Submitted by guest blogger Eileen Mowrey

Giant, rugged and alluring, the Adirondack High Peaks have an almost magnetic draw for adventurous hearts. Approaching these mountains from the Adirondack Hub gives hikers one of the most remote access points there is, heightening the unique wilderness experience. There is more to these mountains than just beauty and intrigue, though. Towering at over 4,000ft, the High Peaks – often referred to as the 46 – are incredibly challenging, featuring steep inclines, rough trail, long miles, and, especially in the winter, difficult conditions. Before attempting a winter hike in the High Peaks, consider the following six tips.

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1. Choose the right hike for you

There are lots of wonderful ways to experience the High Peaks. Hiking one of New York’s tallest mountains might not be the best option for you. Hiking outside your comfort zone can be dangerous in any season, but it is especially risky in the winter when snow, ice, and cold temperatures make for difficult hiking conditions. Hiking the High Peaks in winter is something that only experienced hikers should attempt. Even experienced hikers should have a few smaller winter hikes under their belt before they set their sights on a 46er. If you are relatively new to hiking, try one of the smaller mountains in the region. It’s a great way to gain experience and many of these smaller peaks offer great views of the High Peaks. In fact, since so many of the higher elevation summits are socked in with clouds in the winter, you might find better views atop shorter summits! Still feeling a little unsure? Hire a local guide to help you find the best hike for you.

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2. Research the trail

You don’t need to know the trail like the back of your hand, but you should be familiar with the route you will be hiking. Study maps before you head out and take note of trail junctions and intersections to avoid getting turned around. In addition to knowing the distance of the trail, find out how much elevation gain there is and if it is gradual or comes in steep bursts. Look into trail features like river crossings and slides and be mindful of how recent weather might affect those details. Heavy precipitation or recent snowmelt may swell rivers, making them impassable unless there are sturdy bridges in place. Snow and ice accumulations might make scaling rocky slides exceptionally difficult. It’s important to note that, while a lot of work goes into maintaining the High Peak trails, these mountains are deep in the back country and trail damage might not be found and fixed quickly, so be prepared for trail disruptions. 

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3. Come prepared

Proper preparation is one of the best ways to avoid a bad experience on the trail. It starts with your wardrobe. Wear warm, moisture-wicking, non-cotton base layers, insulating mid-layers, waterproof outer layers, wool socks and waterproof boots, a hat, mittens or gloves, and a facemask or buff. Bring extra base layers, socks, hats, and mittens in case you sweat or get wet. Then there’s the gear. Pack a comfortable, sturdy pack with:

• Plenty of food and water in insulated containers
• Snowshoes and crampons or microspikes
• Headlamp and extra batteries
• First aid kit and a dose of prescription medicines
• Maps of the area and a compass or GPS system
• Fire-starting kit
• Emergency kit including a space blanket, whistle, signal mirror, and emergency shelter
• A way to melt snow or ice and a water filtration device
• Handwarmers
• Multi-tool or pocketknife

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Bringing this gear does no good if you don’t know how to use it. Practice using your gear at home before you take it on a hike.

Preparation also includes your research. In addition to researching the trail itself, check the weather for the day of your hike and the next day so you know what kinds of weather you might encounter if your hike runs long. Winter weather can change suddenly, especially on summits, so be prepared for variable conditions. Know when the sun rises and sets and properly prepare your body with good food, plenty of water, and lots of rest. 

4. Hike with a friend

Hiking alone does offer a special kind of solitary nature experience, but the added safety of hiking with a partner outweighs the benefits of a solo adventure. If you’re injured, a buddy can administer first aid and/or send for help. If you get lost, having a friend will keep you calmer than if you were alone. In the unfortunate event that you end up spending a night in the woods, shared body heat is a great way to stay warm. Hiking with a partner also helps you avoid one of the most dangerous of winter hiking encounters – hypothermia. Hypothermia can be difficult to self-diagnose, so keep an eye on hiking partners and raise the alarm if you notice symptoms like shivering, fatigue, confusion, slurred speech, shallow breathing, or loss of consciousness. If you notice someone showing signs of hypothermia, get the person into warm, dry clothes immediately and then get them to a warm location.

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5. Leave No Trace

The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics shares seven principles that can guide your outdoor experiences in a way that protects both you and the wild places where you recreate. These principles include:

1. Plan ahead and prepare
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces
3. Dispose of waste properly
4. Leave what you find
5. Minimize campfire impacts
6. Respect wildlife
7. Be considerate of other visitors

These seven principles apply to hiking (and all other forms of outdoor recreation) year-round with special considerations for each season. In the winter, planning and preparing is especially important for your safety. Respecting wildlife by keeping your distance and never feeding them actually helps animals survive the harsh winters. Hikers on snowshoes and skiers often travel the same trails in the winter. Be considerate of all users by keeping snowshoe tracks to one side and ski tracks on the other and always wear your snowshoes in deep snow. Bare boots can leave large holes known as post-holes in the snow, creating tripping hazards for other hikers and skiers. 

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6. Don’t Hesitate to Turn Around

Perhaps the most important thing to remember when hiking in the winter is that your safety is more important than the summit. No matter what the hike – from a short jaunt up a small mountain to a full day trek up a High Peak – never hesitate to turn around if you feel unprepared, ill-equipped, think you might be lost, aren’t feeling well, or even if the hike is taking significantly longer than expected. The mountain will always be there, and you can come back and try again another day.

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Winter in the High Peaks is a magical time. The snow-covered mountains and trail glisten, the forest is quiet, and the cold air is invigorating. Hiking this region in the winter can be a truly special experience so long as you choose the right hike, research the trail, come prepared, and bring a buddy. If the High Peaks themselves seem a bit out of reach right now, don’t worry! There are plenty of other magnificent winter hikes to explore. Wherever you choose to hike in the Schroon Lake Region, there is always a hot meal and cozy bed waiting at the end of the day. Start planning your winter adventure today!

"At sunrise everything is luminous." - Norman Maclean

Adirondack resident Beth Melecci loves to experience the rising of the sun. For her, the regular arrival of the sun over the horizon isn't just another day, it's a new day. It has promise, both for the world around and for herself, with everything coming alive and starting fresh. Happiest and most at home in the woods, Melecci is a state-certified hunting and fishing guide, singer/songwriter, and yoga and meditation instructor. She's a great example of someone who is in tune with herself and with the magical, visually stunning wilderness that is the Adirondacks, a place she loves to call home and encourages others to explore and enjoy.

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Melecci lives near Schroon Lake, although she's had the pleasure to live in some remarkable places known for wildness and natural beauty, including Alaska and Idaho. "I love wild places. I always come back to the Adirondacks and there’s something about the Adirondacks that I feel like I’m at home here." For Melecci, home is more than a building or a community. It's a feeling of comfort, connection, and euphoria. It's hearing owls in the trees and the sound of the wind in fragrant, otherwise silent woods. A frequent hiker, snowshoer, and paddler, Melecci adores being out in the woods for the sunrise. "It keeps me feeling humble to be here in the Adirondacks and be able to see a beautiful sunrise and have mountains behind me and beautiful tall trees that have been there for a hundred years."

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The Schroon Lake region offers many spots perfect for the sort of early morning hikes Melecci loves. Crane Pond, in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness, is a favorite for both the scenery and it's proximity to Melecci's home. Spots like Crane Pond allow her to get up early — but not too early! — and explore the woods at sunrise before heading to work in Schroon Lake. "I am lucky," she says, "that I have these hiking trails close to me. There’s so many places to go to, that are so close to me, here in the Adirondacks. That's how it is for most of us [who live here]." One of the things she likes best about living in the Adirondacks is that, unlike Alaska or Idaho, anyone can get out into the woods without having to go too far for creature comforts like yoga or cultural activities. You can get the culture along with the wild-ness.

While Melecci enjoys time spent with people in the woods or on a lake, particularly when guiding, she also savors solo time. As long as you take the correct precautions, the Adirondacks is a place where you can travel in the woods alone and do so safely. Spending solo time in the wild areas of the Adirondacks, with the sounds of birds and the wind for company, is a remarkable experience everyone should try at least once. Melecci explains, “I love to be around people, but I also like to be on my own in the woods, in a wild place with the animals. And the Adirondacks has a lot of places that you can do that, you can go by yourself and connect with nature that way, in the wild.”

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"I like to choose places that are harder to get to, because of the wild-ness. Where there’s not people. Where there’s more animals." As a licensed guide, Melecci spends a lot of time thinking about animals. Tracking engages her, particularly in winter, when tracks are clear in fresh snow. A grounded person, Melecci reminds us that "...being outdoors, we’re in their home. When we’re outside, we’re in the animals' and birds' home. So, to stay mindful of that as well, and try to be quiet, and go inward, and just settle into that connection of the animal’s journey, I love that. When I see a track, I go someplace with the track. It’s like answering a mystery."

Being outside, seeing the colors of a sunrise or the sparkle of a night sky, Melecci finds inspiration for her songs and a sense of peacefulness. "You become quiet," she says, "and then you become very present and aware of where you’re at, with each step along the way." Melecci encourages others to spend time in the wild, noting that "after you do a whole beautiful snowshoe or a ski or a hike, you’re just uplifted. I'm uplifted. We’re just blessed to be able to do that in the Adirondacks.”

Melecci encourages anyone looking to spend some time outside to “treat yourself to an experience of the wildness of the Adirondacks. If you don’t live here and you’re coming to visit the Adirondacks, allow yourself to be enlightened by the wilderness here in the mountains.”

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The Adirondack Hub has plenty of opportunities for you to treat yourself to your own experiences in the wilderness. Plan your own adventure by exploring where to stay, eat, and explore. As an outdoor enthusiasts' playground, there are always fun special events, too.

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The Dawn Patrol series:

Episode 1: Mark

Episode 2: John

Episode 3: Beth

Episode 4: Mitchell and Bethany

Episode 5: Ali

Episode 6: Amanda

Episode 7: Erin

Episode 8: Keith

Episode 9: Stacy

Everything in the Adirondacks tells a story, whether it be ecological, social, or cultural. Often interwoven in the abundant natural history narrative is one of human relations and community. Of course, we’ve all read about guides and loggers: traditional Adirondack ways of life. Though sometimes forgotten, others have left their mark on the Adirondacks in more ways than one.

In 1957, Fulton Fryar was invited to Seagle Music Colony (today known as Seagle Festival). This was significant because Fryar was the first African-American to come to Seagle. Segregation was still very real throughout the country, the Civil Rights Act of 1957 was not signed into law until September of that year, and hard-earned Civil Rights Movement victories in Congress wouldn’t be won for several years still.

Then-director John Seagle was so impressed with Fryar’s talent, he wanted him to come study at Seagle Music Colony. Fryar’s story is one of embracing art and finding the light.

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Home again

Originally from North Carolina, Fryar was only 17 years old when he first came to Seagle. Many of the students who were Fryar’s peers were also from the southern part of the States, where segregation and racial inequality were still widespread. Although Fryar was welcomed at Seagle, he slept in separate quarters. While the institution itself was not segregated, racial attitudes in the United States made people cautious. 

But Fryar was not bothered by this at the time. 

In his separate lodging he was not kept up at night by other campers (who would likely be singing 99 Bottles of Beer), and his room may have in fact been nicer than the traditional dorm rooms. He put his own touch on the decor, painting meaningful objects and lines from poems on the walls. One stanza, from Tennyson’s “Crossing the Bar”, seems an odd choice, since its subject is crossing from life to death, but the tone is one of accepting fate instead of fearing the unknown. For Fryar, his room was an escape if he was having a bad day and the decorated walls provided inspiration. On top of singing at Seagle, Fryar was invited to help design sets because of his paintings in his room. In an interview with PBS, Fryar professed that the poems and art would “bring him out of darkness” to help him find the light again. 

“The Closet”

“The Closet,” as Fryar affectionately named his room, was modest: maybe 12 by 6 feet. It was attached to the laundry building, and essentially abandoned after Fryar left. The Closet sat empty for nearly six decades. After falling into dangerous disrepair in 2017, The Closet was moved to the Adirondack Experience, the Museum on Blue Mountain Lake to save it from demolition. Here, museum visitors have the chance to see it as a historic exhibit. Fryar hopes that the public will take a big lesson away from his little room: we’ve come a long way in race relations in this country, but there is still work to do. He hopes people will view his room with understanding and spread the message of unity, not discrimination. After his departure from Seagle, racial diversity has increased and students no longer bunked in rooms separated by race. 

Encore

For Fryar, a career in music did not materialize, but since leaving Seagle after two summers, he served in the Air Force for five years and worked in a career providing support to children and developmentally disable adults. He says the lessons he learned at Seagle have stuck with him throughout his life. Today, he enjoys spending time with his wife, kids, and grandkids. Fryar may not be singing on the stage, but he finds comfort in the artistry. He says he’s joyful and grateful to have been accepted into the program at Seagle.

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History of Seagle 

Seagle Music Colony has been around since 1915. That’s right: 2020 marks the school’s 105th birthday! In 2021, it was rebranded as Seagle Festival. It is the premier opera and musical theater organization in the Adirondack region, and it is the oldest summer vocal training program in the United States. Traditionally, the summer features a summer full of special events and performances. Programming usually runs through June, July, and August. Watch emerging artists refine their craft in opera and musical theater. Ask anyone who’s been -- you don’t want to miss a performance at Seagle!

Schroon Lake has a rich history with the arts! Create your own memorable Adirondack vacation in the Adirondack Hub with an overnight stay, classic food, and outdoor activities. 

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Photos of Fulton Fryar courtesy of the Seagle Festival.

Hooked on ice: learning from local fishing guides in the Adirondacks

Winter in Schroon Lake brings an arctic chill, and at times, the air feels as though it could crack. Even on the coldest of winter mornings, ice anglers can be found setting up their gear or waiting patiently for the flag on their tip-up to move. I’ve always wondered: who are these rugged individuals, and why do they choose to endure such conditions?

Luckily, I had the chance to interview local Adirondack guides, experts in hunting and fishing, and they were happy to answer my questions, sharing many fascinating tales. Through our conversations, I learned that ice fishing demands more skill and specialized equipment than summer fishing, when a simple rod and some worms will do. But these challenges come with rewards—stunning winter views, the thrill of a catch in icy conditions, and the patience that makes the experience all the more satisfying.

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I met with the DeCesare family, including Alan Sr., Alan Jr., and their nephew Val, who operate Forever Wild Outfitters and Guide Service. I also spoke with Jamie Frasier, the owner of Adirondack Mountain and Stream Guide Service. Their knowledge has been passed down through generations and refined by years of personal experience in the woods and on the lake. These guides know how to make the most of the outdoors and strive to provide their visitors with an unforgettable experience.

What is so special about ice fishing?

Ice fishing has a long tradition in Schroon Lake; earlier generations fished and hunted to feed their families. "Today, it’s something to do during the winter, and I love fishing so much," Val said. He added, "Many local folks have more time off to enjoy the winter weather since restaurants and other businesses reduce their hours after Labor Day." Ice fishing isn’t just about catching fish. Val emphasized, "Having fun with your family and friends is an important part. You get away from civilization."

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Alyssa DeCesare, a student at Schroon Lake Central School, has been fishing since she was born, according to her father. Over the years, she has caught massive lake trout. "I enjoy ice fishing because it brings the family together," Alyssa said.

"There is a solid group of local fishermen who love to ice fish," said Jamie. He receives many requests for ice fishing adventures on Schroon Lake. He explained that the lake is well-known for ice fishing because of its size, reliable ice during most winters, easy access, and a healthy fishery that includes pike, pickerel, lake trout, salmon, and panfish.

Panfish, such as sunfish and yellow perch, are better to eat during the winter. In the summer, their meat may contain grubs, but this is not an issue in the colder months.

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How safe is ice fishing?

The number one rule is to make smart decisions on the ice. Alan Sr. emphasized that at least six inches of ice is needed to support one person. The ice had only skimmed over a few days prior to our meeting, and parts of the lake had just frozen the day before. Despite the recent icing, I noticed that ice tents had already been set up in the narrows.

“It’s important to remember that ice freezes in the bays and in the main part of the lake at different times. Adirondack guides know where it is safest to fish on the ice," said Alan Sr. 

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Bringing proper safety gear is imperative for staying safe while ice fishing. This includes an inflatable life jacket with a compressed CO2 cartridge and manual rip cord. Val has one that’s so small it fits into a fanny pack.

"When you first fall in, it takes about 10 seconds to realize what’s going on," Val said. Last year, while he was drilling a hole, the ice spider-webbed, bowed, and started to sink. Fortunately, there was enough time for him to jump away from it, and he only got his legs wet. "If you fall in, it’s paramount to stay calm," Val stressed.

What equipment do you need?

You will need tip-ups, fish traps, and a six-inch diameter ice auger to drill a hole. You'll also need fishing line made of braided nylon and coated with wax. The guides recommend using natural bait, such as fathead minnows or large flies. You can purchase ice fishing gear, including pre-assembled tip-ups, at The Crossroads in Chestertown. The Schroon Lake Fish and Game Club is another valuable source of information, and you can also learn about ice conditions at these establishments.

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How do you stay warm out there?

Traditional ice shanties have been mostly replaced by pop-up tents or ice shelters, as they are much lighter. The tents weigh about 100 pounds and are pulled onto the ice on a sled. They have stainless steel frames and built-in chairs with cup holders. It’s also a good idea to have a small propane heater, as well as insulated, waterproof bibs, pants, and jackets.

You will see campfires on the ice and notice that they don’t melt through it. As the ice melts, water forms a barrier that prevents the fire from burning through. Last year, the DeCesares built a large fire on the ice using wooden pallets, which lasted ten hours and melted only four inches of ice.

Ice anglers place tip-ups around their fishing area, and I like to skate around the territories. They are always proud to show off their fish, or they don’t complain if there’s nothing to show. It’s obvious that they have a good time.

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Ice Derby

The Schroon Lake Fish and Game Club sponsors the annual Ice Fishing Derby, which is held during the first full weekend of March, when there can be up to three feet of ice on the lake. So many tents are set up during the derby that it looks like an ice town on the lake.

It's beautiful out there

Schroon Lake is truly breathtaking in winter. Standing on the ice, it feels as if nature takes over. The lake stretches endlessly before snow-covered mountains, and now and then, the quiet is broken by the crack of shifting ice. The frozen expanse seems to go on forever. If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of local wildlife, such as deer, coyotes, or bald eagles. Schroon Lake remains a wild, untamed place.

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Discover the thrill of ice fishing

Ice fishing is a special winter sport that requires endurance, patience, and skill. If you would like to give it a try, consider hiring a guide so you don't have to worry about ice conditions or having the right gear. You will only need to bring your fishing license (and a beverage!). There are plenty of places to warm up at the end of the day, whether it be in a cozy bed or with a warm meal. It’s starting to sound like fun to me after all.

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This blog was originally submitted by guest blogger Sue Repko.

National Plan for Vacation Day is celebrated the last Tuesday of January, and for good reason - Americans leave millions of paid vacation days on the table each year. So don’t be a fool, plan a long weekend or a week-long getaway to the Adirondack Hub, where there is so much to do you’ll wish you could snap up some of those wasted days.

According to the U.S. Travel Association, in 2018 Americans failed to take 768 million vacation days, with more than half the working population leaving days unused. And while the group says the doldrums of winter are the best time to plan a warm summer vacay, winter is also a prime time in the Adirondacks.

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The towns of the Adirondack Hub - Schroon Lake, Minerva, Newcomb, and North Hudson - have a full slate of activities and events year-round, but there’s plenty of action to be had in the crisp, clean air and mountain sunshine as well.

Ice fishing

“Hard water” season is a favorite time of locals, when the lakes, ponds, and rivers of the Adirondacks become covered in a thick layer of ice.

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From the large lakes that support villages of anglers to remote backcountry ponds where peace, quiet, and serenity await, the Adirondack Hub has the ice fishing spot for you. Whether you want to bring the family and set up a shanty while the kids ice skate or embark on a solo adventure, there are fish just waiting to bite. And with both the state and county regularly stocking fish, there are some lunkers lurking just under the ice!

Snowmobiling

Since the Adirondacks typically embrace winter for months on end, snowmobiling is big up here. Like, thousands of miles of trails big.

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From wild routes through remote country to groomed loops that link up lodging options and restaurants, you can head out for an afternoon, a day, or a week. The towns of the Adirondack Hub embrace the sledding crowd and have the amenities to keep you on the trail.

There’s also a free new snowmobile app that shows not only the trails, but places to gas up, grab a drink, or fill up on hearty grub. The Adirondacks, USA Snowmobile App is available in the Apple App Store or on Google Play, and will help you find the kind of trails you want, whether groomed or ungroomed.

Snowshoeing

The Adirondacks is known for a lot of things, including its vast mountain ranges that offer unlimited hiking options. But just because the trails are covered in snow doesn’t mean the options are limited in winter.

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Snowshoeing is essentially just walking with big shoes, so everyone in the family can do it. With options ranging from short and flat to long and steep, you won’t have to go far to find a trail or destination that will scratch whatever hiking itch you have. 

You can also contact one of our state-licensed guides to plan the perfect trip or rent gear from a local outfitter. Whether you bring your own snowshoes or are trying it out for the first time, the Adirondack Hub is a snowshoer’s dream!

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So this winter, don’t be a chump and leave vacation days unused. Take some inspiration from National Plan for Vacation Day and plan a trip to the Adirondack Hub, where winter means fun for the whole family.

 

Here in the Adirondacks, we love winter. Really, really love winter: building snow forts, ice skating on frozen lakes, sledding down hills, and warming up with hot cocoa. As good as that sounds (and I know you're pondering your next winter vacation right now), we also love winter events and activities. During a variety of special events, winter is celebrated with skiing clinics, snowmobile rides, live music, great food, and more. Here are some of our favorite events that make the most of snow, ice, and the joy of living in a real life snow globe.

Camp Santanoni Winter Weekends

January 18 - 20, February 15 - 17, March 14 - 15

Ski or snowshoe your way into the past at historic Great Camp Santanoni, once a private summer home on Newcomb Lake. While Santanoni may be reached by ski or snowshoe all winter long, Winter Weekends are an extra special time to enjoy this historic property. Volunteers from Adirondack Architectural Heritage will be on hand to provide tours of the Great Camp's Gate Lodge and Main Lodge, while the Artist's Studio will be a cozy spot to warm up and enjoy hot chocolate, coffee, and tea. Don't have snowshoes? No problem! Staff from the nearby Adirondack Interpretive Center will be on hand to loan you a pair for the 9-mile round trip adventure.

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Gore Mountain MLK Weekend Holiday Camp and Fireworks!

January 18 - 19

Make your children’s winter vacation extra special with this holiday camp at Gore Mountain. They’ll enjoy two full days of fun on the slopes and in the snow with coaches and new friends and a hearty lunch. This camp is great for kids of all skiing and riding levels. All you have to do is pick them up and drop them off! Stick around at dusk on the 19th for a gorgeous fireworks display, torchlight parade, and live music! There's a reason why so many skiers and riders visit Gore year after year, so come find out for yourself!

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Vintage Snowmobile Races

January 25

Head to beautiful, frozen Lake Harris for this affordable, entertaining annual event hosted by the Newcomb Snowmobile Club. The event is totally free for spectators, while riders interested in racing pay only $10 to enter. Lunch is provided by the club and the racing is good fun for everyone. You just might get inspired to take up snowmobiling yourself. The Adirondack Hub has miles and miles of beautiful trails to explore!

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President's Week Holiday Camp at Gore

February 18 - 20

Make your children’s winter vacation extra special with this action-packed holiday camp at Gore Mountain. They’ll enjoy three full days of fun on the slopes and in the snow with coaches and new friends and a hearty lunch. This camp is great for kids of all skiing and riding levels, helping them have fun and improve their skills. All you have to do is pick them up and drop them off!

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Adirondack Interpretive Center

Ongoing

Visit the Adirondack Interpretive Center in Newcomb for outstanding exhibits about the natural history of the Adirondacks, as well as periodic special events, including guided snowshoe hikes, film screenings, painting workshops, and more. The AIC's beautiful trail system, which winds through cedar swamps and along two lakes, is well worth a visit. Trails vary in length, so visitors can choose a short walk or a longer adventure. The AIC is an exceptional location to learn more about the plants and animals of the Adirondacks, as well as the mountains themselves, and enjoy the beauty of nature first-hand.

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Whether you ski and ride, snowshoe, or love the sound of a good old fashioned snowmobile engine, the Adirondack Hub and the towns of Newcomb, Schroon Lake, Minerva, and North Hudson have great wintertime adventures, activities, and events. Visit us at one of our cozy motels, lodges, or cabins, enjoy the great outdoors, and sample hearty Adirondack food and craft beer.

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As soon as the snow starts to fall, eager beaver Adirondack residents and visitors start thinking about a very important question: how soon can we ski? For some, this means alpine skiing. For others, it's cross-country, the origin of all skiing, a winter activity that has been a source of fun and transportation for more than a thousand years. Cross-country skiing is a great way to get outside and explore Adirondack scenery, for a few hours or a full day, and is ideal for families of all ages. It's a fun, often gentle form of exercise. The Adirondack Hub, with its many trails and protected forests, is a beautiful, serene place to cross-country ski, whether you're a longtime skier or beginner. Below, find our tips on where to ski, get gear, and even where to enjoy a hot meal after your cool adventure!

Where to ski

Great Camp Santanoni

Formerly the private summer home of a wealthy Albany businessman and his family, the luxuriously rustic Great Camp Santanoni has a special place in both Adirondack history and the hearts of outdoor adventurers. The camp, located at the end of a five mile carriage road, is only accessible in winter by ski or snowshoe (in summer, visit on foot, bike, or by horse-drawn wagon). The trip to the camp, through rich woods, past the camp's former farm complex, and along Newcomb Lake, is a great workout and always pretty. The trail is mostly flat with a few very gentle uphill climbs, making it an enjoyable, stress-free ski over generally well-established tracks.

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While visitors to Santanoni may ski to the camp on any day they choose, the state Department of Environmental Conservation, which owns the property, hosts three special winter weekend events each year and these are a must-visit. Skiers arriving at the camp on these days will find the main lodge, which is normally closed in winter, open for visitors, with tours offered by knowledgeable staff members from Adirondack Architectural Heritage. The camp's artist's studio will also be open as a warming hut and is a great spot to warm up, relax with friends and family, and enjoy hot cocoa, tea, or coffee before making the snowy trip back to the parking area.

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Pharaoh Lake Wilderness

If you're looking for room to ski, the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area, which covers more than 46,000 acres, is the perfect paradise for you. This region is known for the breadth of its many lakes, ponds, and extensive hiking trails, adding up to more than 70 miles of adventure. In winter, all trails may be used for cross-country skiing, so options abound. Skiers may access great trails from the southern and northern areas of the wilderness. Both offer excellent skiing and scenery; northern areas offer more shorter trails and segments, while the southern access offers access to Pharaoh Lake itself.

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Skiers starting from the southern access, via the Pharaoh Lake Road, may choose to ski 3.3 miles to the Pharaoh Lake outlet and then return, or continue an additional 6 miles over a loop around the lake. Other trails meet the loop and, by placing a vehicle at either end, skiers may make a one-way excursion to the northern access near Putnam Pond, for a total of 11.1 miles of skiing.

The northern section of Pharaoh Lake Wilderness is accessed via Route 74 between Schroon Lake and Ticonderoga and offers a few options for ski trips. Near Eagle Lake, the Short Swing Trail offers a short but scenic ski 3.4 miles from the trailhead to a lean-to near Tubhill Marsh, past Ragged Mountain. Farther east, the Puts Pond Road, which leads to Putnam Pond, offers two options, including a quick 2.8 mile round-trip excursion past the pond itself, starting from the Berryman Pond Trail. To extend the adventure, skiers may continue on the Grizzle Ocean Trail, past Clear, Rock and Little Rock ponds, and the tip of North Pond, all in just under 5 miles, ending near the starting point.

Adirondack Interpretive Center

Located in the heart of Newcomb, on a peninsula jutting into Rich Lake, the Adirondack Interpretive Center is an endlessly pretty, relaxing spot to ski (or snowshoe!). Three of the AIC's trails are open for skiing in the winter: Rich Lake, Sage, and Sucker Brook. These trails are easy, moderate, and challenging, respectively, offering visitors of all levels of experience something to try, as they cross scenic bridges, travel through dense cedars and enjoy views of Rich and Belden lakes. Watch for winter birds, including black-capped chickadees and white-breasted nuthatches. The peeping of chickadees is a sweet accompaniment as you ski. 

Fun bonus: for the truly adventurous, Sage Trail links to a connector to Great Camp Santanoni.

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Where to gear up

Cloud-Splitter Outfitters

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Want to take a snowy Adirondack vacation and try out some fun winter sports like cross-country skiing but don't know where to start? Stop by Cloud-Splitter Outfitters in Newcomb for all your gear needs, plus great advice and friendly service. At Cloud-Splitter, you can rent snowshoes or skis, learn about the area highlights, pick up a great new pair of gloves, and even try your new gear on the trails behind the shop. For a truly specialized experience, you can even hire a guide to lead you on a fun backcountry skiing adventure.

Where to grab a hot meal

So you've spent the day traversing snowy trails through pine forest, past streams, ponds, and mountains, and you're ready for a hot meal and the opportunity to share a laugh over that moment you almost but didn't quite fall down the hill or accidentally slide into a split (it's okay, we've all been there). Gather around the table at Sticks & Stones Wood Fired Pizza & Bistro in Schroon Lake for craft beer, sizzling pizza, and all-around good times. If you're in Newcomb don't forget to stop by the Lake Harris Lodge or the Newcomb Cafe & Campground. Relax after a busy, fun-filled day and celebrate your snowy vacation. You just might be ready to get back out on the skis the next day!

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For more vacation inspiration, browse our great lodging options and outdoor activities. The Adirondack Hub awaits!

Submitted by guest blogger Susan Repko

Schroon Lake is a classic Adirondack small town where family memories are made. Perhaps you’ve jumped off a dock into our pristine lake or relaxed in an Adirondack chair with warm beach sand under your feet. If you’ve enjoyed summertime in Schroon Lake, plan to visit us in the winter months. We’re still here!  

The 34th annual Olde Tyme Christmas is a local tradition that will be held this December. The bulk of the celebration will be on Saturday, December 14, but there are events from December 10 - 15. It’s a rich holiday experience that reflects Adirondack culture and small-town life. This gathering adds sparkle to the town and helps us ignore the winter gray that slowly sets in. Visiting Schroon Lake village at this time of the year may evoke thoughts of the movie, It’s a Wonderful Life. It’s like stepping back in time.

Free activities are offered all day and take place in venues along Main Street and at the Town Hall, a block away. There’s a mix of shopping, raffles, music, and even a polar plunge off the town dock. Last year they had to break the ice for over 30 people to jump into the lake!

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Yes, it will probably be cold, but we invite you to bundle-up in layers, wear boots, and join in the fun. There’s no need to hibernate. To survive winter in the North County, you need to ignore the cold and mingle with friends and neighbors. You will probably bump into someone you know in town and enjoy a conversation. If we’re lucky, it will snow, and the flakes will fall softly on our hats and jackets. You will hear bells jingle as the horse-drawn wagon rambles down the street, full of people sitting on hay bales and having a delightful time.  

The lighting of the Christmas tree begins the evening festivities. Everyone joins in for caroling and then walking up to Our Lady of Lourdes Church. There we stand quietly and listen to a reading from the Gospel and see a living nativity scene. 

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Of course, Santa Claus lives nearby. He rides a fire truck during the parade and arrives at the Strand Theater where children line up to greet him. They receive treats and books from the Friends of the Schroon Lake Library. 

Although the Community Church was lost in a devastating fire this year, the hand bells were saved and restored. We were all pleased to hear that their bell choir will perform again, this time at the Catholic church. This will be a very special, moving concert. Sit in a pew and listen to the ringing of the familiar music and let your mind wander to childhood memories of Christmastime. Afterward, hold your child’s hand and walk to the Senior Center where hot chocolate is on the stove and Christmas cookies are out to grab. It’s a chance to catch up with friends and neighbors while the little ones enjoy coloring. 

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The annual holiday craft festival will be held at the Town Hall. Bring your children upstairs to the library for craft making and hear Mrs. Claus read children’s books. At the Chamber of Commerce, peruse the silent auction of locally made items and the festival of trees that are beautifully decorated. Raffle tickets are available for purchase with the proceeds going to local charities. Sticks & Stones, a popular restaurant, will offer a free activity on the following morning - make old-fashioned gingerbread cabins and decorate them. 

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Writing this blog reminds me of a family story that took place at the same time of year in 1935. My mother was about twelve years old and she thought that my grandfather, an Adirondack guide, had cut down a sad-looking tree for Christmas. Mom decided to find a better looking one and trekked up Cedar Hill on snowshoes. She left after school and the snow was very deep. She had planned to follow the tracks home, but they vanished when the wind came up. Poor Mom got lost in the dark and was quite afraid. You can imagine how thrilled she was when she saw flashlights flickering in the woods and then my grandfather with a search party. 

Schroon Lake is waiting for you all year. Return for ice skating in our new pavilion with a spectacular view of the lake or try ice fishing, snowshoeing, or skiing. More activities and music are being planned for Olde Tyme Christmas. Start planning your vacation or mini break today!

Submitted by guest blogger Julianna Carattini

How many sunrises have you seen this year? With my third season of hunting whitetail deer beginning, this question is never far from my mind. On those early mornings when my warm bed starts to look too comfortable to leave or when I am watching my breath dance in front of me in the woods I ask myself, “How many sunrises have I seen this year?” The fact that I am unable to answer this question reminds me of how lucky I am to be able to connect to nature through hunting season. In fact, one of the best parts of hunting in the Adirondacks is the connections you make with the land and with other hunters. 

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Unlike many of my friends, I did not grow up hunting; a side effect of the fact that I was born and raised downstate. As I spent more time with my friends from Schroon Lake, I began to learn about the sport of hunting. There was always a story to be heard or new pictures to show of the amazing places they’d seen walking through the woods. Deciding to learn to hunt as an adult and a woman was intimidating at first. The morning I entered my hunter safety class, a pre-requisite for obtaining a hunting license, I found a group of people who were warm, welcoming, and just as excited to learn this new skill as I was. Even more surprising, the class was almost equally split between men and women of all ages eligible to participate. My fear of being the only female or the oldest student quickly subsided.

Once I was able to purchase my license, I could not wait until for my first hunting season, a season that would quickly become one of my favorites, to start. While I had shot a gun before, I remember my nerves running high the morning of my first season. Dressed in camo from head to toe, I stopped at Stewart’s for coffee and breakfast. Inside I found people dressed just like me all talking over the coffee counter about the big bucks they’d seen on their trail cams, the weather for the day, and then they greeted me. Being a girl in a sea of camo-clad men, I felt out of place until everyone began to encourage and congratulate me on starting my first season. As that season went on, I found more women who enjoyed the woods as much as I did and who held their own talking about past kills at the bar.     

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My biggest fear, aside from being a female in a male dominated sport, was finding a group to hunt with and teach me the skills I would need. Friends of mine are completely at home in the woods, using a compass, and tracking big bucks. I thought that no one, even my friends, would want to hunt with a beginner who seemingly brought no skills to the table and I couldn’t have been more wrong. My hunting party welcomed me with open arms, showed me patience and kindness when teaching me a new skill, and more importantly, gave me a tradition I can celebrate the rest of my life. Weekend mornings in the fall are only complete when we are standing in our circle of trucks, drinking coffee, and planning our hunts for the day.   

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For as many people as I saw in my hunting safety course or at Stewarts the morning of my first season, young hunters seem to be few and far between. Getting up in the frosty air of fall to sit in the woods, hoping to see a deer and being able to take one home, might not be as appealing as sleeping in and playing video games. I encourage anyone interested in learning to hunt to take their safety course as soon as they can. Do not be afraid to ask local hunters questions or if you can join their party. My hunting party always welcomes newcomers, no matter what type of experience they have. With only three seasons under my belt, I have yet to make my first kill, but that hasn’t stopped me from looking forward to every morning I spend in the woods, every minute spent with people who continue to teach me about this sport, and every view I’ll get to see next.

The Adirondack Hub has an abundance of public, protected wilderness great for hunting. The Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area, part of the Adirondack Forest Preserve and located to the east of Schroon Lake, covers more than 46,000 acres that includes lakes, ponds, and small mountains and hills. Deer season is especially popular here, but the area is also known for snowshoe hare and game birds. Also popular is Blue Mountain Wild Forest, in Minerva. Wherever you go, be sure to check state regulations about hunting and have an up-to-date hunting license.

Make the most of your hunting experience in the Adirondack Hub by spending the weekend at a cozy lodge or cabin, grabbing a bite to eat, and getting in touch with a certified guide.

Vacations are in our history. In the 1800s, as train service extended upstate and city-dwellers began looking for ways to escape the heat of summer, word spread about the beauty of the Adirondacks: the clean, freshly scented air, cool, sparkling lakes, and seemingly endless rugged terrain. Old timers and enterprising young men who knew the wilderness — and how to live in it — found they could work as guides for visitors from downstate, rowing guide boats, leading hikes and hunting and fishing parties. Books and magazines — including the immensely popular Harper's Weekly — introduced readers to the wonders of the Adirondacks, tempting writers, painters, and eager vacationers to the area.

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As tourism blossomed, guest houses, hotels, clubs, and summer homes were built to accommodate the increasing number of visitors. Wealthy families from outside the Adirondacks began building expansive summer estates in locations such as Lake Lila, Raquette Lake, and Sagamore Lake. The homes were built in a distinct style, constructed of massive logs cut from the Adirondacks, with elaborate twig-work details, stone fireplaces, birch-bark decor, and broad porches. In the town of Newcomb, just south of the High Peaks, banker Robert Pruyn and his wife Anna purchased more than 12,000 acres of wilderness around Newcomb Lake. The Pruyns contracted architect Robert H. Robertson to design a series of camp complexes, including the main lodge (actually six separate buildings), farm, and gatehouse. The work was completed in 1893, although some additions were made later on.

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Like many great camps, Santanoni was self-sufficient, providing for the needs for the Pruyn family and their guests for lengthy summer visits. The farm complex, located one mile from the gatehouse and about 3.7 miles from the main lodge, was extensive and featured a variety of livestock and its own creamery. The produce was not just used at camp; extra products were sent to the Pruyns in Albany, and sold in Newcomb. In addition, all of the camp's staff lived at the gatehouse complex or on the farm.

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The main lodge complex, where the Pruyns entertained family and friends including Teddy Roosevelt and author James Fenimore Cooper, features a main lodge, cottages, and staff quarters connected by a series of porches. Some of the subtle architectural details were inspired by Japanese architecture, Robert Pruyn having spent time in Japan while his father was United States Minister to Japan. This influence is most significantly seen in the single roof that covers the several buildings of the main lodge complex.

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With its location on Newcomb Lake, set among thousands of acres of forest, Santanoni provided guests with a vacation full of rustic luxury. The main lodge complex featured a boathouse, artists studio, and plenty of opportunities for Adirondack adventure. Today, interpretive panels throughout the camp provide visitors with information on the history and use of the camp.

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Eventually, Great Camp Santanoni changed hands and was sold to the state of New York, although for many years the buildings sat empty and unused. It is the state's Department of Environmental Conservation that today owns the camp and surrounding land, working with Adirondack Architectural Heritage to preserve many of the remaining buildings of the camp. The 4.7 mile gravel carriage road into the main lodge complex from the gatehouse does not allow cars, offering visitors a quiet experience that is reminiscent of the camp's early days. Those wishing to visit may hike or bike the drive for free, or, for a fee, ride a horse-drawn wagon from Newcombe Farms into camp.

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In the summer, interpretive staff are on hand at the camp and provide excellent information to visitors. In addition, AARCH offers tours of Santanoni in the warmer months and these are not to be missed. AARCH plays a significant role in the continued preservation and celebration of Santanoni, through tours and its Friends of Camp Santanoni group. AARCH also publishes books and guides to Santanoni, including Santanoni: From Japanese Temple to Life at an Adirondack Great Camp, by Rob Engel, Howie Kirschenbaum, and Paul Malo. For anyone interested in Santanoni, its history, and Adirondack great camps in general, it is well worth a look.

In winter, the camp is also accessible for those on snowshoe or cross-country skis, but the buildings are not open. However, the DEC does offer a few special "Winter Weekends" in which some buildings are open and the artists studio serves as a warming hut, with coffee, tea, and hot chocolate available. Visitors without snowshoes may borrow a pair at the gatehouse.

As an example of rustic architecture, as well as a view of a way of life long gone, Great Camp Santanoni is a remarkable Adirondack treasure. After you visit Santanoni, be sure to visit the other Great Camps in the Adirondacks.

Create your own memorable Adirondack vacation in the Adirondack Hub with a rustic overnight stay, classic food, and outdoor activities.

This week in ADK news:

Family favorites at the VIC

Your Adirondack romance

Hiking the western High Peaks

A trip to Santa's house

Handcrafted rustic design

Award-winning stays

Adventures in Saranac Lake