Ten Ways to Experience Fall in the Southern Adirondacks

The Southern Adirondacks in the fall is a destination that bursts with vibrant colors, crisp air, and endless outdoor adventures. As the leaves turn into a tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, the region offers a perfect blend of activities for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to soak in the serene beauty of autumn. Let’s explore the top 10 best things to see and do this fall in the Adirondack Hub!

1. Explore Great Camp Santanoni

Visit the historic Great Camp Santanoni via a scenic 5-mile hike or bike ride. Surrounded by vibrant fall foliage, the camp offers stunning views and a glimpse into the Gilded Age wilderness retreats. Great Camp Santanoni is also accessible via horse drawn wagon and, new this year, the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is offering individuals with disabilities to reserve and use a power wheelchair device free of charge. 

2. Apple and pumpkin picking at It's About Thyme Farm in Minerva

Enjoy apple and pumpkin picking at It's About Thyme Farm in Minerva. Set against colorful fall scenery, the farm also offers fresh produce and homemade goods, perfect for celebrating the season.

3. Explore the Upper Works

Discover the history and beauty of the Upper Works, a former mining village, now a gateway to the High Peaks. Hike through fall foliage to remote lakes and explore the ruins of the old ironworks with interpretive panels set along the gravel road where you have the opportunity to learn more about the history.

4. Enjoy a fall boat ride around Schroon Lake

Take a peaceful boat ride on Schroon Lake, where the calm waters reflect the stunning autumn colors. Whether you choose to paddle or ride, it’s a serene way to enjoy the fall landscape.

5. Hike Mount Severance

Hike the 2-mile trail to Mount Severance for panoramic views of the Adirondack peaks and Schroon Lake. This beginner friendly trail is perfect for fall, offering beautiful foliage and rewarding vistas.

6. Fall shopping along Main St. in Schroon Lake

Stroll along Main Street in Schroon Lake for unique shops and boutiques. Fall brings cozy atmospheres and seasonal items, including local crafts, autumn decor, and warm clothing. Be sure to check out the new Schroon Lake Department Store!

7. Enjoy some of the best fall events

Experience the Southern Adirondacks’ through fall events like Teddy Roosevelt Weekend, Handlebarley, and Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival, all set against the vibrant fall backdrop.

8. Sip on delicious fall brews while taking in the views at Paradox Brewery

Head to Paradox Brewery in North Hudson to enjoy seasonal brews that taste like fall, while taking in the stunning fall views from their outdoor patio.

9. Fall camping adventure

Embrace the cooler temperatures and fewer crowds with a fall camping trip. Popular spots like Pharaoh Lake offer serene landscapes, warm campfires, and starry skies. Or stay at any one of the scenic campgrounds. Be sure to stop into Frontier Town Gateway on your way through to stock up on all your camping essentials. 

10. There’s more to explore in the Upper Hudson Recreation Hub

Explore more of the Adirondacks! The Upper Hudson Recreation Hub offers fall adventures from hiking and paddling to wildlife watching. Enjoy the autumn beauty with fewer visitors in this outdoor haven.

Whether you decide to experience just one activity from our list or all ten, you won’t want to miss the chance to create unforgettable memories during the best fall adventure right here in the Adirondack Hub!

… on an 8+ Mile Lake

It’s a gorgeous late 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.

Munchies and Magic

Since we were heading down from the north, we took Exit 28 - which put us in a perfect spot to pick up our picnic lunch at the Mount Severance Country Store (now closed, but try out the Adirondack General Store in Schroon Lake). Located on the outskirts of town (probably a mile or so from the main retail stretch), this has always been one of my favorite stops. Somehow on long trips I always find an excuse to take a break right around this point - I am 100% sure it has everything to do with the many choices of homemade baked goods they offer; from muffins and donuts to cookies, bars, and what I like to call 'magic bread' - so nicknamed as I have no idea how they get this delicious bread to be so light and fluffy, but I will buy a loaf every single time. Every time.

Walking in 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 magic. I then got into a bit of a debate with the gentleman behind the counter: he likes his bread crusty and a bit harder; after I took my turn extolling the virtues of the loaf in question - he finally conceded, this bread (that I love!) would be okay with spaghetti and sauce. 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, a sort-of plan in hand; we headed north toward the 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. Foliage Season is about to hit, and Schroon Lake deserves another visit: while it might be getting a bit chilly to dive in, 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 (and daycare) - that much I guarantee.

Submitted by Guest Blogger: Troy Thomas

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After a blend of hazelnut/chocolate coffee and a hearty, thoughtfully prepared, ham and cheese omelette breakfast, I set out early for my outing. Not five minutes into my journey, poised on the side of the road is a doe, regal in its timid stance, waiting to cross the road.

I am grateful she saw me and I her. I remind myself that deer move from dusk until dawn, and this silvery blue autumn cloud cover has stretched the dawn hours on this crisp morning.

So now, with a heightened sense of things that only nature can provide, I conclude that in the Adirondacks you are constantly reminded that what you see is not a statue or a billboard — it is real, it has breath, and this is its home.

Back to nature

My alertness, fed by coffee and in no small part the suddenness of the deer sighting, I safely pull over onto a provided lookout. Everywhere I glance is a painting.

I capture a frosted tree, its branches bending to a wind that is not there, as if frozen in a more tumultuous time.

There’s a picturesque drive from any direction as I travel through time. My destination, the Adirondack Interpretive Center in Newcomb, was once part of New France.

Like all border towns, a mystery, on the edge of some map, but it’s that edge that keeps these places alive, the cliche trading post scene in westerns or adventure films to gather up supplies and obtain tips and knowledge of the local dialect and terrain for the trek ahead.

A historical intrigue is piqued in my imagination, but for now the sun breaks through, evergreen reflections dazzle and silver frosted reeds burn into a gold mist.

Choice of trails

The Adirondack Interpretive Center (AIC) is located at 5922 Route 28N in Newcomb, New York. There is ample paved parking. The trails at the AIC welcome dogs, but here in particular a sign asks that you leash your four-legged friends to protect nature’s other animals, like the beaver and geese. A laminated note at the trailhead I chose tells me that beaver have built a dam under the bridge, and the east end has flooded and is now impassable without proper footwear.

After looking down at my shoes, the original plan is ditched. I sign in and turn around to set my sights on Rich Lake and the other Peninsula Trails, its moss covered entrance only a few steps away. I decide on the Rich Lake Trail, so I follow the red markers. Each trail has its own color coded markers to follow.

It’s time to stretch your legs whether you have two or four. The trail descends into a rich-smelling wood, and upon crossing a bridge I catch myself smiling for no apparent reason. I’m a child again, enjoying abundant rock, fallen trees, and lacy hemlock.

Is it any wonder that a cooped-up dog leaps onto all fours at the word "walk." It just feels good, it’s fun. How many times as a child did I hear from a parent, “Get outside and play.” Now looking back, it's not bad advice.

The Rich Lake Trail is only a mere 0.6 mile warm-up trek, but with payoffs around every corner as time slows. I gaze onto Rich Lake, with Goodnow Mountain in the distance.

Clubmoss, hollyhock, goldthread, partridge berries, and hemlock present nature’s deconstructed Christmas tree. The frost creates a holiday mood.

Partridge berries.
My lungs take in and exchange the fresh, clean air that feels measured out and dialed in specifically for me. I find myself actually taking time to breathe, a natural instinct I catch myself forgetting to do at the gym or indoor home workout. I spend a lot of time in my life sitting, but here my gait corrects and quickens, and my endorphins surge into noticeable positivity as I move on through my sun-speckled path.

Hemlock held in nature’s A-frame.

I try not to deprive myself of this. I adjust my footwear from hiking sandals in summer, hiking shoe or boot in fall and spring, to snowshoes in winter. I round the path, and what appears to be an ancient monolith or maybe a giant dinosaur tooth towers into view.

Laminated information cards along the way quell my romance with archeology and prehistoric dentistry. That is how I know this rock was placed here by a glacier only 13,000 years ago.

I’m 6-foot-2, you do the math.

Choice of stops

Park benches are along the way to sit and experience the view in slow, deep fashion. Always vibrant greens and blues and their reflections are to be discovered long after the autumn peaks.

Launch into nature, engage your body and mind, set your imagination and your spirit free. Just off the path, stop and explore the banks to see new sights at every turn, like the mirrored clouds seen here, or a fallen birch tree’s glowing white bark in the sunlight just below the surface of the water.

The Rich Lake Trail and Peninsula Trails and all others here are 1 mile and under. This makes it easy to tie them all together for an extended hike, which will warrant that beautifully put together picnic basket I now have in my mind.

I stop and look ahead and see more lake views and plenty of sunlight ahead for this day. Invigorated, I decide rather than make my return trip a backtrack I will continue on and complete the loop instead, thus extending my hike. I pause to soak up some sun and drink my favorite bottled water. I feel different, on a molecular level. My lungs are not the same pair I brought with me, something about this mountain air regenerates me.

I can return to my life, significant other, family, friends, job, hobbies, passions, all with a renewed sense, see everyone in a new light, the light I bring to the table now shines brighter on them as I bring my new light into the totality of all the light in my life. I can look with better eyes now.
I trek on.
Start your rewewal with a lovely stay. Stoke up for another hike with a fine meal. There is so much great hiking.

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This week in other ADK related news:

Sit, coast, ride

Grinch be gone

Naughty or nice

Cold-weather options

Old genes

Duck, duck, goose

It's almost inconceivable that Schroon Lake can sometimes fly under the ice fishing radar, shoved off into the corner by the sprawling waters of nearby Lake Champlain and its incredible winter perch fishery, as well as the smelt that annually spark the creation of mini ice hut villages on places like Bulwagga Bay.

But make no mistake, Schroon Lake does, in fact, have a following of its own among hard-water anglers in the know. The reason is simple: the fishing can be fantastic.

I fell in love with the lake more than a decade ago when longtime friend and Adirondack guide John Gereau introduced me to its ice fishing wonders. We pulled three fine lake trout through the ice one January morning, and I was a believer from that day forward. And the lake didn't disappoint, alternately yielding landlocked salmon, perch, smelt, and northern pike in subsequent outings.

I've always been enamored with the 4,000-acre lake's salmonid population (lakers and landlocks). To me, lake trout and landlocked salmon are symbols of pure, cold water and the northwoods. So over the years I've pretty much ignored Schroon's perch possibilities, unless it meant simply grabbing a jigging rod after I'd set a few tip-ups for the lakers and landlocks. The lake – actually the Schroon Lake Fish and Game Club – also hosts a hugely popular ice fishing derby in early March each year, an event that includes a spaghetti dinner and raffles and has become a tradition for scores of hard-water anglers.

What I have learned along the way after fishing Schroon Lake for a few years is, arrive early. And I mean early. Cutting holes in the dark is normal for me, and that first hour after sunrise often seems to be my most productive. If that means staying home at night and getting to bed early, so be it. That's really not a big deal for me, even on traditional times like New Year's Eve when going out and staying out is the norm for many. A few years back, I never made it to midnight, choosing instead to forego Dick Clark's Times Square celebration and get some sleep, the truck packed for an early-morning departure down the road to Schroon, where safe ice awaited.

Paula came along on this outing, when temperatures were fairly comfortable as we trudged across the town beach entry point to a likely looking spot where we could set some tip-ups and enjoy the sunrise. I wondered how many anglers were struggling after a night of ringing in the New Year; I thought maybe I could sell aspirin for $5 a pop.

No wind on this morning, which in my mind was a great way to ring in the New Year. Our tip-ups were set at varying locations and depths. In winter, the lake trout and salmon could be cruising anywhere in the water column. But when our first flag popped shortly after sunrise, I was fully convinced it was a big pike that consumed our live shiner bait in the shallowest of our tip-up sets. It was off and running, threatening to run the entire reel out of its braided line. It was time to set the hook and see what was going on down there.

A couple minutes later, and after a dicey cat-and-mouse game at the hole, we flopped onto the ice my biggest Schroon laker ever, topping 9 pounds. Not a bad way to start the New Year. I wondered where it would stand on the leaderboard had I landed it in early March during the derby.

We stuck around for a few hours before deciding to return home to OD on college football bowl games. The big laker – this one I took home for the grill – drew some attention as we hauled our sled off the ice. To me, it was just a reminder of the possibilities Schroon Lake offers every time you walk on its water in winter.

If you're looking to get out on the ice this winter, check out one of the many guides in the region. And when you need to warm up after a long day on the ice, you can visit one of Schroon Lake eateries, where you'll find something for everyone's taste.

Satellite-Projected Image of Blue Line to be Implemented

Schroon Lake, N.Y. — Originally proposed in 1885, the installation of a visible boundary to define the borders of the Adirondack Park is finally a reality.

The new border will consist of a satellite-projected image of a blue line, designed to commemorate the blue ink that was used to define the Park boundaries when they were first drawn on New York state maps leading up to the Park’s official establishment in 1892.

The Blue Line Projected Perimeter Project was spearheaded by the Adirondack Cartologists Society, and it has been been supported widely. Project proponents boast that the highly visible, defined boundary provides several benefits.

First, as a tourism destination since the late 1800s, the Adirondack Park’s lack of entrance gates has long been a source of confusion for leisure travelers to the region. Destination marketing representatives confirm that confusion exists. “Visitors often complain that they want to brag about entering the park, but are not sure when exactly they cross the Blue Line,” said Jimmy McKanta, president of the Adirondack tourism bureau. “With the increased importance of word of mouth promotion via social media, that ‘bragging’ is of more marketing importance than ever before."

Perimeter Project committee member Dave Shore was responsible for acquiring the grant funding for the development of the graphics and the actual satellite technology. Shore touts the maintenance-free nature of the projected Blue Line. “A line that is painted or otherwise physically drawn on the ground would require caretakers,” he said. “The projected blue line will show on TOP of the snow and leaves, eliminating the need for shoveling or raking.”

Wildlife advocates are also in favor of the project, highlighting the benefits of a purely visible blue line versus a physical boundary with access gates. “We are pleased that once the Projected Perimeter is in place, it will not affect wildway corridors,” said John Axis of the Adirondack Black Bear Society. Although the organization has expressed interest in a physical border to the Park as a checkpoint for things such as the transfer of invasive species, and firewood from outside the park, they agree that the positives outweigh the negatives. “Once out of hibernation, the bears, and all other animals for that matter, will be free to leave the Park.”

While the project has been met with unprecedented support for an initiative of its significance, some groups have expressed concern. The Park in the Dark Coalition, a local environmental group that seeks to protect the land inside the Blue Line from any increased light pollution, has made some proactive suggestions. “We’d like to suggest that at the very least, a darker blue within the electromagnetic spectrum is used,” said Willie Rightway, a representative from the Coalition. “That caveat would be appreciated, in order to keep the wavelengths of visible light down to a reasonable level.”

Elected officials see the projected Blue Line as having potential economic benefits. “This Projected Perimeter could have a built-in revenue component,” said Mayor Rabideer of the Saranacs. “A visitor Park Pass could be introduced, perhaps with a projected Blue Line-activated QR code. Those without one would be able to pay for them at strategically placed electronic kiosks. Passholders would earn a list of benefits, including 6er and 46er trail access.”

The Projected Perimeter Project committee has not yet finalized a Blue Line time line, but anticipates implementation no later than the 150th anniversary of the Adirondack Park’s establishment.*

For more information about the Blue Line Projected Perimeter Project, contact the Adirondack Cartologists Society via GPS or visit adirondacksusa.com.

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*The preceding story is fabricated in celebration of April Fools day, popular for the commission of good-humored practical jokes of varying sophistication.

 

The Schroon Lake Region events calendar has a few choice late summer events filling out the remainder of the season. On a weekly basis, some summertime favorites include arts, dancing and music.

DROP IN ON SOME ACOUSTICS

On Monday nights, stop on by the Boathouse Theater for some great acoustic music at the Monday Night Acoustic Music Jam. Many of our local favorites on the music scene gather at this weekly jam session to share their talents with each other - as well as the public. New folks are always welcome, so if you’re visiting and have some talent, don't be shy - join in! Or just come by and listen. Bring your chairs and a picnic. The Boat House is on Dock Street and the sessions begin at 7 pm every Monday through October 5th.

TAKE HOME SOME REAL ADIRONDACK ART

On Thursday, September 3rd, don’t miss the last of the Adirondack Artists & Crafters shows in downtown Schroon Lake. They’ve filled the parking lot at the Town Hall each week over the summer with some of our region's finest artists and crafters. Don’t miss this last chance to pick up a truly unique piece of Adirondack craft to bring home!

CELEBRATE THE ROUGHEST RIDER, TEDDY ROOSEVELT

On Labor Day weekend get your history hats on and join in the fun for Newcomb’s annual Teddy Roosevelt Days. Newcomb holds the distinction of being the area in which Vice President Teddy Roosevelt learned the grim news that President McKinley had been shot and was dying. During his arduous trip out of the wilderness, Roosevelt became President of the United States when McKinley died on September 14, 1901, after having been shot by an assassin in Buffalo, New York, on September 6th.

A big list of events are on the schedule for this much-anticipated 3-day annual event on September 11 - 13, 2015, including music, reenactments, fireworks, food, outdoor demonstrations and much more.

OUTBOARD MOTORHEADS, TAKE NOTE!

If you’re one of those old outboard motor buffs, don’t miss the Antique Outboard Motor Swap Meet in Schroon Lake on Sunday, September 13th. There will be experts in all areas of this very cool hobby of collecting antique motors. There’s no charge for admission nor to display or sell. The event takes place beginning at 9 a.m. at the Town Boat Launch in Schroon Lake.

MARATHONERS THIS IS FOR YOU

As the fall leaves reach peak color, Schroon Lake welcomes the many participants in the Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival on September 26th and 27th. This long-standing fall tradition brings thousands of marathon runners to the region. Participants run on one of the most beautiful marathon courses in the Northeast on Sunday, September 27th. Not quite ready to hit the course? Come and cheer on the runners and get inspired.

The Marathon Distance Festival includes a full day of shorter 5K, 10K and Kids Fun Runs on Saturday. With lots of charity options for the entire weekend, you can race and do good at the same time.

For spectators at all our events there is lots to do in Schroon Lake, especially during peak fall foliage. Take advantage of a local hike and make sure to patronize some of our favorite restaurants, shops, taverns and our awesome brewery!

 

This beautiful Wednesday evening has me headed south to the town of Schroon Lake and the Seagle Music Colony—easy to get to but tucked away in the woods. Tonight is opening night for "Little Women."

I have been to this venue once several years ago for the company's production of "Crazy for You" but the Seagle Music Colony is celebrating its 97th season and I regret not having made it to more shows in Schroon Lake. I have seen several of the shows on tour at the Lake Placid Center for the Arts over the years and while I was checking out the details on this show, I noticed that the Seagle Music Colony is touring the opera, "Little Red Riding Hood" and will be bringing it to Lake Placid on August 1. The Seagle Colony has extended its summer season into the fall and, as a result, this opera is also available to bring to North Country schools. I believe Keene Central School (where my son attends) will be one of the schools presenting it to students, through the sponsorship of the not-for-profit East Branch Friends of the Arts. (But I digress.)

I arrive about 50 minutes before curtain time and General Director Tony Kostecki informs us that there is a lecture going on in the adjacent building. My friend and I scurry over and are pleased to catch some of Director Richard Kagey's talk about the origins of this opera and how much author Louisa May Alcott drew from her own life for the novel of the same name. We learn quite a bit about the author's feminist leanings and transcendentalism. The room is packed and the audience is eager to hear the real-life parallels between the two.

The production director states that some of the opera is extremely tuneful, and some is not. "It is very text driven," Kagey says. He goes on to explain that although this opera is in English, there will be "super titles" displayed. In fact, he warns that there is a tongue-in-cheek acknowledgement of the "super titles" in the lyrics in Act II of the opera, which Kagey makes clear is strictly the invention of the man who wrote the opera, Mark Adamo, and has nothing to do with Alcott's work. The director shares his enthusiasm for the opera and his company, "The cast has done a great job with it. They're the right age. For me it's been a really interesting journey." Even though this is the second time he has directed this piece, he is still finding new things the second time around and that it is "wonderful to revisit the piece."

The room we are seated in for the lecture is obviously a rehearsal hall for the cast who Kagey has referred to as: "young." But don't confuse young for inexperienced because the cast that vocalizes "Little Women" for us tonight is nothing less than professional and each one is extremely talented, as evidenced by substantial biographical program notes.

The opera opens with Jo at home in the Marsh attic and Laurie, Jo's long-time male friend and neighbor, bursting in to explain his marriage to Jo's youngest sister, Amy. Not the way most "Little Women" scenarios unfold but a clever way to begin and it works. Jo then relates her narrative through flashback. The opera focuses on Jo, her desire not to grow up, the love stories that she struggles against, and how these love stories engulf her.

The two hours go by quickly and the director is correct, some of it is tuneful, some of it is not. In fact, there is a number in Act II sung by Aunt Marsh and Jo that reminds me very much of Stephen Sondheim's "Into the Woods."

"Little Women" at Seagle Music Colony will be over by the time you read this, but upcoming shows include Mozart's "Don Giovanni" and Sondheim's "Sweeney Todd." Some of the company members will be presenting "Hooray for Hollywoood: A Revue of Music from the Movies" and "Little Red Riding Hood" at various venues in the Adirondacks.

To get dates and times and learn more about the magic of Seagle Music Colony, click through to the web site. For more on the wide-ranging arts events in the Adirondacks this summer go to the Events page.

 

Kathleen Recchia has been enjoying the arts in the Adirondacks for about 20 years—both as observer and participant (acting, directing, and producing). She also enjoys cross-country skiing, juggling, and hosting visitors to the area at her bed & breakfast in Jay. 

 

In Newcomb there is a world of forest and some superb views. The spring bonus snow we got last weekend made a hike up Goodnow Mountain even better than expected. 

The heavy snow that fell the week before had been sitting for a few days and made a sturdy base so we were able to climb without snowshoes. Three inches of mega-crystalline super-fluff on the surface made everything twinkle.

The trailhead for Goodnow is well marked, just a few miles west of the village of Newcomb and the Adirondack Interpretive Center. Students from SUNY's College of Environmental Science and Forestry maintain the trail.The snow covered most of their work but the bridges felt sturdy under foot and made nice patterns as we crossed.

This trail is a beautiful woodland path. It starts low and climbs gradually so you can look around and appreciate the forest. There are numerous small brooks that add nice sound effects, gurgling to life after being muffled all winter by the snowpack.

We flushed a few grouse and took a close-up look at a skinny little spider that was probably hoping for some snow fleas to eat. None were apparent—the temperature was around 20 F.

As we got closer to the top we came through a saddle that was the only place we considered putting on the snowshoes we had carried. For one hundred yards we trudged through knee deep drifts where clearly the wind had blown with force and piled up the dry snow the previous night.  

From the saddle we reached the old barn. Guidebooks tell that the Anna and Archer Huntington who once owned the land logged with horses and this dilapidated barn is what remains. Above the cabin we passed through the little col and then up to the summit, where the fire tower surprised my companions even though they new it would be there.  

Fire towers to me are elegant in a mechanical way. The stairs can have a rickety feeling but the cables hold tightly. At around 60 feet in height, the tower at Goodnow is one of the higher ones still standing. From it you can see a 360-degree wow when the sky is clear, which fortunately it was last weekend.

There are very few places where hikers can get a comparable view for the amount of effort it takes to climb the 1000 feet up this mountain.The sky had opened with sunshine for us and we could see all the way to the High Peaks in the north and across the much-discussed Essex Chain of Lakes to the south. On the top level of the tower we got our bearings and identified the distant peaks with the help of the interpretive panel.  

We didn't investigate the ranger's cabin. It hasn't been used for fire observation since 1979 but I've read that research is being done on canopy cover from the fire tower. The solar panels on the ranger's cabin must be powering the remote camera and other instruments. Photos of the forest from above could tell scientists about changes in leaf-out timing from year to year.  

After an excellent lunch, (Why hike without good food?) we descended. Inspired by some great fisher tracks we bushwhacked and found interesting scent posts and tracks that danced down a fallen tree, eventually leading to a brook and putting us back on the trail.  

Goodnow is a great hike in any season. The view is outstanding, the fire tower is historic and the trail is easy on the legs. We were about an hour and a half up and the same coming down, including stops to examine lots of things both ways. We planned to ski some of the AIC trails but will have to come back when we have more time. 

The WHOLE time, it was just Kevin, Katie, a couple ravens, a few chickadees and me.

Ever since I hiked to Oxshoe Pond last winter, I've wanted to go back to the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness and tackle its namesake mountain.

We decided to take advantage of a sunny day last weekend. And though there are not-quite-winter conditions yet, cold but no real snow accumulation, I thought we might see SOMEone on the trail.

So, on Sunday morning, my husband and I packed up our snacks, extra warm gear, microspikes, headlamps and our dog Katie and headed to Schroon Lake.

There are a number of interconnected ways via different trailheads to get to the Pharaoh Mountain trail, but we decided to try the shortest possibility; which is about 8 miles round trip.

Depending on the conditions and your vehicle, it's possible to drive to the trailhead at Crane Pond via Crane Pond Road. We were in our minivan (yes, I know; and we don't even have any kids), and the road is dirt, with quite a lot of bumps and icy spots, so we didn't quite make it all the way to the pond. We stopped at a pull off and hiked about a half mile the rest of the way up the road to the pond itself. When we got there, there were two big SUV's, so we knew there were other parties on the trails somewhere.

I had been at this junction when I hiked from the Short Swing Trail to Oxshoe previously, so I recognized the walkway to the beginning of the trail. A few yards after we passed Crane Pond, we spotted the trail register and signed in. It appeared that there were two parties, both camping overnight since the day before; one at Oxshoe Pond, the other at Pharoah - not specifically at the lake or the mountain. We anticipated running into them for the next 4 hours.

This area seems nothing like most of the High Peaks trails. Sure, there's trees and DEC trail signs, but the forest FEELS different. The trees are a mix of old growth giant pines left from the last timber harvest, and newer growth. And it's an easier outing; the terrain is moderate - not "High Peak" vertical. This is a walk in the Park.

Or so I thought.

We passed the junction of the trail to Oxshoe Pond pretty quickly (the sign said .7 miles from Crane Pond), and headed toward Pharaoh Mountain - another 2.3 miles. (The sign also said that the ascent was 1,457, I saw on our way back.)

I love hiking in the Adirondacks this time of year; with no snow on the trail, the greens of the conifers and abundant mossy coverings seemed brilliant. It was oddly quiet - with only the sound of chickadees here and there. We followed the well-defined trail, which was fairly easy walking until the last half mile or so. That's where the 1,500' ascent began.

The trail at this point could be called "moderate" in difficulty. And luckily, we had brought along our microspikes just in case there were icy conditions on the trail near the summit. They are the "equalizers", making a challenging, slippery, hands-on-the-deck traverse into a comfortable climb. Hiking trails often become the path of least resistance for any flowing water, so it's likely to run into icy sections this time of year. We donned our equalizers after realizing the section was longer than a few steps. Katie brought her built-in spikes, and was able to navigate around the ice better than we were.

We soon reached the summit, which afforded spectacular views of Crane Pond and Schroon Lake and beyond. Kevin, being an avid rock climber, knew that there was a much sought-after ice climb on the opposite side of the mountain, so he went exploring a bit while I ate some more snacks and took pictures. I could see and hear a few ravens in the direction he headed - the only other sound we had heard aside from the chickadees. There was virtually no wind - a good thing - but I was cooling down from inactivity and added layers (always bring extra layers and wind protection!), prepping for the descent.

Kevin wasn't able to find the cliff from this location; it is typically accessed from a bushwacking trail from the town of Adirondack on the opposite side of Schroon Lake. We packed up and headed back down. The trip back down any trail always seems shorter; and it did go a bit faster than the ascent.

When we passed the Oxshoe Pond Trail sign again, I wondered where the other hikers were. One of the two SUV's was gone when we reached Crane Pond. We hadn't seen a soul the entire day! We ambled back down to the minivan, about 5 hours after we had left it.

I then mentioned that I wished I had a cheeseburger. That suggestion was all it took. We drove straight down Schroon Lake's classic resort Main Street and stopped in front of Pitkin's Restaurant. A couple was exiting the front door just as we entered, and we saw that we were, again, the only people around in this classic diner-style eatery.

A friendly voice from the back said - "sit wherever you like!" We chose a booth, and were immediately provided with menus, on which I spied the bacon cheeseburger right away.

We ordered our comfort food and waited approximately 3 seconds and our plates were in front of us. I didn't actually time it, but I believe it was about 2 minutes later that we had stuffed all the homemade goodness in, and, satisfied without adding dessert, swiftly got our check.

I knew that the restaurant had been there for a while, so I asked the waitress (the only other person we'd seen all day) if there was any printed information about the place that I could read. She said, no, but they were celebrating 105 years of consecutive business this year, and the current owners have been running Pitkins for about 60 of those years!

We couldn't have planned it better. This deserted weekend hike adventure is an anomaly - but we were psyched to have the entire Pharaoh Lake Wilderness to ourselves for the day! 

Once again, Gore Mountain has been working hard on major improvements for the new season. Improvements include increased and nature-friendly snowmaking capacity, a two-story expansion of the lodge, and trail improvements, along with the return of favorite events.

Last year brought a complete renovation of the original 1967 gondola unloading station. The new Straight Brook Lodge has a warming room, restrooms, and vending machines for a quick snack at the tables and benches. There is a bigger gear shop, children’s Mountain Adventure space, and a new "family restroom" for parents with young children.

The results of the big glade cleanup means all 28 glades are ready for freestylers, including "The Trench," the newest glade addition and the second with all-natural features.

Corduroy mornings

Celebrate the most terrain in New York state with Gore's expanded trails, which now cover 42 miles and 439 acres. That means more grooming, so two new machines joined the grooming fleet. Say goodbye to that unfavorable hump at the bottom of Cloud/Ruby Run. Now the entry into the Saddle is smoother and faster.

Gore kicks off the event season with Nordic Fest and Learn to Cross-Country Ski Day on December 8, 2018. The next day will kick off Season Passholder Appreciation Week. Then, on the Dec. 15, it's the Gore Mountain Snowshoe Race.

Up the children's skills with Gore's special Christmas Holiday Camp and MLK Weekend Holiday Camp, designed for children aged 4-12 years. This program includes the child's lift ticket, lunch, and supervision each day. There are classes for skiing and snowboarding, or choose personalized instruction.

For midweek savings, it's the return of Why Not Wednesdays. Get savings on lift tickets by presenting a ticket seller with any unopened Coca-Cola product, which includes Dasani water, Minute Maid, Nestea, Barq's, or Canada Dry.

January 20, 2018, brings fireworks and a torchlight parade with the Torchlight Parade & Fireworks Spectacular.

Find out more with the Event Calendar.

Cozy atmosphere

There are four new renovated and expanded onsite lodges. Get tickets and lockers at the Base Lodge, which also have four different dining options. Northwoods Lodge is the center for rentals and children's programs. The mid-mountain Saddle Lodge has the choice between full-service and food court style dining. Straight Brook Lodge at Gore's summit is a brand-new place to warm up with lovely views and new snacks.

There will be two-level additions to double the size of the Tannery Pub & Restaurant, with a complete renovation and expanded kitchen. The lower level addition will be headquarters for the popular Season-Long Mountain Adventure programs for kids.

Nature, first

Sometimes, Gore can show their eco-friendliness with smaller things, like the composting toilets in the lodge at the summit, or the new ChargePoint stations for electric cars. Other times, it's about the big things, like building the largest dedicated ski resort solar array in the US. Either way, Gore is committed to renewable energy and environmental sustainability.

Gore has won the esteemed Golden Eagle Award for Overall Environmental Excellence, the industry’s most prestigious honor for recognizing resort environmental programs. They have chosen equipment to create high-efficiency snowmaking, searched out locally produced foods for their kitchens, and made trail modifications with the goal of conserving energy. The recent redevelopment of the historic North Creek Ski Bowl has revamped the trails with earthen freestyle features and other environmentally-friendly approaches.

Of course, all great winter recreation is about the snow. Gore's Sunlight Into Snow program conserves natural resources and ensures guest satisfaction with a major overhaul to the snowmaking system with the latest technologies, focusing on key trails and the ability to respond to real-time weather changes.

As always, Gore Mountain's greatest commitment is to serving up a good time, on or off the slopes.

Book at a charming B&B or inn in Schroon Lake and experience their hometown dining. Explore the Events Calendar.