The Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival will be celebrating its 20th year in 2016. This event has become known as one of the premier running events in the Northeast, giving runners breathtaking views as the run along the shores of Schroon Lake, NY.

The following is a first-hand account of what to expect on race day, and why so many runners love this great event! Read on, lace up, and join us on September 25, 2016 as we race in the beautiful autumn air!

---

Submitted by guest blogger: Alison Muse

Lacing Up In Schroon

In 2001, I ran the half-marathon of the Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival as a training race for the NYC marathon. I’m not very good at maintaining long-term relationships but I have one with this race.The scenic beauty, challenging course, and incredible volunteers have brought me back to Schroon Lake almost every year since 2001.

The race is held on, or around, the last Sunday in September, within days of my birthday. Because of that timing, I have been in the same five-year age category for the last six years which can be a curse when it comes to running.

[img:image1.jpg]

Original Color Run

This time of year in the Adirondacks is spectacular and few other races can match the incredible scenery of this locale. The half-marathon course winds around the bottom of the lake, starting in the town of Adirondack and finishing in the Village of Schroon Lake. The lake is visible almost the entire time and the autumn color of the surrounding trees will take your breath away — which may not be a good thing during a race.

The first five miles along the eastern shore are relatively flat and I always find myself thinking “this is not so bad.” The transition occurs at the Word of Life camp. The kids are amazing; they are out in force, cheering enthusiastically, and offering encouragement and Cheerios. (Cheerios stick really well to sweaty palms!)

When I leave the Word of Life camp, I know I am about to enter the pain cave. My thighs will be screaming after the next few miles. This is the challenging component of the course which is described in the brochure as long, rolling hills. It sounds bucolic, doesn’t it? I become a motivational speaker at this point, silently chanting to myself “you can do this” and I can! Conquering those hills gives me an incredible sense of accomplishment.

[img:adk-raceimage2.jpg]

Why I Love Schroon Lake

Behind every race is a group of dedicated individuals and the volunteers for this race do a masterful job. It is a small community that really gets behind the weekend of events and I am so impressed, and rewarded, by their commitment to providing a great experience for the participants.

The exposition, packet pick up, aid stations (fig newtons and M&M’s – how great is that?), post-race set up, including massage tent and homemade goodies, are really well organized.

Plus, the volunteers are friendly and supportive. Each year, at one of the water stations, one volunteer uses binoculars to spot my bib number. Another volunteer uses that info to look up my name and then the whole group becomes my personal cheering squad. It is so awesome and one more reason why I love this race.

---

[img:schfall.jpg]

Plan to join us for the annual Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival! Before and after the race we have comfy places to rest your head and fabulous restaurants ready to fill you up! Bring the whole family and plan on checking out the beautiful fall colors with a short hike or a scenic drive. Discover for yourself why Alison and so many others return to the Schroon Lake Region each year - we'll see you soon!

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

[img:timthumb.jpg]
 

Clawesome Lobster!

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

[img:rs5797-dscn1614.jpg]

[img:rs5793-dscn1609.jpg]
 

Your Antique Adirondack Decor

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

[img:tr.jpg]
 

Teddy Roosevelt Weekend

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

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

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

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

[img:run.jpg]
 

Adirondack Marathon Distance festival

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

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

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

[img:map.png]

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

---

 

 

I have a nostalgic streak that draws me to historic places. When deciding which attractions to visit this season, I went off the familiar path and chose an Adirondack attraction I had driven past the signs for all my life but never visited. I was excited at the prospect of finally visiting this natural wonder.

[img:nsbcentrance.jpg]

One of our oldest and best attractions

Natural Stone Bridge and Caves is one of the Adirondack's oldest natural attractions. The business has been operated by different members of the same family for more than five decades. Surveys have concluded that the Stone Bridge appears to be the largest natural marble cave entrance in the eastern United States. Greg Beckler is the current family member to own and operate the business. We chatted with Greg after our tour and he filled me in on a lot of history and some of the expansion they've done in recent years.

[img:widestonebridgensbc.jpg]

An 1824 passage from A Gazetteer of the State of New York by Horatio Gates Spafford, describes the stone bridge and cave:

"The STONE BRIDGE, in this town is a very great natural curiosity, and has given the name Stone-Bridge Creek, to a small stream that runs under it. This stream rises in Essex County, and enters Chester about 30 rods above the Bridge, and immediately falls over a rocky precipice, into a large natural Basin; whence turning easterly, enters its subterranean passage in two branches. The northern branch enters its passage under an arch of massive granite 40 feet high, and about 80 feet broad at the base, gradually diminishing in capacity as you descend. A person may follow the stream with ease, 156 feet from the entrance, where it becomes co contracted as to check any farther progress. At a short distance, the southern and principal branch enters its passage amidst a heap of stones and rubbish that almost conceal the entrance; and though with difficulty, its passage has been explored. In some places, very much confined, in others it opens into caverns of 30 or 40 feet diameter, and filled with water to a great depth. At the distance of 247 feet from the entrance, the waters disembogue in one stream, having united in the subterranean passage; and here is a precipice of rock 54 feet high, which terminates the Bridge. The arch through which the water discharges is about 10 feet wide and 5 high. This stream enters the Scaroon River, about ¾ of a mile below the outlet of Scaroon Lake, and the Stone Bridge is about 3 miles NW from the mouth of the Creek."

The above ground tour

Greg was kind enough to give me a thumb drive with some great images of old maps and brochures from the past days of the attraction. The tour map from the 50s is one of my favorites. Keep in mind the current tour is somewhat expanded from this older map as they have added some walkways since that time, and there is a walkway across the top of the stone bridge. But, you'll get the general idea from this map. Oh, and they'll give you a brand spanking new map when you go.

[img:screen-shot-20160822-at-111116-am.png]

 

As you can see, the paths wind around the edges of Trout Brook, which runs through the property. It's lined with wooden walkways, stairs, railings and beautiful meditation spots along the way. We marveled at some of the tiny and noisy caves with the brook rushing through them. We've had a very dry summer here in the Adirondacks this year. Fortunately, just prior to my visit, the region experienced some big storms, dumping quite a large amount of rain on the area. Naturally the rain caused the water levels to rise in the rivers and streams, so we were able to experience the attraction with a fairly normal amount of water flowing.

The day we toured was a beautiful, hot summer day and the attraction was very busy. Lots of visitors of all ages were scurrying around the rocks and walkways around the property. Little kids were marveling at the caves and the loud water sounds inside them. Noisy Cave is one of the caves visitors can walk into. Trout Brook rushes through the cave as you watch the electric lighting change color from green to blue to red to purple. It's pretty cool and we readily understood why it was named Noisy Cave - we could not hold a conversation inside!

[img:bigcave.jpg]

It took us about an hour and a half to walk the entire tour, taking time to stop for a snack with a lovely family from Connecticut, who so generously offered us some of their treats and water. The Lilaporia family, from Connecticut, had chosen to visit by suggestion of their three young daughters, who were making all the holiday decisions and plans for this vacation. I love that idea! I think more families should do this - that way the kids can't complain when they don't like the itinerary —because it's all theirs. The girls obviously had a great time judging by all the smiles:

[img:sistersonswingnaturalstonecaves.jpg]

Highlights of the tour

[img:familylineup.jpg]
A great resting spot along Trout Brook, known as Serenity Park

[img:riversigns.jpg]
There are wonderful benches and stopping points to take a break and contemplate the beauty

[img:sawmillsitensbc.jpg]
This is the site of a former sawmill on Trout Brook

[img:tinycavensbc.jpg]
You can see why this cave is known as "Tiny Cave"

[img:lookinguptherockriver.jpg]
Walking along the huge expanses of rock downstream from the Bridge

[img:screen-shot-20160822-at-100321-am.png]
Natural Stone Bridge is also a great location for a wedding!

[img:taking-photo-of-waterfalls-of-sawmill-site.jpg]
Fall foliage season is a perfect time to visit and capture nature's spectacle

[img:potholes1.jpg]
Some really cool 'potholes' as seen from the walkway above - these are carved out by the force of the water raging against rocks swirling around within the hole.

Join an adventure tour and get inside the caves

If you aren't claustrophobic and you don't mind getting wet and dirty, sign up for one of the Adventure Tours led by a guide through some of the amazing caverns and waterfalls. The tour is offered once a day on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday each week during summer, ending the last day of August. If you miss it this year, make sure you visit during the summer months next year to take advantage of this very cool trip through the attraction. Watch the video above for the better picture of the Adventure Tour.

[img:dsc08799.jpg]
It's a tight squeeze through parts of the Adventure Tour. Put on your brave pants and give it a try next summer!

[img:slide11.jpg]
There are many more activities in the park for adults and kids alike - mining, climbing, disc golf, and much more.

[img:slide15e.jpg]
And of course, there are winter snowshoe adventures.
If you're a rock hound, you won't want to miss the gift shop. Greg told me they make regular rock buying trips to Tucson, Arizona, and rocks shows in Pennsylvania and Massachusetts. These are apparently the big shows in the rock world. The rock shop is filled with hundreds of amazing rock and mineral specimens, most of which are for sale. There are Mexican geodes with surprises inside that you can buy, and they will split them open for you to find your special surprise minerals. There are many items on display that are not for sale, but you can buy items ranging from .10 cents to $10,000.00! Don't miss at least browsing around the rock and gift shops before departing.

Plan your trip

Plan a trip to the Schroon Lake Region and take advantage of all the fall attractions and events in the region. Visit Natural Stone Bridge and Caves website for much more history, as well as admission information. The park is open through September 5th from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and September 6th to October 10th, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Be sure to arrive 90 minutes before closing time to assure yourself the time for the full experience.
Of course, Mother Nature's fall foliage spectacular is the biggest attraction in fall. What better backdrop than to spend a few days visiting and touring. Don't wait til the last minute to make your lodging plans — plan now to visit soon!

---

This week in related ADK awesome autumn activities:

Switching gears

Lapping up the fun

Four for fall

A-maze-ing fall fun

Going up?

By land, sea, or air

Defiance at its finest

Bike the Barns 2016

 

How do you narrow the Schroon Lake Region to three hikes? There are just so many opportunities for hiking in the region for the first-time hiker to the extremely fit. Below are three hikes that will get you to views, water, and everything in between. Listed from easiest to hardest, even the more difficult hike up Treadway only approaches a moderate degree of difficulty. Enjoy the region and be sure to come back often — we have plenty for you to do!

[img:p1014711.jpg]

Severance Hill

This 2-mile round-trip excursion will only take you about 2.5 hours, so be sure to hang out on the summit for a while to soak up the stellar views and maybe even take an afternoon nap. From the trailhead parking area, follow the trail only briefly before making your way through a hiker’s culvert beneath the Adirondack Northway. It's an interesting feature of the hike that's sure to grab your attention. You will pop out on the other side of the highway and start a wilderness hike through a very attractive forest with a nice mix of evergreens and hardwoods. While the trail at times will be steep before you, its overall length to the summit makes this a possible hike for all ages.

[img:p1014728.jpg]

 

How to Get There

From the intersection of Route 9 and Route 74 just off Exit 28 on Interstate 87, follow Route 9 south toward Schroon Lake. Continue for just over a half mile to the trailhead on the right.

Rock Pond Loop

This lollipop loop might be on the slightly longer scale at 6.8 miles, but its location, difficulty, and features make this an excellent choice for a family hike. The loop around Rock Pond is of course optional, leaving the overall distance you will travel completely up to you. From the day-use parking near the Putnam Pond Beach, locate the foot trail across the grassy area near a couple outbuildings. In about 0.25 miles you will come to the road through the campground, follow it left for about 0.25 miles to the trailhead, which will be on the left. There is no parking at this trailhead.

[img:dscf2447.jpg]

The trail starts out flat to the intersection with Bear Pond. Follow left here and be sure to visit Heart Pond, which will be on your right. It's another great waterbody and a nice early break destination. The rolling hills will then bring you past North Pond to your left, and then downhill to Rock Pond. Either direction around the pond is quite good. On the backside of the pond you can enjoy an old mine shaft for the history buff in your family, and nice views out over the water. Once past the mining area the trail becomes more serious for a while as it climbs up and over several rocky outcrops and along a narrow path above a steep drop, a fun section for sure.

[img:rock-pond-3.jpg]

 

You will soon come to an amazing rock outcropping or peninsula that lunch would be welcome, a swim too I might add. The backside of the pond is a much mellower walk with excellent footing and even more scenic areas for photographic opportunities. There is also a neat floating bridge that crosses the gap between Rock Pond and Little Rock Pond. You will then find yourself back at the NE end of the pond where you first saw the pond, follow the signs back to the campground.

How to Get There

From Schroon Lake follow Route 74 toward Ticonderoga. Take a right onto Putts Pond Road and follow to the end at the state campground. A small day-use fee will be required. Once through the gate of the campground take a right and locate the day-use parking area near the beach.

Treadway Mountain

This nearly 8-mile round-trip hike, while a bit longer, is not all that demanding as far as mountains go. Plan for a full day in the woods and bring plenty of water, snacks, and even a nice lunch.

From the Putnam Pond trailhead, start a moderate and easy hike around Putnam Pond. While you are following the southern shore of the pond, only on a few occasions will you get close. The rolling terrain will bring you to a major intersection at 1.4 miles. Left will bring you to Grizzle Ocean, an interesting name indeed, but you want to take a right here.

In an additional 0.4 miles you will come to a four-way intersection. A short hike to your right will bring you to Putnam Pond, if you so desire. However, left is your peak. The summit is just a bit over 2 miles away at this point. The climb from here is moderate with only a couple short sections that would resemble steep. The summit and the approaching ridge are loaded with rock outcroppings and views. Take them in, eat some lunch, relax, and maybe plan for a swim in Putnam Pond when you get back down.

[img:05-021.jpg]

 

How to Get There

From Schroon Lake follow Route 74 toward Ticonderoga. Take a right onto Putts Pond Road and follow it to the end at the state campground, where a small day-use fee will be required. Once through the gate of the campground continue straight to the top of the hill. The parking area is on the left.

[img:treadway.jpg]

The Schroon Lake Region is paradise for hikers, paddlers, and climbers. Book a stay here, and come explore our lakes and forests!

---

This week our bloggers highlight favorite ADK hikes:

Lake Champlain Region

Adirondack Experience

Lake Placid Region

Malone Region

Saranac Lake Region

Tupper Lake Region

Whiteface Region

… on an 8+ Mile Lake

It’s a gorgeous summer morning as we head out of the High Peaks toward the beautiful lower Adirondack tracts, specifically to Schroon Lake. One of my favorite spots to swim, I have never actually been out on Schroon by boat. I’m excited.

This is an exploration expedition I am taking with my co-workers Kelly and Shaun. We live only an hour from Schroon Lake, but know very little about the actual body of water - we are going to change that. Kelly is generously driving her boat and I am traveling with her. We are meeting Shaun in town as he headed down a bit earlier to document a few of the stores and take some 360-spins for the awesome new virtual tour website, adirondacksUSA.com (check out the one below).

 

Munchies and Magic

Since we were heading down from the north, we took Exit 28 - which allows us to drive through town and choose one of the local one-stop-shops to pick up a picnic lunch. Somehow on long trips I always find an excuse to take a break right around the Schroon Lake exits (I-87 exits 26-28) - I am 100% sure it has everything to do with the many choices of homemade baked goods the local stores carry. I am a total sucker for fresh cookies, breads, muffins - you name it, and I never say no to a strong cup of coffee.

[img:img-6205.jpg]

Walking into today's shop we are cheerfully greeted by a few locals that are standing around chatting over their morning snack. We looked over the generous sandwich menu and ordered a couple of wraps for ourselves and a sub for Shaun. As our food was being assembled, we took a couple of minutes to peruse the fun and odd (candied crickets!?) offerings at this all-purpose camp store; it’s almost a bit overwhelming to be able to buy your fishing gear, next to your cereal, water guns, magazines, and propane. We grabbed a few cookies, a couple of bags of chips, and - yes, a loaf of homemade bread. By now, our order was ready and we had to laugh when the sub was handed over - it could’ve fed all 3 of us, well worth the price (around $7 if I remember correctly). Our picnic basket was ready, the temperature outside was climbing, the water was calling.

Boats, Beaches, Bays, Boards

Heading into town, we took note of the Marina down a long driveway on our left, and then headed down to the Town Boat Launch, conveniently located adjacent to the public beach, just a block from town. By the time we got the boat in the water and Kelly had toyed with the motor a bit, Shaun joined us, and we were ready to explore - well, explore our picnic anyway - it was after 1pm by now. We headed out past the beach and decided that was a good place to drift and eat while we formalized our plan of action. A couple of cocky seagulls thought this was a good idea as well, and hovered nearby doing lazy circles as they awaited any scraps that might not make it into our mouths - they were sadly disappointed.

[img:schroon-boat-launch.jpg]

Sunblock applied, stomachs filled, and a sort-of plan in hand, we headed north toward the town marina. Finding it was quite a bit easier by land than by sea - or by lake - as the case may be. We followed a set of buoys into a smaller bay at the end of the lake, and then just as we were starting to wonder if we missed it, a channel opened up to our left and we came across the full-service Schroon Lake Marina. The place was hopping - obviously, summer on the lake is a big draw in Schroon. We stopped for a moment to take a few photos, then decided it was time to actually head back out and test the water.

[img:schroon-marina-lake-ahead.jpg]

Leaving the channel, we noted what was obviously a local’s hot spot - on the far side of the bay, next to the entrance of the river, a beach only accessible by boat. Families, dogs, guys playing football, teens exploring - this is what we came in search of! Kelly and I took the opportunity to dive in and cool off. The water was awesome, still spring-fed, but warmer than our high-peak mountain lakes. We spent a few minutes chatting with folks and found out that the Marina is actually the only one on the lake - good fact to know.

[img:schroon-swim.jpg]

Now, I am not a water-skier or wakeboarder (I’m not even cool enough to know if those are the hip terms… yes, I said, hip) but my companions were itching to strap on their gear, so off we went to search for an open stretch of calm water.

[img:schroon-lake-view.jpg]

Schroon Lake is beautiful. I mean, beautiful. Plenty of open water, surrounded by picturesque landscape, mountains peacefully looming in the distance. We are passing boats of all sizes & makes - from sailboats to party barges, and everyone is smiling - really, how could you not be? I can not wait to take a tour in later September or October - the foliage must be absolutely outstanding from this vantage point.

[img:ready-to-ride.jpg]

Okay, so, we find the perfect spot and Kelly is first up on her board. Shaun is driving the boat, I’m spotting; and, this is new, I’m given a very quick lesson on how to use one of Shaun’s cameras with the instructions to try to get a few shots. Now, I’m nervous. We are on a boat, with waves, I’m holding a camera that is infinitely more expensive than anything I own, and… I’m clumsy. I do not point this out - I just hold on for dear life and hope for the best.

[img:kelly-on-board.jpg]

Kelly takes an awesome ride, and it’s time for Shaun to strap on his ski. We head down the lake to find another calm bay, with 8 miles of water at our disposal, there are plenty of choices and we can afford to be picky. I am still on camera duty - I have still not dropped anything. The sun is shining. This is a good day.

[img:schroon-wakeboard-k.jpg]

After a couple more rides each, we are at the far end of the lake - literally, within site of the end. About as far away from our starting point as possible. It’s almost 3pm now, time for us all to jump back in for a last swim and then head back to the dock. Our plan is to be back on the road between 3:30-3:45, as I have to pick up my son at 5pm, and we have to factor in an hour drive. Ambitious, true - but totally doable.

[img:schroon-ski-s.jpg]

Our Intentions Were Good. Our Boat, Not So Much

3pm… Hmm. The boat won’t start.

3:10… Hmm. The boat still won’t start.

3:15… Hmm. I am getting nervous.

3:18… Shoot (that’s the polite way of putting it)

3:20… Placing calls to people we know that may be in the area and available to save us.

[img:engine-problems.jpg]

3:25… Is that a dock? A Public Campground? Yes, it is… and it looks pretty nice. We should camp here sometime. Can we swim to it? Tow the boat? I have a couple of broken ribs, but I can probably do the side-stroke - it can’t be more than a quarter-mile or so. Google it. Call it.

3:30… Yup, it’s Eagle Point Campground. Sadly, they do not have a dock that’s accessible for a ski boat, and they don’t recommend pulling it into shore - lots of jagged submerged rocks.

3:35… Hmm… Still won’t start. We need to be saved. Let’s call the Marina.
* Note to all: This is amazing - we all had great reception on our phones. A strong signal in the middle of a lake in the Adirondacks. Awesome and lucky.

[img:stuck-on-schroon.jpg]

We can not say enough about the Schroon Lake Marina. We called, gave our location - which was greeted cheerfully with something to the effect of, 'wow, chose the absolute furthest point to break down, huh? We’ll head out soon, but it’ll take a few to get to you.' (me: cursing and shaking my fist at the sky! why, oh why, did I not set up a child-care backup? why, on this beautiful day when I normally would be ecstatic to be stranded on a lake, do I actually have a deadline? why did I leave the magic bread in the car??)

3:35-4ish… Drink all available liquid. Eat cookies, chips, and leftover sandwiches. Call and arrange for childcare. Accept the situation and the forced relaxation. Wait patiently. Apply more sunscreen. Wave at passerby. Stare at the beautiful sailboat floating peacefully under the blue sky. Relax. Enjoy the fact that we are stuck in one of the most idyllic situations possible.

[img:schroon-lake-marina-rob.jpg]

4:00-4:10… Rob from Schroon Lake Marina arrives with gas, jumpers, a big smile, and a willingness to shoot the breeze and answer all our random questions about town; while he worked out the problem. We are up and running within minutes, and he graciously followed us back to the dock, mile after mile - we wanted to see this lake, and I can honestly say, mission accomplished.

[img:skirackpano.jpg]
4:40ish… We loaded the boat, parted ways with Shaun, and then decided to take a spin (via car) down to the Marina. What an awesome place. Definitely worth a stop if you are in the area and looking for any gear. They have recently refinished the main building, and they sell everything from boats and gear to t-shirts and mugs. Plus… as seems to be the case in most places I’ve visited in Schroon, you’ll be greeted at a family-owned business by friendly outgoing folks.

[img:schroon-town-dock.jpg]

5:00ish… We decide our adventure is over, and we really should get on the road. Only an hour or so later than we planned. Could have been worse by all means.

[img:friendly-marina.jpg]

It is almost, almost, a blessing that we broke down - it afforded us extra time to take in our surroundings, research the town, and mingle with the locals. Schroon Lake definitely deserves another visit: I hear we need to take a hike up Mt. Severance, and there are a few restaurants I can’t wait to try out - I’m open to suggestions, send me your favorite spots, maybe we’ll get a chance to swing by! Next time, we’ll plan for a full-day adventure (and daycare) - that much I guarantee.

Let's hit the road!

As a recent college graduate, I currently find myself preoccupied with a heavy combination of work and summer classes – both of which keep me more than busy during the summer months. A little too busy, as they often prevent me from engaging in some of my favorite outdoor activities. Camping certainly being one of them. I remember when I was younger, as I think back to my teen years, I would do anything to get out of the house and enjoy the outdoors as much as possible.

[img:medcalf-acres.jpg]

Recently, I channeled my inner-kid when I was presented with the opportunity to spend my Sunday afternoon at Medcalf Acres Riverfront Campground. This was exciting news as I haven’t been camping in what feels like years. So, I hit the road for a quick 50-minute drive before arriving in beautiful Schroon Lake.

Plenty of Great Attractions!
My intentions were to walk around the campground and check it out because I want to plan a weekend trip with some of my close friends in the near future. Long story short, I will most definitely be going back for a couple of nights. And sooner rather than later as I was very impressed with what they had to offer.

Upon arrival, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect because it’s been a while since I’ve last gone camping. I was also unfamiliar with the area. In fact, this was my first time in Schroon Lake and I have to say, I really enjoyed the surrounding area, the town, and the many local shops and restaurants located on the main strip. When I first arrived at the campsite, I saw that there were plenty of different activities and attractions available for the guests. The place was packed with RVs and tents set up throughout the various lots. As I continued walking around, I noticed there were hardly any open lots – I could tell that this is a very popular spot to camp during the summer and fall months. And boy, I wasn’t wrong.

[img:rv.jpg]

Bring the kids!
As I walked slowly through the campsite enjoying the outdoors and observing everything it has to offer, one thing in particular that stood out to me was the fact that there was this sense of a very family-friendly atmosphere. As soon as I walked in, I noticed the visitor's office where there were people standing outside talking and laughing as they were petting their dogs. I quickly took note that this is a pet-friendly campsite which is always a plus for all the dog lovers out there!

After about twenty minutes of walking around, It didn’t take long for me to realize that this is a great place not only for adults to get away and relax, but for children and families to hangout and have fun together as well. Unfortunately, it was a rainy overcast day when I visited, so there weren’t many people outside but I could still tell how alive the place was.

Other campsites I have been to in the past don’t necessarily provide many activities for children but this place seemed to have it all. As soon as you enter the campground, on your immediate left stands a huge open area consisting of playgrounds with a pirate boat swing set where kids can play for hours on end without getting bored. As a child, I would’ve loved this place. I’m actually upset I’m just finding out about this now looking back at all the fun I could've had here.

[img:swing-set.jpg]

There is also a nice space to shoot some hoops if you’re into basketball or want to get some exercise on the trails nearby. At Medcalf Acres, I would be surprised if kids ran out of things to do because the campground offers endless amounts of fun and activities for everybody. There is also a really nice mini-golf course available which stands close to the visitor’s office as soon as you arrive.

As I continued walking down one of the paths, I noticed there was a river that runs through the back where guests are able to kayak, canoe, and fish. Talk about a pretty cool spot to cool down after being out in the blazing sun all day. It seemed to me that everything here is very close in proximity as well. This, in my opinion, is very convenient considering you don’t have to do much traveling. Everything is right there in front of you.

[img:mini-golf.jpg]

Secluded yet convenient
Another great quality of this campsite is that it appears to be secluded and out of the way – but in actuality, it's only a couple miles off the highway and still very close to the busier part of town. If you are trying to stay somewhere where you feel like you are miles from home, yet still have the convenience and luxury of being close to all the action and somewhat in town, then this is the place for you. As I was on my way out, I also noticed that there is a small beach about a mile or two from the campsite. It was marked private but it has beautiful views of the lake and is within walking distance from the campsite. You truly get the best of both worlds here!

[img:beach-in-schroon.jpg]

All in all, I can say that I am very excited to get back out here for a couple days and enjoy the various attractions and activities that the Medcalf Acres has to offer! The Schroon Lake Region is an ideal base camp for all your Adirondack outdoor activities, whether it be hiking some of the areas highest peaks or taking the canoe or kayak out for a day trip on the lake! I'm hoping to avoid the rainy weather the next time I'm here in Schroon, but I'll be prepared regardless and will be ready to experience what I believe will be an all-around great Adirondack camping trip! Check out all the great places to pitch your tent and park your camper in the Schroon Lake Region!

 

It’s All in Your Perspective

I’m not sure if others do this, but I’m pretty good at fooling myself into doing stuff by changing my perspective about that particular stuff.

For instance, I can convince myself to fall asleep after I’ve been awakened in the middle of the night by pretending that the morning alarm is about to go off. Convinced that I have to get up in a few minutes, it’s back to deep slumber for me.

So as I began my bike ride along the famously-hilly Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival Route that circumnavigates Schroon Lake, I felt extremely fortunate that I would get to do it on my road bike rather than running the whole 26.2 miles on foot as the racers do every fall. Comparatively, I was really lucky. Runners can’t just coast down the hills, after all.

I hopped on my Surly near the Schroon Lake Town Beach, set my bike computer to zero, and headed north along Main Street. I noticed some other bikes parked in front of the Chamber of Commerce, so I stopped in to make sure that I had the correct route planned. After chatting with Tammy at the Chamber, and the other bikers about the great road routes throughout the Adirondacks, I got back on my bike and headed north to begin my 26.2 mile Marathon.

[img:slrbikes.jpg]

The beginning of the route is nice, rolling terrain that traverses through town and continues after a right turn onto Alder Meadow Road. When my bike computer said I was at mile 4 near the junction of Alder Meadow, Crane Pond and Adirondack Roads, the famous hills began.

Now, I know there are hills on this course. I was prepared to encounter hills. Everyone talks about the hills. One of the founders of the marathon recently told me that when he rides the course, he gets off his mountain bike and WALKS up a couple of the hills. And although I have driven this route in a car, and on a motorcycle, I think it is far more apparent how many, and how steep the hills are when you’re pedaling a bike over them.

[img:slrtreeroads.jpg]

For the first few miles on those hills I was fine - the pleasant, tree-lined road is so very quiet; with very little traffic. However, I hadn’t fooled myself properly. I had neglected to note before embarking how many miles of hills I’d encounter. My perspective was that there were only about 4 miles of the hilliest terrain. In reality, there are more like 8 or 9 miles of the steep inclines and declines.

Safety note: This entire section of road is a mix of new pavement and old pavement. I’m guessing that they recently prioritized paving some of the REALLY bad sections. This doesn’t really matter too much for the inclines, but cyclists should note that the downhills are as steep as the uphills, and according to my little bike computer, I exceeded the 30 mph speed limit a couple of times. The tree-lined, shaded roads can make it difficult to see any anomalies (both bumps and holes) in the pavement on those older sections. For the downhills, I had to employ a method of both standing up on my pedals rather than sitting on the seat, and locking my thumb and middle fingers around the hood that covers the brake/shifter mechanism on my handlebars. Still, I almost lost contact with my bike four times.

At about mile 8 or so, I found myself wondering when the uphill climbs would stop appearing in front of me - a negative approach to an otherwise beautiful day. So I decided I’d better change my perspective.

The Half Marathon

Perspective adjustment: I knew that once I arrived at the Town of Adirondack, which is, incidentally, the start of the Half Marathon race, the roads would be almost flat for a while. And, I also knew that by the time I arrived on Route 9 to turn back north toward Schroon Lake, the Paradox Brewery would be open for tastings.

So, although I apparently had some more hills ahead of me, I also had the benefit of knowing about the brewery and its convenient location along my route. My attitude changed from “defeated” to “optimistic" as I climbed what seemed to be THE steepest hill so far.

[img:slmarathonelev.jpg]

Shortly thereafter, I cruised down into the hamlet of Adirondack. This point on the map includes two notable landmarks: the Adirondack General Store, and a telephone booth.

[img:slrphonebooth.jpg]

For you kids out there, a telephone booth is an old fashioned coin-operated communications device that one utilized in the olden days to call your mother and tell her that your soccer practice was over so she could come pick you up. It’s a welcome blast from the past, but hardly necessary, as I had good cell coverage during my entire loop!

Mid-Marathon Carbo-Loading

From Adirondack, the road meanders along the southeastern shore of Schroon Lake to Horizon, and over a bridge to Chester near the southernmost tip of the lake. It’s a lovely section of road that gets a little more road traffic due to increased vacation homes and rentals and as it’s the location of the Word of Life Bible Institute.

[img:slrchesterbridge.jpg]

The road eventually meets Route 9 at mile 18 of my marathon near Pottersville, and I took a right onto this somewhat busier road that is a great surface with HUGE wide shoulders. I didn’t really know what the distance was from the Route 9 junction to the brewery, but it seemed farther than I wanted it to be. This section is truly comprised of nice, rolling hills, and before long, I saw the sign. At about 22 miles into my marathon, I arrived at the Paradox Brewery.

There were some motorcyclists relaxing at a picnic table outside, and once I unclipped from my pedals, I clomped over to the outside bar (the tasting room upstairs moves outside on nice days in summer months). I skipped the tastings and ordered a pint of Beaver Bite IPA, a beer of which I had approved in a previous visit to the tasting room. (On that particular previous visit, I did try one of their current Off Trail Series of beers, each available for a limited time, and found the Amber Wheat to be a great option - a hoppy but light beer.)

I sat in the sun with my beer and my new motorized two-wheeled friends, discussing - as I had with the other folks I had met earlier in the day - the terrific roads we have for touring in the Adirondacks. They had just discovered the Paradox Brewery and added it to their future tour itineraries as well.

[img:slrparadox.jpg]

I completed the carbo-loading portion of my Marathon, returned my glass and headed to the finish. With only about 5 miles to go, I pedaled easily back into town, and to my car at the beautiful but not-yet-open Town Beach.

[img:slrtownbeach.jpg]

The most beautiful 26. 2 miles you’ll ever Bike

The Adirondack Distance Festival will celebrate its 19th year in September. With its original tagline “the Most Beautiful 26.2 miles you’ll ever run,” the event includes a Marathon, Half Marathon, Relays, 10k, 5k and Kids Fun Run.

The race starts on Main Street (Route 9) in the town of Schroon and heads clockwise on paved roads around the entire Lake.

The Lake Champlain Bikeways describes the route for cycling as follows:

Adirondack Marathon Trail - 26.2 miles - Schroon Lake

As the name implies, the loop follows the Adirondack Marathon course established in 1997. It's all-paved and generally flat-to-gently rolling. You will, however encounter a hilly section between mile four (4) and mile twelve (12). Traffic is generally minimal. When you arrive in the hamlet of Adirondack, don't forget to stop at the General Store for refreshments. A good start/end point is in downtown Schroon Lake, where food, parking, and visitor information is available.

According to our own website, the loop is described as:
"...mostly flat with short rolling hills.”
I have some significant edits to suggest. “Rolling” is subjective, even if you’re on a wheeled contraption. So I think that “hilly section” should be emphasized more. Maybe it can be presented in boldfaced type or along with a alert/warning sound of some sort.

And of course, I’d suggest the addition of another refreshment stop near mile 22.

[img:slrcarboload.jpg]
- Kim Rielly is the director of communications for the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism and self-described as being as surly as her bike's brand.

 

If you're into fishing, the name says it all: Schroon Lake.

The region is located just south of the Adirondack High Peaks, an area typified by jagged mountains and rugged, tumbling brooks. But while Schroon Lake has its share of rivers, including the mighty Hudson, it's also dotted with a seemingly endless amount of waterbodies.

To a fishing layman like myself, it might seem like streams and ponds are interchangeable as fishing destinations, but a good guide will beg to differ. Ruth Olbert, an avid fisherwoman and owner of Cloud-Splitter Outfitters, explained that each offers specific species and styles of fishing that appeal to different people for different reasons.

[img:header.jpg]

The most obvious difference is probably accessibility.

"People that are stream fishing are probably a little more physically able, versus someone who goes from a beach or a dock and into a boat to sit all day," Olbert said. "Anybody can get out in that capacity."

Ability certainly plays a role, as does personal preference. A large lake affords views of the surrounding mountains, and there's something nice about being surrounded by open water. In a stream, that open feeling is swapped for a more intimate fishing experience.

[img:fishing2.jpg]

"With my husband and I, he likes being in the center of the lake no matter what lake we're on, and I'd always rather be by the edge," Olbert said. "A lot of people just like being on a boat, with the motion of being on the water while looking at big vistas, instead of being in tight little wooded areas."

The tight, wooded areas around streams have the advantage of an up-close perspective on the fish and their habitat. Someone fly fishing has to be careful not to spook their quarry, whereas someone in a boat won't likely see the fish hit their lure, but they'll certainly feel it.

"It's really preference and what they're after," Olbert said. "If they really want to catch a big pike, they're definitely going to be on a lake."

A lake has more room for fish to grow, so someone fishing there might expect a bigger fight. Adirondack rivers, by nature, are shallower. Smallmouth bass like to congregate in pools and rainbow, brown, and brook trout like the increased oxygen levels present in moving water.

In lakes you'll find cold-water-loving species like pike, walleye, and lake trout. Many species hang out in the cooler, deeper sections until evening, when they venture to the surface to feed.

[img:northern-pike.jpg]

It's a lot of information to absorb, and that's without getting into different types of lures. If you're new to fishing, a seasoned guide can help you make the most out of a fishing trip to the Adirondacks. Olbert also recommends hiring a guide if you're new to the Adirondacks, even if you've been fishing elsewhere for years. That's not a business plug — it's advice she wishes she had taken.

"A guide's knowledge of the different ponds, and the depths and species are an invaluable tool," Olbert said. "I went to Alaska and didn't hire a guide, but I should have because I didn't catch anything. The style of fishing over there is completely different and I wasn't familiar with it."

That Alaska trip wasn't a reflection on her fishing skills. An eighth-generation Adirondacker, Olbert has been fishing these waters since she can remember, often in friendly competition with her brothers. Much to their chagrin, she often claimed the first trout of the year. They weren't the biggest of the season, but bragging rights are bragging rights, and she won them hook, line, and sinker.

[img:fishing.jpg]

Despite her first-catch successes, Olbert said none of those count as her favorite fishing story. When I asked her for a "one that got away story," she countered with a "one that made my day" tale instead.

Olbert recently went fishing on a night when countless fingerling trout were jumping out of the water all around her boat. She is a novice at fly fishing, and her goal was to catch a native brook trout on a fly rod.

"That night, I caught two," Olbert said. "One was about 5 inches and one was about 3. It was just thrilling. That was my magic, and it'll probably make me smile for another three or four years. It was that perfect."

The Schroon Lake Region is an ideal base camp for an Adirondack adventure. Book a stay, hire a guide, and get out there!

The softer side of running

I like to trail run. Why? It’s not like running on a hard, paved road. Generally, trails are softer terrain comprised of packed dirt or grass or other natural surface. It’s a great way to get some exercise while completely immersing myself in the gorgeous landscape that I call home; listening to the birds and witnessing the seasonal changes to the Adirondack flora.

Or, in reality, I like trail running because sometimes while avoiding roots, negotiating turns and dips and rocks, I forget that I’m actually running.

[img:blognhtrlroots.jpg]

So, we all know that there are thousands of miles of marked trails in the Adirondacks - from the dramatic High Peaks to the more family-focused Champlain Area Trails along Lake Champlain. For mountain biking, there are some great go-to areas with lots of varied terrain - notably the Hardy Trail network in Wilmington. That’s no secret.

But there is one multi-use Adirondack trail network that is ideal for trail running, and I completely forgot to tell you about it.

North Hudson - the New Frontier

The North Hudson Trail Center is a network of multi-use trails, welcoming snowshoers and cross-country skiers in the winter, and hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders in the warm months.

I don’t have a horse, so I brought my dog with me to revisit the area, but this time for trail running.

This wasn’t the first time I’d used these trails. My husband and I rode our mountain bikes here years ago, and I remembered that the trails were rolling, and mossy.

We really enjoyed the trails for biking, and we apparently took a wrong turn THAT time too.

This time, Katie the wonder dog and I arrived at the trailhead, which is near the old entrance to what used to be the Frontier Town theme park off Interstate 87 at exit 29. There is an informational kiosk that shows a map of the series of loops on both sides of Route 9N, including a small section called the “Beginner Triangle” located 180 degrees behind those looking at the sign. The 7.7 miles of trails are marked with Red, Yellow and Blue markers and intersect frequently. I took a printed map provided in a receptacle on the kiosk, but since I had been there before, Katie and I headed off without any regard for the trail map at our disposal.

Katie was on her leash, as any responsible dog would be, and we jogged slowly along the grassy, tree-lined path. The first intersection we arrived at had a sign indicating that the red trail was to the left, but it appeared that going straight ahead was the more well-worn path. We soon arrived at a part of the former theme park, the same place I’d inadvertently arrived at years before. It was the old west main street that I’d visited as a kid - now overgrown with weeds and trees. We turned back toward the red trail intersection to try out that loop.

[img:slrfrontier.jpg]

We ran along the mossy trails for a while, but just for a few miles total, including a jaunt into the “beginner’s triangle” with its 1.2 km of flat, wide trails. It was truly a peaceful, beautiful run. Most of the trails are beginner to intermediate level - and wide enough to ride two abreast on mountain bikes, and certainly wide enough for a horse or snowmobile. And it was a primarily SOFT and mossy, comfortable running surface.

[img:slrnhtrl4.jpg]

In fact, it was so nice, I hardly noticed I was running at all.

PLAN A VISIT

The Schroon Lake Region is a mecca for outdoor recreation, with plenty of hiking trails interspersed with fishing and paddling waters. The North Hudson Trail Center is located north of the Pharaoh Mountain and Hoffman Notch Wilderness Areas and adjacent to the Hammond Pond Wilderness on Route 9N.

Be sure to check out the lodging options as a base camp to check out all of these wilderness areas while you’re here!

[img:slrtriangle.jpg]

RESOURCES

Here is an overview MAP OF THE TRAIL AREA.

[img:screen-shot-20200610-at-10-24-50-am.png]

Here is a MAP OF THE TRAILS.

[img:screen-shot-20200610-at-10-24-33-am.png]

 

[img:slrnhtrl3.jpg]

 

---

 

Dog days in the ADKs:

Puppy’s first peak

Camping with canines

Year in the life of an ADK dog

Shoka’s big day out

This is dog country

Three mountains, four paws

Happy camper, happy hound

[img:Eastern_Brook_Trout.jpg]

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

This is that time.

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

And prepare.

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

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

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

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

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

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