Where should we eat?

What's for dinner?

In my family, that's probably one of the most repeated phrases I hear, running in close competition with: "What's for lunch?" and "Can we eat now?" Really. We love to eat out, try new places and new dishes, and visit old favorites.

When hitting Schroon Lake, it's always a debate on where we'll dine. It honestly depends on who I have in tow, what outdoor activities we have in mind, and if we're staying the night. If it's my little guy, we'll probably hit Main Street; if it's my big guy, we're more apt to hit the Brewery. Sometimes we'll head out for pizza, sometimes seafood, sometimes simply a picnic lunch complete with a locally-made beer pretzel and a tasty sno-ball gathered from the beach food truck.

Right now I'm pretty hungry, and it's a toss-up of where I'd like to go. I probably shouldn't have started browsing these pics from a few of my favorite past blogs - mmm homemade family recipes and delicious pies or inventive wood-fired creations and sassy drinks, where shall I head next? Check out these highlights to get your tastebuds watering!

Home is where the heart is

I love to eat out. Possibly because, contrary to my son's belief that I am the 'world's best baker,' I am a horrible cook. (Oliver is 6, so I figure I can get away with holding my title for just a few more years before he discovers the truth.) However, I am not a solo diner by nature. I like the social aspect of a restaurant experience — I want to chat about life issues, debate hot topics, and sample my companions' meals. If I am alone, I usually opt to grab something quick and snack on the go. So, as I head to Pitkin's Restaurant in downtown Schroon Lake, I am a wee bit out of my element. But I am on an adventure, and my 2016 bucket list includes overcoming my shyness. So today I can, and will, eat alone. Dang it.

Of course, here's the thing about Pitkin's: Every time I walk in the door, I feel welcome. If you adhere to the old saying "home is where the heart is," Pitkin's slogan could easily be "Welcome to Marie's home."

Breakfast of my (childhood) dreams

Honestly, whenever I drive past Pitkin's I am instantly transported back to my youth. Growing up I spent at least six to eight weeks each year at our primitive camp on Hoffman Mountain. As a child, after two or three days without running water or electricity, I was always ecstatic to hear my dad announce we were going into town for breakfast. This meant one thing, and one thing only — Pitkin's. The family-run restaurant was our favorite place, and the fact that we were always greeted with a smile was probably one of the reasons.

After years of doing breakfast here, we had our 'usual' down pat. My dad would order eggs over easy and sausage with a side of wheat toast, and coffee light and sweet. I waffled (not literally) — my choice was either the delicious pancakes with crispy bacon or a bacon and cheese omelet with a side of hash browns. And that last side, my friends, I have never been able to find better anywhere else. Hash browns -— not home fries — shredded, browned delicately and oh, so good. I still randomly order them when I see them on a menu, but never have they lived up to what Pitkin's served up for the formative years of my childhood.

By the time I graduated high school, my father had started building his dream retirement home on our five wild acres, and before I graduated college he had permanently changed his address to Old Sweeney Farm Rd. And, while his camp was no longer primitive in nature (we even had indoor plumbing!), it was still always a treat for us to head into town for a meal when I came to visit. It was a family tradition — one I'm glad to continue today...

Kevin, Marie's grandson, is my waiter, and the delicious smells of lunch are wafting from behind the swinging kitchen door. (I can admit I was a bit sad to have missed breakfast — why, oh why, didn't I start my trip earlier?) I quickly glance at the menu and the specials board, but again, I have spent enough time frequenting the joint to know what my order will be. I choose the turkey club with fries, and just to deviate from my childhood choice of chocolate milk, I go with some strong fresh-brewed coffee.

Within minutes of ordering, folks of all ages are piling in. By 12:15 every booth is full, the place is full of happy chatter.

However, there is no need to be shy; conversation flows easily at this town diner. I am soon happily chatting with my booth-neighbors, Heather and Martha. I mentioned spending many of my days at the town beach in the '70s and '80s, and Heather asked if I knew, "...it only became a public beach by one vote." Well, no, I did not know that, and I'm totally intrigued. I spend the next few minutes talking with the ladies about old family ties and a bit of lake history.

As I look around the restaurant, I can't help but note that it's a great mix of locals and travelers. I think one of the coolest things I witnessed in my hour at Pitkin's was how absolutely friendly everyone was. I even watched diners juggle their seating so other groups could be better accommodated. Y'know... it's the little things that really make an impression and keep folks coming back!

Everyone had an opinion on their favorite go-to meal, and they were more than willing to share (their opinion — not their meals. Those were disappearing too quickly for me to grab a taste!).

My lunch arrives, and I'm not going to lie it's simply delicious. My only regret? Not ordering the homemade split pea and ham soup. As I glanced around at my neighbor's tables, there was at least one or two cups of soup on most of them. It is obviously a favorite. Hmm, maybe I should have asked before I ordered.

Lesson learned, I ask Kevin about dessert. And yes, he assures me, "they're all made in-house by my grandmother every day!" (Did you happen to get a look at the Special's board - if not, take a moment to scroll back up & really read the writing on the board!) I also hear from the locals that her secret recipes are locked up tight - you can try to pry it out of her but thus far no bribes have worked!

I can't decide and they're so affordable, heck, I order the top two recommendations. Sometimes a girl just has to be a bit crazy.

No regrets: I don't care if you are eating breakfast or dinner — order dessert. Eat it there, bring it home, whatever. Just do it. You will thank me, even if your waist doesn't. Oh, my. Yum.

So, now that I've had my cake and eaten it, too, I'd say it's time to go for a walk by the lake. Today just solidified my love for this Adirondack village — it's nice to know some things just get better with age!

Fire, Pharoah & Fries...

So, it's a random Saturday and Greg and I find ourselves near Schroon Lake. It’s early evening and we are child-free with no solid plan, so when we spy a roaring fire and a packed parking lot it's obvious we should stop for dinner. Tonight all signs point toward Sticks & Stones Wood Fired Bistro & Bar.

We entered the restaurant and I have to admit I was thoroughly impressed with the friendly staff and cozy decor. We took a quick look around and while there were tables available in the quieter dining room, we chose to sit in a booth near the bar. There was a serious mix of customers. The bar was lined with young couples laughing, 40-50 year old men watching the game, and a group of ladies celebrating a birthday. Seated on one side of us was a family with 2 small children, and on the other was an older couple that reminded me of my grandparents as they shared their cheesecake. And, while I talked with the locals, Greg was happy to relax and catch up on sporting news - best of both worlds.

Our waitress was super-friendly and very attentive, and we soon had our orders placed and drinks delivered. I tried one of their specialty cocktails - the Pharaoh Mountain; totally refreshing, I will be trying to replicate that at home! Greg loves eggplant, and we both enjoy a good wing, and we were not disappointed when our appetizers came out. The eggplant was delicious - seriously, order it. Seriously.

For dinner, we went with the recommendation of our waitress: Greg order the Blackened Chicken, and I went with the Pretzel Burger and sweet potato fries. I will say this - I am a french fry snob. I love fries. Love them. Really, I can’t turn down a good fry. These were hands-down the best sweet potato fries - actually, wedges - that I have ever had. And, paired with the honey mustard that was delivered with Greg’s chicken, it was the perfect combination.

Of course, Sticks & Stones is known for their wood-fired oven. And, while we didn’t order their renowned pizza or salmon for dinner, I would have felt remiss ordering anything but the wood-fired Apple Crisp (topped with vanilla ice cream and a caramel sauce) for dessert. And, since I hate feeling remiss… yum.

Schroon Lake has an awesome variety of dining options! I can't wait for my next visit. Check out where to stay, and what to do, and then send me pics of your favorite meal!

This time of year, when water temperatures are an issue on the region's trout streams, I feel more like a turkey hunter – arising well before dawn and staggering out the door to go trout fishing.

But that's what we have to do right now, since water temps generally rise steadily during the day and often by mid- to late morning have reached the high 60s and sometimes higher. That's much too high for the trout, which deserve a break from any fishing pressure, since simply surviving can be a challenge in itself.

Cooler nights of late have helped considerably, but I still err on the side of caution and would much rather leave the trout alone for some late-season opportunities when the waters have definitely cooled and the trout are on the prowl, putting on the feedbag ahead of the long North Country winter.

But right now there are certainly opportunities to get out on your favorite trout stream, as long as you do it early and keep an eye on the water temperature.

And, to be honest, it's one of my favorite times of the season.

Terrestrial time.

Tossing grasshopper, ant and beetle patterns is perhaps the most exciting way to fly-fish for trout; certainly a lot more fun that dredging nymphs well below the surface. Hopper, ants and beetles virtually guarantee explosive strikes on those days when the fish are keyed in on terrestrials, and I typically jumpstart the hopper season, casting them enthusiastically, knowing full well there are probably other, more effective ways of catching fish and the grasshoppers haven't yet appeared.

But they have now, and I've been heading out early and often, skipping the sunny mid-days when, to be honest, the hoppers are more likely to be active but the water temps aren't conducive to rousting trout. Even shortly after sunrise, when the terrestrials aren't stirring, trout will respond to any reasonable presentation.

It's delightful fishing. Strikes can be explosive and memorable, even when you miss the fish. The flies themselves are often gaudy, easy to see, with colorful names like Chernobyl Ant, Dave's Hopper, Joe's Hopper, Letort Cricket, Letort Hopper, Fat Albert and Galloup's Ant-Acid. Often, you don't even have to match what's showing up locally. Sometimes the most outrageous of patterns draw the most attention from the trout.

I even tie foam flies of my own, and they work consistently enough for me to realize that, while they don't look too good to me, they pass the eye test with the trout. And that's all that matters.

Keep an eye on the water temps, and even if you have to get out there are first light, pitch some hopper, ant or beetle patterns for some exciting surface action on the region's superb trout waters. Most of the anglers have packed it in for the season and have gone on to other waters in search of bass and pike. You'll likely have a stretch of stream all to yourself, and there's no better place to greet the morning that our outstanding trout streams.

An adventure plan for the Adirondack Hub

If you’re seeking an action-packed yet relaxing winter getaway in the Adirondacks, this 72-hour itinerary offers a mix of outdoor adventures, local flavors, and cozy downtime. Whether you're into skiing, snowshoeing, or simply enjoying the magic of winter by the fire, the Adirondacks have it all. Let us help you plan the perfect winter adventure in the Adirondack Hub!

Day 1: Craft brews & live entertainment to kick off the weekend

Start your Adirondack adventure with an afternoon visit to Paradox Brewery. Nestled among the mountains, this stop offers the perfect introduction to the region. Grab a seat by the fire, take in the live music that frequently happens here, and sample their seasonal brews. Whether you’re into a dark, rich porter or a refreshing IPA, there’s something for every palate. Pair your drink with a hearty seasonal dish to fuel up for the adventure ahead.

Afterward, you could explore some of the activities around Paradox Brewery, or settle into your accommodations for the night. Rest up for an exciting day on the slopes!

Day 2: Skiing at Gore Mountain & fireside evenings

Rise and shine for a day of adventure on the slopes of Gore Mountain, New York’s largest ski resort! Staying at The Lodge at Schroon Lake gets you access to complimentary shuttles to and from the mountain, just one less thing for you to plan! Spend the day skiing or snowboarding on some of the best trails in the Adirondacks, offering runs for all skill levels. With seven mountain areas, it might be a tough task to see all the terrain, which gives you a good reason to come back and explore some more. As a bonus, head over to the base of Little Gore Mountain at the North Creek Ski Bowl, and discover some laid-back adventures like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, or just hit up some of the same trails that locals have been carving for decades. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, Gore Mountain promises an exhilarating experience.

As the sun sets below the snow-capped peaks, take the shuttle back to The Lodge at Schroon Lake, where a cozy evening awaits. If you're hungry, you can enjoy a delicious family-friendly, farm-to-table dinner at the Brown Swan, or if you prefer a more relaxed evening, warm up with a winter cocktail by the fire.

After dinner, you have several choices to unwind:

• Roast marshmallows by the outdoor fire for a classic Adirondack winter experience.
• Grab a sled and glide down the hills around The Lodge.
• Rest those muscles and relax in the hot tub or heated pool.
• Head into the game room and have some friendly competitions.

No matter how you spend your evening, the cozy atmosphere at The Lodge at Schroon Lake ensures a restful night in preparation for another day in the Adirondack Mountains.

Day 3: Local trails, Mount Severance, and a historical adventure 

Start your final day with a hearty breakfast at Pitkin’s in Schroon Lake. This local spot serves up delicious, comfort-food classics to prepare you for a day of exploring. Did you know that Pitkin’s has been serving the local community and visitors for over 115 years?

For your final Adirondack adventure, make your choice between a couple of options, or even mix and match some of the following activities!

Hit the local trails:

Whether you’re into snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, Schroon Lake has plenty of trails to offer. A local favorite is snowshoeing or skiing through the fun and scenic trail at Scaroon Manor, taking in views along Schroon Lake. For a more challenging option, consider hiking up Mount Severance for unique views of the area down below. This hike is especially popular since you get to experience walking underneath the main highway. Yeah, you heard that right!

A historical journey in Newcomb: 

Drive along the scenic Blue Ridge Road to the town of Newcomb. In the winter, safely drive along the winding road through the snowy heart of the Adirondacks. From Blue Ridge Road, you can take Tahawus Road to explore historic Upper Works, once a bustling mining town. This trailhead is steeped in history. It was also near this location where Teddy Roosevelt was informed of President McKinley's imminent death. The MacNaughton Cottage stands within view of the parking lot; where Teddy Roosevelt began his midnight ride. This site also serves as the southern gateway to the High Peaks. If you’re a beginner snowshoer, you can wander along the interpretive trail that explains the history behind the area. Have winter experience in the mountains? Consider hiking up Mount Adams, a fire tower-topped peak that is one of the tougher tower hikes in the winter.

After a morning of hiking or historical exploration, it’s time to wrap up your Adirondack adventure. Plan for a dinner stop at Sticks and Stones on your way home for a well-earned meal. This rustic spot offers a crackling fire, craft beer, and fresh food that captures the spirit of the Adirondacks, the perfect way to conclude your trip.

The Schroon Lake Region is a wonderful place to go when you want to explore and relax at your own pace. It is a special slice of the Adirondacks that has welcoming terrain for winter treks, and some surprises when it comes to sophisticated dining and shopping.

Here are some ideas to craft the kind of unique getaway only the Schroon Lake Region can provide.

Incredible nature

The winter forest in the Adirondacks has a limited color palette and texture, but all of the splendor is still there. To enjoy it to the fullest, plan a scenic drive and enjoy an outdoor activity. There are some exceptional places to see in winter that don't require a lot of effort to get to.

At the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves, admission includes snowshoes, trekking poles, and a map to discover the property's beautiful vistas and overlooks. One path overlooks the river as it pours into the marble caves to create the famous stone bridge. Along the way there are wonderful ice sculptures created by the water, and further you'll find a multitude of paths that wind through woods and rock faces.

For the most enjoyable experience, be sure to bundle up properly. Wear insulated boots, thick socks, and gloves or mittens with a long enough cuff so they disappear into your coat sleeves. Science says some of our body heat escapes through our head, but on a cold day it feels like a lot, so wear a warm hat. Layers are a winter enthusiast's best friend. A warm, thin base layer next to the body, a thicker layer over that, and a windproof shell on the outside will trap heat and keep you warmer than a thick coat over a sweater.

Drive along the Hudson River on the way to the Adirondack Interpretive Center, where admission gets you snowshoes and a selection of beautiful trails. This photo was taken along the Sucker Brook Trail, which has many bridges that provide great scenic opportunities.

The Rich Lake Trail is an overview of the different trails, and it provides the option to continue on to the Peninsula Trail, which is a little under a mile long and circles through old-growth hemlocks.

Cloudsplitter Outfitters is happy to craft a custom winter adventure, from renting equipment to sending you out with a guide, all from their Newcomb location.

For a great view from a small mountain, the Severance Hill Trail is a 2.4 mile round trip that pays off with vistas of Schroon Lake, Pharoah Mountain, and Paradox Lake. Alpine skiing and all the amenities are just half an hour away at Gore Mountain.

Gearing down

Schroon Lake's quaint downtown has welcoming surprises. Pine Cone Mercantile is a shop full of furniture and decorative items, and it has a bakery and coffee shop in the back.

There are great places to eat, like Flanagan's Irish pub and Sticks and Stones bistro. And don't overlook the simple little place known as Pitkin's Restaurant, in the middle of downtown. Among Pitkin's menu items are tender ribs with homemade sauce and an incredible array of desserts. If you'd rather grab a drink, enjoy a brew at Paradox Brewery.

Snug lodging

Choose from some delightful inns and bed and breakfasts. Fans of getting away when they get away would be interested with the trails right outside the door at Rocky Acres Inn B&B, or the scenic neighborhood of Lake Paradox at the Lake Paradox Club and Paradox House Retreat.

The Adirondack Inn is right downtown, while Schroon Lake B&B is a classic old inn at the other end of town. This place has beautiful grounds.

If you want a cabin, I love the one at the Maple Leaf Motel. It is a charming place with a view of the woods, a stained glass panel in the door, and a gas fireplace. Rowe's Adirondack Cabins have full kitchens and come in a variety of sizes.

There's plenty to do, see, and enjoy in the Schroon Lake Region. Our blogger recommends some fun nightlife in Weekend Crasher.

The best part of the brewing process, to Devon Hamilton, is watching the transformation of his product from the raw ingredients of grain and water to the delicious drinkable substance known as beer. There are a number of steps in the transformation process, and it fascinates him.

Devon is the head brewer at Paradox Brewery, a microbrewery in Schroon Lake. It’s named for the nearby Paradox Lake, on which the brewery’s owners live.

What a typical day is like for Devon depends on whether he’s brewing that day. If he’s not brewing, he does a lot of cleaning, testing, moving beer from one place to another, minor equipment repairs or other varied tasks like that.

On days he is brewing, however, he sets aside the day to focus entirely on the brewing process. He even takes 10 minutes or so the night before and gets all his grain set up so he can come in the next morning and get straight to work. The winter is a slower season, so Devon only brews maybe one or two days a week right now, but in the summer, he could brew five to eight times a week, depending on the volume of beer that’s moving.

The brewing process

When Devon arrives on a brew day, he gets in around 7 a.m. The brew room is a large room that used to be a post office, and at another point in its history was a bake shop. The building was gutted to make room for the brewing equipment, and the new owners added a floor upstairs for a tasting room and office space. A variety of huge, silver tanks are arranged in a ring around the outside of the room; most of them are fermenters, but a few set aside from the rest are used for the early stages of the brewing process.

Devon starts by mixing the malted barley in a huge metal vat with hot water to activate the malt’s enzymes and convert the starches in it into sugar. That steeping process is called mashing, and it takes about an hour or so, including when he recirculates it to get the bits of grains out.

Then he moves the liquid — called wort — to another vat, at the same time pumping in hot water to rinse out all the sugar for about an hour to an hour and a half.

Then the wort needs to be boiled. It usually takes about 20 minutes or so to get it to a full boil, and he boils it for anywhere from an hour to three hours. That concentrates the sugar solution, blows off some water, and kills any bacteria from the malt.

It’s during this time that Devon adds hops to the brew. The earlier he adds it, the more bitterness in the beer and the less flavor and aroma; if he adds it later in the boil, he gets the opposite effect.

Then he spins the liquid to make the proteins fall to the bottom for about 10 minutes, lets it rest, then spins it for another 10 minutes. Then he sends it to a heat exchanger that cools it down. That process currently takes about an hour, but Devon plans to get an upgraded heat exchanger in early 2015, so it will soon take only 20 minutes.

Once it’s cooled, it goes into the fermenter with some yeast, which consumes the sugars in it and creates alcohol, carbon dioxide, and most of the flavor you’ll end up tasting in the beer. The beer is fermented for 14 to 30 days, then it’s transferred to kegs and ready to drink!

Other varieties

That’s the basic process, but it shifts a little depending on the type of beer Devon is brewing. Ales ferment for about 12 to 16 days, while lagers ferment for about 34 days. Some of the hoppier beers require him to add hops twice. There’s a Baltic porter he plans to brew soon that involves fermenting the yeast for a day in a winter lager before transferring it to the porter. That beer will ferment for six to eight weeks, then Devon plans to age it in a bourbon barrel for nine to 18 months.

He usually has a variety of different beers in different stages of the process that he’s juggling, so he has to write everything down to keep track of it all. He also takes a full inventory of everything in the whole brewery every week — what’s in the fermenters, what kegs are in the cooler, how much grain he has — to make sure he’s on top of it.

Devon brews all kinds of beer, but he likes brewing hoppy beers like IPAs and double IPAs the best. The brewery smells better when he’s working on them, and the recipes are usually a little more involved and interesting with adding hops to the kettles at different times.
“More than anything else, though, I like selling beer, so as long as I’m brewing, I’m happy,” Devon told me.
He got started brewing with a simple extract kit in college right after he turned 21. Before long, he had built out a full brewery in his brother’s basement and was brewing 20-gallon batches with a fully automated system. He graduated college with a degree in history, so it made sense to look for a job in a brewery.
Devon is the only full-time brewer at Paradox, but he has two people who help him on a part-time basis, and his brewing assistant may help more once the busy season comes around again.

Stop in for a taste

The brewery only produces kegs so far, but they have plans to add canning before too long. They sell kegs to more than 100 establishments that go as far north as the Canadian border and as far south as Poughkeepsie.
Or you can stop by the tasting room if you want to try their beers! They always have seven beers on tap, including the delicious Beaver Bite IPA. There’s a handy chalkboard with info about the beers so you can decide what you want.

You can have a taste or a pint, or you can take home a 32- or 64-ounce growler of your favorite to enjoy at your leisure. They are open Friday-Sunday in the winter, and more often in the summer.

The tasting room also has a small gift shop area with fun shirts and other products emblazoned with Paradox Brewery logos so you can remember your visit!

Plan a getaway and visit the Paradox Brewery. Make Schroon Lake your Adirondack Base Camp and discover why it's easy to get to and close to everything!

What does the Seagle Music Colony have planned for their upcoming season? A delightful mix of old favorites and rare classics.

Oscar Seagle, world-renowned baritone, established this prestigious school for vocalists in 1915. It is still the oldest summer singer training program in the country. Their performance schedule is a tuneful part of a Schroon Lake summer.

The favorites

The musical "Mame" has been a Broadway classic since 1966. The close of the 2018 mainstage season will be the first time Seagle Music Colony performs this popular musical. It follows the adventures of the madcap Auntie Mame and her orphaned nephew amidst the Great Depression.

As seen above, Seagle keeps the costumes and stagecraft authentic to the time period of the work they are performing. This period piece will be sure to feature the luxurious style of its flamboyant lead character, Auntie Mame, and her joyful approach to life.

The production will be performed August 15, 16, and 18 at 8 p.m., and August 17 at 2 p.m. The Colony describes the show as a "surefire favorite for young and old."

Every year there is a free Boathouse production for children, and this year it is the children’s opera, "Billy Goats Gruff." The opera—about the drawbacks of bullying—can be enjoyed by any age. It transforms the traditional fairy tale with the music of Mozart, Donizetti, and Rossini. This makes for a wonderful introduction to classical music in a simple and funny package. 

Look for the opera July 14 at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. at the Boathouse Theater, on the shores of Schroon Lake.

The historic

American history has been a rich source of artistic inspiration. "The Great Gatsby" is a celebrated novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald set during the wild culture of the Prohibition era. It has been adapted for opera by John Harbison.

The opera had its premiere at the Metropolitan Opera in 1999, making it a contemporary take for the approaching new century. Performing "The Great Gatsby" will be part of the Seagle Music Colony tradition of cultivating new operas, which gives their young artists a chance to sing the work of living composers.

The opera will be sung in English with projected English supertitles. Don't miss the pre-show lecture one hour prior to curtain. Performances are August 1, 2, 4 at 8 p.m., and August 3 at 2 p.m.

Another fine tradition of the Colony is the galas that serve as important fundraisers, which offer an elegant, cultured evening. On July 14 at 6 p.m. there will be the annual fundraising event with dinner, drinks, dessert, and dancing featuring entertainment by the Seagle Music Colony Emerging Artists.

Every year the Colony also puts on a Vespers Concert that will be on August 12 and 19 at 5 p.m. These concerts of sacred choral music and vocal solos have been a Schroon Lake tradition for most of their century-long history. All Vespers concerts are open to the public and seating is first-come, first-serve, so arrive early.

In the fall, there will be a revue of the works of American composer, songwriter, and jazz pianist Cy Coleman. If you don't know the name, you will know the songs, like "Hey, Look Me Over," "Big Spender,” and “Come Follow the Band.” The show is called "Hey Big Spender" and will be performed on September 8 at 7:30 p.m.

The extraordinary

Celebrate Leonard Bernstein's 100th birthday with a performance of "Candide." The inspiration to adapt this classic work into a musical was proposed by the writer and lyricist Lillian Hellman. Many other lyricists would also contribute to Hellman's libretto, while Bernstein composed the music. The earliest performances of the musical had a troubled stage production that closed it early, but it turned into a triumph when the original cast album sold well, which resurrected the musical. Bernstein's score was the source of the appeal.

Seagle Music Colony will pay tribute to Bernstein with this romp through different time periods and cultures that is based on the satirical novel by Voltaire. Look for it on July 5, 6, 7 at 8 p.m., July 6 at 2 p.m.

When most people think of George Frideric Handel, they most likely think "Water Music" or of his English chorale works like "Messiah." But, he also composed, in Italian, "Julius Caesar in Egypt," a popular Baroque opera. There's plenty of villainous action and the extravagant musical expression Handel is known for.

The opera was so popular that Handel printed pocket-sized versions of the score for his fans to purchase. Modern fans can enjoy this work on July 18, 19, 21 at 8 p.m., and July 20 at 2 p.m. It will be sung in Italian with projected English supertitles, and there will be a pre-show lecture one hour prior to curtain.

From the charming to the sublime, Seagle Music Colony is bringing plenty of incredible vocal talent to light up the summer nights.

End a wonderful evening with the right lodging. Start the evening with some great dining. Check the events calendar for more events.

All photos courtesy of Seagle Music Colony. Main photo from "My Fair Lady" by James Carnahan.

It was a dark and stormy day…

No really, even one of the most definitively beautiful spots in the world has its gloomy days. My friend Andrea and I were facing one of those days recently on a planned trip to meet in Schroon Lake and catch up on each others lives. She lives in Albany and I live in Saranac Lake and Schroon marks a perfect stopping point between the two. With the weather that day, snowshoeing, skiing, and other great outdoor adventures in the area were off the table. Fortunately Schroon also has no shortage of one-of-a-kind restaurants and bars to explore. We took the opportunity to check out two neither of us had been to before. 

Sporty’s Iron Duke Saloon

Half biker bar, half motorcycle museum. When you walk through the front door you might feel like you’ve walked into someone's immaculately maintained garage and biker cave that just so happens to have a friendly looking bar erected in the corner. It’s a large, open space and every square inch of wall, ceiling, and perimeter floor space is filled with bikes, posters of past Sturgis rallies, license plates, old news clippings, and every kind of hangable motorcycle and Harley Davidson memorabilia. If you keep your eyes peeled you might even spot a bear riding by in a sidecar. 

I wasn't joking when I said every surface. 

Behind the bar you’ll find Sporty, pouring whatever you’re in the mood for. And providing at least one story, free of charge, to go with each drink. If there’s one thing Sporty loves, it’s talking about all the friends he’s made over 40 years of riding around the country. In fact, many of those friends volunteered to help him build the bar, over the course of several weekends, over a decade ago. No matter if you ride yourself or not, I guarantee Sporty’s got a story for you.  

What better on a rainy day than a game of pool and some darts!

We didn’t adventure much beyond the main bar during our visit, but Sporty’s also has an alcohol free dining room in back, and a large field and hill out back that is open for camping in the warmer months and hosts a few events throughout the season including a hill climb in the spring. I’m definitely putting Sporty’s on my list for a ride down this way come spring. 

Witherbee’s Carriage House — an Adirondack original

Located just a minutes drive from downtown Schroon Lake, Witherbee’s is one of the most welcoming and unique places I’ve experienced in the Adirondacks. Stepping through the doors, Adirondack heirlooms from throughout the years adorn the walls of Witherbee’s, many of which have been there since the restaurant fist opened in the 60’s. The friendly looking sign in the entryway invited us upstairs to the second floor bar for dinner. Calling it a bar might be a little disingenuous, as the upstairs is a large bar and dining area with a super cozy fire that we instantly gravitated towards. Large comfy couches and the waves of warmth rolling off the fire were the prefect cure for the less than great outdoor conditions. 

The start of a beautiful relationship between me and this fireplace. If I lived closer you'd find me here every Sunday, Bloody Mary in hand. Speaking of which....

Bloody Mary’s to die for

If Bloody Mary's aren't your speed, Andrea gives the "Witherbee's Wellwood" a bottoms-up rating as well. 

Meat and potatoes done right

Nothing goes better with a rainy day than a stick to your ribs dinner. Witherbee’s menu is your fairly typical American fare of burgers, sandwiches, steaks, and more. But they take the time to do it right. I was on-board with Prime Rib special and Andrea liked the looks of their burger. Both were stellar. The Prime Rib was cooked perfectly as ordered and I loved the golden beets on the side. A nice Witherbee's touch. 

It is a scientific fact that burgers taste better when held together with a steak knife. 

Make it a weekend

How to pack your pack...

The question of what to bring on a summer hike is much more in-depth than one might think. Before you even try to answer it, first you have to hammer out a few details. Ask yourself: Where do I plan to hike? What’s the weather supposed to be? etc...

I have spent countless hours and miles in the High Peaks (and on much smaller outdoor excursions) and I think that I have a pretty good lock on what to carry. Also, as an Adirondack guide I have seen many times what works and what doesn’t. The impossible situations I have encountered along the trail are nearly countless. I am amazed that more incidences don’t happen in the backcountry than already do. I see hikers 4-miles down a trail wearing flip-flops, others on a 12-mile hike on an 80 degree day with only an 8 ounce bottle of water in their hand, others without backpacks, and some wearing cotton jeans in a rain storm. I have seen women pushing baby carriages in to Marcy Dam, and others in heels. I have even seen a man in shorts and Nike running shoes at 4000 feet in elevation in April, because it was 60 degrees in the valley. His legs bled from the icy crust of the remaining 2 feet of snow tearing them to sheds, and against my advice he pushed on to the summit, yet over a mile away.

Up to this day I get odd looks from people who ponder at the size of my day pack, and even question my motives. I don’t expect everyone to understand or follow my lead, but I want to offer an educated voice for interested hikers to read about what they should consider carrying. I am not saying that if you carry these items nothing will happen, things happen. Having this key gear can help remove some of the potential problems, and in some cases aid you if something does happen.

My feet hurt

First off you should look at your feet: you need to have on wool or synthetic socks. Cotton absorbs moisture and over time this moisture can cause friction and then blisters. Next you should have properly fitted and broken-in hiking boots, not steel-toed work boots. These boots don’t necessarily need to be huge, bulky, backpacking boots - but they can be if you like them. They should be comfortable and the proper size. You can opt for trail running shoes, which is close to that of a sneaker - essentially trail running is just hiking at a fast pace, you are on the same trail. Your shoes should be broken-in before you set off on any long extended outing. They don’t need to be waterproof, althought that is an option you may decide on. If you have sore feet, you will not enjoy your day in the woods, your feet really do call many of the shots.

What about cotton?

Cotton is a very touchy subject among the hiking world, and there is proof that cotton can kill. This is truer in the colder months and especially winter, but the same can be true during the right conditions during any month of the year. While in summer this is much less of a threat, and cotton actually works well in keeping the body cool, it can still be a danger. If you see threats of a rain storm or a cooling pattern during your day of hiking, I recommend leaving the cotton clothing at home and going with a merino wool or synthetic or polyester clothing line. If you are in soaked cotton clothing overnight, you could be in danger of hypothermia or worse. Temperatures in higher elevations can easily drop into the 30s during the height of summer.

So what’s in my pack?

Pack fitting is a totally different ball of wax (and I will help you out with that in a future blog) so for now let’s focus on what should be in the sack. First and foremost, your pack should be sized correctly, or at least comfortable to use - the shorter the hike, the less important a perfect fit becomes. In your pack:

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Rain jacket - this can also be used as a wind barrier while on the bald summits or while taking breaks to stay warm.

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Headlamp - I recommend this over a flashlight. Headlamps are hands-free and you may need your hands to descend a peak. This is also an emergency gear item to help for location or if an unexpected night in the woods is required. Having extra batteries and a backup headlamp is not a bad idea either.

·

Food - this includes snacks and meals. Keep in mind the length of the trip and always carry a bit extra just in case you need it. Don’t overeat as this can weigh you down and make your stomach upset, at times even causing cramps.

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Water - the rule of thumb is 1-liter of water for every two hours you are out. If you don’t want to carry that much water, think about having a water purification or filter to fill up when you can. But don’t depend on water being at a source you see on a map.

·

Safety kit - this is your kit for unexpected circumstances that cause you to take extra measures and possibly spend a night in the woods. Use an old Nalgene bottle as a waterproof container. Pack it up with: matches and lighter, tinder (dryer lint works well), small candle, multi-tool, mirror, whistle, garbage bag, duct tape, emergency blanket.

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Dry socks and shirt - in a zip lock bag or dry bag, just in case you get wet and need to change.

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Map and compass - this is an obvious piece of trail gear. But you need to know how to use it.

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First aid kit - one per group is fine on this one. It should have some of the essentials, no one expects you to be a surgeon in the field. Be sure it has: bandages of all sizes, gauze, sling (coat will work too), antiseptic, anti-bacteria ointment, compression wrap. A “Sam Splint” is also a nice addition.

·

Toilet paper and trowel - do I need to explain?

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Optional gear - rain pants, bandana, sun screen, bug repellent, cell phone (don’t depend on it, it doesn’t always work), camera, hat, GPS, trekking poles, gaiters, sun glasses, tarp, pack cover

Not that this is an end all, be all, for hiking in the Adirondacks but I would like to think that everyone has some combination of the above when they go on a day trip.

For Pete’s sake, leave a note!!!

Even with all the gear in the world, if no one knows where you are and something goes wrong, it might not help you. Make sure you leave a note at home, with someone you trust, on the dash of your car, or even with the receptionist at the hotel, cabin, or campground that is acting as your cozy home away from home! Make sure to let them know where you are headed and check back in with them later. Remember to have fun and be safe and enjoy the Adirondacks so many of us call home. Further questions on gear, give me a shout, talk to a local guide or gear shop—someone is bound to know the answer, and don’t forget to check back on how to size up that pesky backpack - and maybe even learn a bit about trekking poles, camp stoves, sleeping bags, and much more.

After three days of using my boot drier last week I was pretty excited about a hike on a dirt road instead of soggy trails.  I had the good fortune to join Steven Engelhart of Adirondack Architectural Heritage on a trip into the magical Camp Santononi.  Steven and 2012 intern Charlotte Barrett were launching a new interpretive guide which Barrett wrote.  Despite downpours throughout the drive to Newcomb, Steven and I talked excitedly about the work that's been done at Santononi.  Michael Frenette, a Tupper Lake craftsman, has been working for 16 years on the restoration of the historical buildings and lots of progress has been made since I was last there in 2006.

Curiosity about this National Historic Landmark runs deep.  Donning rain gear, bug nets and great attitudes, over 20 members of the tour listened while Steven began the interesting history of Robert and Anna Pruyn and Camp Santononi, beginning at the Gatehouse.  The Gate Lodge was built in the 1905 and has its own history of occupancy by interesting employees and family members while the Pruyn family developed the compound which eventually included over 40 buildings.

Our group set out along the dirt road which was built to travel the five miles from the Gatehouse, through the Farm Complex, to the Main Lodge.  One hundred years ago the road was groomed along both sides but now the farm fields have grown in. The forest has reclaimed the right-of-way with wild plants and trees.  The dirt roadway made walking easy and pleasant as we listened to the sound of brooks and streams that are flowing from all the recent rain. 

The first stop at the Farm Complex was a chance to explore the Creamery, one of the stone buildings built during the era when barns, animals and gardens surrounded the homes of the Farm Manager and other members of the Pruyn's staff.  The Farm staff were committed to modernizing farming practices and the new guide gives a well-researched review of the buildings and planning that modernization required.  Unfortunately many of the oldest buildings were destroyed when the property was incorporated into the Forest Preserve in 1972.  Later the barn was destroyed by a fire in 2002.

Our hike went quickly as Steven and Charlotte and 2013 AARCH intern Nina Caruso offered stories about the history of the Pruyn family.  The forest on both sides of the road are full of the majestic yellow birches, beeches and maples that make the canopy lush and green.

The distance on such a quiet road makes it easy to feel the way the Pruyns must have felt arriving at their destination.  The first steps onto the wide porches draw you immediately to the lake side of the house.  The architecture is unique and well-explained by the AARCH staff.  AARCH also has published an excellent book about the influence of Japanese architecture on Camp Santononi (Santanoni: From Japanese Temple to Life at an Adirondack Great Camp, Keesville, NY: Adirondack Architectural Heritage, 2000.)

As rain continued to fall we were grateful for the porches.  Everyone who lives in the Adirondacks is grateful for porches.  Everyone who visits should have the experience of being on a wide, dry porch as rain falls on surrounding trees and lakes.  History and habit made me want a cup of tea.  If one had the privelege to stay for a few hours a nap, a book or a deck of cards for solitaire would be in order.

We did not have those few extra hours to spend so were satisfied to explore the architecture of the house and the enviable boathouse.  More sunshine would have made  a swim or paddle in order to fully take advantage of what the Pruyn's enjoyed at camp.  Instead we walked the five miles back, taking in the bird calls and the work of elven rock builders.  Ten miles and 250 years round trip.

Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness

I recently found myself in the area of the Putnam Pond Campground with a bit of extra time on my hands, and so, I quickly devised a little loop past a pond, over a ridge, and down to a hidden swamp - it resembles a backwoods trifecta.

I made the turn down Putts Pond Road and parked at the hiker parking lot at the top of hill. From here I started my approach to the trailhead on the other side of the campground. Walking through the beach area and into the forest of the campground, I quickly found myself at the trailhead ready to start my short adventure.

After signing into the trail register I started to jog my way back deeper into the Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness. Passing by a massive burl I comment to myself how that would make a wonderful table in my dining room. The rocks were a bit slippery as a light rain overnight had left them slightly glazed beneath me. But that didn’t really slow my pace - my trekking poles were the perfect companion for this hike. I quickly came to the intersection at Heart Pond and continued without losing a step up the Bear Pond Trail.

Getting to Echo Pond and Sharps Ridge - a walk in the park

Before I advanced too far up the trail, I made a short side trip to the Shore of Heart Pond just to take in its wonderful setting. The trail was gaining elevation before me, but it wasn’t too much of a change. I continued on and as I drew closer to where I felt I needed to be, I confided in my GPS for the perfect jump off point for Sharps Ridge. The trail I was on is literally on the side of Sharps Ridge leaving the actual summit not all that far away. Looking deep into the leafless hardwood forest it appeared that the going wouldn’t be all that demanding, but as I like to think about it, a walk in the woods is like a prescription to all that ails you.

The ridge came quickly and aside from a few small boneyards of dead trees I had no resistance in making the summit. The ridge as I approached it brought me over a small knoll, not seen on the topographic map. In one of the shallow valleys of the knobs I came upon a vernal pool, the perfect home for area reptiles and even some wetland species of plants. The mushrooms flourished on the decaying matter as the varnish shelves made a home on a fallen hemlock nearby.

It wouldn’t be long now; I could see the summit ahead on the horizon through the naked tops of the maples and beeches. Once I arrived, as presumed, it was a wooded top, flat and featureless in structure, but soothing and welcoming in spirit.

Off to take a mud bath

I was now off to Peshette Swamp, a bit further north from the present location. The woods remained the same and without hesitation I made quick work of the first area of descent. Arriving at what I assumed was another vernal pool, I moved closer to take some pictures. A family of pileated woodpeckers made their presence known as I was intruding on their living space. The heavy leaf cover around the water masked the soup. I quickly found one leg buried up to my knee and the other stranded on dry land in some new form of a warrior pose.

I brushed off the water and muck and emptied my boot and finished off the descent into what looked like an active logging area. The only loggers allowed in a wilderness area are... You guessed it, beavers. Stumps and stems protruded from the ground in a chewed-off fashion, some still bleeding sap.

Dead snags lined and dotted the swamp - evidence that beavers have called this their home for decades. Beaver canals from the water led to advanced trails that led deep into the forest. Detailing where these creatures had looked for trees to build and improve homes, reconstruct dams, and feed the young. They were very active now, getting ready for the winter freeze and their long respite in the family hut. They would live there for many cold months with other creatures of the wild - much like a family of field mice.

I relaxed upon the open shore for quite some time until the chill in the air rose me to my feet to get the blood flowing again. Up and over a rise, along a faint herdpath, and in prime fashion I was back upon the trail. It sure was a short day, but in short there was a lot experienced and enjoyed. I could only wish that all my days were as filled as this one.

Grab your cold weather gear and get ready to take a hike in the Schroon Lake Region - the trails are waiting!