I’d love to start this story off by telling you I had a magical time cross-country skiing in the wonderfully wild forests of the Adirondack Hub. I’d love to tell you that everything was perfect. If you use the internet at all these days, you’ve probably seen travel advertisements, where all the people are smiling, the sun is always shining, and nothing is ever wrong. No one ever shows the tears, the gear malfunctions, the tiring agony of breaking trail through feet of snow for miles and miles - that "Instagram vs. Reality" display.

I set out on Sunday morning, a mere two days after the Adirondacks received 12+ inches of snow, hoping to find quiet trails and a new adventure. And, now, I’m here today to tell you the real story, what really happened out there in the wild. Frankly, it wasn’t at all what I had planned, but, as a lover of the childhood drink lemonade, I tried my very best to make lemonade out of some very frozen lemons.

Here’s how the day began:

Stop 1

Saturday night I sat in bed trying to decide which trail I wanted to visit. I landed on Wolf Pond. Why? I have no idea. There was nothing online that said “this is a good trail for cross-country skiing.” For all I knew, it was going to be a hilly nightmare. But “Whatever,” I told myself. “I’m a strong skier.”

When I arrived in the parking lot it was a surprisingly warm 5-degrees. Call me crazy, but the sun felt good. Another vehicle was already there. Orange vests and beagles gave this group’s goal away: they were rabbit hunters. Hunting has never bothered me; I grew up in a hunting family, but when I realized I grabbed my backpack without my red bandana tied to it, I considered finding a new spot (even though I had a maroon coat, I like to make sure I'm very seen). The hunters told me they were going way off trail and not toward the pond, so I wouldn’t have to worry. So, I went for it. Not two minutes down the trail (which was a narrow, windy trail not really ideal for skiing as it turns out), I started to smell something familiar, something awful. It was dog poop, covered in snow in the middle of the trail, that I had just skied over. I took my ski off to remove the poop now stuck to the bottom, but it had frozen solid already. Great.

I don’t want anyone to think I am against dogs or anything. They can’t pick up their own poop. But we can. And we certainly don’t need to cover it with snow in the middle of the trail. The trails are here for us all to enjoy. The lesson learned here at the Wolf Pond trailhead is to always be aware of your surroundings. When in the woods with hunters, wear bright colors. When cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, mind the yellow and brown snow. Nothing sours your mood quite like a ski with a frozen chunk of poop on it.

Stop 2

I ended up getting most of the poop off my ski in the Wolf Pond parking lot, but by that time I decided to head somewhere else. I stopped at Overlook Park in Newcomb so I could use the running water in the public bathroom to fully clean my ski. (This is also a great spot for a scenic moment of zen on a clear day, with the High Peaks in the distance.)

Stop 3

An hour after I started skiing at Wolf Pond, I decided to check out two small ponds with small trails near Minerva. Twentyninth and Rankin ponds are not large and each trail is under a mile round-trip. Neither trail was broken out (meaning it was all deep, fresh powder ahead). Twentyninth Pond was the first I chose to visit (it's a waypoint on the route to Stony Pond). On the map, it’s only 0.3-miles from the trailhead, but breaking trails it might as well have been 300. I couldn't even see my skis for awhile under all the snow!

The trail consists of rolling hills. For the beginner skiers, I’d recommend avoiding this spot unless you’re ready for a workout. There’s a small tent site on the shore of Twentyninth Pond. On my way back to the car I realized how much fun I was having on the down hills. Having been skiing (downhill) for most of my life, it always takes me a little by surprise how awkward I feel on cross-country skis going down a hill. But today, I was having a blast on the downhills. In fact, I skied down and then went back up one hill just to do it again. And then I did that a few more times. Now, the woods were quiet, save a Hairy Woodpecker drumming away, the sun was shining, and I was all smiles. 

I never did make it to Rankin Pond, but all’s well that ends better. Even ventures outdoors that don’t start as romantic or transcendental as you hope can still turn into positives.

Lessons learned

Not every trip into the woods goes as planned, but if you are prepared for different scenarios, it’s less likely to end badly. Here are some of my tips for how to have a good time cross-country skiing when everything else seems to go wrong: 

• Have a “plan B” trail in mind. Sometimes trailheads are not plowed immediately after a storm, or they are full. Always have a few options in mind to help ensure you have the opportunity to get out there and ski!
• Know how to safely share the woods with others, including hunters and dogs.
• I always have snowshoes strapped to my backpack after a very traumatic experience cross-country skiing a few years ago. (I was 3-miles from the car and my binding broke so I had to tie a rope around my boot/ski, effectively making a long, skinny snowshoe. It was that or bare boot back to the car.) Gear breaks sometimes. It happens. Know how to fix it or have a backup plan in case something goes wrong in the woods.
• Take a deep breath. I won’t sugar coat it: I cried on Sunday. But you know what? It all worked out. My skis are now poop-free and I ended up having a great day exploring some new trails.

A recipe for skiing success is not complicated: equal parts preparation and attitude, mix, and enjoy!

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The roads to Boreas Ponds and Great Camp Santanoni are also excellent skis, but they are long. To combine skiing with another activity, the Roosevelt Truck Trail is perfect for birding and gliding! Or, hit the links and ski on the Schroon Lake Golf Course. After you’re done skiing, head into town for a warm meal and a cozy bed, and to start planning your next trip!

When spring comes to the Adirondacks, it's a glorious sight. The bright blue sky domes deciduous trees showing hints of green. Birds sing, frogs croak and all around are the sounds of water running over rocks. Even a short hike is a treat for the senses.

We were getting a late morning start, so my son and I headed back to the Hammond Pond Wilderness in North Hudson to explore Chalis Pond. The trail, which starts on Ensign Pond Road, is only 0.6 miles long. There is an easy incline to the first part of the trail, then it is mostly flat. At the end of the trail the lovely pond opened up in front of us.

Four people were fishing on the pond, floating in small rowboats and canoes. Sitting at the edge of the pond, we watched countless young trout play in the shallow water. Chalis is a reclaimed trout pond, which means that at one point all the fish in the pond were eradicated to eliminate non-native invasive fish, most likely escaped bait fish. The pond was then restocked with trout. If you plan to fish in Adirondack ponds, please note that live bait is prohibited in most places to protect the native trout populations.

We like to watch aquatic life, and we got quite a show at Chalis Pond. Besides the trout, there were many tadpoles and gilled salamander larvae. The salamander larvae are particularly fun to watch. With their short legs and tail fins, they look like a strange cross between lizards and fish, and proved fascinating to my nine-year-old hiking partner. Salamanders are not lizards. They are amphibians like frogs and spend much of their lives near water. Later in the summer we'll spot them in wet areas and after a rain.

My son discovered clusters of frog eggs in a swampy area just off the trail. He has asked for a return trip in a week or so to see if they've hatched. For kids who like to explore nature, like mine, a springtime hike to a pond can be very rewarding.

Submitted by guest blogger Sue Repko

Kid-friendly winter adventures you can’t miss

In the Adirondacks, we embrace the outdoors year-round, regardless of the season. Winter here tends to linger longer, but there’s nothing quite like the crisp, frosty air and the company of family to banish cabin fever. Once the thermometer hits 20 degrees, it's time for the kids to head outdoors. And when the sun is shining, even colder temperatures are welcome—it’s all about dressing appropriately. I help the little ones bundle up in jackets, snow pants, boots, mittens, and hats, transforming them into colorful bundles of warmth.

Schroon Lake offers at least ten exciting winter activities for children that promise to create unforgettable memories:

1. Go sledding

It's time to go sledding on the hill by the frozen lake! Cuddle up with a child in a tube, and you’ll zoom down the hill at top speed, laughing joyfully all the way. Once you hit the ice, you’ll glide effortlessly and be amazed at how far you can go. Instead of trekking up the hill, it’s easier to take the stairs. You can stay at the top and give a good push when they shout, 'Ready!' Then, watch them slide down. Enjoy the beautiful vista before you—the iced lake stretches out, surrounded by mountains blanketed in pines and birch trees. Everything is dusted with snow, and the view seems to go on forever.

2. Get your skate on

Grab your skates and head to the covered pavilion overlooking the frozen lake—it’s the perfect spot for some icy fun! Don’t have skates? No worries! You can borrow a pair from the hut right next to the rink. Kids will love gliding across the smooth ice, practicing spins, or racing each other under the shelter of the pavilion. Plus, the views of the snowy mountains make it extra magical. Afterward, warm up with a hot chocolate and share stories about your skating adventures!

3. Explore the ice

Once the ice is safe, take your little ones for a walk on the frozen lake and let them experience the unique perspective from that vantage point. Schroon Lake is a popular destination for ice fishing, as it freezes earlier than lakes farther south. Here, you can stroll through a village of ice fishing tents, where anglers patiently wait for their tip-ups to move. Strike up a conversation about their luck, and you’re sure to hear some fascinating stories. You might also spot groups of snowmobiles zipping by or a skier gliding effortlessly across the ice, powered by a colorful parachute. Don’t forget to wave hello to cross-country skiers and ice skaters enjoying the lake, too.

4. Make tracks

Take a peaceful walk or snowshoe through Scaroon Manor and soak in the stunning views of the frozen lake and surrounding mountains. The stillness of winter creates the perfect backdrop for spotting wildlife or simply enjoying the serene beauty of nature. Bring along a chart of animal tracks and challenge your little explorers to identify the creatures that have left their marks in the snow—deer, rabbits, or maybe even a fox!

5. Build a snowman

The answer is almost certainly yes! If the snow is good for packing, it’s time to build! Create your snowman masterpiece using whatever you have on hand—sticks for arms, a scarf, a carrot nose, a hat, and maybe even some pebbles or buttons for eyes. You can also find kits with wooden pieces if you want to get extra fancy. Snowmen are guaranteed to bring smiles to anyone passing by, spreading a little winter cheer. And don’t stop there—why not build a snow fort? Gather the kids to shape walls and towers, and get ready for an epic snowball fight. Just make sure to watch out—you never know when a snowball might come flying your way!

6. Enjoy the scenery

You can go snowshoeing at Stone Bridge and Caves in Pottersville on Fridays through Sundays, where the trails wind through a magical winter wonderland. Explore the serene, snow-covered forest and take in breathtaking views of unique rock formations and frozen waterfalls. Bring your own snowshoes, or rent a pair on-site if you need them. After your adventure, warm up by the fire pit and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa or a snack from the gift shop. It’s the perfect spot for a family outing or a peaceful solo trek in the great outdoors.

7. Go for an adventure

Hire a real Adirondack guide for an unforgettable family adventure, whether it’s ice fishing, snowshoeing, or winter hiking. These experienced guides not only ensure your safety but also share their deep knowledge of the region’s history, wildlife, and outdoor traditions. Learn the art of ice fishing while hearing stories around a warm fire, or explore serene snow-covered trails with the added bonus of spotting scenic vistas. A guided adventure is a perfect way to experience the Adirondacks like a local and create lasting memories with your family.

8. Have a snack

For a simpler time, take your child’s hand and stroll down Main Street to enjoy some tasty treats, like cookies and scones at Pinecone Mercantile or a homemade pie at Pitkin’s. If you’re up for a bit more adventure, bundle up and head outdoors to make s’mores around a crackling fire. Pack some marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers, and let the kids toast their marshmallows to golden perfection. The mix of cozy treats and crisp winter air is sure to create warm memories for the whole family.

9. Get creative

Feeling artsy? Head outdoors to create snow sculptures or frosty masterpieces with food coloring and spray bottles. If you prefer to stay warm, head to the Schroon Lake Public Library. It’s the hub of our town with welcoming staff and offers much more than books for adults and children. There’s always story time or perhaps your child would prefer to find a book or puzzle to put together by the window that overlooks the lake. 

10. Go to an event

Schroon Lake offers a variety of exciting winter events that are perfect for families. From ice fishing derbies to winter festivals, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy. The community also hosts festive holiday celebrations, like tree lightings and local craft fairs, ensuring that the season is full of opportunities to make special memories together. Winter in Schroon Lake is a magical time for families to come together and embrace the snowy outdoors.

Discover your next family adventure

Plan to visit to the Adirondack Hub in the winter months and create unforgettable family memories. Whether you’re ice fishing on the frozen lake, sledding down snowy hills, or exploring snowshoeing trails, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventure. Schroon Lake offers the perfect setting for a winter getaway where families can bond, explore, and make lasting memories together.

There's always that in-between time, that period when the ice is on its way out but still there, not able to support an angler but not departing with the haste an open-water fisherman would like to see.

This is that time.

To the backcountry brook trout angler, ice simply means a season kickoff delayed by Mother Nature. Since ice fishing isn't allowed on those fragile waters anyway, all the remote brook trout pond-fishing fraternity can do is wait.

And prepare.

We're doing that right now, checking the weather reports, poring over maps and stocking lists, and deciding which of many waters within the Schroon Lake Region will offer a crack at the biggest brook trout, or brookies in sheer numbers. In the Schroon Lake Region, both are a possibility,sometimes on the same pond.

We're also getting our gear in shape for another season in the backcountry. There are lines to be replaced, hooks to be sharpened, float tubes to repair and lightweight canoes to be inspected. It's not a bad time, either, to get ourselves in shape for those excursions deep into the backcountry. While some superb fishing can be had in waters with easy access, it's no secret there's usually a direct correlation between the quality of the fishing and the amount of sweat and pain associated with getting to that hot spot.

So we do all that. And we wait. And we check our arsenal of time-tested Lake Clear Wabblers, those fluttering slices of gold, silver and other colors which, when combined with a worm, have been responsible for the catching of thousands of backcountry brookies.

Last year, we didn't have to wait at all. An unprecedented March warmup opened up ponds even in time for the April 1 regular-season trout opener. That's unheard of up here, but anglers didn't complain. They fished.

Sooner or later, we'll be fishing again. Back to some of our favorite spots, waters whose name we rarely mutter, and even then only in hushed tones, and among friends. In towns like Schroon, North Hudson, Minerva and Newcomb, there are plenty of backcountry ponds that offer superb fishing.

It's the kind of fishing that's worth the wait.

Fall in Schroon Lake is a wonderful and very colorful time of year. It’s time to get outside and soak in some of that cool fall air and take in breathtaking scenic views out over the lake. Make your last trip before the snow comes a good one and plan ahead for Schroon Lake’s many fall events.

 

Clawesome Lobster!

Clear your plate and head over to Schroon Lake’s Fish and Game Club for the annual Lobster Bake. The event starts at noon, so make sure to arrive with an empty stomach because there will be more than enough lobster to fill you up — along with plenty of other snacks and food to clench your palate. Bring your family and your friends and come eat, relax, and enjoy!

 

Your Antique Adirondack Decor

Are you looking for that one item that will help make you feel closer to home in the Adirondacks? From September 6 - 8, take the scenic drive over to the town of Indian Lake as they host The Adirondack Mountains Antiques Show. Find rustic and camp furniture, hunting and fishing antiques, boats, taxidermy, antlers, handcrafted snowshoes, canoes, tables and chairs, and more! Enjoy the fall foliage and mark your calendars now. Bring home a piece of the Adirondacks!

 

Teddy Roosevelt Weekend

Ever wonder how Theodore Roosevelt made it to the White House? Come celebrate the Teddy Roosevelt Weekend and learn about his journey to the becoming President of the United States. Plan your next trip down to Newcomb, beginning Friday, Sept. 16, and enjoy the cultural and historic attractions with your family and friends.

Featured guests Joe Wiegand and Dr. Richard Shore will interpret Theodore Roosevelt and John Muir respectively, as they take on the challenge of establishing our country’s national parks, as well as sharing their views on foreign affairs. There will be food and fun for everyone.

Join the scavenger hunt with John Muir or go on a walking or biking tour off of the Great Camp Santanoni — or hop on the free 10-mile wagon ride into the Great Camp. There will be float plane rides, a mini fishing derby for the kids, a Running of the Colors event, and cookies, barbecue, pancakes, and lemonade for everyone!

Keep your eyes peeled for Smokey the Bear, who will be making appearances throughout the weekend. Learn something new and exciting at the National Park Service traveling exhibit. Don’t forget to end your night at the spectacular fireworks display!

 

Adirondack Marathon Distance festival

Get ready to run into some beautiful fall foliage and scenic views! Sign up for the Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival, one of the premier races in the Northeast! The main attractions, the Full and Half Marathons, take place on Sunday, September 22. Pre-race activities on Saturday, September 21 include the chance to warm up those muscles with 5K, 10K, a Kids Fun Run!

This will be the 21st year that this event has taken place. This marathon, unlike many others, will take runners on a challenging yet very scenic course featuring lakeside views as it winds along Schroon Lake and through the beautiful fall foliage in the varied terrain.

After the race, relax, and kick back by the water. Soak in some of that fresh fall Adirondack air or even take a dip in the lake. Pack your sneakers and head out to Schroon Lake! Make this marathon the highlight of your fall racing schedule.

Plan ahead now to join us this fall in the Schroon Lake Region. Find a place to rest your head, and check out our delicious dining options while you're in town!

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So, it’s a relatively warm winter day with temps reaching a balmy 23 degrees. Considering the recent below zero days, it almost feels like spring. It’s time to get out and try something new. And, if there is one thing I have been long overdue at trying, it’s snowshoeing.

Today, my partner-in-adventure is Gabrielle. She’s home from college on winter break, and since Oliver is in school, this is the perfect time for the two of us to hit the trails for something a bit more involved than when we have the 5-year-old in tow.

We hit the road out of the High Peaks and head south for our scenic hour drive to the southern Schroon Lake Region. Our destination? Natural Stone Bridge and Caves.

Now, I have been passing the sign for this attraction located off the Northway exit 26 for as long as I remember. But I haven’t actually been here since I was a toddler (and that was quite a long time ago). I was totally psyched to find out that it wasn’t just a summer attraction. In the winter, visitors can throw on their snowshoes, or rent equipment on-site, and hit the miles of awesome trails on most Fridays-Sundays. (They also have extended holiday hours and can arrange group tours on weekdays.)

We pulled into the driveway and found the Store 'Open' sign. We were promptly welcomed by Greg, who has been running the family business for the past 15 years or so. He cheerfully greeted us and after establishing how much time we had and our level of experience, we had a plan of action. He explained all the little details: how to read the trail map, which routes we might want to take, what we should expect to see, what we should be aware of, etc.

Greg was also happy to share some of the history surrounding the place. It has been in his family since the Revolutionary War when a soldier relative was awarded the land. It went through a few changes of ownership (grandparents, aunts & uncles) until Greg became the most recent Rock Guy in charge.

We hadn’t brought our own gear, so we were quickly suited up with the proper equipment and given a quick lesson. Now, you may be questioning the fact that we got a lesson - but here is where I must once again note how clumsy I am. I had never even tried on snowshoes, so Greg explained how the crampons worked, foot placement, and which way to work the intricate-yet-super-easy lacing system. (No problem, I got this!)

We are ready to go and at the suggestion of Greg we decide to take the Stone Bridge Cave Loop and then move on to a few of the longer paths that connect to it. We planned on a few miles and probably an hour on the trail. That seemed like a good starting point, and a great way to try out a new activity.

Within minutes we are out of view of the office and surrounded by nature. The trails are very well-marked and there are cool viewing spots and interesting objects to spy along the way.

Upon departure we had been given a laminated map to wear (smart move) as well as a card with alphabetical markers that explain different features that we may spy along the trail. For example, the letter J spied upon a tree was explained as pileated woodpecker holes. I think one of my favorite things was the light-hearted humor that was melded so seamlessly into some of the descriptions. To totally paraphrase one of the notes which identified a white birch, it ended with something to the effect of 'watch out when you look up, the tops fall off first.' A true fact, but a fun, informative way to pass along the info.

Little did we know that we might run into Sasquatch along the way, things just kept getting more and more interesting.

While I wouldn’t say we took a strenuous route - as a matter of fact, we weren’t anywhere near the expert trails - there were some decent hills and even an area with a rope ladder to ease the climb.

We were soon in a great groove, and I have to admit I wish we had had more time - there are 14.5 miles of trails to explore and we hadn’t even done a quarter of the property. But, it was time for us to head back to the office and on to our next adventure - a warm lunch and some shopping and exploring in Schroon Lake.

As we made our way back toward the check-in area we took a quick tour of some of the summer season activities which are offered in addition to the Cave and Adventure Tours: gemstone mining, disc golf course, climbing wall, playground, ice cream stand, picnic area.

The store is full of fun items from locally produced items to exotic rocks and postcards. Who doesn't need a new coffee mug to remember their trip by? I can't say no!

We returned our gear and Greg took a few minutes to highlight some of the winter activities. As mentioned earlier, there are self-guided tours which are available from 10am-4pm from Friday-Sunday. In addition there are Saturday Moonlight Evening Snowshoe Tours at 6pm by prior reservation (these fill quickly - call to ensure your place!). There’s also a great little fire pit area and hot cocoa to warm up with after a day on the trail. Yum!

Depending on the amount of time you have and your level of experience, you can expect to check out part of the summer trail going over the Stone Bridge and down to Mediation Isle for a close up view of the Stone Bridge, Sawmill Waterfalls, and ice flows. Other trails include geological features including: sinkholes, large glacial erratic boulders, and vertical ledges.

And, of course, there’s lots of local animal activity. You’ll encounter large trees and stumps felled by beavers, and tons of tracks in the snow (deer, rabbits, squirrels, bobcats, coyotes, turkeys, fishers, pine martins, and more). We saw evidence of this within minutes of starting our walk - of course, we have no idea what we were looking at, do you?

Here's a hint on the below pic - I couldn't make any phone calls until it dried out :)

Natural Stone Bridge and Caves will definitely be on our summer tour list. While I don’t think Oliver would enjoy snowshoeing for any great distance (he likes to ski and run and 'go fast’), he will LOVE digging rocks and running trails and exploring caves once the weather is warmer. And, I can’t lie, after looking at the pictures of the many Tour Adventures - I can not wait to return and actually see the caves! (Check out the summer adventure pics on their website.)

What a great day. Tried a new activity. Visited a new (very old) attraction. Got to walk some awesome trails and got some great girl-bonding time. Now that I have a little experience it's time to search for some other great snowshoeing trails in the Schroon Lake Region. Heck, I may even try downhill skiing again, Gore is right up the road, and so is the small hill in Schroon Lake! I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again - I love the Adirondacks and all there is to experience! What should we do next? Suggestions happily accepted :)

In a bit of classic Adirondack irony, you are very unlikely to get lost while snowshoeing to Lost Pond. In fact, this might be one of the most well-marked trails inside the Blue Line.

Lost Pond is a beautiful little gem of a pond that is just as picturesque in winter as in summer. So when I set out from the parking area near the state’s Putnam Pond Campground on a cold but sunny February day, I was excited for the adventure.

Setting out from the parking area, I started heading roughly south, following a well-packed trail that was also marked with yellow state Department of Environmental Conservation trail markers. The trail is so well marked that in most places I could see the next two markers from where I was on the trail. This may change during the spring and summer when the leaves are out, but it’s hard to wander off this path, making the flat hike an excellent option for families.

Walking through open hardwoods, I looked at numerous sets of tracks, including winter beaver tracks, which look like a 4-inch wide path through the snow. I was surprised, thinking they wouldn’t be active, but some other clues later on confirmed that beavers were lurking in the area.

At just over a half-mile from the trailhead, there was a long, narrow, wooden bridge over a small gorge. There was still some running water under the fluffy snow, so the bridge was quite welcome and kept my snowshoes from getting gunked up with ice.

From the bridge, the trail ascends the other side and then levels out again. At 1 mile, there is a rather large beaver swamp to the left of the trail, and it’s beautiful enough in winter that the few extra steps are well worth it for the view. The trail climbs a little more, though never steeply, to Lost Pond at right about 1.35 miles. Here, a post with DEC signs on it shows the split in the trail. 

It was hard to tell in winter, but going left here brings hikers to a nice place to take in the view of the pond. People looking for a shorter hike can simply turn around and head out while still getting a great workout in, but the more adventurous can continue on the lollipop loop around the pond for a longer snowshoe.

I hugged the left (east) shore of the pond, still following the yellow DEC markers, and about halfway down the pond, the land got much steeper, sloping from the left down to the shore. This area was tricky on snowshoes, with rather large boulders dotting the way, but despite worrying a bit, I was soon at the southern end of the pond, looking up the ice back to where I came from.

Continuing on around the southern end of the pond, I came to two of the three DEC-designated campsites, and no lie, it’s going to be hard not coming back in the warmer months to take advantage of this first come, first served public resource. The backcountry sites are in great places, and it would be a quick walk in with no snow on the ground.

Looping around, the trail made its way north along the western shore, where the woods were younger and thicker, but the trail never ventures far from the shore of Lost Pond. I kept going north, passing by the third campsite before reaching the spot where the trail splits. To this point, it was a quick and easy 2.6 miles, and with the sun beating down the temperature up about 25 degrees since I had started, it was hard to say goodbye to Lost Pond. But there was another stop to make before heading home.

 

Après snowshoe

Après ski is a French term that literally translates to “after skiing,” and refers to that great time after a day on the slopes when the boots come off and drinks and hors d'oeuvres are shared as the day’s turns are celebrated. But why limit it to skiing? I say, après ski, après snowboard, après snowshoe!

Luckily, the Adirondack Hub has plenty of places to enjoy after a day in the woods, and people venturing to Lost Pond are in luck because just up the road (Route 9 or I-87, that is) is the new Paradox Brewery.

Located near the state’s new Frontier Town campground, Paradox Brewery recently opened the doors on this location as well, and beer drinkers are in for a treat! From favorites like the Beaver Bite IPA to monthly brews corresponding with the Adirondacks’ weather, Paradox Brewery is the perfect place to kick back and relax after a day on the trails.

While beer lovers will rejoice at the wide selection, they also have drinks for everyone in the family. There’s room for the kids to run around and games to be played in the huge lodge, which overlooks the brewing operation. Snowmobilers, hikers, and skiers (anyone really!) can stop in and enjoy the warm atmosphere and friendly service. Plus, they have growlers, t-shirts, hats, and other souvenirs to take home with you. 

In addition to great hikes and amazing beer, the Adirondack Hub has so much to offer. From quaint inns to quirky shops to incredible food, the Hub is the perfect place for your Adirondack vacation.

If you go: from Interstate 87 (the Northway), take Exit 28 and then state Route 74 east for 12.8 miles. Turn right onto Essex County Route 39 and go 3.2 miles to the trailhead on the left. The trail begins at the back of the parking area.

While it’s unlikely you’ll get lost exploring Lost Pond, the Adirondack Hub has so much to see and do that you’ll want to lose yourself in an Adirondack vacation. There are unique places to stay, great food to be had, and plenty of events that will keep the whole family happy and busy.

Outdoor adventures within reach

If you’ve waited all year saving your way to cross a few choice destinations off your travel list this year, we’re right there with you. We’ve been dreaming up log cabin stays, hearty breakfasts in the morning before a day out on the trails, cozy campfires to sing songs around at night . . . ok, maybe a little too dreamy. But luckily, the Adirondack Hub can make those dreams a reality! A certified outdoor-enthusiast’s paradise, the Hub is littered with adventures to be had. Carved by towering Adirondack High Peaks, the region boasts opportunities for thrills at every corner. The cherry on top? It’s flexible enough to fit your budget! If you're a traveler with a passion for adventure but also an eye for a good deal, you've come to the right place. 

Stay 

Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks Campground

Tucked deep in the backcountry, it's no wonder that state and private campgrounds can be found in every nook and cranny of the Adirondack Hub. Nostalgic stays can be found by lakes and rivers and at the base of High Peaks, ensuring you’ll find the perfect place to set up camp and make your home for the weekend or week! Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks Campground brings all types of campers to one place. Glampers can set up shop in their yurts— yes, you heard that right — the campground houses a number of canvas yurts around the property, perfect for couples or families looking to rent out two at a time! The camping resort has a complete package of amenities at your fingertips. An outdoor swimming pool, spa, sandy beach, boat rentals, fishing, eighteen-hole mini-golf course, gift/souvenir shop, snack shop, mini-mart, and game room are among the opportunities available when you’re not out adventuring on the trails.

Loon Cabins at Schroon Lake

Looking for your own cabin to cozy up in as you plan out your adventures? The Adirondack Hub is home to a quaint collection of cabins scattered across the region. Choose from cabins that lead right to the trails, on the lake, or just a short walk from charming downtowns. For a stay with classic Adirondack charm and within your budget, Loon Cabins at Schroon Lake is ready to book. A collection of three small cabins, this is the perfect opportunity to snag your other outdoorsy buddies and reserve all three for a stay filled with sweet cabin memories. Originally built in 1945 as part of the Rawlins Cabins and Cottages, the Loon Cabins have since been updated with modern amenities but are designed to maintain their vintage vibes. The cabins are perfect for diving into your fantasy of roughing it Adirondack style, without roughing it at all. 

Blue Ridge Motel

The Blue Ridge Motel is situated in one of the most convenient spots in the Adirondacks. Situated in between the delightful downtown of Schroon Lake and the extensive trail systems of North Hudson, hop between Main Street shopping and backcountry exploring. For over sixty-eight years, the Blue Ridge Motel has served as a popular overnight destination for vacationing guests. Purchased in December 2019 by Blue Ridge Hospitality, LLC, a woman-owned business, the motel has been hard at work on extensive reservations, offering their guests many modern comforts. In addition to room renovations, the lobby was also refurbished, allowing the motel to offer complimentary continental breakfast and a small gift shop!  

 

Pitkin’s Restaurant 

Established in 1907, Pitkin’s Restaurant has been serving for over a hundred years as a true dining landmark nestled in the picturesque hamlet of Schroon Lake. Needless to say, the restaurant has casual dining and quality menu choices down pat after all this time, set within a restored and authentic Adirondack restaurant. And, after a hundred years, their prices can be relied on to serve up affordable meals for your adventurous party of two to ten. Their self-proclaimed “modern rustic” style, new patio and event spaces, and broad menu choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner will have you craving for more and booking your next meal to make Pitkin’s a part of your Adirondack traditions. 

What to do

Guided rafting trip down the Hudson with CloudSplitter Outfitters

We did say the Adirondack Hub was full of adventures, didn’t we? CloudSplitter Outfitters is the closest outfitter to the start of the Hudson River, where you can consult with guides before the start of your next trip downriver or enlist their services to aid you in exploring one of the main waterways of New York. The company offers rentals from stand-up paddleboards to kayaks and canoes. For your journey on the Hudson, you can even rent rafts to float downriver, with the guidance from your guide, of course. The Hudson can go from calm waters to roaring rapids quickly, and guides know the best places to put in and take out, leaving all the stress at the river bank. Go in on a group experience or enjoy a tour of the region with just you and a guide.

A day at the beach 

There are few joys to be had better than rounding out a stay in the Hub with a day on one of the many lakes around. The local town beach is the perfect location for a calm outing. Each of the four towns in the Adirondack Hub — Newcomb, North Hudson, Minerva, and Schroon Lake — have great beaches where you can enjoy some time in the sun and water! All of the beaches offer the chance to cool off and relax in an authentic Adirondack lake, surrounded by great views of forests and mountains. When you visit, you'll enjoy the magic of a day at a beautiful Adirondack beach, with sand, sun, and great fresh water.

Save on outdoor memories

No matter where you go in the Adirondack Hub, you’ll be able to find the perfect stay, adventures, and relaxation without having to break the bank. For an escape filled with thrills and outdoor fun set deep in the natural beauty of the Adirondacks, book your next stay in the Adirondack Hub.

Hammond Pond Wild Forest continues to provide great outings this winter. To celebrate New Year's Day I skied from the Sharp Bridge Campground to East Mill Flow with two great friends.

Sharp Bridge Campground is one of the prettiest campsites in the Adirondacks and likely one of the oldest. The first campsite was placed at this location in 1920 according to DEC. The campsite where the trail begins is about 3 miles south of Exit 30 on Rte 9 in North Hudson.

Five days after the first (and wonderful!) snow storm of the winter, which came on Dec. 27-28, we expected to find that someone had already packed out the trail and we were rewarded for most of the way.

From the parking area the trail follows the Schroon Brook southeast for about a mile. The going is easy and allowed us to test our wax—mine was lacking—and adjust. There's one place along the water where a road once crossed and you can see the remains of an old stone bridge. It's amazing what stands and what crumbles along the banks of these Adirondack Rivers.

We headed up a long hill to about 1250 feet through forest still heavy with snowy branches, looking forward to a great descent as reward on the return. From the top of the hill the route rolls along gently which allowed us to get into a nice ski rhythm.

Just was we were starting to feel an appetite, the forest opened into the East Mill Flow. The Flow is an extensive beaver flow that was well-frozen. We checked out the nice canine tracks, complete with scent marks. Probably both coyote and fox. There were seed heads from dried sedges and stiff, dark leather leaf foliage showing through the snow as we skied across to a rocky edge. The rock radiated warm sunshine that felt good after the shady trail.

Delicious, left-over maple-banana-walnut waffles slathered with peanut butter made a timely appearance followed by the special Bengal spice tea with honey and milk that David always carries in winter. We all had plans for the late afternoon so didn't linger although I was curious to continue the route to its end on Ensign Pond Road.

The trip back was perfect. I was less concerned with making progress than I had been on the way in. I noticed the high ledge that the trail follows and imagined bobcats napping in the sunshine up there. The trail was tracked out enough to make nice gliding. The sunshine made a light show in the canopy of bare branches and deep green needles.  We returned to the cars after three hours completely satisfied. 

I know what you’re thinking. Sasquatch is just a mythical being along the likes of unicorns and fairies. What you can't deny is that as winter creeps in and days become darker, there is a bit of extra mystery that lingers in the woods. Most Sasquatch sightings happen in the late summer and early fall, making it the perfect time to plan a trip to look for the world's greatest mystery.

Whether you’re a Squatcher — a group of people banded together by the belief in and fascination of all things ‘Squatch — or not, I’m here to prepare you for the adventure of a lifetime.

It was only a few weeks ago when I was out for a hike in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness with a friend. As the sun went away and my headlamp came out, the end of my hike became increasingly, well, hairy. First it was the sounds of knocking on wood. Then came the un-human like screams. Finally, a large shadow seemed to follow as we made our way off the trail and quickly into the car. While I can't say for sure that it was Sasquatch him/herself, next time I visit the area, I will be ready!

Know where to go

While most Sasquatch sightings in New York have been in Whitehall, recent happenings hint that the group may have relocated to The Pharaoh Lake Wilderness. While it is important to listen to other reports on sitings, the ‘Squatch family will probably be in a secluded wooded area. It is also important to look for signs of other animal life. After all, the big guy's gotta eat.

When you get there it is important to familiarize yourself with the area and common noises. Is that screeching sound just an owl in a nearby tree or something more? As you begin to recognize animal sounds, footprints, etc. you will be able to differentiate the normal from the mysterious.

Know what to look for

Now that you’re all set up, the next step to finding Bigfoot is knowing what he/she looks like. People may try and claim you saw a bear, maybe a moose even, but this guide will ensure you are not mistaken. The following ‘facts’ come from bigfootfinder.com.

• Average Height: 6 feet, 6 inches – 10 feet tall

• Average Weight: 400 – 1,000 pounds

• Footprint: 12 – 22 inches long, 5 – 11 inches wide at the ball, 2 – 8 inches wide at the heel

• Hands: 6 – 8.5 inches across the palm. Stubby fingers.

• Hair: Dark brown/reddish

• Skin: black, brown, tan

• Eyes: Brown/red

• Odor: Not good

Know what to bring

Anytime you head into Adirondack wilderness areas, preparedness is extremely important. While there are a few extra gadgets and gizmos to bring along, the following list is similar to that of a camping trip. This time of year weather can be unpredictable, so a lot of layers and extra food and water are always good to bring. Be sure to have the following:

• Camouflage for hiding

• Camping gear

• Bait (Deer urine and meat to lure Sasquatch to you)

• Knife (for self defense only)

• First aid kit

• Water / food

• Notepad to document what you see / hear

• Night vision goggles

• Gifts for Sasquatch, after all you are inviting yourself into their home

Leave no trace

As mentioned, finding Sasquatch can also be called a super awesome Adirondack camping trip, so make sure you pack out what you pack in. It is also important to bring a bear canister, as you don't want any unwanted guests entering your lean-to or tent. If your search is successful, we recommend viewing from a distance, especially if you come across a brood of ‘Squatches.

Happy hunting footer nation!

Disclaimer: This guide does not guarantee a sighting. The region of Schroon Lake is not responsible for serious injury or death in the event that you do find a Sasquatch.