Hunting in the Adirondack Hub

Hunting is a way of life for many Adirondackers, and some spend their whole year gearing up for hunting season. Adrenaline and nervousness stream through their blood as the sun rises on opening day. Anticipation and excitement creep in. The whole year has led to this; the moment to finally get outdoors for a chance at the “big one." The vast Adirondack wilderness is comprised of millions of acres of land, brimming with plentiful wildlife and all of the opportunity a hunter has been waiting for. 

Finding the perfect spot

At first, the Adirondack woods may feel overwhelmingly vast and endless. Millions of acres of dense forest and mountains make up the Adirondacks, and in some places the terrain can be difficult to maneuver. Choosing the ideal location is key to a successful hunt, so where should you go? The Adirondack Hub is filled with land ideal for hunting, and places like Boreas Pond Tract, Pharaoh Wilderness, and Hammond Pond Wilderness offer a wide range of options for hunting on state land. However, given the fact that it is state land, you must be careful of your surroundings, and mindful of other people who are out hunting. If you aren't familiar with the area and are in need of information to help you find your perfect hunting location, try downloading a hunting app such as OnX Hunt that provides information on public/private land, boundaries and maps, and landowner names. 

Guide services

If this is your first time hunting in the Adirondacks, don't be alarmed. The Adirondacks can be intimidating - consider hiring a guide! LaBar Guide Services out of Minerva offers many options to help make your hunting experience in the Adirondacks perfect. They are here to show you first hand the best do's and dont's of hunting in the Adirondacks. They will help you navigate and track deer and provide you with a vast knowledge of the land and its inhabitants - which in turn can increase your chances of your prize deer. You'll want to be well prepared as the ratio of land to deer is rather large, and you may have to put in a lot of work and travel a lot of miles if you want to be successful. 

“I do not hunt for the joy of killing but for the joy of living, and the inexpressible pleasure of mingling my life however briefly, with that of a wild creature that I respect, admire and value.”- John Madson

Safety and Respect

WEAR ORANGE! When it comes to hunting safely wearing orange is the best option, whether it's a vest or even just a hat. Deer do not perceive colors the same way we do, so wearing orange looks muted to them and bright to other hunters. People often think wearing camouflage from head to toe is ideal for blending in, however when hunting on state land where other people are surely to be, wearing bright orange will help ensure your safety. Respect toward other hunters, the wilderness and wildlife is much appreciated by all, especially after waiting all year for the opportunity to get out in the woods!

Plan for Change

The universal suggestion for all hunters is to anticipate change. Success often depends on a hunter's ability to make adaptations and adjustments where necessary. In the Adirondacks there are 9 weeks of hunting; archery, muzzleloader, and rifle/regular firearm seasons. Each comes with different strategies. Hunting at the beginning of the season is drastically different than hunting towards the season's end. Be prepared to adapt and overcome! Early in the hunting season, deer are still moving and traveling, preparing for winter. Later during the season, the deer are slowing down and beginning to settle for the winter. Plan around the cold weather; the colder the better. 

Often times there is no "right way" to hunt that will guarantee a successful outing. It's important to remember that your hunting skills and abilities will need to adapt to whatever the day brings. It's also important to remember to enjoy the hunt with friends and family, as these memories of being out in the woods will stay with you for the rest of your life. Prepare to set realistic expectations, the Adirondacks offers one of the most difficult areas to hunt in and yet poses a great challenge for hunters making the hunt all the more exciting. However, don't expect to come in right away and bag an amazing 8 to 10 point deer.

Now we can't sit here and give away all of the secrets on where to find the best hunt or harvest the biggest deer, that would be too easy and certainly not as fun. For that you're going to have to get down and dirty and find that perfect area and put the work in for yourself. 

Wishing you an enjoyable and safe hunt in the Adirondack Hub!

Alpine skiing has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I remember growing up outside of Rochester, NY and learning how to ski on a very small hill with a tow rope. I remember graduating to “the big mountain” - which has half the vertical of Gore Mountain. I remember going back to the small hill to teach lessons when I was in high school and college. I guess you could say I think skiing is pretty great, and I’d happily spend any day on the mountain, enjoying thrilling black diamond trails or helping others learn the art of gliding on snow.

But I know that every person, every body is different. Gore Mountain has taken this to the next level. For more than 20 years, Gore has been providing adaptive ski lessons. What is adaptive skiing, you ask? Adaptive skiing uses specialized equipment to help people with disabilities experience the joys of downhill skiing. There is a certain sense of freedom that comes from being able to ski, and everyone should have the opportunity to try a truly amazing sport.

I recently spoke with Bruce Tubbs, a supervisor at the Snowsports School at Gore Mountain who primarily focuses on children’s lessons and the adaptive program. Above all else, Bruce said any ski lesson, whether it be adaptive or not, is about developing balance, confidence, and motivation. Simply put, there is nothing quite like skiing.

What is adaptive skiing?

As Bruce told me when we chatted, the goal in any adaptive program is to make modifications for individuals who have limitations so they can safely slide down the mountain. At Gore, trained and certified instructors provide lessons to individuals with physical, cognitive, and/or developmental disabilities. Each lesson is different, but is built on the same principles: meet the specific needs of the student. Bruce said that instructors have worked with individuals who have spine weakness, suffered strokes, or have vision or mobility challenges, or ADHD, among other limitations. Children or adults can partake in a lesson; there is no age limit to learning how to ski or refining skills!

 

There are six disciplines of adaptive skiing: bi-ski, 3-track, 4-track, mono-ski, developmental, and visually impaired. There is a variety of equipment used in adaptive skiing, including:

• Bi-ski: this is a sit-down ski that assists skiers who have balance impairment and/or lower extremity or trunk weakness. It is designed for those who use a wheelchair or have difficulty standing or walking. Bi-skis can be used independently or with the assistance of an instructor.
• Mono-ski: a mono-ski is a bucket-style piece of equipment like the bi-ski, but it is only operated by the skier; there is no physical guidance from an instructor and it is used independently.
• Two-track skis: these are essentially “normal” skis and boots for people who can stand on two skis but might need a tether for some extra leg support and a spacer for tip retention to help with ski positioning and muscle movements.
• Three- or four-track skis: this type of equipment is used for individuals who have the ability to stand on one or two legs, but need the added balance and steering provided by outriggers. The goal is to provide four points of contact with the snow so skiers can remain balanced. Three- or four-track skis are best for individuals with cerebral palsy, leg amputation, spina bifida, or brain injuries.

At Gore, adaptive skiers have the ability to use equipment for: three-track skiing with outriggers, bi-skis (two are available), and a mono-ski with outrigger. 

Gore’s adaptive program

Do you or someone you know want to join Gore’s adaptive ski program? It’s as easy as making a phone call! It’s recommended you call a week or two in advance so the Snowsports School can make sure an instructor suited to your needs is available. Each lesson is 2-hours long, and there are two instructors per student. Set-up and introduction are included in the first lesson, and since the goal is to create an environment for recurring lessons and strong relationships, everything is saved from lesson to lesson. The certified staff and instructors ensure skiers are properly fit for the equipment they need. Everything is written down and sized during the first lesson so that during follow-up lessons skiers are able to get out on the slopes faster. In the words of Bruce, at the end of the day, Gore’s adaptive staff want to get you what you need and make your day fun. 

As any beginning to ski lesson will go, skiers start on the easier trails and work their way up to more challenging terrain. Sunway here you come!

If this all sounds expensive, don’t worry! There are tools available to help accommodate the costs. The New York State Access Pass gives people with disabilities free access to state-run parks, historic sites, and recreational facilities (including Gore!). Lift tickets, equipment rentals, and one additional ticket for caregivers are included; the skier only pays for the lesson itself.

Go with the snow

Bruce said the adaptive program has been growing in popularity over the last 20 years, but especially in the last five. The benefits of skiing are enormous - from confidence building to experiencing the refreshing joy of skiing down a mountain - and with adaptive programs, skiing is becoming a sport that entire families can do together regardless of abilities and limitations. Call the Snowsports School at Gore Mountain (518-251-4804) today to make your reservation! There may be new COVID-19 protocols during the 2021-2022 season, so be sure to visit the website for the latest information.

While you’re visiting the Adirondack Hub, be sure to also check out other accessible things to do to make the most of your winter! From accessible lodging in Newcomb at The Inn at Santanoni to sampling delicious beer and snacks at Paradox Brewery to taking a scenic drive through the beautiful snow-covered forests of Minerva, the Adirondack Hub is your place for winter adventure. And Gore Mountain is THE place to be for skiing, from Jamboree all the way up to The Rumor. See you on the mountain!

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Photos of ski lessons courtesy of Gore Mountain.

Boreal birding is fantastic in the western Essex County towns of Newcomb and Minerva. There is substantial boreal habitat and much of it can be accessed along roadways for easy car-birding. For a quieter experience, there are many trails where a hiker can wander in captivating boreal forest or paddle calm waters.
In the winter, there are snowshoe and cross-country ski options.

Birding Along Route 28N

Newcomb Bird Feeders In Winter

In the winter, I drive the side roads of Newcomb in the vicinity of Overlook Park to look for irruptive species such as Bohemian Waxwings and Pine Grosbeaks in fruit trees.

At bird feeders, look for Pine Siskins, Common and Hoary Redpolls (every-other-winter irruptive species from the north), and Evening Grosbeaks.

Of course the spectacular views of the High Peaks at Overlook Park are another great reason to visit this location!

Santanoni Drive is a short, dead-end road that ends at a scenic spot on the Hudson River in boreal habitat where Black-backed Woodpeckers and Boreal Chickadees can be found year round.

Snow Bunting flocks will feed along roadways and on the Newcomb golf course. Look for Northern Shrikes perched high in trees close to shrubby vegetation near water. They often show up near houses as they hunt feeder birds!

Beavers and River Otters can also be viewed in the Hudson River along Route 28N.

Boreal Marsh in Newcomb

About .75 of a mile east on Route 28N past the intersection with the Blue Ridge Road, a marsh surrounded by boreal forest hosts the sought-after, year-round “trinity” of Black-backed Woodpeckers, Gray Jays, and Boreal Chickadees. Evening Grosbeaks and other finches can also be found at this location.

In the summer, Alder Flycatchers nest in the marsh and Yellow-bellied Flycatchers in the surrounding boreal forest. Hermit and Swainson’s Thrushes, many warbler species including Canada, and sparrow species including White-throated can also be found. For the past several years, I’ve found Black-backed Woodpecker nest sites by the edge of the road near the marsh.

Pull-Off At The Newcomb-Minerva Town Line

Continuing east on Route 28N, a pull-off is found just past the Newcomb–Minerva town line – an attractive old barn is across the road.

A snowmobile trail crosses the road at this spot. This is a very reliable location for Black-backed Woodpeckers and Boreal Chickadees. Lately, a trio of very friendly Gray Jays have made their presence known! On recent trips, a Gray Jay landed in my hand for food and the group attempted to fly into my car through the open window on another trip!

The new snowmobile trail can be hiked or snowshoed – both sides of the road feature great boreal habitat.

Railroad Bed In Minerva

Farther east along Route 28N is a railroad crossing. I prefer to hike south (or in winter, cross-country ski) which leads to a pond, brook, and large wetlands on both sides of the tracks. This is a wonderful location to find flycatcher species including Olive-sided Flycatchers.

In the winter, Red Crossbills nest in the conifers when there is a good cone crop. Black-backed Woodpeckers and Boreal Chickadees are also found in the forest along the edges of the wetlands.

Roosevelt Truck Trail

If you like scenic, mature boreal habitat along a mossy, road-sized trail, then this hike is for you! The 2.5 mile long Roosevelt Truck Trail runs between Route 28N and the Blue Ridge Road. The boreal trinity species can be found all along the trail. Cape May Warblers breed at the southern end of the trail – one of only a handful of known nesting locations for this species in the Adirondacks. Sharp-shinned Hawks, Northern Goshawks, and Broad-winged Hawks nest in the area.

Ruffed Grouse can be observed in the trail and Barred Owls are often spotted. Black bear and moose tracks are a common sight on the trail. The Roosevelt Truck Trail is a popular cross-country ski trail in winter (moderate level).

Boreas River Bridge, Vanderwhacker Mountain Trail & Boreas River-Hewitt Eddy Trails

On the western side of the Boreas River Bridge is Moose Pond Club Road. In the summer, this seasonal use road leads several miles to the Vanderwhacker Mountain Trailhead. The first mile of the trail (before it becomes a steep mountain climb) is fairly level and winds through mixed and coniferous forest, and two large Beaver wetlands with Olive-sided Flycatchers (and historically, Rusty Blackbirds). It is a nice walk for finding warbler species including Mourning and Canada Warblers. If you have the stamina to hike all the way to the fire-tower summit, Yellow-bellied Flycatchers and Blackpoll Warblers can also be found.

The Boreas River Bridge is a nice stop at any time of year.

Parking is on the east side of the bridge on the north side of Route 28N. This location leads to a camping area along the river. Swallows nest under the bridge in spring-summer, and Black-backed Woodpeckers and Boreal Chickadees can be found year-round. In the winter, look for nesting Red and White-winged Crossbills during good cone crop years.

The Boreas River Trail is also found on the east side of the river. It can be an in/out hike, or a loop hike if added to the Hewitt Eddy Trail. The trailheads are .75 of a mile apart, so the road can be hiked, or two cars used for the loop. I often hike the Hewitt Eddy Trail to the Boreas River and then hike back out the same way. It is a foot trail in lovely boreal habitat. Snowshoes can be used in winter.

Tahawus Road In Newcomb

Tahawus Road, the southern entrance to the High Peaks, also offers great car-birding, but on a quieter road than Route 28N. The road parallels the Hudson River with boreal habitat between the road and river. This past summer, I found a singing Rusty Blackbird just past the first bridge over the Hudson River. The population of Rusty Blackbirds has steeply declined, and they have become rare to find.

This is another location where I often find Black-backed Woodpecker nest sites right along the road. Philadelphia Vireos have been found in second growth deciduous trees along the river. New opportunities have recently opened up along Tahawus Road for hiking, cross-country skiing, and paddling – stay tuned for more detailed blogs!

This year, don’t miss out on birding this great area! It is a quiet, remote wilderness region with spectacular mountain views, and lots of boreal bird species and other wildlife. Find comfortable lodging and enjoy the solitude as you explore this scenic area.

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Editor's note: We love winter birding - whether from the side of the road in a car or from the depths of the forest on snowshoes! We were recently looking for an idea of which way to head and we came across this awesome guide our birding blogger provided which highlights a few of her favorite spots. This piece was first published in 2016.

 The wild, wild ADKs

The Adirondacks is a beautiful and intricate creature. Along with its hulking mountains and peaceful valleys lies millions of animal species and plant life on its forest floors. Growing up here gave me the opportunity to fully immerse myself in the outdoors and try new things, all the time! I went from a New Jersey suburbs kid cooped up inside all day to making campfires and snow forts on the regular, following the little streams that connected to the lake in town and finding all the interesting new animals I could find. My favorite to date still remains the Spring Peeper frogs I could find every summer. Teeny tiny frogs that are simply the cutest thing ever. Learning more about all the different forms of wildlife around me and my home completely changed my perspective on the delicate ecosystems of the Adirondacks, and it could change yours too! While not everyone can pack their bags and make the Adirondacks their forever home, you can get a full education on life in the ADKs and its wildlife all at the AIC. 

Explore the AIC 

The AIC (Adirondack Interpretive Center) is planted perfectly in the dense forest of Newcomb, New York. Part of SUNY ESF’s Newcomb Campus, the Center aids and educates thousands of visitors year round. With each season comes new things to learn and explore, and with winter in full swing, there's plenty of new discoveries to be found this season. Although most animals go into hibernation during the winter, the Center knows how to keep visitors busy.

The trails 

The AIC’s outdoor facilities include a 3.6 mile trail system. These trails are perfect for summer and winter, with four different routes to take. Each trail includes a different outdoor experience showcasing all the different forms of plant and animal life to be seen in the Adirondacks. PSA: Before you head out on the trails this winter, remember to bring adequate gear! All of the trails require snowshoes or cross-country skis to adventure safely during winter.

R.W. Sage Jr. Memorial Trail is a 1.1-mile loop, starting from the Sucker Brook Trail after it crosses the Rich Lake Outlet. This trail is an easier walk, following the shoreline of Belden Lake as you walk among coniferous and deciduous trees. This trail also includes two overlooks along the lake, perfect for snapping pics of any wildlife or simply enjoying the serene view.

Rich Lake Trail is a 0.6-mile trail that serves as a perfect warmup with views of Rich Lake and Goodnow Mountain. While this trail is a bit easier than its siblings, it serves as the perfect segue to all the other trails! If you’re just looking for a quick and easy trail walk, this one will do the trick.

Peninsula Trail includes 0.9-miles of ups and downs, with old-growth hemlocks surrounding the path. Take a break with a stellar view of Rich Lake.

Sucker Brook Trail runs a 1.0-mile route and leaves the AIC’s main building to the north running along the outlet to Rich Lake. You’ll experience historic tradition when you take this trail. The path leads parallel to the same route the logs took during the Hudson River log-driving days. 

Explore the natural and cultural history of the Adirondacks

By educating visitors, the AIC serves as a helping hand in prolonging the Adirondacks’ unique culture. You can’t have Adirondack culture without including Adirondack wildlife. Since the settling of the Adirondacks through mining, logging, and hunting, the people of the small towns inhabiting the area have learned to adapt and live in harmony with the wildlife all around them. From harsh winters to lush fishing and hunting seasons, humans have been able to coexist with the wild side of the Adirondacks for generations! You’ll find that most industries that thrive in the Adirondacks depend on nature for their success. Maple tapping, hunting, fishing, and guide services have been sustained thanks to the protection of the Adirondacks! 

New upgrades

The AIC has been hard at work updating their facilities to expand visitor’s experiences. This includes a massive overhaul of the AIC’s main building, with brand new exhibits and an updated conference room. Bathrooms will still be open at this time so you can still make your pit stop before heading back out on the trails! Check back regularly for construction updates as the Center works hard to get their building up and running again!

See you there

The AIC is perfectly placed in the town of Newcomb and nearby areas with plenty to do! Stumped on making reservations or finding your best fit for lodging? Check out all the towns around the Adirondack Hub to find your perfect experience during your stay. Make sure to check in for lodging, explore all your dining options, or simply go adventuring around the rest of the Hub when your day is done at the AIC!

The way we start our day can set a tone for the next twenty-four hours. Perhaps that is the appeal of Bed and Breakfasts. Get those two needs properly covered, and have a wonderful time going forward.

We were "early adopters" of the B&B concept, since so many of our hotels were located in lovely, but remote, places, and they needed to be everything for their guests. While no Grand Hotels still operate in the Adirondacks, the hospitality ethos remains as bright and welcoming as ever.

The Schroon Lake area is home to many incredible B&B's. Here are three options that take both "Bs" very seriously. Perhaps one of them is just right for your next getaway.

Homegrown goodness

What's breakfast without bacon? For some people, the answer is "sad and lonely." The Tumble Inn, located in Schroon Lake, makes sure that their bacon, and all of their breakfast ingredients, travels as little as possible before arriving at their table.

The Tumble Inn offers a breakfast spread of maximum freshness.

There's meat products from Oscar’s Smokehouse in Warrensburg, the ones made famous on Rachel Ray's television show. There's cheeses from Nettle Meadow Farm, where every goat and sheep has a name. Brighten those pancakes with local maple syrup from Toad Hill Maple farm in Thurman. And tuck into those eggs from the Inn's own chickens.

Larry and Nancy cater to any breakfast whim with sausage, Canadian bacon, and/or bacon. There's always an egg dish, often with organic herbs and vegetables, and a "starch" which can be apple-puff pancakes or stuffed French toast or Belgian waffles. And cakes, muffins, buns and breads, with juice, fresh fruit, or yogurt. A choice of coffee/teas are elegantly served family style on imported china.

That's the way to start an Adirondack day.

All this in a dining room with original wood floors and moldings, lovingly restored in an 1870’s farmhouse.

The Tumble Inn has a wonderful great room, too. There's a gas fireplace surrounded by North Creek granite. The original Arts and Crafts touches are still there.

What a place for relaxing after a day in the snow. It is centrally located, near Schroon Lake's cute downtown with its restaurants and shops. Stroll along the frozen lake, share a moment in the famous stone gazebo, find a memorable dinner, all to celebrate an amazing day.

It's a great place to call home before and after a day of skiing at Gore Mountain.

Bed and breakfast and...

You've probably never experienced pampering quite like the way Laura does it at Rocky Acres Inn.

There's nothing like the deep woods winter quiet for a good night's sleep at Rocky Acres.

It's on Trout Brook Road, halfway between Schroon Lake and Minerva. So it's a great place to snuggle up in the heart of the forest and enjoy all the trails that cross the property. Breakfast starts with gourmet coffee, tea, and hot cocoa. Discuss your favorite breakfast style from a possible menu of juice, cereal, eggs, bacon, sausage, muffins, and fruits.

Because Laura has so few guests at a time, she can have her guests wake up to a dream breakfast; whatever that might be. Ask about bacon.

This is all about the customized B&B experience. Whether it's a fun family outing or a couple's cozy getaway, this is a place where you can leave the outside world just outside the door. Accessible, but only if you want to go back to it.

Rocky Acres caters to your desire for cozy privacy. Surrounded by your own forest, snowshoeing on your own trails, and enjoying the frozen, but still alive, brook and the several ponds that decorate the property. Have an invigorating beverage by the fire pit.

Craft your own deep woods experience.

Love the sound of snow on snow. There's nothing else like it.

It's easy to feel like you have the place to yourself. That's the experience Rocky Acres offers. In a very rare move, there's also the sewing option.

One of the amenities offered by the Great Camps of old was an on-site seamstress. When guests were staying for long periods, far from shops and their own servants, the host and hostess of the Great Camp would have someone who took care of their clothes. Rocky Acres brings this back with their custom tailoring option, including men's tailoring, extensive re-styling, and dressmaking services.

From formal attire to that perfect parka that never quite fit under the arms, Laura declares she "will complete most projects during your stay and you can have a renewed life for your garments and spirit."

Talk about your full service B&B. It's like a miniature Great Camp.

Tuck me in

For full immersion in the Adirondacks, there's the self-contained experience of Betty's Funny Farm. Yes, there really is a Betty there.

Imagine a tiny little magical town deep in an enchanted forest. There's a farm, and a store, and a fairy godmother who knits sweaters and makes jam and cookies.
You have your own room.

This magical place is a secret. Even the Internet knows very little about Betty's. (Shhhh. I'm only telling you.)

I've come to realize it's very much like the way anglers don't tell anyone about their favorite pond. It's... just... too... special.

Over the years of chatting with Betty, even she can't exactly put her finger on why people love her place so much. But then, Betty does details so well, she doesn't have to explain them.

In the summer, it is her horses and wagon taking people to nearby Camp Santanoni Preserve. In the winter, they are part of the interconnected trail network which includes the Adirondack Interpretive Center.

When I asked her what was available in her famous breakfasts, she answered, "Everything."

At a bit of a loss for words, I could only say, "Sounds great."

"Homemade. Some of it comes from our farm, or other people's farms."

I am sure Betty meant this in the "things people eat for breakfast" sense, not in the "elephant ear on a bun" sense. She is traditional in the best possible way.

So there will be bacon.

Regulars come back so regularly Betty hasn't advertised in years and years. The store on the premises has enough authentic mountain crafts to fill up a day — quilts, anything that can be knitted, clothing and jewelry, homemade baked goods. She sells her jam and jellies if you want to take that once-in-a-lifetime toast experience and recreate it at home. There's locally produced maple syrup, artisan pottery and jewelry, art, and decor items.

It's like spending time on a fantasy grandparent's farm.

All the signs point to this being a magical place.

These are only three of the amazing B&Bs in the area. The first settlers arrived in the area in 1800. Newcomb was the center of the logging operations in the area. Luxury resorts were once commonplace in this amazing part of the Adirondacks, so close by train, yet so far away from ordinary life.

Of all the areas in all of the Adirondacks, the Schroon Lake Region is one of the most unspoiled. Tiny towns, vast tracts of forest, mountains, and lakes, and yet some wonderful bistros, hiking and snowshoeing trails, stellar Alpine skiing, and, of course, breakfast. There's really nothing quite like a fantastic Schroon Lake Region breakfast.
But don't take my word for it. Try it for yourself.

Explore all of our B&B possibilities. We have more delightful dining. Fill your day with fun!

 

It’s been a while in the waiting to reach my 800th Adirondack peak, and sifting through the 900 or so that I have not climbed I focused on Texas Ridge in Schroon Lake. Located just north of the Loch Muller trailhead, the ridge stands diligently waiting at more than 3,000 feet. I chose this peak because of its massive expanse and my deep curiosity of such a name in northern New York.

It would prove to be an interesting start to the day as we waited at Stewarts in Schroon Lake for our final hiking partner to show. I won’t mention any names to protect the guilty. Come to find out he was at the Blue Ridge trailhead for Hoffman Notch waiting for us; our plans for the day definitely got twisted and unfortunately he never joined us, but did manage to get a peak of his own.

Arriving at Loch Muller

Loch Muller from the village is not a hop, skip and jump — it takes a bit of time to get there. Since 9 a.m. had come and gone and so had 9:30 a.m., we arrived at the not completely plowed access road. The end of the plowed area is a snowplow turn-around with a “no parking” sign and a guy with a shotgun. So to save any hassle we managed to nudge our vehicles off the road enough to give a small plow enough room to maneuver. The guy with the shotgun disappeared and we felt clear to go; he might have been a figment of my imagination.

We opted to leave the snowshoes in the car and went for the bare-booting method and Microspikes if needed. The crust was quite solid and we didn’t see it as an issue, but I did not take my size into account. More on that in a bit. The trailhead was about another 0.3 miles down the unplowed road, so the added walk wasn’t all that much and in no way a demanding feat.

Upon reaching the trailhead, we signed into the trail register and started our descent along the trail. I soon started to doubt my decision to leave the snowshoes warm and dry in the car. The trail unfortunately descends for a while on the way in, making the realization set in that we would need to climb at the end of the day and if any of you know, that can be bad!

It was soon 10 a.m. but the dark cloudy day made if feel as if it were already late in the afternoon. I would have to win over my lack of vitamin D and dig deep down for the energy and move on. We quickly chewed up the first mile and a half to the Big Pond Trail intersection and at this point I had to make a decision, and since no one in the party wanted to voice their opinion I went with my original plan to taking the southern ridge up and the western face back down. It was honestly a tough decision. Michael, Corenne, John, Melissa and I charged at the final section of trail before we would venture into the mysterious Hoffman Wilderness.

The climb of Texas Ridge

This section of trail was a steady climb as we passed through spruce forest and into the hardwoods, ending on the shoulder of the ridge. While we moved along quite well, I knew time was not on our side and the late start made it even less affordable to monkeying around. The crust off the trail was just as unstable; I led the initial attack on Texas. Fortunately though there wasn’t much snow beneath to battle. However, each and every step was a chore as I had to stomp through the crust; trying to walk softly only delayed the inevitable crack, making it even more tiring.

We took turns breaking trail for a while and John stepped up next to get us steeply up the slopes to the first bump along the ridge. The ridge was a pleasant surprise as the open hardwoods parted even more. Still in a land without shadows, we moved unfaltering through the open forest and started our climb up to the second bump of the ridge, where we hoped a view could be obtained. It was unfortunate as none were found, but what we did start to find were a spattering of spruce trees. We knew soon we would be in the thick of it. A couple of thick pockets made us push and pull a bit more, but once we came through unscathed on the other side we were rewarded with more uncluttered hardwoods.

Looking right, the trees were coated in a layering of white; looking left was a scene of brown. The movement of the previous storm was obvious and the beauty the moving clouds gave us was a welcoming sight.

We continued to use the ridge as a handrail to the summit and it worked fine for the most part, but the other part that wasn’t the most part were the thick stands of spruce. It wasn’t so much the spruce but the mixture of steep terrain and constant snow bombing the back of our necks with every push we made. This was the moment I realized that my 8-year old waterproof shell was no longer a viable part of my winter hiking gear. By the time we reached the third bump along the ridge my engine was starting to sputter. I am not sure what my personal falter was on this day but I was whooped and my legs felt like tubes of concrete. Thankfully the third bump gave us a nice view and took my mind, if even for a slight moment, off my fatigue. We could see Hoffman Mountain and the final bump — the summit of Texas Ridge. It was about 0.4 miles away, which could have been on the moon for how I was feeling, but I would press on.

Thankfully, at this point John and Michael were all about breaking trail. I never argue with someone who has that passion. The terrain now had moments of very dense growth and even steeper terrain. Inching our way closer we finally passed the final contour line on the GPS. The upper portion of this ridge is a bit flat, so I pressed on until I was sure we topped out on the highest point of the mountain. I think it was three or so small knobs later when we stood where we all felt comfortable that we were there. Eight hundred done was such a great feeling, but the summit area didn’t allow for much room to relax and celebrate.

Getting back to the trailhead

I switched out my liner gloves, put on dry mittens and tucked a fresh pair of hand warmers onto the back of my hands. We were all ready for a quick exit off of this beast and to do so we would need to drop off of the western side of the mountain, which appeared to be a steep undertaking. Corenne led the way, and without falter she dropped off of Texas Ridge on a rapid descent. We were aiming for the Hoffman Notch trail and the closest route to it. It was unclear by looking at the map if we would come across any cliffs on our retreat but we figured we would deal with them if they appeared.

We missed one right off the top as we skirted its tall ledges, dropping even further in elevation. The spruce was thick in spots, but overall this side of the mountain was pretty easy in comparison to the upper portion of the southern ridge. Fully immersed in nature, we continued to collect needles down the backs of our shirts, and like the opening of a curtain we arrived in the hardwoods. The forest edge was so sharp at this point there was no gentle transition.

Now in the deciduous forest we moved very quickly, and as the features of the forest passed by in a glimpse we came to the dreaded crossing of Trout Brook. It’s a big brook as brooks come in the Adirondacks, and we had no idea what it would take to get across. Something must have been smiling upon us as we hit it just right. The brook was shallow enough to cross with only a couple of steps in the open water. Corenne didn’t like those conditions as much, and she decided to step in water that was up to her knee. Luckily the gaiters stopped her boot from being filed with liquid ice.

The trail was right there and we were all very happy to see it. We finally saw evidence of humans, as fresh tracks led us along the brook and quickly back to the Big Pond trail. The sun was reaching the horizon but it was obvious we'd be back at the cars without breaking out the headlamps. One of our goals was to make it back to the trail before dark but then again, that's always the goal at the end of the day. However, the true goal overall is not to just get a peak, but to enjoy the trip is some way and to do it safely, and when you can do that with a group of awesome people it's pure Adirondack gold.

After the hike, be sure to head into Schroon Lake for dinner and shopping!

Submitted by CycleADK and Dave Kraus. Photos courtesy of Cycle Adirondacks/Pure ADK. 

For a cyclist, finding the perfect route for a great day trip is an evergreen quest. Here’s my take: It would be on unfamiliar roads, but not too far away, and convenient to reach. It would be scenic, with a variety of great views and plenty of possible stopping places with mid-ride snacks and treats. The start/finish location would have plenty of parking and ready access to cycling supplies, post-ride refreshments, and a variety of lodging options if I felt like making it more than a day trip.

That perfect ride or in this case – a number of ride options — are closer than you think. The southern end of Essex County and southwestern Hamilton County feature some of the most incredibly rewarding routes, all of which are easily accessible from beautiful Schroon Lake. 

Local note: Say “Skroon” like school. You might hear Shroon, like mushroom, but you also might hear a few chuckles from in-the-know locals. 

OK, ride options. Here are a few goodies: 

Schroon-Olmstedville Loop

This 27-mile road cycling option, with just over 2,000 feet of climbing, may put your training regimen to the test. But starting and finishing in the village of Schroon Lake is hard to beat. Reason being, all of the reasons listed above (see paragraph 1) exist there. Plus, you’ll get the major climbing out of the way in the first 9 miles, leaving you with a 9-mile downhill (wheeeeee) back into Schroon Lake at the end of the ride. You could also start in Olmstedville, which shortens the route to about 15 miles and removes the major climb out of Schroon Lake. Either way, you’ll explore the low traffic rural beauty of the Irishtown-Trout Brook area. Win-Win.

Newcomb to Tahawus

At about 25 miles, this out-and-back is scenic, historic and 100% low-traffic backroad. It starts and finishes at Newcomb Overlook Park, which not only offers a stunning 180-degree view of the High Peaks, but also has a brand new covered pavilion and excellent restroom facilities. 

In terms of riding, this route is pretty flat for Adirondack road cycling; you’ll pedal along the Hudson River and have a chance to explore the ruins of the MacIntyre Iron Works’ defunct furnace near the turnaround point. This relic of the American industrial revolution operated for only two years in the 19th century before shutting down, though subsequent mining on surrounding lands yielded 40 million tons of titanium before operations ceased in 1989.

Newcomb Chain Lakes Loop (Gravel)

If unpaved is your thing, this 20-mile route is suited to gravel or mountain bikes only, and is fully stocked with beautiful lake and forest views throughout. It’s also the back end of nowhere: About half the ride is in the verdant Hudson Gorge Wilderness. Think high potential for wildlife sightings and fresh moose tracks everywhere.

Finding the parking lot, accessible from Goodnow Flow Road in Newcomb, is half the battle. However, the 6-mile drive to the parking lot on Gooley Club Road is well worth the adventure. And if you’re feeling at all nervous, pop into Cloud-Splitter Outfitters before charging off the pavement to get the local intel.   

Schroon-Minerva-North Hudson

If you’re up for a BIG day, here’s a loop from Schroon Lake that you can toast with something frosty upon your finish. This 57-mile round-tripper with 4,000 feet of climbing features all the best sections of the Schroon-Olmsteadville loop, adds a leg through Minerva and wraps with an unbeatable finish following the Boreas River along the Blue Ridge Road into North Hudson. 

Yes, this route features more highway miles than any of the others listed here. But it’s still absolutely stunning with plenty of mountain views, river crossings, and a unique look at life before the Northway existed and Route 9 was the main artery into the Adirondacks. Plus, you’ll pass the brand new Paradox Brewery in North Hudson, located just north of the state’s newest campground at the former Frontier Town theme park, on your way back into the village of Schroon Lake. 

 

The Newcomb Winterfest is more than a celebration of all things winter, it’s also a glimpse into life in the Adirondacks. The free event happens Jan. 13 in Newcomb from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

 

Ruth and David Olbert, owners of Cloud-Splitter Outfitters, explained that life in the Adirondacks doesn’t end when it gets cold. Instead, people adapt. And skis help, too.

 

“It’s truly a lifestyle because we live it, we don’t just do it on weekends,” Ruth said. “We play together and we live together. It’s the way life is in Newcomb and it’s intriguing to some people, and that’s why we do this event.”

Visitors don’t have to be hardened mountain dwellers to get into the pro-winter spirit. That’s where Winterfest comes in. Anyone with an adventurous curiosity can try cold weather endeavors like fat tire biking, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing.

 

 

No prior experience is required; on the contrary, beginners are encouraged to sample it all.

 

“That’s why we do this, to kind of help people gently get to know these activities, and to show them it’s OK, they can handle it,” Ruth said.

 

Fat tire biking

 

This is exactly what it sounds like: bikes with really wide, knobby tires that are especially good for riding over snow.

 

David says the bikes are not built for speed, but they are faster than walking.

 

“They’re not great for going fast, but the thing about fat tire bikes is they have so much floatation, they’re really good on anything that is a soft-type surface, like snow or sand,” David said. “Basically, any surface that a traditional mountain bike would sink into more.”

 

The wider tires also give the bikes better traction. Right said that makes them popular for riding across frozen ponds, something younger people especially enjoyed last year.

 

 

“We were at Lake Harris Bay, so the 16-, 17-, and 18-year olds were riding out on the ice,” Ruth said. “They were really having a great time. They’d leave, ride out, come back, then do it again, so they were really enjoying that.”

 

Ice fishing demos

Ever wonder what it’s like to ice fish? At Newcomb Winterfest, you can find out.

 

Ice fishing demos outline the sport from start to finish, and include a review of the equipment necessary to partake in the sport.

 

“The guy who does it, Jason Richards, is really good at communicating with people who have never done any of this, so he’s perfect for this” Ruth said. “It’s a complete set up.”

 

 

Ruth said Jason hits everything, including how to drill holes, how to set up a tip-up, and how to put bait on a hook.

 

 

Cross-country skiing

It’s true, you need gear to cross-country ski, but it’s easy to try at Winterfest.

 

That’s because Ruth and David use hok skis. They’re short and wide, which makes them feel more secure, kind of like a cross between snowshoes and cross-country skis.

 

“My sister-in-law, she is a non-skier and she’s really nervous about it,” Ruth said. “She tried the hok skis last year at Winterfest and she bought two pairs for this year.”

 

Hok skis also have a universal binding, similar to a snowboard binding, so any boot can be strapped into them. The undersides of the ski have integrated mole hair, making them able to ascend hills.

 

“They can go up almost any hill,” David said. “If you’re in the High Peaks, on the real steep sections, you’d have to switch to snowshoes, but with a universal binding like that it’s easy to just throw your shoes on, then go back to the skis.”

 

 

Everybody plays together

Other Winterfest happenings include self-guided tours of Camp Santanoni — an Adirondack Great Camp that’s accessible by snowshoes or skis in the winter, and sled dogs, food, a bonfire, tubing, snowmobile rides, and downhill skiing and snowboarding.

 

And once the sun goes down, everyone congregates at the Newcomb Central School gym for live music and square dancing. Like anything at Winterfest, no prior experience is required to square dance — a few people will even be on hand to guide newbies.

 

The event is, after all, about community and trying new things, and everyone is encouraged to join the fun.

 

“The one thing that always stands out to me is the age difference in the people doing things together,” Ruth said. “At last year’s square dance, I think the youngest person was 6, and the oldest was probably 79 or so. Everybody plays together.”

---

 

Why not make a weekend out of Winterfest? Stay nearby, then use those new winter skills in the backcountry!

It's inevitable. Every summer we get one or two of those scorchers – highs into the 90s and the humidity registering off the scale (or so it seems).

Now, imagine being a fish.

No, they don't have to worry about the humidity, but think about trying to drink a warm beer on a hot day. Now you're getting the idea – a trout's summer life.

Being a coldwater species, trout thrive in water temps that would make us shiver if we stood in them for very long. But those temperatures– optimum for a brookie is 58 degrees, a little higher at for a rainbow (up to61 degrees) and higher still for a brown trout, anywhere from 56-65 degrees –can be hard to find in some of our streams in the summer. Without the constant influx of cold water, as is the case on tailwater streams such as the Delaware River, trout will seek cooler waters in the summer and can become fairly sluggish. Too, as the water warms, the dissolved oxygen level drops, so not only are the trout looking for cooler water, but they'll also be searching out riffles and waterfalls or rapids for that extra air.

That's when Steve and I head to for the hills. The nativetrout streams of our area offer refuge for not only the brookies on a hot day,but anglers as well, looking for a refreshing break from the sun's heat.

These streams, many unmarked and mere trickles to start, are the perfect hangout for the summer. Shaded by the dense forest canopy and a good hike from the nearest road, they offer solitude for both fishermen and fish. But remember that the resource is fragile. While we have several stops on our summer brookie fishing tour, we'll hit one only once a year and, as usual,it's all catch and release. It's tough enough being a fish in those conditions;we don't need to be stressing them out every week by going in and catching them over and over again – or, worse, keeping them. First of all, they aren't big enough to do anything with. These aren't the state record fish that end up on the wall, but you'd be surprised at the fight a 5- to 6-incher can put up when you're pulling it out of a pool the size of your dinnerplate on a 3-weight fly rod.

The summer's long-term forecast doesn't look too bad for the trout, as long as we can maintain good flows on the rivers and keep the overnights relatively cool. Let's hope we don't see a repeat of a couple of years ago when water temperatures on area streams shot in to the mid-70s,forcing local guides to steer people away from the streams. Luckily for those fishermen, the Adirondacks are blessed with an enviable pond and lake fishery and they didn't skip a beat in terms of landing fish.

So how hot is too hot?

First, make sure you have a thermometer with you. A digital one is best because, really, one degree is important when you're talking trout.This isn't something that you can guess.

Tons of studies will tell you that there is a threshold limit for trout species, but that's not the number you should be keying in on.While a rainbow trout may be able to live in 77-degree water, chances are it's not doing well and even catch-and-release would likely lead to the death of the fish.

Summer fishing is usually limited to very early morning before the sun has a chance to beat down on the stream. My go-home temperature is 68 degrees. When we're knocking on that number, I'll put the stream rod away and maybe head to another water, an area lake, for some smallmouth action.There's absolutely no reason to stress the fish anymore than they already are.How would you like it if someone handed you a warm beer on a hot day? 

Growing up in Schroon Lake, one of my favorite times of the year was Christmas. The local stores and homes would begin to sparkle with holiday lights and decorations, and if we were lucky snow would begin to fall and it would feel like a winter wonderland. Holiday parties kicked-off, holiday traditions were shared, and great memories were made with family and friends. This year will be no exception as our local businesses and organizations begin to prepare their period costumes and decorate their shops and homes…

Celebrating 30 Years of Tradition

On Saturday, December 12, the Town of Schroon Lake will celebrate its 30th Annual Old Tyme Christmas with a day packed full of awesome events for families and individuals. The Schroon Lake Community Church will kick off the festivities with their annual Christmas Bazaar at 10am. The Bazaar will include Granny’s Attic: Gently Used and New Sale Items, Bake Sale, and a Soup & Sandwich Luncheon until 2pm.

For your holiday dessert purchases, make sure you stop by the North Woods Bread Company to participate in their Schroon Lake Chamber of Commerce fundraiser between 10am – 3pm and check out the selection of holiday treats that will tease and tantalize your palette. All proceeds from the purchase of holiday treats will benefit the Chamber. Dont forget to purchase your artisan bread for the weekend!

Take a chance

If you love raffles, you are going to want to head to the Schroon Lake Chamber of Commerce and purchase raffle tickets for the Annual Holiday Basket Raffle from 11am to 7pm. The Holiday Baskets include a wide variety of items such as gift certificates to local businesses, gift baskets with product from various businesses, and much more. The Holiday Baskets are donated by local businesses and individuals and all proceeds from the Basket Raffles are used to help make holiday wishes come true for many of our local children. The drawing for the Basket Raffles will begin at 7pm, and you do not have to be present to win. While at the Schroon Lake Chamber, don’t forget to visit the Friends of the Library table and purchase your last minute raffle tickets for their beautiful quilt. Drawing for the quilt winner will also be held at 7pm.

Photo credit: Angel Wings Photography

Homemade and original

Now I don’t know about anyone else, but I love local arts and crafts and I won’t be missing this year’s Arts and Crafts Show which will be held at the Schroon Lake Town Hall meeting room from 2pm-7pm. There will be a wide variety of vendors selling their arts and crafts for your holiday shopping needs.

A little night light

After spending the afternoon shopping and dining, you will want to tuck your packages away in the trunk of your car and head out to meet everyone at the town park. The evening events kick-off at Fountain Park at 5:30pm with the Annual Tree Lighting and some good ole fashioned caroling. I have to say the tree lighting is one of my favorite events of the day. Watching the children’s eyes grow large and light up with excitement is worth its weight in gold.

At the conclusion of the town tree lighting the celebration moves north with a traditional Nativity Procession to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church located on North Main Street for a Gospel Reading at the Manger and the lighting of the Memory Tree at the Schroon Lake Senior Citizen Center.

Here comes...

Photo credit: Angel Wings Photography

Excitement keeps building as the children anticipate the arrival of Santa Claus. You can feel the energy in the air, the children are pulling on their parents sleeves asking “When is Santa going to be here?” and/or “Is he coming soon?” And then we hear the big roar of the engine, and we see the lights on the big red truck coming down the street. Yep…you read it right… Santa arrives in Schroon Lake on a BIG RED FIRE TRUCK! The children’s eyes are larger than plates, with squeals of excitement and happiness splitting the air. They have tried to be good girls and boys throughout the year so that they can see Santa on this special night.

Santa’s fire truck pulls up to the Strand Theater and the children follow him into the theater where they will sit upon his lap and share their wishes and dreams with him. To top off their experience, Santa gives each and everyone of them a special little gift.

 

After visiting with Santa the children are invited to attend two events: one at the Senior Citizen Center which includes coloring, cocoa, and cookies from 6pm to 8pm, and the other at the Glens Falls National Bank for craft making, popcorn, and balloons from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.

 

 

Photo credit: Giant Mountain Studio

Fun for all ages!

 

Now the magic doesn’t end there, I know at some point between 6pm & 8pm I will be heading down to the Schroon Lake Town Hall to take a magical horse and wagon ride! What a romantic way to end the evening - taking a spin around town, hearing the jingle of the harness, and feeling the cool brisk December air on your face. When you are ready to warm up after, you should make your way to the Schroon Lake Community Church or the Towne Store for some musical performances between 6pm and 8pm.

So much to do, so much to see, and while you are out don’t forget to do your holiday shopping at our local stores such as the Giant Mountain Studio, The Town Store, Schroon Lake Pharmacy, Pine Cone Mercantile, Paradox Brewery, North Woods Bread Company, Adirondack Buffalo Farm, Gokey’s Trading Post, Adirondack General Store and the Lazy Moose Market. Of course, while out shopping you're sure to work up an appetite, why not dine at our local restaurants - and while there, you can purchase gift certificates for that person on your list who loves to dine around town: Sticks & Stones, DeCesare’s Pizzeria, Flanagan’s Pub & Grill, Timberwolf Pub, and Pitkin’s Restaurant