then head back to the dock. Our plan is to be back on the road between 3:30-3:45, as I have to pick up my son at 5pm, and we have to factor in an hour drive. Ambitious, true - but totally doable.

Our Intentions Were Good. Our Boat, Not So Much

3pm… Hmm. The boat won’t start.

3:10… Hmm. The boat still won’t start.

3:15… Hmm. I am getting nervous.

3:18… Shoot (that’s the polite way of putting it)

3:20… Placing calls to people we know that may be in the area and available to save us.

3:25… Is that a dock? A Public Campground? Yes, it is… and it looks pretty nice. We should camp here sometime. Can we swim to it? Tow the boat? I have a couple of broken ribs, but I can probably do the side-stroke - it can’t be more than a quarter-mile or so. Google it. Call it.

3:30… Yup, it’s Eagle Point Campground. Sadly, they do not have a dock that’s accessible for a ski boat, and they don’t recommend pulling it into shore - lots of jagged submerged rocks.

3:35… Hmm… Still won’t start. We need to be saved. Let’s call the Marina.
* Note to all: This is amazing - we all had great reception on our phones. A strong signal in the middle of a lake in the Adirondacks. Awesome and lucky.

We can not say enough about the Schroon Lake Marina. We called, gave our location - which was greeted cheerfully with something to the effect of, 'wow, chose the absolute furthest point to break down, huh? We’ll head out soon, but it’ll take a few to get to you.' (me: cursing and shaking my fist at the sky! why, oh why, did I not set up a child-care backup? why, on this beautiful day when I normally would be ecstatic to be stranded on a lake, do I actually have a deadline? why did I leave the magic bread in the car??)

3:35-4ish… Drink all available liquid. Eat cookies, chips, and leftover sandwiches. Call and arrange for childcare. Accept the situation and the forced relaxation. Wait patiently. Apply more sunscreen. Wave at passerby. Stare at the beautiful sailboat floating peacefully under the blue sky. Relax. Enjoy the fact that we are stuck in one of the most idyllic situations possible.

4:00-4:10… Rob from Schroon Lake Marina arrives with gas, jumpers, a big smile, and a willingness to shoot the breeze and answer all our random questions about town; while he worked out the problem. We are up and running within minutes, and he graciously followed us back to the dock, mile after mile - we wanted to see this lake, and I can honestly say, mission accomplished.

4:40ish… We loaded the boat, parted ways with Shaun, and then decided to take a spin (via car) down to the Marina. What an awesome place. Definitely worth a stop if you are in the area and looking for any gear. They have recently refinished the main building, and they sell everything from boats and gear to t-shirts and mugs. Plus… as seems to be the case in most places I’ve visited in Schroon, you’ll be greeted at a family-owned business by friendly outgoing folks.

5:00ish… We decide our adventure is over, and we really should get on the road. Only an hour or so later than we planned. Could have been worse by all means.

It is almost, almost, a blessing that we broke down - it afforded us extra time to take in our surroundings, research the town, and mingle with the locals. Schroon Lake definitely deserves another visit: I hear we need to take a hike up Mt. Severance, and there are a few restaurants I can’t wait to try out - I’m open to suggestions, send me your favorite spots, maybe we’ll get a chance to swing by! Next time, we’ll plan for a full-day adventure (and daycare) - that much I guarantee.

"The mountains are calling and I must go." ~ John Muir

Truer words have never been said, especially in the Adirondack Hub! Except, maybe it should sound more like "Adventure is calling and I must go!" Tucked away in southern Essex county, the Adirondack Hub is home to an array of adventure opportunities ready for you to explore. Your next adventure is waiting! Which will you choose? Will you take on one of the many mountains that lie within the region, or will you try your hand at paddling down one of the many lakes or rivers that flood the Adirondacks. Perhaps you'd prefer to keep your adventure on two wheels. Regardless of what you'd choose, you’ll surely find the perfect adventure in the Adirondack Hub. So where should you begin? We’ve listed out some of the best adventure trips you should take next time you’re in the Hub! Try one or all! You won't be disappointed.

Hiking adventure 

Today, you set out to explore the state-protected Wilderness Areas of Pharaoh Lake and Hoffman Notch. These areas together boast over 90 miles of trails, 47 bodies of water, and nearly 85,000 acres of untamed beauty. You are surely in for an adventurous day!

You can also choose a shorter day hike like Severance Mountain in Schroon Lake that leads to a beautiful view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Or, a personal favorite, Pharaoh Lake via Pharaoh rd! It leads to a stunning lake perfect for swimming! The trail offers a perfect blend of moderate challenge and scenic beauty. Each turn of the path reveals another stunning view, and the serenity of the surroundings is the perfect antidote to the stresses of daily life.

Perhaps you’re looking for an even more adventurous hiking experience. These trails are for the more experienced hiker and should be taken very seriously. Newcomb is the home of the southern access point to the High Peaks! Access great mountains and trails without the busyness of other trailheads. Perhaps this is the year you finally start your 46er adventure!

Don’t forget to do your research before heading out on any of these hiking adventures this summer!

Paddling adventure

What better way to appreciate the epic wilderness of the Adirondack Hub than by paddling through its waterways? Grab a kayak and set out to explore the Essex Chain Lakes, the Boreas Ponds Tract, Opalescent River, and the Hudson River! You’re sure to have an unforgettable experience that might include a few rapids and beaver dams!

For our extreme outdoor adventurers, pack up your canoe or kayak and hit the trails, there's great lakes and ponds that are ready to be explored that are just a little more hidden! Interested in more info on pack canoeing adventures? Check out some more info here! 

Cycling adventure

The area is a cyclist’s adventure paradise, with its expansive wilderness, wild forests, gleaming lakes, and picturesque peaks. Choose a route that promises both beauty and challenge, with quiet, low-traffic roads providing a peaceful journey.

You can choose to ride close to any one of the towns or take your two wheels off the beaten path. Great Camp Santanoni offers a 10 mile round trip biking experience perfect for the adventurer in you! The gravel roads takes you back in time as you experience one of the great camps of the Adirondacks.

Camping adventure

An adventure that can last a lifetime! Camping can be experienced by anyone throughout the Hub. You might choose to take on the wilderness day and night and camp at one of the primitive campsites with your tent or lean-to. OR you can choose to stay within the comfort of a campground with all the amenities you appreciate, and the next day you’ll be well rested and ready to start your next adventure. 

What adventure will you choose this summer? 

 

12,000+ Acre Playground with a National Historic Landmark

With the Adirondacks blanketed in fresh snow, don’t we all look for opportunities to get out and play a bit? I was recently inspired by a blog from our archives that talked of cross-country skiing into Camp Santanoni. I have to admit, I have yet to go there. I knew it was one of our Adirondack cultural treasures; an historic great camp complex situated on over 12,000 wooded acres surrounding Newcomb Lake. I have since learned that it is not only a NYS Historic Site, but it is on the National Register of Historic Places and has been designated a National Historic Landmark as well.

 

Camp Santanoni was a private undertaking when first built in the late 1800s.There was a surge during that era for many prominent and wealthy families to construct rustic, yet somewhat elaborate, get-aways in the Adirondacks.They have become known as Adirondack Great Camps and several dozen are still in existence.

The first owner/builders were the Pruyn family of the Albany area. Camp Santanoni was indeed rather elaborate, and considered one of the grandest of the Great Camps, in that at one point over 40 buildings were included on the extensive grounds. The structures were clustered in 3 groups or complexes: the Gatehouse Complex, the Farm Complex, and the Main Camp/Lodge Complex itself. In the 1970s New York State acquired the property and incorporated it into the State Forest Preserve. Over the last few decades this Great Camp complex has been gradually preserved and restored by a partnership of Adirondack Architectural Heritage, the Town of Newcomb and NYS Department of Environmental Conservation.

Winter Weekends Open House

Though the grounds are open for exploration year round, the buildings generally are not open to the public during the winter months. A few years back AARCH, NYS DEC, and the Town of Newcomb began hosting Winter Weekends, an open house of sorts, where the public is invited to cross-country ski and snowshoe as well as visit the Gatehouse and Main Lodge. There the public can view displays about this Great Camp and learn more from interpretive staff.

The upcoming 2017 Winter Weekends include: January 14-16, Martin Luther King Holiday Weekend; February 18-20, Presidents’ Day Weekend; and March 18-19. The media sponsor for these weekends is North Country Public Radio.

 

 

To me this sounds like the perfect winter adventure — an opportunity to get out and play in the snow while exploring a National Historic Landmark. You can bring your own equipment, or get outfitted with snowshoes at the Gatehouse.The trip is about 5 miles from the Gatehouse into the Main Lodge, but I understand it is gently rolling terrain; no steep hills to climb. I was told to plan on about 4 to 6 hours for the round trip. But, once at the Main Lodge Complex, the Artist’s Studio building will serve as a warming hut. If you carry in your own cup, you can sip hot chocolate, tea, or coffee by the woodstove. I could see myself lingering there for a while. In addition, you'll want to allow adequate time to explore the open buildings, admire the architecture and scenic views, check out the interpretive signs, and hear from the AARCH interpretive staff. Six hours may be more realistic.

It’s anticipated that more than 300 people will visit during these Winter Weekends (that was the number of visitors last year), so even those who may be a little antsy about venturing off into a snowy wilderness preserve in the middle of January can be assured of some company. Cell service will be spotty — and probably only available if Verizon is your provider — but aside from posting a pic on your favorite social site, it's kind of nice to unplug for a few hours and step back into history (besides, it's hard to juggle ski poles & a phone!).

Newcomb’s Winterfest - January 14, 2017

It appears that Martin Luther King Holiday Weekend may be the ideal time to make a visit to this part of the Adirondacks. There is a lot going on in Newcomb on Saturday, January 14, as the town will be hosting its annual Winterfest. All activities will be free and there will be signs to guide you around the community and direct you to what is happening. Everyone is invited to come, watch, and participate in every kind of winter outdoor activity imaginable.

Recently I spoke with Dave at Cloudsplitters Outfitters located on Newcomb’s main street. He told me they had a great snow base already and good forecast predictions; anything coming between now and January 14 should only make conditions better.

Winterfest attendees can go for a snowmobile or dog sled ride, and watch fat bike, Hok ski, and ice fishing demonstrations directly on Lake Harris at Rockwoods Bay. A big bonfire will be there from noon until 4 pm to keep you warm.

Dave also told me they have 10 fat bikes for rent if watching a demo encourages you to try one for yourself. They also rent cross-country skis including the Hok skis from the demonstration. Dave told me these are backcountry-type skis and a bit more maneuverable. They are shorter than regular cross-country skis, and have steel edges for turning. One of their significant features is that they have integrated synthetic mohair bottom surfaces. He says that allows for a lot of gripping when climbing any incline; no more sliding backwards!

Skaters are not overlooked. Winterfest will include an ice skating rink across from the Emergency Squad and skaters are welcome from 11 am to 4 pm.

Aside from Santanoni’s trails into the Winter Weekend open house, during Winterfest snowshoe trails will be open at the Adirondack Interpretive Center from 10 am to 4 pm. There are over 3.5 miles of trails on the AIC's 200+ acre property, and a connector trail to the Camp Santanoni main trail in case you want to swing by on your way in or out of visiting the Main Lodge. Also at AIC on January 14, you can join naturalist Peter O’Shea for a guided snowshoe walk at 1 pm and learn winter animal tracking as well as some local natural history. Word has it there could even be a snowman building contest at AIC that day — that may depend upon conditions and interest.

The High Peaks Golf Course in Newcomb will welcome snowshoers on the 14th with incredible High Peak vistas and captivating views of the upper Hudson River. From 11 am to noon tubing and sledding will be available at the Ski Slope. Downhill skiing and snowboarding begins at noon and runs until 3 pm.

All this outdoor activity is bound to make you hungry. Chili and hot dogs are available at the Newcomb Fire Hall from 11 am to 2 pm. Later you can plan on attending a Spaghetti Dinner back at the Fire Hall from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Beginning at 7 pm, you can listen to live music by the Lightning Rods and join in some sock-footed square dancing at the Newcomb Central School Gym.

You may want to make this a two-day adventure since there is so much going on that weekend! Why not find some comfortable lodging and plan to stay?

---

 

This jammy, flavorful blog was originally written in 2018 and updated in spring 2024.

The wooden floorboards creek softly under your feet and the mellifluous sounds of 1920’s swing and jazz greet you as you enter. The smell of baked goods wafts from somewhere deep within the room. As you look around you see what seems like a life’s work on display. Hand crafted rustic furniture, hand painted paddles, vintage board games stacked carefully under a side table. Inviting couches surrounding a barn wood table beckon. Another coffee table displays vintage buffalo plaid thermoses, coffee cups you’d find at camp, and plaid table settings. Towards the back of the space several locals chat with the baker over a morning coffee. Making themselves comfortable on tastefully upholstered couches. It feels like coming home. 

Which is exactly what owners Lisa and Edward Marks want you to feel as you enter their little slice of Schroon Lake. “We’ve actually had people walk in and think they’ve made a mistake at first and walked into someone’s house,” says Lisa.

Transplants from New York City, Lisa and Edward Marks relocated to their seasonal home in Schroon lake in 2014 with thoughts of retirement, but after a year of ‘relaxing’ they decided maybe the slow life wasn’t for them just yet. An interior designer and baker by trade, Lisa and Edward wanted a new outlet for their skills and interests that would also support their newly adopted Adirondack community. Having worked primarily under the guidance of someone else's vision in their first careers, they were excited at the opportunity to make something that was their own. 

And so, in 2015, they opened the doors of the Pine Cone Mercantile in downtown Schroon Lake. Four years later, not only do they still run it as a two person operation open six days a week in the summer and five in the winter, they’ve also added the ‘North Woods Bread Company’ which can be found tucked in the back of the store in front of a beautiful subway tile wall, and most recently ‘Pine Cone Provisions,’ half farm stand, half artesan food display, which fills a newly renovated space adjacent to the main store. 

The Mercantile

To call it a 'gift shop' would be disingenuous. The 'store' which fills the bulk of the Marks' space feels more like a carefully curated collection of keepsakes that Lisa wants to share with you. You won't find a whole lot of mass produced chachkies and knick-knacks here. Lisa prides herself on seeking out products you aren't likely to find in many other places. Decorative paddles she gets from a woman in Montreal, hand built furniture she buys a piece at a time, antiques she collects while on vacation, and hand painted balsam pillows made by a local artist make up an oh-so-tiny portion of her collection. The Mercantile is truly a space to be experienced. 

Pine Cone Provisions

Lisa told me, “We knew all these producers personally, and we wanted to bring their products to the rest of the community on a year round basis.” 

Pine Cone Provisions opened Summer 2018 with a similar mission to the Mercantile. To bring local produce and cheese as well as artisan foods to the store.

You’ll find vegetables, meats, and cheeses primarily from Juniper Hill, Asgaard Farm, North Country Creamery, and Sugar House Creamery, all regional North Country farms. The summer understandably saw a boon of fresh produce, but they also plan on keeping their shelves stocked with local produce into the winter, as long as the farms have it available.

Beyond the meats, dairy, and produce, the shelves sport a large variety of artisanal goodies. Fleur De Sel chocolate from Saratoga? Check. Maple Syrup from down the street? Check (“It’s really nice to know the people who are tapping your syrup,” says Lisa). Hand crafted cocktail mixers from Lake Placid? Check. Banana Jam from Brooklyn? Check. Pancake mix ground from New York flour in the Catskills? Check. A small selection of carefully selected cookbooks? Check. The list goes on. Pinecone Provisions has one of the most well curated collections of on-of-a-kind foodstuffs I've found in the North Country and is a must-stop for anyone in town or passing through on the Northway. 

If you can get out of Pine Cone Provisions empty handed, you’re a stronger person than me. I came home with a cast iron cookbook and this marvelous banana jam. Seriously folks, Brooklyn be jammin with Brin's Banana Jam. It's like someone took all the best parts of banana bread and concentrated it into one tiny jar. A little goes a long way, and I'll be back for more. 

North Woods Bread Co.

You can get the low down on the North Woods Bread Co. in this story here. Suffice to say, the fresh baked deliciousness flows out of the kitchen five days a week. This means breads courtesy of Edward and other sweet baked goods courtesy of Lisa. The choices are ever changing so stop early and stop often! Also, if you plan on being in town for any of the major holidays (plus Super Bowl Sunday) be sure to check in ahead of time for their special order ahead holiday menus!

Don't miss the chance to lose yourself at the Pine Cone Mercantile

The next time you're visiting or passing through, don't miss the chance to lose yourself in this one-of-a-kind store. Right on Main Street in Downtown Schroon Lake and just a five minute drive from the I-87 Northway, It's a stop you won't want to miss. Take a stroll down to the Gazebo overlooking Schroon Lake and then pop across the street for a coffee at 9 Mile or next door to Flanagans for a beer and some good food and make a day of it!

When the first snowflakes fall, many of us start thinking about skiing, sledding, and ice skating. But have you considered birding? Sure, the songs and activity of spring and summer are exciting, and species diversity is also at an all-time high, but now, with a blanket of snow on the ground and chillier temperatures, birding is still just as much fun. Let me assure you, there are birds out there in winter. And some unique species can be found in the Adirondack Hub year-round!

Location, location, location

With so much wild land in the Adirondack Hub, there is plenty of room for birds to find a place to eat, roost, and spend their winters. You don’t even have to travel deep into the woods to find these species. There are many excellent roadside birding spots across the entire Adirondack Hub, especially in Minerva and Newcomb.

The reason the Adirondack Hub is such a fine place to bird is that it sits in some of the greatest boreal habitat in the Adirondacks. Boreal means “northern;” species found in boreal habitat are more frequently found in places like Canada. There is a holy boreal-trinity of species that birders often gravitate towards: Canada Jay, Boreal Chickadee, and Black-backed Woodpecker. On this day, our goal was to find all three. You’ll have to read on to see if we were successful.

Walking in TR’s shoes

I actually don’t know if this path is related to Teddy Roosevelt beyond a name, but the Roosevelt Truck Trail is a fantastic place to go for a hike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski. Coincidentally, TR loved the outdoors and has deep history in the Adirondacks, so I’d like to think he would have enjoyed this trail. We decided to combine a winter walk with some Roosevelt Truck Trail birding on this day.

Our group consisted of myself, two others, and one energetic dog. We opted to begin our walk at the southern entrance of the Truck Trail, off Route 28N, in the town of Minerva. The entire trail spans the gap betweenst Route 28N and Blue Ridge Road. Coming from the direction of Newcomb, there is a small gravel road just beyond the railroad tracks; we located it by an American Flag hanging near the entrance and coordinates are available on the DEC website. (A word of caution: this road may not be plowed in winter. It wasn’t on this day.)

Within minutes of passing the gate and starting the trail, we heard our first bird: a Black-backed Woodpecker. These birds are bigger than Downy Woodpeckers and maybe a little smaller than Hairy Woodpeckers. Black-backed Woodpeckers typically spend a lot of time in one spot, so listen for their drumming as you make your way through boreal forests. Chances are you’ll get a look at one if you hear the drumming. Since they stay in one spot for longer than most woodpeckers, it makes them a little easier to photograph, if they aren’t obscured by branches or other trees. We ended up seeing three Black-backed Woodpeckers on this trip.

However, the further we went along the trail, the less birds we saw. Soon, we stopped hearing them entirely and only tracks from Ruffed Grouse and snowshoe hare could be found. All three of us were a little surprised by the lack of bird activity since the following day had a snow storm prediction. Before a big storm, birds generally tend to quiet down, but we figured with so much advanced notice, they’d all be out foraging pre-storm. 

Our focus then became finding Ruffed Grouse since there were tracks everywhere. We thought maybe, if we were quiet enough, we could sneak up on one in a tree and get a good photo. In total, we flushed 5 different grouse.

We walked about 1.5 miles of the trail before deciding to head back. The birds weren’t very active and our dog was showing some signs of slowing down. (Of course, he had probably run 10-miles at this point, circling back and forth between us.) Birding in winter is not about finding a high diversity of species; it’s about quietly searching for the hardy residents who call the Adirondack forests home for the season. Unfortunately, we didn’t see or hear any Boreal Chickadees or Canada Jays. But in addition to the Black-backed Woodpeckers and Ruffed Grouse, we located Black-capped Chickadees, a Common Raven, and one Downy Woodpecker. 

The walk out was just as smooth as the walk in. The trail has some ups and downs, but nothing incredibly steep or challenging. We didn’t ski in today, but I’d like to return sometime this winter to ski the entire length (and hopefully find the bird species we missed!). We drove through all Adirondack Hub towns and noted that Common Redpolls were, well, common at a lot of feeders this year! If you’re looking for other birding spots in the Hub, check out the Town Beach in Schroon Lake, the Adirondack Interpretive Center in Newcomb, any of the roadside pull-offs in Minerva, or even the Frontier Town Campground in North Hudson. Keep a watchful eye for Common Redpolls, Red Crossbills, and Evening Grosbeaks. It's a big year for "winter finches."

While you’re out birding in the Adirondack Hub, check out some local dining options for take-out or dine-in, or shop local at one of the many stores in the area. Grab your binoculars and get out there today!