Submitted by guest blogger Erin Davis

I took a sip of my morning coffee, aka “Adirondack Rocket Fuel” (1 part hot chocolate, 3 parts coffee) from the General Store, while driving away from Lake Placid. The original plan on this gorgeous fall day was to hike Noonmark from Keene Valley en route to my parent’s camp in the northern Lake George area. I made a quick new plan to avoid the crowds getting in their high peaks…a sensible one where I could still accomplish what I was looking to do, which was roughly a hike under ten miles, no crowds, and great views. A hidden gem in the Adirondack Mountains. It had been a while since I hiked the mountains on the east side of I-87.

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“Why didn’t I think of this before?" I almost said to myself out loud, thinking of my master plan. The Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area is easily accessible from the I-87 Ticonderoga exit off Route 22. For lack of better description, it seems like it’s own park within the Adirondacks on the East side of I-87. I had hiked Treadway Mountain from the Putnam Pond Campground boat launch Memorial Day weekend, which was roughly seven miles round trip. Today, Pharaoh Mountain, a bit lengthier at about 9 miles with a not too crazy elevation gain of around 1,800ft ,came to mind. It is the tallest within the given area at 2,556 ft. The trailhead starts at the Crane Pond Campground at the end of Crane Pond Road, which is just off I-87 with a quick turn onto Route 9 south, then taking Alder Meadow Road until you get to Crane Pond Road, approximately 15 minutes or less from the highway. 

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Crane Pond Road started to narrow as it wound its way through the forest into the campsite area. The dirt road became a bit “rugged” in some areas, and my all wheel drive served me well. Only two vehicles were parked in the campsite area on this beautiful Sunday in early fall. No bugs, no crowds, no problems. Not one person in sight. The hike began with a bridge crossing and wound its way through the shaded forest passing to a trail sign in. Soon after, the trail split with the option to hike to Pharaoh Lake or take the right turn up to the mountain. The gradual build-up was much like a logging road with good footing and wide enough for two people hiking side by side. The last mile and a half began to climb and a good portion was on some smooth rock. With a few lookout points along the way, I could sense the views from the top would be worth it.

I rounded a corner by a steep cliff and could sense I was near the summit as I heard someone’s dog up above. The final ascent was a short path through a valley between what looked like two summits. There were signs for camp sites in the woods between offering a natural canopy to escape any wind. I found the summit marker on the lookout point to the left. From this point views ranged into the high peaks and south all the over to Schroon Lake. I continued on a path through the campsites to the two other lookout points from where you could see Pharaoh Lake, Crane Pond, and, being a clear day, all the way to the Green Mountains in our neighbor Vermont. The other side of Pharaoh Mountain has a trail down to Pharaoh Lake about three miles from the summit. I have read this side is steeper. I did not have time to do this today; however it seemed like a great idea for a camping trip or an extra long loop hike. 

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I made my way back down to the car taking my time, noticing the old markings of the survey tower and small storage shed that once had been used. My feet and knees no longer allow me to go at speed and it usually takes me longer to descend a mountain these days! I stuck to my plan and got to my parents' home by dinner. Any other day I would have ventured into nearby Schroon Lake to eat at Sticks & Stones Bistro or head to Paradox Brewery, as I was craving a beer and a giant pretzel. There is plenty left to explore in the Pharaoh Wilderness as it boasts 70 miles of hiking trails within its 46,283 acres. It certainly did feel like it’s own park within the Adirondacks.

When you're exploring the Adirondacks, be sure to practice the principles of Leave No Trace. The principles are easy to follow and incorporate into your adventures. They including planning ahead, taking out your trash, not disturbing wildlife, and leaving plants and stones where they are. If we all work together we can keep the Adirondacks a beautiful, clean wilderness for everyone to explore.

The Adirondack Hub is full of four great communities including Schroon Lake, North Hudson, Newcomb, and Minerva. With so many places to explore and adventures to be had, we’re narrowing it down to how you can spend one day in the Adirondack Hub. 

Start your day right and grab a coffee at 9 Mile Coffee Co. They recently moved their business across the street into a newly-renovated building. The owner, Andrew, did most of the work himself to transform this building into a beautiful modern style coffee shop.

Pro Tip: If it’s a hot day try the frozen lemonade or a frozen coffee. Add a flavor shot like maple, vanilla, or caramel for an added pick-me-up. 

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After you’ve got your morning coffee fix, take a walk down Schroon Lake's Main Street to browse some of the shops. If you’re looking for a special gift to take home, stop at The Pine Cone Mercantile. It's full of unique Adirondack gifts, but there is also a market section stocked with local produce and other goods. And if you need a sweet treat, head to the back of the store to North Woods Bread Co. for some homemade bread or baked goods. It’s like three different experiences in one store! 

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Barkeater Outfitters is another new addition to Schroon Lake. They have custom Schroon Lake and Paradox apparel, along with some general Adirondacks-themed apparel. There is also a new classic-style candy store, Pit Stop Sweet Shop, with lots of fun sweets that will remind you of your childhood (and make your kids super happy). The Towne Store down the road has you covered with Adirondack decor, books, and gifts, jewelry, camping supplies, toys, and more. 

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You’ll need lunch to refuel, and Pitkin's Restaurant is the perfect spot right on Main Street. Owner, Adam, and his wife also recently purchased and renovated this building. Pitkin’s has been a classic in Schroon Lake for years. It now just has a new and improved look. They also just added an outdoor patio area, which is perfect for the warm but crisp days of autumn.

Our recommendation: The Paradox Panini. This grilled sandwich has roasted turkey, swiss cheese, apple slices, bacon, and cranberry mayo on sourdough with a side of soup, coleslaw, or fries. 

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Next, head to the Schroon Lake Beach! Everyone loves the Schroon Lake Beach with its wide, sandy beach area and amazing views. The swimming area is roped off and lifeguards are on duty until 6 pm. You’ll see sailboats, paddlers, and other boaters go by as the day goes on. The playground is nearby, or you can pick a bench and sit in the shade. Stewart’s is within walking distance, and so is the rest of Main Street, but sometimes you might even find the food truck at the beach with hot dogs and snow cones. 

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Travel just outside of Schroon Lake, down route 9, to North Hudson where you’ll find Paradox Brewery. The only brewery in the Adirondack Hub, it’s a favorite among community members and travelers alike. Paradox recently moved to a much larger location just outside of the new Frontier Town Campground. Their tasting room will hold roughly 90 people, but they’re operating outdoors right now. They built a new pavilion, and there is a wrap-around, covered deck on the outside of the tasting room with beautiful mountain views. Owner Joan and her husband Paul are the greatest happy hour hosts. On the weekends they have food trucks, but during the week you'll find Joan whipping up delicious soft pretzels. 

Pro Tip: Try the Beaver Bite IPA or the Overbite Imperial IPA to pair with your mountain views. 

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Nothing ends the day like a sunset adventure. Grab your canoe, kayak, or SUP and head to one of the many bodies of water in the Adirondack Hub for a sunset paddle. Schroon Lake allows for easy access and amazing views. The water is as refreshing as the vibe in this small town. Take a deep breath and enjoy it as the sun sets on a great day in the Adirondack Hub. 

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The Five Towns of the Upper Hudson Recreation Hub have a lot to offer, regardless of the season. And with so much to do, from shopping to hiking to eating to exploring history, it can be hard to narrow down exactly what to see.

Of course, the hiking, paddling, and snowshoeing options are virtually endless, and fishing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling opportunities also abound. On top of all the recreational options, there are quaint towns and shops to explore, ridiculously good food to eat, and lots of non-wilderness adventures to be had.

While the choices are hard, here are five stops - one in each of the five towns of the Upper Hudson Recreation area - that are sure to please. So load up the car and stock up on salty and sugary road trip snacks (or better yet, take-out lunch from one of the area’s fantastic eateries) and hit the quiet, winding roads near the headwaters of the Hudson River.

North Hudson

During the heyday of the Spaghetti Western, a western-style theme park opened in the town of North Hudson. As the decades rolled on, the crowds thinned but the land, and most of the old buildings, remained.

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Then, a few years ago, the town partnered with New York state to re-imagine the beloved Frontier Town theme park. And so was born the Frontier Town campground and day-use area. While still a work in progress, the current incarnation of the park is welcoming to equestrians and families looking to camp or just spend the day.

While campers can choose sites in the Prairie Junction, Blacksmith, or Stagecoach sections of the campground, daytrippers can go for a short hike or enjoy the playground or day-use area along the shore of the Schroon River. 

Minerva

Ok, so now you’ve been in the car for a little bit, and while the scenes and wildlife have been fun, it’s time for a break. The kids are getting antsy, everyone is a little sweaty, there's candy stuck to literally every seat, and who the heck knows what that smell is that’s coming from the back seat.

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Luckily, the town beach in Minerva was founded almost 100 years ago, and it’s been providing joy and summer fun to locals and visitors ever since. With a roped-off swimming area, floating dock, and wide, sandy beach, the beach is a great place to spend lunchtime or a whole day.

In addition to the swimming and splashing, there is also a snack bar and boat rentals, plus a picnic area and campsites if you just can’t drag yourself away. Town is also just a quick walk away so if you need anything from the general store, like sunscreen or beach toys, they’ve got you covered.

Newcomb

Want to check out an actual ghost town?! Sorry, but Newcomb isn’t it. With lots to do in Newcomb, it feels like it should be hundreds of miles from a ghost town.

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But it’s not! The former town of Tahawus is not only loaded with history, but there are ruins and buildings dating back hundreds of years. And on top of that, there are interpretive trails and signs that help explain both the natural and historical features of the area.

If you’re looking for a little more leg-stretching, Tahawus is also home to numerous state hiking trailheads that lead to a fire tower or the famed High Peaks Wilderness Area.

Long Lake

Long Lake, the lake, is aptly named. And while the lake and village are both worth exploring, there’s a lot of fun to be had right at the center of town, just a short walk from the lake.

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The intersection of state routes 30 and 28N is a surprisingly bustling place for a quiet mountain town. Get a cone of soft serve at Custard’s Last Stand or The Park, browse for souvenirs across the street at Hoss’s, or take a walk to the town park. There are also some great options for lunch here, so park the car and take a stroll around!

If you really don’t want to leave, then check out the town beach and book a scenic flight on one of the sea planes that call Long Lake home.

Indian Lake

Just a little farther down the road is Indian Lake, another hamlet and lake that share a name. While the lake is home to boating and camping adventures galore, the village is just as lively as a smallmouth bass on a warm summer morning.

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With a surprisingly large variety of restaurants and shops, the main business district is always worth a stop. From sandwiches and pizza to sit-down dinner and wine, lunch and dinner (or something in between - Dunch? Linner? Lunner?) are easy to take care of. Add to this the unique shops offering Adirondack everything from souvenirs and homemade quilts to maple syrup and outdoor goods, and Indian Lake is a town that won’t soon be forgotten.

For a longer adventure, take a look at one of the many outfitters that offer whitewater rafting trips on the Indian and Hudson rivers. It’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day!

Regardless of the duration of your stay, the Upper Hudson Recreation Hub is a must-visit destination in the Adirondacks, and with a wide variety of towns, food, attractions, and adventures, everyone in the family will find something to love!

A lot of exciting things have been happening in the Adirondack Hub lately, and we’re thrilled to share them all with you. Here are some of the newest updates and improvements that have been happening to make the communities of the Adirondack Hub even better than they already are!

Pitkin's Restaurant

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New owners Adam and Bridget of Minerva did a complete overhaul of the iconic Pitkin's Restaurant in Schroon Lake. The interior and exterior have been completely remodeled and refreshed. They even recently completed an outdoor dining area. Don’t worry, the food is just as incredible and they still sell those pies we all love!

9 Mile Coffee Co. 

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9 Mile Coffee Co. recently moved to a new location next to the Pine Cone Mercantile, but owner Andrew did a substantial remodel to convert a building from the 1860s to a modern/functional cafe, while maintaining the character and history represented in Schroon Lake. Pro tip: get your favorite cup of caffeine to go and head down to the gazebo to enjoy the view. 

Blue Ridge Motel

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New owner Tammy Brown has completely renovated this Schroon Lake motel into a modern lodging property, while not losing any of the Adirondack charm. There are plenty of unique pieces and touches that make this place so special. The Blue Ridge Motel will be open this summer, and we are so excited to have Tammy and the Blue Ridge Motel as a part of the Adirondack Hub. 

EveryBODY518 Nutrition

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Owner Danielle recently opened EveryBODY518 Nutrition in Schroon Lake, serving healthy and energizing smoothies and teas that are designed for takeout so you can enjoy the rest of your day adventuring in the Adirondack Hub. Pro tip: grab a drink to go and head to the beach!

Paradox Brewery

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Our beloved Paradox Brewery in North Hudson has opened in their new location right by the new Frontier Town Campground, and the results are impressive. On the weekends they have a food truck serving delicious food to go with their one-of-a-kind beers. They have even added an outdoor pavilion and tasting room so you can enjoy your beer while enjoying the Adirondack air and mountain views. 

Newcomb Cafe & Campground

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The Newcomb Cafe & Campground opened its cafe earlier in the year, but this will be the first summer their campground will be open. Their cafe serves breakfast and lunch seven days a week, their store is stocked with necessities as well as local fresh produce, they’ve added an outdoor dining area for the cafe, and the campground is open and accepting reservations that are filling up fast. They also have a gas pump making it a snowmobiling hot spot in the winter. 

Lake Harris Lodge

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The Lake Harris Lodge in Newcomb opened at the beginning of the year in its newly renovated building. Its rustic interior is an absolutely stunning location for lunch or dinner overlooking Lake Harris. They also serve brunch on Sundays with live music! They have an outdoor seating area that overlooks the lake and lakeside glamping tents. Right now they have one complete, but three more are planned for the future. 

Other businesses are getting creative and adding new features to their already existing businesses. Sticks & Stones Bistro now has an ice cream wagon, Licks & Cones, serving your favorite frosty treats. And the Adirondack General Store made a snack window serving ice cream treats and summer bites. Summer in the Adirondack Hub keeps getting better and better!

We are thrilled to have so many new businesses opening in the Adirondack Hub and many other business owners continuing to make impressive improvements and upgrades to their businesses to keep traditions alive and visitors coming back for many years to come.

 

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"We're here to do things the way they’re supposed to be done.”

David Hughes and I had been talking for a while about his new business, ADK Purveyors. He was giving me the history of how he ended up with a subscription box service that specializes in bringing the best quality Adirondack products directly into your home when he laid that simple, yet powerful, statement on me. 

In the summer of 2018 David subscribed to an organic food box but was disappointed. "My box showed up at my door in an insulated box with a gel pack every two weeks. I loved the concept. The only negatives were, one, I wasn’t able to choose what produce went into my box. Two, this produce is coming from California and/or Mexico and three, the food started to go bad in a few days because of the lengthy two week trip across the country by freight train."

David knew he could do better; he had already made a career of fostering good relationships with local producers, first as a manager of a third generation butcher shop, then sourcing products for farm stores, and most recently, bringing local ingredients into his local school district as the manager of its school lunch program (the students call him "Chef Dave"). He knew he could help folks across the Adirondacks access high quality fresh products that were actually produced in the Adirondacks, with the option to choose what you get, and without the long drive to the grocery store.

Two years later, ADK Purveyors can deliver a growing range of great Adirondack products directly to your door, not only locally (which is still at the core of their mission), but anywhere in the lower 48 states. 

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How does it work?

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ADK Purveyors have gone out of their way to make it simple. You can have a box headed to you in less than 10 minutes with a quick trip to their website (David has even been so kind to extended to our readers a special limited time offer; when you sign up for a subscription and use the code ADKFOOD at checkout, get 50% off your first box!). Their most popular is the Harvest Box, which allows you to pick any five items from their inventory. You can have just one box shipped, or set up a weekly or monthly delivery. There's no minimum number of shipments and you can cancel at any time. They'll even send you a reminder before each order so you can check your box and make any changes you would like for your next delivery. 

What do you get?

Just like any subscription service, you get to pick! And they have been able to put together a great selection from the following producers:

• Nettle Meadow Farm - dairy

• North Country Creamery - artisanal cheeses and yogurt

• Juniper Hill Farm - NOFA-NY certified organic produce

• Sunset Farm - grass-fed beef

• Toad Hill Maple - pure Adirondack maple products

• Reber Rock Farm - pasture raised and organically fed poultry

• Blackberry Hill Farm - heritage bred pork (coming soon!)

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They’re always looking for new producers and artisans to partner with, so check back for updated offerings!

But is it really fresh?

The short answer: yes.

If there’s one thing David values above all else, it’s the quality and freshness of the products he’s offering. Each week's orders are processed on Friday, when David contacts the producers to let them know what was sold that week. The orders are collected directly from the farmers and producers by Wednesday, when the boxes are shipped, generally arriving at the customers' doorstep by Friday. So by the time the box gets to your door, the artisanal meats, cheeses, produce, and Maple products inside have only been away from their Adirondack home for several days at most. 

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If you’re fortunate enough to live in the southeastern Adirondacks you can even save on the shipping and pick your box up directly from their processing center in Newcomb, NY. 

Sign me up!

Given the interesting times we're living in, you can bet ADK Purveyors is going to be on my radar. Not only to get some of the products I already know and love more easily to my door, but to some family and friends as well! There are oh so many holidays and birthdays just around the corner...

Go take a look at ADK Purveyors; they're "doing things they way they should be done."

And don't forget! If you're signing up for a subscription, use that 50% off code at checkout, 'ADKFOOD.'

 

I know, you’re puzzled. What is this Adirondack Hub thing? It’s not a restaurant. It’s not a car repair shop, though that would be a fun use of a pun. So what is it? It’s basecamp. It’s your gateway to fun, to epic wilderness, unique access to the High Peaks, and beautiful, friendly small towns that get you away from the hustle and bustle of your normal life. That’s a lot, right? That's just the tip of the giant glacier that created the Adirondacks in the first place. Keep going for the sights and sounds of highlights from the Adirondack Hub.

The Hub is quaint towns

The Hub is not just one place. It's a collection of small towns that are rich in Adirondack history, abundant with outdoor recreational activities, unique shops, and locally-owned and operated restaurants, bars, and bakeries. Each town is different and has something special to offer.

Schroon Lake has a large lake full of boating opportunities and a family-friendly beach close to a historic and quaint downtown. Summer bustles with activities for the whole family.

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Minerva celebrates its history and the role the Adirondacks play in that history through the Minerva Historical Society, which highlights the Adirondack art of the painter Winslow Homer. The campground by the town beach is a perfectly pine-scented paradise, too!

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Newcomb is home to the preserved Great Camp Santanoni, accessible by foot, bike, or horse-drawn wagon, as well as the Adirondack Interpretive Center, which celebrates natural history and features a great, mostly easy-to-moderate loop trail system.

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In North Hudson, proximity to the High Peaks, combined with the cool brews at Paradox Brewery and the campground at Frontier Town make for a rich, rustic getaway.

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The Hub is High Peaks

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Whether you're in the area for a walk in the woods, a moderate day hike, or an epic High Peak adventure, the Hub is all about great trails. From here, you'll find the Southern Access to the famous High Peaks, including Dix Mountain, Grace, Santanoni, and Panther peaks, and the highest of all, Mount Marcy. There are so many trails in the area you could visit year after year and never repeat a hike. With so much wilderness around the towns you can base your adventures from, you won't find crowds. Instead, you'll find fresh air, clean woods and trails, and endless views.

The Hub is lakes, lakes, forests, rivers, and more lakes

Want to explore expanses of wilderness that reach as far as the eye can see, and then some? It's here. The Adirondack Hub is full of beautiful, serene, and inspiring wilderness areas that are perfect for a weeklong backcountry campout or an afternoon paddle. The Pharaoh Lake Wilderness encompasses more than 46,000 acres of lakes, ponds, and forest and features more than 70 miles of hiking trails. The trails are also great for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter, too.

Paddlers of all speeds — and all kinds of crafts — are drawn to the waters of the Hub, from the wild wonders of the Hudson River and the high-energy fun of Schroon Lake, to the tranquil beauty of the Opalescent River. No gear? No problem! Hire a guide, join a rafting outfitter for a guided float, or rent gear for a family paddle. Exploring the Hub by water is a wonderful way to see the Adirondacks from a very special perspective and with the chance of seeing and hearing wild birds and mammals, you're bound to fall in love.

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The Hub is your new Adirondack basecamp

With so much to do, inns and campgrounds to settle in at, and restaurants to whet your appetite, the Adirondack Hub is a beautiful region perfect for immersing yourself in natural beauty and classic Adirondack hospitality. It's the ideal basecamp for adventure, exploration, and fresh air fun.

This year Earth Day is going digital! I know — that doesn't exactly feel earthy, but that doesn't mean there aren’t great ways to celebrate the natural places we love (ahem, the Adirondacks) and fight for a better environmental future. The 2020 theme for Earth Day is climate action, and while that sounds like an enormous challenge, there are plenty of ways to make a difference this year, even while social distancing. 

The Adirondack Hub truly is an outdoor lover's paradise. Comprised of four towns along the southern end of the High Peaks Region, the area is home to some of the more wild places within the Adirondacks. Whether you prefer remote canoe camping through the Essex Chain Lakes or hiking the High Peaks, horseback riding, or a day spent boating on Schroon Lake, there is an adventure for every outdoorsman. Now that I’ve teased you with a trip you can't take just yet, read on for 5 ways to celebrate Earth Day and the Adirondack Hub at home! 

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While it might not be time to visit, or even book an upcoming stay, you can start planning by learning more about the wild places surrounding the Schroon Lake region, and what you will need to enjoy them in the future. Our mountains are special, but they are also rugged and remote. It’s important to know your limits and find an adventure appropriate for you!

Sign the Love Your ADK Pledge 

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You found yourself here, so we already know you love the Adirondacks. Now it’s time to pledge to love these mountains a little more by taking actionable steps to recreate more responsibly. Find out more about signing the Love Your ADK pledge here.

Learn the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace 

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Understanding the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace is a really great starting point for minimizing impacts when recreating, regardless of the activity. The best thing about education is that it is endless. Even those who are outdoor savvy can work toward being better stewards of the Adirondacks. These principles help. 

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Be Considerate of Other Visitors
3. Respect Wildlife
4. Minimize Campfire Impacts
5. Leave What You Find
6. Dispose of Waste Properly
7. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces 

Host a Community Cleanup (For One)

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Trash is everywhere and no one is above picking it up. If you live near a trail system or a safe road that could use some TLC, commit a day to cleaning up! Regularly-scheduled community clean ups may be cancelled this year due to necessary social distancing measures, so host one for yourself.

Join a CSA

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We all have purchase power and we can use it to better our communities and ourselves. Joining a community supported agriculture (CSA) farm share, not only guarantees you fresh local vegetables or meat, but supports a farmer near you! Some even deliver right to your door, which means less trips to the grocery store. Double win! 

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However you choose to celebrate Earth Day, we thank you for caring about our wild places. We can't wait to have you back to adventuring in our region but in the meantime, keep learning more about how to keep the Adirondacks wild for generations to come! 

 

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.

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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!

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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.

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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!

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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.

“It is not important whether you make the summit; it is important how you make the climb.”

For many hikers, climbing the 46 Adirondack High Peaks is the pinnacle of achievement. After summiting your 46th Peak, you’ve crossed bogs, battled black flies, navigated unmarked trails, and witnessed incredible nature in its purest form. Not to mention, put a few miles on your hiking boots. Becoming a 46er might signal the end of the journey, but for Grace Hudowalski, this was only the beginning. 

The Adirondack High Peaks have as much cultural history as they do natural. Grace's dedication to the peaks and valleys and everything in between (including the people) was, simply, unmatched.

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Who was Grace?

Grace was born February 25, 1906 and grew up in Ticonderoga with her parents and five siblings. She spent her early years in the foothills of the Adirondacks, growing an appreciation and love for the mountains. She later married Ed Hudowalski and the two settled near Troy, New York. In 1954, the couple bought a second home on the eastern side of Schroon Lake. This helped forge an even stronger connection to the region which they both already felt a strong connection to.

“The call of the wild” is something that many of us who live or visit the Adirondacks have felt. For Grace, August 2, 1922 was a pivotal date. This was her first ascent of Mount Marcy, the tallest Peak in the state, and from that day on, she was hooked. The rivers and streams in the valley are great, but there was something captivating about the highest mountains that spoke to Grace.

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It wasn't all about the High Peaks, though. Aside from her direct connections to the mountains, Grace had a career in promoting New York State through the Commerce Department. She would weave together stories from the region, history of the state, and folklore in her publicity writing. As a "super saleswoman" of New York, Grace was a leader in developing tourism in New York after World War II. Even after her retirement she remained a well known public figure. She truly believed that the people who lived and worked in an area were as much a part of tourism as the travelers themselves. This human-interest based approach to marketing proved compelling and Grace was able to connect with locals and visitors alike in her love for the Adirondack region and New York state. Story-telling was a favorite activity of Grace's. In fact, she and her husband sponsored an annual folklore writing contest for 11th graders in the Schroon Lake Central School district from 1957 until the mid 1980s. Grace's love for story-telling and sharing experiences would become a common theme in her life.

As an outdoorsy woman in the early and mid-1900s, Grace was a role model and pioneer. Not many women were hiking during that time; it was seen as masculine activity. Grace was always encouraging women to get out and explore. In an interview with the Buffalo Courier Express Grace said, “Too many women stay indoors. It is good to get out of doors, to get lots of fresh air to bring color to your cheeks and zest to your step.” That zeal never died in Grace; at age 70, she decided to re-climb the mountains that so profoundly influenced her life.

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The Adirondack Forty-Sixers

Even years after her ascent of Mount Marcy, Grace was still enamored. Her love for the mountains convinced her husband to hit the trails in 1932. Ed, along with members of a local church, also fell in love with the High Peaks, and led many trips to the region over the following years. Less than six months after completing his 46, Ed helped organize a hiking club which was known as the Forty-Sixers of Troy. Their goal? To climb the 46 Adirondack High Peaks.

After the formation of this group, Grace began keeping track of each member’s climbs, encouraging them to write summaries of their trips. This blossomed into a lifelong commitment to tracking the movements and stories of those who climb the High Peaks.

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The Forty-Sixers of Troy quickly grew as more and more people became interested in climbing the High Peaks. Grace was a founding member of the Adirondack Forty-Sixers, Inc. and served as the club’s first president from 1948-1951 and later as the historian. Her record keeping and enthusiasm never waned; for over 60 years Grace was a keystone element of the 46er experience. Hikers who wrote to Grace received personal responses. (For those who struggle to keep up with a few emails, here is a sobering statistic: for several years, Grace wrote up to 2,000 letters to High Peaks hikers. Talk about impressive!) As Grace said, “any mountain worth climbing is worth talking about.” She wanted hikers to share their thoughts, feelings, and physical experiences. It was all part of the journey that didn’t have to end when you got back to the car. Even though it takes a small army to keep up with the volume of letters Grace handled, the Forty-Sixers maintain a correspondence program today.

Grace Peak and Grace’s Legacy

In an interview with the Albany Times Union, Grace spoke of what it means to become a 46er: “There is something spiritual in it. The mountains mean something different and special to each person. They are what connect us as a group. But the journey is an inward one, learning about yourself.” 

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Grace herself became a 46er on August 26, 1937. At the time, she was only the ninth finisher, and the only woman to date. To celebrate her accomplishment and all she did for New York state and its people, the Adirondack Forty-Sixers petitioned to rename a peak in the Dix Range “Grace Peak.” In 2014, ten years after her death, the United States Board of Geographic Names approved the petition.

Grace's work touched the lives of thousands, and continues to do so. Today, the number of 46ers exceeds 10,000. Whether you spend two days or 365 days hiking in the Adirondacks, it's become increasingly important to acknowledge the necessity of good stewardship. Grace's legacy lives on thanks to the The Grace Hudowalski Charitable Trust, which funds initiatives that engage communities, advance public understanding, and safeguard wilderness. She is an inspiration for us all. To love the mountains and care for the people as she did is, without a doubt, amazing.

All photos are courtesy of the The Grace Hudowalski Charitable Trust.

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Read more about other inspirational Adirondack women...

Inez Milholland: Forward out of Darkness

Cheri Cross: Crafted by hand, with love

Great Camps, greater women

Nina Lussi: Taking flight

Andrea Kilbourne-Hill: From the Adirondacks to Olympics and back

Amy Farrell: An ADK badass