… 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!

 

 

As Christmas approaches I find myself reminiscing about Christmases past, remembering all the traditions that I shared with family and friends over the years. So many traditions and memories, but my favorites always included family time spent gathered around the fire, trees twinkling with colorful decorations, laughter, great food, and cold crisp air and snow.

Traditionally the kick off of the holiday season was shortly after Thanksgiving. My father and mother would bundle my brother and I up in warm clothes, and then load us in their big ole' green Ford pickup truck. My brother was too little to see out the windshield of the truck, so my parents would put him up on a little red foot stool next to my mom, and I would be straddling the stick shift on the floor. This would allow him to see out the window. Even though our family homestead had many acres of woods, it was heavy in pine and maple, so Dad would take the truck down Rt. 9 to Schroon Lake and we would head up to the top of Hoffman Mountain to travel down the Trout Brook Road past the Rocky Acres B&B. He would pull off on the side of the road, and we would all climb out of the truck and head up the side of the hill. For the next hour we would hike through the woods till we found the perfect balsam or spruce tree, then Dad would chop it down and my brother and I (merely 4 & 8 years of age) would attempt to help him haul it down the hill to the truck -- our hands becoming covered in spruce pitch.

Now the best part of this adventure, was getting the tree home and decorating it. Mother would pull out an assortment of boxes that held all the ornaments and lights, and seeing the ornaments was like welcoming old friends. Many of the ornaments that adorned our tree were passed down to my mom from her mother. These ornaments were made by my grandmother - some wooden or ceramic and painted, some crocheted, some sewn. Each one had a special meaning/memory and as I got older we would work together on making some new ornaments. I know this tradition is carried on even today, and that many of the Christmas trees through out the Schroon Lake Region are adorned with similar ornaments made by family members. They are special and remind of us of those we loved that have passed on. A tradition that is dear and close to our heart. Today my tree is adorned by the same ornaments my mom used that gram made, ornaments given to me from my best friend's mom's collection, and ornaments made by a life-long friend of my parents. My children have ornaments that were made by me, or my grandmother, that now adorn the trees in their own homes.

Of course, even with the beauty of our own tree, I still love to drive through the Schroon Lake Region and see all the outdoor decorations. No matter what size the house or business... small, medium or large... there is nothing more amazing than a building covered in beautiful lights on a crisp winter night. Everything twinkling against a crisp white backdrop, tree branches swaying in the breeze, the lights making both adults' and children's eyes as big as saucers.

Another wonderful tradition during the holidays is enjoying the company of family and friends. Over the years this has included visiting some of our favorite restaurants in Schroon Lake to dine together, or visiting each other's homes for a family gathering. There is nothing better then a table full of assorted foods. I recently was telling someone that one of the things I had missed while living away from Schroon Lake was the potluck meals. Some of the best food I have ever eaten over the years was made by family and friends right here in the Schroon Lake Region. Besides enjoying wonderful potluck dinners, some of the food traditions I grew up loving and still prepare for my own family is an assortment of homemade baked goods.

As a child growing up, my grandmother would turn in to a baking maniac during the holidays. She would make pies of all types, every flavor under the sun, including Apple, Cherry, Mincemeat, Chocolate Cream, Lemon Meringue, and so many others. Besides homemade pies, there were homemade quick breads such as banana walnut, zucchini, and apple bread. And she was the queen of making cookies....sugar cookies, hermit cookies, chocolate chip, and so much more. I, like many other women in Schroon Lake, have our mother's and grandmother's traditions to thank for our abilities to bake up a mean batch of holiday goodies for our family and friends. Recipes have been passed down through the generations!

The holidays are a special time in the Schroon Lake Region and I look forward to starting new traditions with my own family in our new home. I hope that they will come this holiday season to sit around the tree, and by the fire. I hope to buy an ole' fashion popcorn popper and make homemade popcorn over the fire while we all play board games and sip on hot chocolate while enjoying those amazing holiday treats. Maybe if they are lucky I will pull out my grandmother's Popcorn Ball recipe and make some traditional Adirondack Carmel Popcorn Balls for everyone.
Whatever you do with your family this holiday season, remember that the traditions are what make some of the greatest memories your family will hold. From my family to you and yours, we hope that you all have a wonderful and loving holiday!

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Getting off of the couch hurts.

It's not the emotional kind of pain that comes from the loss of a favorite pet or the cancellation of a beloved reality TV show — I still haven't reconciled how real The Simple Life was — it's the physical pain derived from a sedentary state that's often inspired by a long, frigid winter.

I've been through it before. I moved to Plattsburgh to attend college and to live close to the Adirondacks. That meant I spent summers hiking up mountains and the rest of the year hiking from lecture halls to the library with a backpack full of books. The notion of doing squat thrusts between ecology labs never dawned on me, so the non-college season always took some getting used to. Those first few hikes were rough, leg burning affairs that left me winded and cursing my way up the mountain.

After a couple of summers of that, I decided to whip myself into shape. I walked as fast as I could up Poke-O-Moonshine, a small, 2,180-foot foot mountain in the Champlain Valley. The 1.2 mile hike took me about an hour-and-a-half in late May. I proceeded to hike something like a dozen High Peaks and just as many smaller mountains until the fall semester began. The day before classes, I raced up Poke-O again and timed myself: 37 minutes. Not bad.

I was determined not to let myself slump back into another stiff-legged state of being, so I found ways to keep myself active even though I was busy. If it's looking like your first summer excursions are going to bring tears to your eyes, act now. It doesn't take long to warm up tense muscles, and you'll thank yourself later when you're cruising up the trail.

 

Running

Running can be painful on the best of days.

I hate running. It's boring and tedious, right? If you're nodding your head in agreement, read on.

I started running years ago to keep myself active, and I quickly noticed that I feel spectacularly energized after doing it. Even a 15-minute jog is enough to take the edge off of a long, tiring day. So what's the problem?

One day I decided to switch from jogging around town to trail running, and I had an epiphany: It wasn't the act of running that I despised, it was where I was running. Jogging along a trail is an interesting experience. You have to pay close attention to where your feet are going because there are obstacles everywhere and the dips, rises, bends, and stream crossings keep things lively. If the thought of running on pavement makes you cringe, give it a try.

In the summer, a decent pair of trail runners — running shoes with aggressive treads — do the job. In the spring and winter, add a set of Microspikes to the trail runners and you can jog on almost any surface. I can't say my revelation turned me into a born again runner, but it did add a mental element to the exercise that increased the fun factor exponentially.

Biking

This is how I feel when I ride my bike.

Sometimes the most obvious things are also the most overlooked. A walk to campus from my apartment took as long as 30 minutes. That was too long when I was pressed for time, but a bike ride usually clocked in at less than 10 minutes. The best part was it was faster than driving since I could avoid traffic by riding along the Saranac River trail. And to think that bike just sat in my apartment collecting dust for all of those years!

Biking to stay in shape doesn't have to involve day-long excursions. A backpack is ideal for picking up a few groceries for dinner, and casual after-work rides are great for relieving stress.

Don't let winter get you down

The best things in life are free.

The best way to beat stiff spring time muscles is to stay active all winter. You can start with short runs and bike rides before transitioning to bigger mountains, or you can just keep climbing the bigger mountains year round.
After graduating from college I was suddenly plagued by a plethora of free time, so it didn't take long for me to splurge on snowshoes and Microspikes.
Snowshoes are a great all-around piece of equipment. They'll get you out on the trails, prevent you from postholing, and they don't require any special skills to use. Microspikes are just as easy to use, but they're a bit more location specific. Strap them to your boots when there's too much ice for your snowshoes to grip, or when you're hiking mountains in the spring. I usually have a pair in my pack until early summer so I don't get turned around by an icy incline a quarter mile from the summit.

I recently bought Nordic skis to add an option to wintertime activities, and they were worth every penny. They take some getting used to, but if you've never glided down a backcountry hill after a fresh snowfall, you need to put that on your to-do list for next winter. Be sure to take a lesson to learn the proper techniques, and you'll be carving turns in no time.

If you need some tips on how to dress for winter and spring adventures, check out this blog on planning for an adventure.. With the proper gear and the right attitude, it's possible to transition into summer on a fresh pair of legs.

The Schroon Lake Region is filled with hikes of varying difficulty. You can also try climbing and biking!

 

 

I'm an avid hiker who hasn't ridden a mountain bike in more than a year. Then I heard the Schroon Lake Region calling.

Just off of Exit 29 on Interstate 87 is a network of beaten paths that lie just off the beaten path. The Town of North Hudson Multiple Use Trail System is a web of trails that are perfect for walking, running, and mountain biking, especially if the latter isn't your forte.

Heading south from the Adirondacks' High Peaks Region, I found the trails by taking a right at the end of Exit 29, followed by another right on Route 9, toward Schroon Lake. The parking area is located on a service road that's a right-hand turn just a minute or so after turning on Route 9.

Decisions, decisions

Two trail networks can be accessed from the dirt parking lot. "Trail center east" is across the road and encompasses 2.3 miles of trail, including a long singletrack loop. I opted to explore the 4.3-mile "trail center west," located on the parking area side of the road. Since the trails in this network are all between the road and the Schroon River, I decided to make the river my destination.

I grabbed a map from the kiosk and immediately saw that there is no direct path to the river. The trails wind every which way and frequently intersect each other, so there are dozens of combinations available.

I began on the West Intesection trail, which forms a rough circle that doesn't stray too far from the start. A few trails branch off of that, but I'll spare you the play-by-play. The best way to enjoy the North Hudson trails is to cruise them without much concern for direction. You'll never be far from the road, and the circular nature of the network lends itself to freeform navigation. Just be sure to heed signs that say "do not enter" and you'll be fine.

My meandering route took me on most of the trails in the system. There were steep downhill plunges that were well-marked with a warning, winding singletrack sections, a wonderfully breezy glide through a pine forest, and a cool riverside ramble.

Since many of the paths are wide, the canopy above them is open enough to let sunlight through, which promotes wildflower growth. Among the thick grass was a profusion of pinkish spring beauties and yellow blasts of common cinquefoil. In some spots the trail was lined with lush, green sphagnum moss beds that were decorated with the pale grey-greens of reindeer and coral lichen.

River ride

I passed an impressive stand of ostrich ferns before descending steeply into a hayscented fern meadow. Dipping out of the fernage, I rounded a bend and was met by the Schroon River and a startled woodcock — a small, Kiwi bird-looking creature that finds earthworms by stomping on the ground and cocking its head to listen for their subterranean movements — which flew for cover as soon as it saw me.

The river here has a short section of fast-moving water bookended by water that's practically still. A fun drop to the bank is precluded by a sign reminding visitors that they're entering the sensitive raparian zone — the flood-prone area along streams.

I took a break from my ride to enjoy the river, and discovered that this was a popular area. Racoon and great blue heron tracks lined the muddy beach. I rehydrated and was off, now making my way back to the trailhead.

My travels took a detour on a spur trail to the oxbow, which wasn't what I expected. Oxbows are horseshoe- (or oxbow-) shaped lakes that used to be a sharp bend in a meandering river. The Schroon Lake Region has a lot of these waterbodies, so many that from above it looks like an enormous horse walked through the area, and the Schroon River also has plenty of future oxbow lakes along its wandering course.

The oxbow accessed from the North Hudson trails is grown in, though, so it looks like a large, marshy area that's probably a delight for birdwatchers. I didn't have my binoculars and I was eager to get back in the saddle, so I continued on. After a few rights and lefts the parking area materialized through the trees and I was back at my car. I had managed to spend a couple of hours on the trails. It was a great introduction to mountain biking in the Schroon Lake Region, and a great way to take a break from hiking and see the forest from behind a set of handlebars.

The Schroon Lake Region is a great base camp for an Adirondack adventure. Climb a cliff, hike up a mountain, or paddle the numerous waterways — it all starts in Schroon Lake!

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This week in related ADK biking news:

Gnarl. Learning lingo, shredding track

Prime pedaling

Going down, down, down

Cycle Adirondacks: a week-long adventure

MTB for beginners

Biking the backroads

Try Tupper tri

For those of you who don’t know, it was recently my birthday. However, my mother-in-law, in her sweet, gift-giving spirit, informed me that I’m a really hard person to shop for. She’s not wrong. My favorite things in life are birding, eating pie, and skiing. I already have enough binoculars, spotting scopes, field guides, skis, helmets, poles, etc. to keep me busy, and, let’s face it, pies are hard to wrap. It got me thinking: where in the Adirondack Hub are the best Adirondack-themed birthday gifts from? Believe it or not, between woods and waters, there are some pretty awesome shops with locally-made, purely Adirondack products. And then plenty of other shops that can help outfit upcoming outdoor adventures with the latest gear. So, next year, if you’re looking for a present for me (my birthday is in the beginning of February), I suggest starting your search at one of these fine establishments. Hint, hint. Nudge, nudge.

Pine Cone Mercantile

I’d say the vibe of my house is modern, but with a rustic twist. So, really, anything from the Pine Cone Mercantile would fit in perfectly.

North Woods Bread Co.

North Woods Bread Co. is located at the Pine Cone Mercantile, and this is the closest you’re going to get on this list to buying me a birthday pie. The bread selection varies every time I visit, but I’ll take a loaf of anything, please! Or a carrot cake muffin with cream cheese filling. I’m not picky and will be entirely happy with any sweet thing delivered to me on my birthday. (If you really want to take me out for a birthday pie, let's go to Pitkin's for dinner and dessert because Marie's pies are simply the best.)

Adirondack General Store

On the quiet east shore of Schroon Lake is the Adirondack General Store. In addition to serving breakfast and lunch, selling fishing tackle and nightcrawlers, and having groceries, the Adirondack General Store is FULL of classic Adirondack gifts. Last time I was there, I saw a cute picture frame with a canoe on a river carved on the bottom. That’s a Janelle gift if I ever did see one.

Gokey’s Outlet Store

I’m really not sure how to describe Gokey’s, so just go there when there’s an auction this summer and bid on something really cool for me, okay? Plus, the Outlet Store has literally one of everything. It won’t be hard to find a gift here.

Adirondack Buffalo Company

Aside from being my favorite animal viewing location in the Adirondack Hub, Adirondack Buffalo Company has a unique store with great unique gifts! Even if you don’t want to buy something here, I’ll settle for a scenic drive to Blue Ridge Road just so I can see the buffalo. 

Frontier Town Gateway

New on the scene, Frontier Town Gateway is a great place to pick up some last minute gear before hitting the trails. And a good meal. I collect maps from all over, and Frontier Town Gateway has an entire aisle with maps and outdoor stuff.  

Pine Haven Cottage

Pine Haven Cottage is not open during winter, but, if I were shopping for me, I’d be there opening day this spring to purchase a pillow with a moose on it, hand-sewn and adorable.

Stirring Creations

Stirring Creations is a rustic furniture and homemade soap gift shop. Check with me first before buying any furniture (redecorating a home can be a bother sometimes), but a bar of handmade soap makes for a great gift. The best part? Stirring Creations’ soaps are specifically made for people with sensitive skin so they make your skin feel amazing. (Plus everything smells really good!)

Newcomb Cafe and Campground

For my last birthday my husband took me birding and out to breakfast. I’d like that to be replicated every year with breakfast at the Newcomb Cafe and Campground. The general store has a lot of products by local artisans in the Newcomb area, which would be a really special touch for an Adirondack birthday.

A NEW CANOE

I forgot to mention that I also love paddling. I know, I know. A new canoe is expensive, but something lightweight from the Adirondack Canoe Company or Hornbeck Boats would be the best present ever. Better yet, just drive me to Minerva, drop me off at one of the stores so I can test paddle canoes, and I’ll buy myself the perfect boat and paddle myself home somehow.

Bark Eater Outfitters

I’m a big fan of buying a shirt everywhere I go that says the name of the place. Help me add to my collection by purchasing me a shirt that screams Schroon Lake! Bark Eater Outfitters has a great collection of shirts, hats, and apparel that will help anyone embrace that Adirondack aesthetic.  

Happy birthday, Janelle!

So, there you have it. A pretty comprehensive list of places to shop for me for my birthday next year. I guess this list could be applied to other birthdays, too. Is your mom’s birthday coming up? Maybe book her a stay at a relaxing, lakeside motel! Does your best friend have a birthday next month? A gift card to Paradox Brewery will be a hit! Or find something interesting at the Towne Store. Get dad a bear sculpture from North Country Carvings. Are you out of ideas for your niece or nephew who already seem to own every single toy in existence? Take them candy shopping at Pit Stop Sweet Shop! The options are endless. And there’s no better place to spend your next birthday than the Adirondack Hub.