An Adirondack retreat

Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, abundant with natural beauty, unique history, and homegrown flavors, the town of Minerva — including its hamlet of Olmstedville — has a lot to offer. It's a hidden gem full of fun and classic summer activities perfect for a relaxing night or two away from home. From owls at twilight to s'mores by the fire, find 24 hours* in Minerva jam-packed with fun! In fact, you might want to think about extending that adventure by a few hours, or even a few days...

*Give or take a few. That's the traveler's prerogative!

Day one - adventure time!

Welcome to Minerva! You got here, presumably, enjoying the scenic ride, no matter what direction you've come from. The beautiful drive (or ride, if you're on a bike) is a treat in itself, and leads you to one of the sweetest scenic spots in the Adirondacks, that radiates quiet charm. As soon as you get here, why not stretch your legs and enjoy that fresh Adirondack air? Travelers with a lot of ambition, energy, and eagerness can set out on a hike at Moxham Mountain, where the trail winds 2.5 miles along a moderate ridge that offers a lot of big views. Kind of a nice way to introduce yourself to the area, don't you think?

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If a hike isn't your speed, or perhaps you'd rather save that adventure for tomorrow, a visit to Donnelly Beach will invigorate you and your kiddos. Spend a few hours splashing around, sunbathing, and enjoying the sunny surroundings, which include views of the sparkling lake and surrounding forest. Beyond the warm sand, Donnelly Beach also features a playground, picnic area, and spots to launch your canoe or kayak. Seeing the area from the water — Minerva Lake is wonderfully paddle-able — is a special experience you shouldn't miss!

While you're at the beach, indulge in a frosty milkshake or churros at the snack bar!

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Fun fact: The American artist Winslow Homer visited Minerva. Among the works he painted in the area was one entitled Netting the Fish, depicting a guide fishing on an Adirondack lake!

Day one - dinnertime!

Get closer to the screen. I have a secret to share with you. *Drops typing to a whisper* One of the most interesting fine dining restaurants in the Adirondacks is right here. Yes, here. In sweet little Minerva, and I have to insist that you eat there. Open seasonally, so you'd best visit in summer, The Owl at Twilight is a treasure that everyone needs to try at least once. Think: luxurious, chef-crafted meals. Think: an extensive drinks menu that invites trying a few different things. The Owl at Twilight's menu ranges from fresh mussels from Prince Edward Island, sauteed with saffron, to chipotle-rubbed ribs and super-fresh veggies made with great care. Paired with custom cocktails, New York craft beers, and a wine list from around the world...look, just go and have an amazing meal!

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Fun fact: Minerva is a great place to pick up maple syrup, too! Visit Maple Knoll Farm for the sweet stuff and other maple treats!

Good night and good morning!

If you've ever longed for a wee cottage or cabin of your own, with lake views and woods all round, Minerva has that, too! At Morningside, take your pick of sweet lakeside cottages, which range in size from cozy for a couple to a chalet fit for a full-size family. Morningside is the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee on your own private deck, listening for loons on the water.

Each cabin rental offers the choice of canoe or kayak for a relaxing paddle, while Morningside also has a private beach for swimming, hiking trails, playing field, fishing, and an expansive tree house for the kids to enjoy. It's so easy to relax and have fun at Morningside that you won't want to leave! With views like this, who would want to?

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Fun fact: Minerva was first settled in the early 1800s. It was officially a town in 1817, with early settlers being involved in lumbering and farming.

Day two - more to explore

A visit to Minerva — if you can drag yourself away from the relaxing deck at Morningside, that is — isn't complete without a visit to Betty's Funny Farm. There, Betty herself has created a welcoming bed and breakfast and charming farm shop. The array of offerings in the shop are a wonderful and delicious (truly!) array of Adirondack-crafted items, including wool sweaters and mittens, quilts, soap, and Betty's own jams and jellies!

As you're cruising around Minerva, enjoying the fresh air and quiet, Adirondack atmosphere, It's About Thyme Farm and the Thyme Glass Arts shop is another wonderful stop. Summer at the farm means a colorful variety of plants, fresh produce, garden decor, and a glassblowing studio. At the studio shop, browse a stunning array of delicate, intricately designed and handcrafted items. From mutli-colored ornaments to vases, dinnerware, and jewelry, the studio shop is full of beauty; bring home a gift or a little special something for yourself to remember your trip! If you visit the farm in fall, you can pick out your perfect Halloween pumpkin in the pumpkin patch!

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Fun fact: Minerva is the name of the Roman goddess of wisdom and the arts! She might have liked meeting some of Minerva's local crafters and artisans!

Day two - dine more!

So, you've hiked, you've paddled at the beach, shopped, literally smelled the roses, and now it's time to go home. But is it? Before you depart, indulge in one more vacation meal with a lunch or early dinner at Sporty's Iron Duke Saloon. I promise, you don't have to be a biker to enjoy a tasty meal at Sporty's. The atmosphere is fun, the staff are friendly and welcoming, and the food is just what you need to treat yourself before you head home. The menu may not be extensive, but everything is incredibly good, from the famous wings to the 1/2-pound burgers! Don't be afraid to take your leftovers home with you; you might want a snack for the ride home!

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What else can you do in Minerva? Here are a few more ideas:

• Visit the historic marker that honors Solomon Northup, a free-born Black man who was illegally sold into slavery in the 1800s. He was born right here in Minerva!
• Bring your bicycle! There are pretty, quiet scenic roads offering the opportunity to stretch your legs. The Hardscrabble Road offers an especially attractive loop.
• Check out the amazing Hornbeck Boats, where amazingly light, incredibly durable canoes are made and sold!
• Okay, technically it isn't in Minerva, but if you're heading south to get home, explore natural wonders and truly epic history at Natural Stone Bridge and Caves. Bonus: they have an ice cream stand, too!

Enjoy your overnight in Minerva, soak up the Adirondack wilderness views, outdoor adventures, and of course, the local color. While you're planning, learn more about other parts of the Adirondack Hub for travel inspiration, too!

 

OH, a foraging we will go, a foraging we will go, through the woods and by the creek, a foraging we will go. A little tune similar to that of, “99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall”,  plays in my head over and over when strapping on my boots and heading outdoors to explore the land for mushrooms. I certainly do not have to travel far before I find any mushrooms.

Now I am no professional, and I do not know much about forging except all the little brown mushrooms are called.. Ding Ding Ding, you guessed it, little brown mushrooms. And no, this is not a scientific term. 

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My mother is the true expert and guide on these expeditions, I simply tag along to take pictures. She often leads small group tours at the Adirondack Interpretive Center and informs fellow mushroom lovers of what's what. Which mushrooms are poisonous and which are edible. If you eat a foraged mushroom and it makes you sick, chances are you ate poisonous mushrooms.

*Disclaimer: please do not go out and start eating random mushrooms after reading this, do your homework, hire a guide, also don't be that person that just puts things in their mouth they know nothing about, thank you! 

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However, this blog isn't about foraging wild mushrooms. Foraging for us, comes in a slightly different form. Now for those of you that are unaware, my mom has a mushroom farm. A micro mushroom farm, but a farm nonetheless. She grows log-grown shiitake mushrooms, dabbles in oyster mushrooms, and occasionally grows a wine cap or two.

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When I was younger, like any teenager, I HATED mushrooms. Up until she started growing them I absolutely despised them, and then I had my first Adirondack log-grown shiitake mushroom and thought wow these are good, “am I a mushroom girl now?”

My mom started her micro-farm, High Peaks Shiitake, roughly 6 years ago with a few hardwood logs and a dream. A dream that now has well over 100 logs that fills up part of the front yard. Each year she adds more and more to the fleet. Now growing mushrooms is not necessarily a tough process, but it is a long one. Starting from the beginning, we cut down 20 or so hardwood trees, my father’s a logger so cutting down trees is an easy task, and then cut them into smaller sections roughly a foot in diameter and three feet long. And drill 30 or so holes in each log.

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Then it's time to inoculate the logs, fill each hole with the mushroom spores and sawdust mixture, seal it with food-grade wax, and you're good to go, for next year that is. Yes, that’s right, a whole year it'll sit outside. Each log is then labeled and logged into Excel and placed on top of wooden pallets in a cool shaded area low to the ground. They need to be in a place to receive natural rainfall throughout the following year, maintaining moisture during this time is crucial in the growing process of the mushroom. Living in the great white north doesn't matter either, the snow does not hurt them at all, if anything it helps! 

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So, if you want to start growing mushrooms from scratch you’ll have to do prep the first year so you can yield mushrooms the following year. After you've waited a year it’s time to start mushroom growing. To grow your mushrooms you’ll have to submerge the whole log in water for 24 hrs to “activate” the spores and then set them in a cool damp shady section and wait roughly a week and you’ll have delicious mushrooms. 

Here are some things to remember:

• Mushrooms love moist climates, so watering your logs frequently in the summer is helpful 
• The warmer the weather the faster the mushrooms grow, typically production slows down as the temperatures begin to drop. June-August are the best months.
• Start Inoculating your logs in the spring so they're ready for the following year.
• Mushroom logs can keep reproducing year after year. We have logs still producing Shiitake mushrooms from 5 years ago! 
• Always use a hardwood like maple or oak to grow your mushrooms.
• Have fun and experiment there are plenty of different ways to grow Shiitake mushrooms! 

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You can find High Peaks Shiitake at local farmer's markets, our property in Newcomb, and at Cloudsplitter Outfitters in the summertime. They are a very hot commodity and oftentimes sell out very fast! And sometimes they don't even make it off the property! We usually make a delicious meal that very night with fresh mushrooms. One of our favorites is a shiitake mushroom wood-fired pizza with asiago, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese. It is just divine.

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And last but not least I will leave you with a simple question, where do baby mushrooms grow before they’re born?

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In the mush-womb!!!

The sun is shining, the skies are blue, the lake is clear, and you just arrived in beautiful Schroon Lake for the perfect spring day on Main Street! Main Street communities have always flourished in small towns, bringing people together with their small-town shops and restaurants in one centralized location creating a sense of community and inclusivity. In the Adirondack Hub, Schroon Lake has one of the most popular Main Streets! And now two new businesses have opened up on Main Street that we're excited to share!

But first, no trip to Schroon Lake is complete without a stop at 9-Mile Coffee. They are that great. Between the atmosphere and delicious coffee, the coffee shop is a must-stop on your adventures down Main Street.

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Schroon Sandwich Shop

Now, I am no food blogger, but I do like to think of myself as a food enthusiast and always seem eager to try somewhere or something new. The Pharaoh Philly sandwich is, in my opinion, the best sandwich the Schroon Sandwich Shop has to offer! Between the shaved seasoned steak, caramelized onions, peppers, and mushrooms on fresh bread with American cheese, the sandwich is just so yummy! Everything on the sandwich is cooked so perfectly that the flavors just melt in your mouth. You could easily finish the whole sub! Another favorite of mine is The Lake Monster, shaved pastrami with Swiss cheese and deli mustard on grilled rye. The ingredients are so simple and come together perfectly to create a delicious sandwich. The Shop doesn't stop there either, they serve breakfast and lunch 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m., and locals and visitors alike can’t stop raving about their delicious meal! The sandwich shop was opened in the summer of 2022 and has already been making a huge splash in the community. They have a convenient order online system and an adorable seating area both inside and outside perfect for anyone! Make sure to stop by and grab your favorite sandwich from the Schroon Sandwich Shop the next time you're taking a trip down Main.

P.S. The subs travel very well and can easily be enjoyed from the park across the street or even from your boat on a warm summer day! 

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Above and Beyond Seconds

Above and Beyond Seconds is perfect for all your second-hand treasures. Now, I am not talking about a traditional thrift store with second-hand clothes and shoes. I'm talking art, decor, and home items/essentials. The thrift shop opened earlier this year and has been a great place for patrons to find hidden treasures. Conveniently located in the heart of the main street right next door to the Schroon Lake Sandwich Shop, you can shop around while your sandwich is being prepared! With refurbished and repurposed items, stopping in and checking out this small business on Main Street is perfect to add to your list. 

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Of course, everyone's favorite boutiques and restaurants still stand on Main St including Pitkin's Restaurant and Pinecone Mercantile. If you haven't already, you should stop in at Pinecone Mercantile, and head to the back of the shop where they have their bakery, North Woods Bread Co, and grab some delish fresh baked goods. You have to get there right in the morning though, they usually sell out pretty early!  

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New stores have been added to the fleet! While traffic is low and mud season is in full bloom, now is the perfect time to go out and enjoy Main Street in Schroon Lake before the hustle and bustle of summer! Plan your trip today! 

It's spring in the Adirondacks, and that means rising temperatures, melting ice, flowing waterfalls, new growth ... and it means changeable and often unpredictable weather conditions! One day can feel like summer and the next like winter. Some days can feel like one season in the morning and an entirely different season in the afternoon. A few weeks ago, when you were eagerly anticipating outdoor activities in the warmer temperatures, you probably weren't dreaming of packing and planning for every weather condition imaginable. But it is spring in the Adirondacks after all, and with just a bit of creativity, your spring trip to the Adirondacks is bound to be the best ever. Here are some ideas to keep you focused on enjoying your spring visit to the mountains, no matter the weather!

Take a look forward

Planning for future Adirondack adventures is a wonderful activity for any day, but seems especially pleasant on days when the outdoor conditions are unpredictable or the weather isn't so inviting. Scheduling visits to favorite places, planning new routes, sharing stories with other explorers, spreading out maps on the kitchen table and dreaming up future events is an adventure of its own. No matter what type of excitement you have in mind — hiking, backpacking, paddling, climbing, road tripping, or any other form of outdoor recreation in the Adirondack Hub — taking the time to plan ahead is a great use of time. A licensed Adirondack guide can be of great help with planning and provide expert advice! If you're in need of ideas for new activities, check out Adirondack Wayfinder, where you'll find a wide range of suggestions for adventures big and small. Oh, and paddlers, have you heard of the Schroon Paddle Challenge?

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Take a look back

Need a breather from the excitement of planning for the future? Take a look back instead! Each and every one of the towns in the Adirondack Hub has some incredibly wonderful and cool history, with a rich and storied past that is just waiting for you to discover. Learning about the area's history isn't just interesting; knowing details, the struggles and triumphs of the area's past can give you a fresh perspective on life as it is today in the Adirondack Hub. You'll learn that there are quite a few mysteries of the region as well! Let the trails rest while you spend time stepping backward through the history in the area's museums and historic sites. 

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Take a look around

Take a look around and appreciate a new view during this season of change. With the trees still leafless and with spring migration still in progress, mud season is one of the best times of the year for birding. It's also an incredibly wonderful time of year to experience the landscape from a different perspective as you make a return to road biking! Our towns constantly have new events springing up, so as always, keep an eye on the Events calendar for an up-to-date list of the happenings in the area!

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Someday

Every day is someday. The changing weather and sometimes-unpredictable outdoor conditions make this time of year perfect for making your day "someday". You know that place you've driven by hundreds of times and have always thought that you'll stop to check out? Maybe that corner market or antique shop? The lake view worthy of stopping to linger over, that historic plaque that you've always wanted to stop to read, or that sidewalk in town you've always thought would be nice to stroll along? Stopping for coffee or lunch and peeking in all of the shop windows? Now is the time. Let the spring weather do what it will as we take the opportunity to slow down, take our time, and do some of those things that we've always been intending to do, but never seem to find the time for on our way to and from our big Adirondack adventures. Today is the day to finally stop, look, and experience! 

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A special note: be gentle on the trails

A quick note about this special time of year: there are many indoor and in-town activities to keep us busy, but we are all eager to get out onto the trails and up high in elevation, returning to our favorite warmer weather hikes or exploring new sections of the map. Keeping our trail systems healthy is important every day of the year, and especially so during spring. The trails can be exceptionally vulnerable this time of year, so please keep in mind that the trails, surrounding terrain, and your fellow hikers will be grateful for your efforts to take extra care to hike responsibly.

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The magic of the Adirondacks is the result of previous generations taking a long view and protecting the mountains, lakes, and rivers within the Blue Line. That tradition continues today as we support and encourage everyone to practice Leave No Trace ethics, which help protect the lands and waters of the Adirondacks.

Spring is here! Kinda… I know it’s hard to believe that the season has changed from winter to spring already, but it has! Warmer weather is coming up right around the corner. What better way to spend spring than outdoors, soaking up all the fresh air and enjoying watching mother nature wake back up. It’s finally time to put away those snow boots and snowshoes and grab your hiking boots for a new adventure that doesn’t involve the snow, hopefully! 

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If you’ve been experiencing cabin fever, trust me you’re not alone. We’re here to get you out of the house and enjoy the warmer weather outdoors with or without the family. Some of our favorite hikes are listed below, and some you may have heard of, and others maybe not. Regardless it’s always a great idea to get out and enjoy the fresh air.

The Adirondack Interpretive Center in Newcomb is a great option for you and your family to enjoy, with miles of trails to choose from, each making for the perfect and easy trek with the kids. Follow along the wooded paths over bridges and along the lake to enjoy wildlife firsthand! Plus, you can stop into the interpretive center on the weekend from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and enjoy the exhibits! 

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Another hidden gem located in the Adirondack Hub is the Blue Ledges on the Hudson in Minerva. A trail that leads to a very scenic section of the Hudson River, towering over the river are the cliffs, Blue Ledges, hint the name! The river makes a large bend and is filled with large boulders that make for a spectacular scene. There's also a soft sanded part of the river that folks often like to wade into, if it's not too cold of course! The 2.5 miles one way out and back trail is located just before Huntley Pond and is perfectly marked with blue trail markers, thank you DEC! The hike is rated moderate, but very doable for folks of all ages! 

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If you're looking to be the only person within a 20-mile radius Bailey Pond is the trail for you! The trail itself is not heavily trafficked but is perfect for those looking to hike in the wilderness, Bailey Pond is located in the Town of North Hudson within the Hoffman Notch Wilderness. This more challenging hike leads you to Bailey Pond and continues up to Marion Pond. Now, the trek towards Bailey Pond isn't necessarily difficult terrain-wise, but it can be difficult to find at first, as signs that indicated Bailey Pond existed have been washed away. Once in the woods, you'll see the trail itself is still marked and makes for an exciting adventure in the wilderness. If you choose to continue on to Marion Pond be prepared, the terrain is much more rugged and the trail is much more of a herd path.  The ponds themselves are situated right at the base of the mountains and give a crystal clear reflection of the wilderness with its untouched beauty. This trail is slightly more challenging and we would recommend being slightly more comfortable with the outdoors before adventuring toward Bailey Pond. Nevertheless, it's still an amazing hike that is 100% worth it. 

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Mt. Severance in Schroon Lake comes highly recommended as the perfect family-friendly mountain for everyone to enjoy. With beautiful views of our region and surrounding mountains, you really can't go wrong. Plus, you get to walk through tunnels under I-87 which oftentimes people find pretty cool. This 2.4-mile hike offers views of both Schroon Lake and Paradox Lake. Grab your bag, and maybe lunch, and head up the mountain to enjoy the perfect picnic spot with the family. But remember, if you carry it in you carry it out.  Leave No Trace is a very important part of hiking in the Adirondacks, remember to leave it better than you found it! 

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The Adirondack Hub is filled with outdoor adventures perfect for everyone! So grab your boots and your hiking stick and shed that winter shell, and hit the trails for that perfect outdoor hiking adventure. For more hikes check out our page here! 

While winter means it's nap time for all sorts of Adirondack fauna, Paradox Brewery doesn't sleep during the cold months. 

Paradox Brewery, which opened in 2013, and in 2018 underwent an extensive upgrade, has become a basecamp for Adirondack recreation. What started as founder and army veteran Paul Mrocka’s low-key lakeside home-brew operation, has now turned into the driving force behind this slice of the Adirondacks’ revival as a gateway to pristine waters and scenic summits within the Blue Line. During the winter, craft beer enthusiasts make the transition from enjoying their food and beverage at Paradox’s outdoor pavilion or deck, to their cozy indoor tasting room heated by the wood stove. From indoors you’ll still be treated to a panoramic view of the Hoffman Notch and High Peaks Wilderness Areas. 

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A lively indoor scene for cold winter days

While you’re sipping on your Sonder Bräu lager, listen to the live music that fills the tasting room every other Friday night! You can sign up once you arrive, and enjoy their flagship Beaver Bite IPA before you belt out your favorite tune.

Paradox often boasts new craft beverages, and winter is no exception. They recently released a Belgian Style Tripel called Tipple Tripel! If you happened to miss the release party, stop by Wednesday-Sunday each week to give the Tripel a try! I recommend pairing their craft brews with the pizza, it’s some of the best in the region. A personal favorite is their Buffalo Outlook pizza! Paradox is also situated along a popular snowmobiling trail that heads through North Hudson, and welcomes all riders to come grab some food and warm up inside.

Skiing and snowshoeing around the area

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Like I said, Paradox Brewery is the perfect basecamp for Adirondack adventurers, and it would be a shame if you didn’t combine a trip to the Brewery with some trail time. Whether you’re looking to strap on snowshoes or glide on your nordic skis, Pharaoh Lake, one of the largest lakes in the Adirondacks surrounded by wilderness area, makes for a perfect day-trip for both of these activities. Go from the southern direction and it’ll be 3.3 miles one-way to the lake. If the ice conditions allow, wander about and catch a glimpse of the spectacular views of Pharaoh Mountain, Treadway Mountain, and the several quant islands that dot the lake. A classic backcountry ski in the area traverses Hoffman Notch for a scenic 7.4 miles, where you can either ski car to car, or turn around once you reach the notch!

Transitioning to spring

The Brewery has plans to continue open mic nights past the winter months, and will have live bands in the tasting room for the spring and summer. Stay tuned for more information on when these will be!

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When the ice starts clearing, and the roads needn’t be plowed, head to Putnam Pond campground for a paddle across Putnam Pond and a hike up Treadway Mountain! This long winter hike turns into a fun paddle/hike in the spring season. Follow the trail that heads along the south side of the lake, or go straight across on your SUP, canoe, or kayak!

Great Camp Santanoni Winter Weekends

If you didn’t know, the Adirondacks are littered with Great Camps. Yes, the same Great Camps that sparkled and dazzled the lives of the ultra-rich in the gilded age can be found right here, tucked away along secluded private drives (sometimes miles long) and most found with their own private lake access. While some camps have been the victim of natural deaths (fire is not a friend to wooden palaces) there are still a few that have been generously restored and kept pristine all these years. One of the last standing camps is Great Camp Santanoni. Located in Newcomb, this Great Camp has been open to the public and ready for visitors summer after summer. What about winter? While you can snowshoe and cross-country ski your way through the property on any snowy day, this season Great Camp Santanoni is hosting special Winter Weekends. Offering full tours inside the buildings, hot cocoa and lemonade, and locally provided snowshoes by the AIC, you’ll be welcomed to the property to see how an Adirondack Great Camp functioned during the winter months!

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Over the lake and through the woods

To start this blog, I traveled from the equally snowy Vermont to kick off Santanoni’s Winter Weekend, bright and early. This included an hour trek down I-87, which happens to be my favorite highway, if you can have a favorite highway. Rolling past snow-capped mountain ranges and stopping for a few snack and bathroom breaks, we made it to Great Camp Santanoni at 11 a.m.

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 Searching for the gatehouse

I brought along my mom for this excursion, as I’d need as much confidence as I could muster. Snowshoeing was on the agenda for the day. While I lived in the Adirondacks for a good chunk of my life, the only time I’ve snowshoed was in gym class, and our yearly climb up Coney Mountain in winter. Although I was a bit out of practice, I was excited to make the hike. A chance to walk through a Great Camp and see older historic buildings, I couldn’t pass it up! 

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Strap in

After parking and layering up, we made our way to the gatehouse, where we’d get our snowshoes. Coming up to the gatehouse, I was a little nervous as it looked like someone's actual home. Knocking on the door, we were greeted by a friendly attendant who had been tending to a small fire inside the front room with music playing. The perfect winter scene in my eyes. He led us back outside and onto the other side of the covered drive to the shed, where we were able to choose our desired size snowshoes. After saying our goodbyes, we helped each other strap in and made our way to the trail.

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Friendly skiers abound

The trail to the main buildings of the camp is long, but that doesn’t stop fellow skiers and snowshoers from getting out there! I have to say I had forgotten the kindness of local ski-junkies, as we made our way (slowly) up the trail, we were greeted by every skier. The perfect conditions and the friendly folks, reminded me that we were supposed to be there, loud crunching snowshoes and all. 

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Crunching along the path

While we had planned to get to the main buildings, our course changed as our lack of expertise got the better of us. Both my mom and I were struggling with worn leg muscles, and we were ready to head back by the time we reached the one-mile mark. I will say that this trail is gorgeous, and perfect for conversation. Its sloping character and gentle turns make it easy to get lost in looking up at the tree tops and just gabbing with your snowshoe or ski buddies, before we knew it we were two hours into our trek.

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Lunch at the Newcomb Cafe

After dropping off our snowshoes at the lovely gate lodge with our favorite attendant, it was time to head home, but first, lunch! We made our way a half mile down the road to the Newcomb Café. While it was a little late for breakfast, we settled on chili and french fries, the perfect reward for a chilly morning of snowshoeing. Of course the food was delicious, the service was incredible, and the atmosphere was just what we needed to relax after a morning adventure!

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A weekend to remember

Our trip to Great Camp Santanoni was one that created amazing memories for my mom and I, and I’m sure it’ll sparkle on your list of winter challenges to take on this season. Luckily, there’s still a few more special Winter Weekends to get to. Make the trek January 18-20, February 15-17, and March 15-16, 2024. Don’t miss it!

All hikers welcome

If your hiking gear has been laid to rest for the year in your garage or under your bed, it's time to dust it off and give it some love! The trails of the Adirondack Hub never rest, and they’ve been missing you this snowy season. See your favorite landscapes and summits transform under winter powder, traverse through new challenges, and embrace the peace and quiet of calm snowy trails. Although the hustle and bustle of summer has ended, you’ll find just how exciting winter hiking can be. The trails are calling this winter, so grab your snowshoes and cross-country skis and let’s go!

Treat this blog as a guide to some of the Adirondack Hub’s most notable trail systems, and choose between easy, medium, or hard trails. Note that just because your favorite trail is easy in summer, doesn’t mean it will be easy in winter!

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Easy - AIC

For a beginner's circuit, or for those who like to take things easy, we thought the AIC would be the perfect fit. The AIC (Adirondack Interpretive Center) offers the tranquility of the outdoors with seamless trails that blend gently into the terrain of the property. Located in the town of Newcomb, the AIC is part of SUNY ESF’s Newcomb campus, serving visitors with an education on Adirondack wildlife and its ecosystems. For an easier hike, the AIC is perfect, offering 3.6 miles of rolling trails that aren’t too tough on your leg muscles, and stellar views of Rich Lake and Goodnow Mountain. The property also includes a home base that houses bathrooms, gear, or simply just a place to warm your mitts. Snowshoes are also available for use inside the main building. Note that the AIC is snowshoe only, so no skis!

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Medium - Pharaoh Lake Wilderness

Cranking up the difficulty, Pharaoh Lake Wilderness offers shorter beginner trails, as well as more difficult terrain for intermediate hikers. Bordering the town of Schroon Lake, Pharaoh Lake Wilderness includes an oasis of lakes and ponds interspersed with its own mountain, Pharaoh Mountain. There are nearly 70 miles of foot trails, each with their own unique views and terrain. Choose from following the shores of the wilderness’s lakes, or try Pharaoh Mountain Trail to catch the incredible winter views from the summit. Although Pharaoh Mountain isn’t the tallest peak in the Adirondacks, its location offers phenomenal views of the surrounding mountain range. Most trails do not exceed 6 miles round trip, all except for Sucker Brook Trail, clocking in at 7 miles. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are permitted on all hiking trails. Remember to reward your hard work with a pint and a hot meal before the journey back to basecamp.

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Hard - The High Peaks 

We won’t sugar coat it, the High Peaks of the Adirondacks are a challenging feat all on their own. Add snow and volatile weather, and you have your very own Indiana Jones adventure brewing. Luckily, these giant beasts can be scaled with proper gear, prep, and patience. Beginners may want to try a few of the previously mentioned trails first before attempting a High Peak. Increasing your stamina and athleticism with easier trails is advised. A High Peak is typically defined by an elevation of more than 4,000 feet, and round trip hikes can vary from 5 to 18 miles. Because of this, choosing which mountain you’d like to hike is step one. Researching your mountain before you go is essential, you can read up on other hiker’s experiences, and any obstacles that you may need to pack for. You’ll also be able to estimate how long the trail will take you, plan on arriving early and leaving before you lose daylight. Because of varying conditions, be prepared to stay overnight if you have to. While winter in the Adirondacks is characterized by frigid temperatures, remember that the air and weather can be completely different at the top of the mountain. While it may look sunny and perfect at the base, you may be climbing right into a snowstorm at the top of the mountain! So proper layering is a must. Start with a base layer of sweat wicking long sleeve shirt and pants, an insulating layer made of wool or polyester, a hooded jacket, and an outer shell. Wool socks should also be worn in your boots. 

Here is a list of other items that should be in your pack: 

1. A map and compass

2. Crampons and/or microspikes

3. Headlamp 

4. Batteries for your headlamp

5. Matches 

6. Sunscreen (you can still sunburn in winter)

7. First aid kit

8. Food- and extra food

9. Water- a lot of water

10. Extra clothing 

Lastly, and most importantly, tell someone before you go, including the mountain you’re climbing, the time you plan to leave, and the time you plan to get back.

After you’re done with just one, you’ll appreciate the few that own a 46er patch.

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Gear up, stay warm, have fun

Winter is an exciting time for outdoor lovers of the Adirondacks. Whether you’re a snowshoe champ or cross-country skiing aficionado, there's a trail that’s ready to match your skill set and challenge your athleticism. If you’re a slow-and-steady kind of person, the trails of the AIC and shorter trails at Pharaoh Lake Wilderness are here to offer tranquil hikes without the heart racing thrills of some of our routes. No matter the path you take, proper gear and research is important. At any level of expertise, pick your trail based on your comfort zone, knowing yourself and your limits up here is necessary! Be aware of weather conditions and prepare for unforeseen obstacles. And if the weather isn’t that great, consider rescheduling. The trails will be right where you left them. 

"...in Whoville they say – that the Grinch's small heart grew three sizes that day."

The holiday season is full of joyous activities, from cookie baking to tree-trimming, caroling to writing to Santa, but perhaps the best, most wonderful activity is giving. The holidays are a time to gather together, to remember friends near and far, and to share the love and joy we all feel. The charming towns of the Adirondack Hub, nestled amid wilderness areas sparkling with snow, offer wonderful ways to give unique gifts and celebrate together. Here are a few places where you can find special items perfect for gift giving! Plus, by shopping local you keep business in hard-working communities, so you're also giving back to the community, too!

Pine Haven Cottage

When you tell someone you haven't been to Pine Haven Cottage yet, you hear things like, "It is amazing! 10/10 recommend!" or "It is one of my favorite shops in the whole Adirondacks," and then you jealously hear about all the charming items the shop has for sale. Pine Haven carries a bountiful, curated mixture of new items and vintage, including luxuriously scented candles, antique framed prints, locally crafted jewelry, books by Adirondack authors, baby gifts, and much, much more. It may not be a big shop, but the high quality more than makes up for it. It's the sort of shop that makes giving even more exciting and joyful!

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The Towne Store

Located in Schroon Lake, The Towne Store has been a must-visit general store for more than 100 years! What can you find at this beloved downtown destination? A bit of everything, to be honest, and that's part of the fun! Maybe you want to give a gift for someone who you just haven't quite found the right thing for, in a great setting. Browsing at The Towne Store, which still features old hardwood floors and glass display cases from the good old days, means shelves full of locally-made candles and soaps, warm woolly socks and sweaters, Christmas ornaments, lake themed gifts, jewelry, and Adirondack home decor. You'll spend a lot of time saying, "look at this!" and filling your arms with stocking stuffers.

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Paradox Brewery

In a world where we all have a lot of stuff, sometimes the best gift is a flavorful one. Maybe your dad loves to savor the flavors of a nutty ale, or your next-door neighbor keeps a map of all the breweries they've been to. Either way, the brewfans in your life will love receiving a tasty gift from Paradox Brewery. Renowned for unique flavors, ingredients, and Adirondack inspiration, Paradox's array of limited edition four-packs and growlers add warmth and fun to the holidays, while a gift card means the recipient can "craft" their own beer adventure.

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Pine Cone Mercantile

Speaking of flavor, shoppers with giving in their hearts — and stomachs — should not miss Pine Cone Mercantile and North Woods Bread Co. in Schroon Lake. The shop is a dreamy combination of charming home decor and freshly baked deliciousness. Shop for elegantly rustic Christmas ornaments (always a good gift the recipient will remember you by!), handknit winter hats, luxurious bedding, wilderness themed drinkware, and more, alongside tempting displays of pies and tarts, cookies, breads, and cheesecake. Telling someone you love them by gifting them a lavish array of desserts isn't just fun, it's a nice way of treating them to something that is extra special!

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One more way to give

While you're in the area soaking up the spectacular scenery, admiring cheerful Christmas light displays, and sipping cocoa, there's one more way to give something special: give to community food pantries. Schroon Lake and Minerva both have community food pantries that help locals in need, including children through a backpack program in Minerva. It's easy to help: stop by a local shop, such as the grocery store in Schroon, pick out a few goods such as personal hygiene items, canned soups, granola, breakfast cereal, etc., and drop it off at the food pantry! You can also donate directly if you're not in the area. Unlike the Grinch, your heart is already big, isn't it?

Plan your visit to the Adirondack Hub by exploring more shopping options, mouth-watering restaurants (gift cards to dine out are fun gifts, too!), and even seasonal special events. We're in the mood for holidays, love, and joy; join us!

Are you sick of turkey yet? Us too! Thankfully the Adirondack Hub has you covered for all things NOT turkey-related. Now, Thanksgiving is a wonderful time, family comes together, delicious food is eaten, and of course LEFTOVERS! There is no Thanksgiving without leftover turkey, potatoes, stuffing, and pie! We all know and love a Thanksgiving feast, but come the 3rd or 4th day of eating the same thing it gets a little old. Luckily the Adirondack Hub is full of delicious restaurants that are perfect to stop at for a post-Thanksgiving meal. 

Newcomb 

Newcomb Cafe and Campground 

Open Thursday through Monday 8 a.m.- 3 p.m. The Newcomb Cafe and Campground serves up some of the best down-home Adirondack-style cooking. From delicious breakfasts to scrumptious lunches the cafe is a must to stop at. Their fluffy pancakes with real ADK maple syrup are simply amazing! Bonus: they have a smaller store attached with locally crafted gifts and items perfect for anyone on your holiday list! 

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Lake Harris Lodge

Open Thursday through Saturday 4:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. Nestled right along Lake Harris, the Lodge is a beautiful and delicious spot to stop for dinner and a cocktail! The menu boasts with different flavors from steaks and chicken to scallops and pasta, the meals and specialty holiday cocktails are always a hit! While there, you can pick up a gift certificate for a special someone as a holiday gift!

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North Hudson

Paradox Brewery 

Open Wednesday through Thursday 12 p.m. - 8 p.m., Friday through Saturday 12 p.m.- 9 p.m., and Sunday 12 p.m. -6 p.m. We may be biased in the Adirondack Hub, but Paradox Brewery is one of the best breweries to stop at and enjoy a locally crafted brew and delicious wood-fired pizza! Sometimes all you want is something simple to to enjoy and what's simpler than a pizza and beer? Plus their merchandise makes for a perfect gift! 

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Schroon Lake 

Sticks and Stones

Wednesday through Thursday 4 p.m. - 9 p.m., Friday through Saturday 11:30 p.m. -10 p.m., and Sunday 11:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. Sticks and Stones has always been a fan favorite and there's a reason for that! They have a killer array of food perfect for everyone; wood-fired pizza, steaks, pasta and so much more! Their lobster ravioli with Alfredo sauce is sure to hit the spot every time. Of course, a gift certificate from them would look really good under the tree!

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9-mile Coffee

Open Monday through Friday 7 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. 9-mile coffee is your go-to coffee stop! They have signature holiday lattes and classic brewed coffee ideal for everyone in your family. It's also a great spot to grab a quick and delicious breakfast sandwich! They also have merchandise and gift cards perfect for the coffee lover on your list. 

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Pitkins Restaurant

Open Monday through Tuesday 8 a.m.- 3 p.m. and Thursday through Sunday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. For over 100 years, Pitkin's Restaurant has been serving food to its customers and it goes without saying that it has been a go-to stop for all those years. Some of the best Adirondack meals are served at Pitkins. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are sure to blow you away and keep you coming back for more.

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Schroon Sandwich Shop 

Open daily 8:30 am-3 pm. New to the Schroon Lake scene is the Schroon Sandwich shop. They are creating delicious cold and hot sandwiches perfect and simple to grab and enjoy! Their "Triple S special", which includes a sandwich, soda, and side special is a great and delicious option for that perfect afternoon meal.

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We hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with family and yummy food. But after the Thanksgiving lull when you're tired of the same meal, look to any of these great restaurants and cafes to pick from! Even if you don't buy a meal you can always pick up a gift card for a special someone this year and support the local businesses!