We already know that Schroon Lake is known as a “summer haven for culture,” and music is a huge part of that. The musical styles that are popular here are at opposite ends of the spectrum, but they’re still both very Adirondack.

From opera and musical theater

Seagle Music Colony grooms young artists for opera and musical theater. It’s the oldest summer vocal training program in the U.S., celebrating 100 years this summer!

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Although you might not initially think of opera as a musical style common to the very rustic Adirondacks, Seagle General Director Tony Kostecki put it into perspective for me. The Adirondacks were mainly settled when rich people from New York City started to come here to vacation. (That’s where the term comes from: People would vacate the city to come here.) So when they arrived, they expected the same kind of entertainment they were used to in the city, like seeing operas on a regular basis.

Because of that, there’s a long tradition of classical music training in the Adirondacks. Seagle certainly is a cornerstone to that, but there’s also Meadowmount School of Music in Westport, the Luzerne Music Center in Lake Luzerne, and there used to be a Lake George Opera that has since moved out of the Adirondack Park to Saratoga.

The colony’s productions are performed in their on-campus theater, which is basically a converted barn. Tony said it’s a fun juxtaposition to add that level of rusticness to what is often considered a “hoity-toity” art form.

“It’s a very Adirondack space for what we do,” he told me.

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Seagle brings in 32 young artists each summer, and most of them are in the midst of studying opera at a university or conservatory. But Seagle tries to get them to diversify by focusing on musical theater as well. The art forms are similar in that they are both part of staged productions that tell a story, but they have different technical requirements of the performer. Operas are sung through entirely with no speech or dialogue, and the performers don’t typically use amplification, so they must learn how to fill large spaces with just their voices. The style of singing, therefore, must be more classical in nature. In musical theater, performers switch between speaking and singing, and they commonly use microphones to amplify their voices. That allows them to use a more pop style in their singing.

But there are, of course, exceptions to both, and Tony said it seems like the two art forms will merge more in the future. That’s why, in order to prepare young artists for the job market, Seagle tries to ensure they are trained for both.

Seagle’s mainstage 2015 season is:
“Falstaff” by Verdi - July 1-5
“The Barber of Seville” by Rossini - July 15-18
“Into the Woods” by Stephen Sondheim - July 29-August 1
“Les Misérables” by Schönberg & Boublil - August 12-16

They will also perform the children’s opera “The Ugly Duckling,” plus some other concert events.

To folk music

The more traditional style of music for the Adirondacks also has a significant place in Schroon Lake. The village is home to an annual Folk Music Festival, which will celebrate its 26th year in 2015. (check out last year's lineup - we expect this year to be just as exciting)

The idea for the festival originated with two folk music greats: Dan Berggren and Pete Seeger. Seeger produced a similar festival decades before in Schroon Lake, and this festival was a sort of resurrection of that.

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This year’s festival will feature music from Atwater and Donnelly, Patchouli, Neptune’s Car, and Dana and Susan Robinson.

This is a popular event, plus it’s free!

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The Schroon Lake Arts Council, which puts on the Folk Music Festival, also produces a summer concert series on Tuesday nights through July and August at the Boathouse Theatre on the shore of Schroon Lake. The acts in 2015 will range from folk, Americana, country, and bluegrass to a capella doo wop, traditional Irish tunes, and jazz.

Other music

Besides the opera and folk, there’s also other opportunities for music in Schroon Lake. Word of Life holds a religious concert series, and many of the local restaurants host bands throughout the summer. Witherbee’s Carriage House Restaurant even hosts an open mic night all year round that helps stave off the cabin fever in the off season.

No matter what kind of music you like, Schroon Lake has something for you to get down to!

After the 2013 film “12 Years a Slave,” which won the Academy Award for that year’s best picture, most people are familiar with the story of Solomon Northrup, a free black man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in 1841.

It’s not as widely known, however, that Solomon was a son of the Adirondacks. He was born in the tiny town of Minerva to a father who was a freed slave and a mother who was a free woman of color.

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It’s crazy to think that a remote place like Minerva, so peaceful and so wild, could be the birthplace of a person who had such a huge impact on a nation.

Solomon was saved from the bonds of slavery after 12 years of toiling in the south. The same year he was freed, 1853, he released a book chronicling his troubles, called “12 Years a Slave.”

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That book went on to sell 30,000 copies and was read widely, showing America at the time of the institution of slavery in a brutally honest light. Most accounts of slavery at that time were either too rosy or unrealistically negative, but Solomon’s narrative made it clear that while there was plenty of horrors and brutality, it wasn’t all bad, that there were moments of levity and human kindness even in captivity.

If Harriet Beecher Stowe’s “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” was the first book to open up the country’s eyes to slavery, “12 Years a Slave” was the confirmation that what she wrote was true. Solomon dedicated his book to Stowe: “TO HARRIET BEECHER STOWE: WHOSE NAME, THROUGHOUT THE WORLD, IS IDENTIFIED WITH THE GREAT REFORM: THIS NARRATIVE, AFFORDING ANOTHER Key to Uncle Tom's Cabin, IS RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED.”

Those books, in part, laid the groundwork for the American Civil War, which lead to the end of slavery.

Minerva in the early 1800s

Solomon mentions Minerva briefly in his book, as he discusses his heritage. His father, Mintus Northrup, came from a long line of slaves in Rhode Island, and he moved to Rensselaer County with his owner. When his owner died, he used his will to free Mintus.

“Sometime after my father’s liberation, he removed to the town of Minerva, Essex County, N.Y., where I was born, in the month of July, 1808. How long he remained in the latter place I have not the means of definitely ascertaining.”

At the time, Minerva wasn’t even formed yet. The town was part of the town of Schroon until 1817. Another portion of it was considered part of the town of Newcomb until 1828, and in 1870, Minerva took more land from the town of Schroon. Today, the town is 162 square miles. Only 137 people were listed as residents of Minerva on the 1810 census. The town was built up around lumbering operations, then mining. Today, that number has grown to 809, as of 2010.

Solomon’s kidnapping

Sometime after Solomon's birth, his parents moved him and his older brother Robert with them to the southern foothills of the Adirondacks. They lived in various places around the Glens Falls/Fort Edward area, Mintus working on different farms along the way. Mintus died when Solomon was 21, and the boys' mother died while Solomon was in captivity.

Mintus took the name Northrup from the family of his owner, and in his life as a freed slave he spoke warmly about the family. He was, however, very aware of the effects of slavery on himself and his race in general. Solomon writes in his memoir that his father made sure to teach them a strong sense of morality, which helped Solomon survive and keep his humanity through years of beatings and mistreatment as a captive slave.

Solomon married at 21 and moved around the Fort Edward area, ending up in Saratoga working in hotels and playing violin at parties. One day in 1841, he was looking for work when he met two white men who had heard what a great violinist he was, and they asked him to come to New York City with them to help with a show advertising for the circus. It sounded like easy, quick money, so he went along, and once they were there, they enticed him to follow them to Washington D.C. It was there that he was seemingly drugged, and he woke up in a hidden slave cell on Pennsylvania Avenue.

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He was sold into slavery, living first with a benevolent plantation owner who treated him well, then dealing with two who were merciless. It wasn’t until a Canadian carpenter named Samuel Bass came to work on the same plantation that Solomon found a sympathetic ear. Bass wrote letters to Solomon’s family and friends, one of whom came south to save him at long last.

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The aftermath

Within a year, Solomon had released his book, and he started venturing out on speaking tours to promote it and to share his story with everyone who would listen. He also got involved in helping with the Underground Railroad, which ran through the North Country and up to Canada.

Not much is known about Solomon’s life after that. He is said to have died in 1863, the same year as the Emancipation Proclamation, but no one knows where, when or how he died. Of course, theories abound: Perhaps he got kidnapped again. Perhaps his work with the Underground Railroad got dangerous and he was killed. Perhaps he just floated off and started another life, and he died where no one knew him. No historian has yet found evidence to give strong enough support to any one theory yet, though some continue to search.

As a sad footnote, both the man that sold Solomon into slavery and the two men who lured him into the trap that made such a thing possible were brought to court as some attempt to find justice for Solomon. Unfortunately, that never happened. The slave trader got off easily due to the fact that Solomon, as a black man, could not testify against him under Washington law at the time.

He was able to testify against the other two in New York court, but those charges were dropped after several years of appeals.

But despite not being able to get tangible justice in his life, Solomon’s story left quite a legacy. It educated Americans about the truth of slavery, and it was no doubt one of the catalysts that lead to the chain of national events that lead to slaves finally being freed.

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Update 2/12/15: It's time! I just read this blog recalling Kelly's first ski trip to Gore, and now I'm chomping at the bit to try it out for myself. I mean, c'mon how cool does this local ski mountain sound? I'm sure it will be just as great an experience as my recent snowshoe trip to the Natural Stone Bridge & Caves! Have you skied Gore lately? Feel free to share your insider tips with this beginner, I need all the help I can get!~ Kim

Getting excited for ski season

Last year was my first time taking runs at Gore Mountain, I went with a friend and co-worker, Nicole (she skied and I boarded). It was an ideal first experience, the kind where you feel instantly welcome, a home away from home of sorts, and I can’t wait for a return trip. Along with my day at Gore, I had to stop for work in the nearby town of Schroon Lake. It was fun to spend a bit of time in a town I usually just pass by when driving down the northway to Saratoga Springs, Albany, or NYC. From the highway you don't even get a glimpse of what you're missing. The little taste I got of Schroon Lake during my winter adventures brought me back to explore the lake in the summer on my boat and now I’m looking forward to planning a more extensive ski trip.

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Choosing a Base Camp

Gore is a popular New York ski destination because it’s easy to get to, and nearby Schroon Lake in the Adirondack Park makes a great base camp for a winter getaway. During my ski trip last winter we spoke with a few different Gore pass holders who lived in Albany and down near NYC, and they highly recommended staying in Schroon Lake when they ski at Gore. For these guys it had become an annual tradition as their weekend winter and holiday retreat. This is what really inspired making this trip happen.

I searched adirondackhub.com’s lodging pages to find some options as to where to stay on my trip. I found a number of cabins & cottages, motels, private rentals and B & Bs. Looking at the list of several cool inns, my eye caught the Silver Spruce Inn B&B - a historic speakeasy I toured years ago and have always wanted to stay at - however after a quick visit to their site, I learned I will need to save that one for a summer trip (May-October to be exact). There is however the Schroon Lake B & B - a well-appointed classic bed and breakfast, the Paradox House Gallery - a great retreat for artists, and the whimsically named Tumble Inn - just beckoning you to well, tumble in. There is also talk of a new place that's about to open just in time for the winter season - I'm excited to find out a bit more about what they'll offer. Luckily, I'm just reaching out to friends now with this information and once I have a head count of who's in, I will decide if we go the route of an inn or B&B, a rental or cottage, or a cozy motel.

Skiing and Snowboarding - Sometimes it’s the little things…

First Impressions

So as I was saying last year was my first time taking runs at Gore. Right from the moment we pulled into the parking lot, I was pleased by the proximity of the parking to the slopes, the short walk to the lodge, and especially, for me, the small town feel. Even though it’s known for attracting skiers and riders from the city, I felt like a welcomed guest among a mountain of locals. We had a great time as we met a variety of people, I don’t know if it was the day we were there but it was a very social experience, from walking to the lodge, gearing up for the first run, and riding the gondola, to lunch, and après-ski at the base lodge bar.

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Nicole making sure I adhere to the rules of the park

On the snow

Hitting the slopes, the quality of the snow is what I really noticed first. We hadn’t had any recent snow, yet there was great coverage, quality grooming, and nice soft snow that you could really get an edge in. There was a variety of runs to enjoy and explore… in fact I’d say I only got to see about a 1/4 of what the mountain has to offer, I’m excited to see the rest. I like jumps and the occasional rail, and found the terrain park had a nice variety and progression… I realize I haven’t mentioned it yet, it was also my first time on snow that season, so I enjoyed starting small and progressing up to the larger jumps, and just plain skipping a few I wasn’t ready to hit yet.

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Some friendly locals we enjoyed meeting

Après-ski

One thing that can really make a ski area great is a good après-scene. The bar at Gore was friendly, warm, and had an inviting layout and nostalgic ski/snowboard decor (on the wall was a Burton snowboard that brought me back to when I first fell in love with snowboarding). This is definitely a great place to be after a day of skiing or riding… but maybe just for a hot cocoa or two - après-ski is another great reason to head back to Schroon Lake. Two places I'm looking forward to checking out for dinner and drinks are Witherbee’s Carriage House, known for its old-school gondola mounted outside, and the Sticks & Stones Bistro & Bar, a newer establishment with warm, friendly service, great food and Adirondack charm.

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Witherbee's and the Gondola (photo above and below)

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Bar at Sticks & Stones

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Soup Sampler at Sticks & Stones (from last season's visit)

What else to check out in Schroon Lake

Ski & Tube for Free
In Schroon Lake at the Municipal Golf Course you will find the Schroon Lake Ski Center - where you can ski and tube for free! This awesome family friendly hill offers a tow rope and a concession stand at an unbeatable price. Schroon Lake also has an outdoor ice skating rink, and is a great spot for ice fishing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. It's a great place to get away from it all, relax and enjoy the Adirondack winter, and it's just a short drive to so many Adirondack attractions. The next time you're heading this way, plan on jumping off the Northway between exits 27 & 28, you'll find friendly-folks and great places to stay in the Schroon Lake Region!

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Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness

My close friend and frequent hiking companion, Jim Hopson, and I are often out at the break of day, but for this adventure we decided on a bit later start. Today we are heading to the north side of the Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness. We met up just off Exit 29 of I-87 and caravaned over to the trailhead for the Short Swing Trail located off Route 74 between Schroon Lake and Ticonderoga. I was a bit worried that the parking area wouldn’t be plowed, but it was, so luckily parking was no issue.

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Short Swing Trail

It looked as though the trail had been used somewhat recently; the faint indentations of snowshoe tracks gave us a ray of hope. There ended up being about 3 inches of powder on the broken trail, which was solid enough underneath to support us. At the trail register we planned to sign in, but the book was full, each pencil was broken, and the pens frozen solid. That was okay, safety-wise, since we left notes and plans at home with the family. But, we'll be sure to throw a pencil in our packs for future trips.

We swiftly moved along the trail to the Eagle Lake Dam, where a playful otter resides. We must have spooked him with our conversation, as all we saw were fresh tracks from belly-sliding. We started our climb along the trail, almost immediately past the dam, steady but not overly steep. As we passed by the cliffs and rock outcroppings of Ragged Mountain, it brought back memories of my previous hike to that summit, and whet Jim’s motivation to return.

The trail was still broken ever so slightly. We finally crested the shoulder of Bear Mountain, the apex bringing us to a long descent that would leave us at the Spur Trail for the Tubmill Marsh Lean-to. We could now see clearly that Pine Hill, which was one of our destinations on this day, was right in front of us and the trail would actually get higher at the peak's base. Climbing again we crested a small hill and moved on quickly to a crossing of Rock Pond Brook. This little crossing, which should be assumed to be of no major consequence and frozen solid, was not the case. Sure it looked fine and dandy, but that didn’t stop me from finding the bottom. Of course it was only about 4 inches deep, but your mind can play tricks on you when you have that sudden downward momentum. Apparently the previous snowshoers didn’t even try to cross; the broken out trail now ceased to exist.

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Breaking trail

We suddenly found ourselves on undisturbed terrain and breaking trail in no less than 14-inches of snow. We trudged on. Jim started with the trail breaking force as we continued to climb to the shoulder of Pine Hill. Once on the shoulder we switched off and I led the assault as we headed up the steep slopes of Pine Hill. The slopes didn’t hold back as we climbed the final 700-feet of elevation in just under 4/10’s of a mile. The snow was deep as ever, we could only do a few steps between each straight-legged breather. We opted to hike under the canopy of the hemlocks as much as we could, as they held snow in the needles keeping the ground cover at a more manageable 6-inches. We soon found ourselves in the low lying clouds of a rather damp winter day; the hoarfrost on the white pine needles scrapped against our jackets as we moved through. The opening through the trees gave us hope of a viewing platform as we approached a lower knob on the hill. The white pines were too tall to afford us more than an obscured view through the slight openings. The true summit awarded not much more for rewards, but the interesting rock formations, frost on the trees, and the thumping of snow shelves breaking way under us in micro-avalanches was cool enough.

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After a quick snack and some hydration we pressed on toward Antwine Hill, which was 300-feet lower than us in elevation and would only work us as hard as its 100-foot climb to its summit could afford. The ridge we followed off Pine Hill was a long landing zone of snow-covered open rock, which gave us the benefit of easy travel and periodic vistas out through the trees. Soon we would have to drop dramatically off the ridge to reach the high col between the two summits. The col was narrow and deep as the steep slopes of both hills surrounded us. Snow seemed to gather here in the hopes of burying any visitors. Pushing on I continued the trail breaking work for a bit before Jim took over. Jim left me the final 200 feet or so as part of my finish, this was my 700^th different Adirondack Peak. We celebrated the summit with some hot coffee and homemade chocolate bread that my wife Corenne made with black beans (don’t scrunch your nose, it’s pretty amazing).

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Both Jim and I didn’t like the appeal of climbing back up the 400 feet of elevation on Pine Hill so we opted for the backup plan of a short descent down to Horseshoe Pond, which rests on the Short Swing Trail that we followed in, but another couple miles deeper into the wilderness. This would mean much more trail breaking, but we decided it would be okay, and we both enjoy loops much more than out-and-back hikes.

Horseshoe Pond

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The descent off Antwine Hill was perfect; not too steep and quite interesting as it passed through a tall stand of red pines. In no time whatsoever, we stood at the shore of Horseshoe Pond. Dead snags dotted the pond and leatherleaf protruded the snow along shore. The trail was just a short 1/10^th of a mile away and we were looking forward to being there. As suspected, this section of the trail had not been touched in a very long time, if at all this winter. We needed to continue to break trail, and much of the trail back to where we had left it was uphill. As we climbed steadily, the shallow slopes seemed much more difficult under the current conditions, and our legs were starting to feel it. As we passed by the trail that leads to Rock Pond we could see Lilypad Pond through the trees, but today we had no interest in a visit. The trail would continue to climb up over a shoulder of Pine Hill only to tease us with a descent most of that way back down to Honey Pond.

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Honey Pond, just to say it, was a honey of a spot. Potter Hill was across the way, and the open rocks that lined the summit made Jim seem to salivate about a near future visit. Once we snapped a few pictures, and Jim wiped his chin, we made the final short climb up to where we broke off up to the steep slopes of Pine Hill that morning. We knew now it would be clear sailing back to the trailhead, but we were not looking forward to the climb back up and over the shoulder of Bear Mountain. Phew.

Interested in the Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness, check out our recreational pages for more trails, ponds, and mountains in the area. Want to have a guided trip into the region, be sure to go to our guide services page for more details and we can get you there. The Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness is a great escape for cross-country skiing as well.

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The ten-mile round trip cross-country ski to Great Camp Santanoni is a classic Adirondack journey to a storied destination.

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Open House during Three Winter Weekends at Great Camp Santanoni

This year, my husband George Yellott, and friends Pat and John Thaxton, and I skied to Great Camp Santanoni during the first of three New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s (NYS DEC) “Winter Weekends at Great Camp Santanoni.” These open house weekends are co-sponsored with Adirondack Architectural Heritage (AARCH), the Town of Newcomb, and the Adirondack Interpretive Center. Each year, the popular winter weekend open houses are scheduled during Martin Luther King weekend in January, President’s Day weekend in February, and the weekend closest to St Patrick’s Day in March.

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A Heated Building with Refreshments!

The Adirondack Interpretive Center offers free snowshoes, and staff and volunteers of Adirondack Architectural Heritage are on hand to answers questions and lead tours of the Main Lodge. Best of all, the Artist’s Studio is heated by a woodstove during these open house weekends! Skiers and snowshoers can warm up before the return trip. Coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are also available!

The Ski

We chose to ski on Sunday of Martin Luther King weekend, avoiding the bitter cold forecast on Saturday. (Surprisingly, over 80 people braved the elements to ski in on Saturday!) The ski conditions were perfect on the old road leading to the camp.

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Our trip began in late morning, with lunch planned at the Great Camp. After a mile, we reached the farm. We stopped to read the interesting interpretive signs, of which there are many along the way.

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When our two sons were very young, they learned how to cross country ski on this trail, and the farm was our destination until they grew older. Their main interest was the fascinating, huge old barn, which tragically burned down in 2005. There are still several old buildings at this location and it makes a nice destination for families with young children.

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As we took a break at the farm, I spotted a woman skier who was pulling a sled, the kind that attaches to your hips, with her young twins and her baby on board! It was impressive! They were making good use of the picnic table at one of the old farm houses.

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It was great to see many families along the way, and we met yet another woman skier pulling a sled behind – this particular woman did the entire 10-mile round trip pulling her young daughter in a sled!

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There were so many dogs making the trip to Great Camp Santanoni the day we skied, we wondered if they rivaled the human numbers that day!

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A second break was taken at the intersection with the trail to Moose Pond reached at 2.2 miles along the road. (The ski to Moose Pond is 14 miles round trip on a typical foot trail after the intersection.)

We continued skiing on toward the Great Camp, stopping along the way when we ran into people we knew, or meeting new people, many from out of state. Well over 100 people skied to the Great Camp that day.

The nearly 5-mile road to Great Camp Santanoni has gentle hills with one steeper hill near the end, but is considered a moderate level ski trip due to the mileage.

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A short distance from the Great Camp, I took a fall when my left ski headed too far left! As I lay on the ground, I heard another skier approaching from behind and as he skied past me, I recognized the familiar ponytail belonging to Jim Brundage of Newcomb. Jim is an expert skier who has often given ski lessons in my Town of Long Lake. He works for the NYS DEC and was patrolling that day. I said hello and picked myself up wishing that I’d fallen in front of a stranger rather than a ski expert! We finished the ski to the camp together.

The Main Camp Complex

Staff from the Adirondack Architectural Heritage greeted skiers and snowshoers as they arrived at Great Camp Santanoni.

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We headed for the Artist’s Studio to have lunch in a heated building. The studio was a beautiful one-room building with a large window overlooking Newcomb Lake. A rack was hung over the woodstove so folks could hang wet items to dry. It was extremely humid in this building as water boiled for coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. Steven Engelhart, Executive Director of Adirondack Architectural Heritage, was available to answer questions. Matthew W. Shepherd, a volunteer for AARCH, was offering refreshments. He and several staff members came in with all the supplies on Thursday and were camped in the Artist’s Studio through Monday. I could see that a great deal of work goes into the open house weekends.

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After hot chocolate and lunch, we walked around the buildings, which were all open. This is not usually the case during winter, so it is another added bonus of skiing in during the open house weekends.

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The History

Great Camp Santanoni was built between 1892 and 1893 by Anna and Robert Pruyn of Albany. They purchased 12,500 acres and employed the distinguished architect Robert H. Robertson to design the camp. The complex of 45 buildings is grouped in 3 different clusters. The Gatehouse Complex near the parking area includes a caretaker’s cottage and the monumental stone gateway arch.

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The Farm Complex is located a mile from the Gatehouse and was considered the largest farm operation ever associated with a family estate in the Adirondacks. There were 20 buildings and 200 acres of cleared land that produced vegetables, meat, fruit, and dairy products for the Pruyn family, surrounding community, and their extended family in Albany.

The Main Camp, located nearly 5 miles from the Gatehouse, consists of six separate buildings connected by a common roof and porch system overlooking Newcomb Lake. Separate buildings include the Artist’s Studio and Boat House. Many of the architectural features have been described as Japanese in their influence. Robert Pruyn had spent a great deal of time in Japan working for his father who was minister to Japan under President Lincoln. The Main Lodge features birch bark wall coverings, log grill work on the eaves, hand hewn beams, half log decorative patterns on doors and walls, and impressive field stone fireplaces. All of these features make Great Camp Santanoni one of the most outstanding examples of Adirondack rustic architecture.

Great Camp Santanoni was sold by the Pruyn heirs in 1953 to the Melvin family who enjoyed the camp for nearly 20 years. In 1971, the Melvin’s 8-year-old grandson, Douglas Legg, was lost on the property and never seen again. The Melvins did not want to return to the scene of such a tragedy and sold the property to the Adirondack Nature Conservancy. In turn, the Nature Conservancy sold the property to New York to be incorporated into the State Forest Preserve.

The property sat vacant for nearly two more decades, but still a fascination for hikers and skiers. In 1990, there was a renewed interest in preserving Great Camp Santanoni due to the efforts of Adirondack Architectural Heritage, the Town of Newcomb, and the Preservation League of New York State. New York State announced support for preservation in 1992, and by 2000, the Camp Santanoni Historic Area was officially created and a unit management plan was adopted. A Friends of Camp Santanoni group was formed in 1998 to provide ongoing financial and volunteer support for the Camp. Restoration projects are ongoing.

Many Ways to Travel to the Great Camp

In the summer, you can hike, bike, or travel to Great Camp Santanoni by horse and buggy! Visitors can also camp in the area. In the winter, visitors can ski or snowshoe to the camp, and there is now a new winter method of travel – sled dogs! The sled dogs can pull visitors to the Great Camp in a sled, or wheeled cart when there is no snow.

Two More Winter Weekends Left!

If you would like to ski or snowshoe to Great Camp Santanoni during one of the open house “Winter Weekends,” there are still two more to go this winter! The next Winter Weekend is scheduled for February 14, 15, and 16 (President’s Day weekend), and the third Winter Weekend is scheduled for March 14 and 15.

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If you plan to visit, there are many wonderful lodging and restaurant options in the area to make your stay warm and comfortable!

The Schroon Lake Region stretches far and wide, allowing for dozens of possibilities for cross-country skiing. Schroon Lake village makes for an excellent basecamp location for a long weekend or an extended vacation with the family, so why not pull back the covers and stay a while. We will fluff your pillow, feed you, pamper you and make you wish you never had to go home; besides, there’s nothing like a warm room waiting for you after a day of skiing the trails.

Below you will see a short list of Nordic skiing destinations that will fall into the easy to moderate user level. There are so many more to choose from, but here is a start that will branch you throughout the entire region.

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Crane Pond – Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness – 4.0 miles RT

Crane Pond is an access to much of what the Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness has to offer. Utilizing an old woods road this ski is a very easy approach to the back-country. From the end of Crane Pond Road you will find a rather large parking area where your ski will start from. You will be on the extension of Crane Mountain Road which is no longer open to motorized vehicles. The grade is very mellow with little change in elevation. Skiing past Alder Pond to your right you will also gain the benefit of the vistas over this long narrow body of water. Located at the end of Crane Pond Road is a short spur to an old boat launch onto Crane Pond, a foot trail will continue to the right and heads toward Pharaoh Mountain.

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Lost Pond – Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness – 4.0 miles RT

From the opposite side of the wilderness area rests Lost Pond. Lost from what, no one is sure. The trail is a fairly flat one in the beginning but will slowly climb through forest. The grade is never too demanding making it quite forgiving for cross-country skiers. Once at the pond you will notice that the trail loops around it. The loop is not recommended for Nordic skiing but on occasion has been used for such. The slopes tend to be too rocky and steep as they flow down from Abes Hill.

Bass Lake – Hammond Pond Wild Forest – 6.4 miles RT

Bass Lake can be approached from the East or the West; this description is from the east off Ensign Road near North Hudson. This ski will bring you through a pristine area, which gets rather heavy use, mainly from locals. Skiing in this area is excellent and shouldn’t be missed. This trail feeds you through a tall forest on a rather mellow grade with only a couple small short steeper pitches. You will ski high above Berrymill Brook and to the north end of Berrymill Pond before turning a hard right and heading west to Bass Lake. If you want to shorten your trip you can stop on the eastern shore of the lake or continue along the shore to the western portion where additional viewing is had.

Hammond and Black Brook Ponds – Hammond Pond Wild Forest – 4.4 RT

This ski is located from the same parking lot as the Bass Lake Trail above, but heads off on a secondary trail that gets much less use, but is still a decent late-season ski. There is a slight bit of climbing in the beginning as you quickly come to a short spur trail to Hammond Pond on your left. Hammond Pond is well worth the 0.3 mile spur. Back at the main trail you will remain on a moderate course that is on the side hill of Berrymill Hill. A small descent to cross Black Brook will come in before your final approach to one of the Black Brook Ponds. This pond no longer holds water and has been overcome by grasses. But, with the cover of snow, you would never know.

Big Pond – Hoffman Notch Wilderness – 3.0 miles RT

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Your skiing adventure here is on a mostly level trail and it will remain so for the majority of the trip. The start brings you through an attractive forest of large growth trees as you pass over what looks to be an old woods road. Soon you will drop slightly down to a bridge crossing near a long narrow pond where you will have a neat view out over the snow covered ice. The trail will climb slightly and head over a couple of small rolling hills before you can see Big Pond through the trees to your left. Big Pond is slightly off the main trail but can easily be reached by using a path that will lead you 100-feet downhill to the shore. The path may need to be walked rather than skied, but you can make that choice. Looking out over the massive “Big” pond there are outstanding vistas welcoming you.

Have Skis Will Travel

Now that we've caught your attention, what trail will you choose? Don't forget your camera, catch those awesome moments and share them with us on our Schroon Lake Region FB page! Want to try out some additional cross country trails, snowshoe treks, or maybe a little downhill skiing or family tubing fun? We are just waiting for you to explore all we have to offer. What are you waiting for!?

Cliff Mountain--A winter herd-path tradition

As many of you may know Cliff Mountain, standing at 3944’, is part of the Adirondack 46 High Peaks - but under current criteria that just doesn’t measure up. When the 46 High Peaks were originally measured for height, Cliff was surveyed at being over 4000’ in elevation, later to be revealed as not. Cliff Mountain still resides on the list, as it should, it was one of the original bunch and honestly it adds some good climbing to the mix. Located behind Mount Marcy, Cliff often shares its glory with Redfield, at least for those who want to bag two peaks in one day. Now, when it comes to winter climbing it often gets to be a standalone peak, because adding Redfield on the same day is more than many can bite off. With this being the case some clever winter mountaineers have developed a route, for winter use only, that will gain the climber the summit of Cliff directly from Flowed Lands. The route really hasn’t developed a name, per say, but I have heard it referred to as “Cliff Direct.” Most just call it “that bushwhack route from Flowed Lands.” While I wouldn’t call this a tradition for most, it has become a traditional winter route, for those who know about it.

Upper Works

To access this approach from the Schroon Lake Region it’s rather simple. But first and foremost it’s best if you can stay in the Schroon Lake Region the night prior, because a fresh early start is very important and Upper Works is a short drive away. Follow Blue Ridge Road out of North Hudson toward Newcomb. Just prior to reaching Route 28N in Newcomb, take a right onto Tahawus Road and follow this all the way to Upper Works Road, which will come in on the left. Follow Upper Works Road to its end at the High Peaks Trailhead.

When we reached Upper Works on our last trip we felt pretty good, having stayed so close by the night before we avoided that long drawn out car ride at 3:30 am that we had dreaded even thinking about. We dressed lightly for the ride to avoid getting sweaty in the car and then getting an instant chill once we were out in the parking lot. We shared the trailhead parking with only two other cars, their hoods were well coated in a snow frosting, apparently they had been here for a few days. Now suiting up for the balmy 20 degree, 5:00 am start, we were pleased to not have to wear excessive layers to battle the cold that settled in only a few days ago. A light southwest wind was predicted to bring in near 40 degree temperatures by mid-day, not sure if this was going to be good or bad for snowshoeing – but I knew my digits would be happy.

We moved along the trail as though we were going to be late for last call. But in all honesty, the first portion of this trail along old wooded roads is a cake walk and a great way to gain distance and make some really good time doing it. We also didn’t even know if “Cliff Direct” had been broken out and developed for the season yet. If it wasn’t we would have one heck of a battle on the steep slopes to summit this day.

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The trail to Flowed Lands was as hard as concrete, if it weren’t for the traction (and the lack of will to carry them on our back), we could have skipped the snowshoes. Flying by the Henderson Monument I started to get my mind rolling about a near future climb on Calamity Mountain, but that’s another story altogether. Soon we stood at Flowed Lands and were signing into the trail register. What’s this? Someone else was here a few days ago doing this exact route. However, we still didn’t know if they made it all the way or not. The wind was howling and not with that warm breeze we had hoped for. The wind not only battled us, but it also completely covered any sign of a trail over the frozen Flowed Lands. We had a rough idea of the location on the other side so we just angled for the peninsula named Livingston Point. Once we arrived at the lean-to on the point we tried to find any sign of a herd-path. Walking in circles and meandering around like a lost beavers we just decided to go for it. We couldn’t find any herd-path, maybe the other group gave up, or maybe it just wasn’t where we thought it should be. We had plenty of time to make our own route, it wasn’t quite 8:00 am yet. We dropped over the hill near the lean-to and down into drainage for Livingston Pond, then over a small rise to another lowland area and BINGO, there it was. The herd-path, sort of, I mean it was there for sure; faint from being blown over, but good enough to follow.

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Flowed Lands to Cliff Mountain

Now on the herd-path we could breathe easier, at least we had a direction of travel that might avoid the massive blowdown fields that were warned about on this side of the mountain. The path gained us elevation very fast and led us over to the main drainage that ran near some massive cliffs. The path never really advanced to the brook but stayed high and offered us almost instant gratification of views. The views just kept getting better as the summits of Iroquois and Algonquin started to pop out over the trees.

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Soon we would be brought into the forest where the herd-path avoided most of the thick groups of balsam and spruce, although a few seemed to just push through. The herd-path, as you can imagine, was constructed of numerous small and large switchbacks to avoid minor cliffs and dense stands of conifers, but we were okay with that. The summit was literally right there looming in front of us. A short section of four-legged climbing was involved, but the traction was decent, we knew this would be the crown of the summit, and sure enough, shortly after, we were there. I must say, the views in winter are far more dramatic than the ones in the other seasons. The 4-feet of snow we were standing on sure does help lift you up over the spruce and standing snags. Wide open vistas, High Peaks right in your face, and the motivation to try for Redfield. Okay, I wouldn’t go that far, we really only wanted to climb Cliff, so we did an about-face and descended the herd-path back to Flowed Lands.

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We were back at the trail register near Flowed Lands in right about an hour from leaving the summit. It’s not that we ran, we literally just slid off the mountain. The herd-path was now so well developed and steep that we could butt slide and glissade our way to the base of the peak in no time at all. The remaining 4-miles or so came a bit slower. We were so far ahead of schedule we just moseyed our way back to the car.

Taking my advice and staying over in the Schroon Lake Region? Book now online. Bet you’ll be hungry after the hike, or need a carb-loaded pasta dinner the night before, we also boast some great places to eat. Rather be guided to the summit in the High Peaks, maybe Cliff – our local guide services are here to oblige.

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So, it’s a relatively warm winter day with temps reaching a balmy 23 degrees. Considering the recent below zero days, it almost feels like spring. It’s time to get out and try something new. And, if there is one thing I have been long overdue at trying, it’s snowshoeing.

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Today, my partner-in-adventure is Gabrielle. She’s home from college on winter break, and since Oliver is in school, this is the perfect time for the two of us to hit the trails for something a bit more involved than when we have the 5-year-old in tow.

We hit the road out of the High Peaks and head south for our scenic hour drive to the southern Schroon Lake Region. Our destination? Natural Stone Bridge and Caves.

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Now, I have been passing the sign for this attraction located off the Northway exit 26 for as long as I remember. But I haven’t actually been here since I was a toddler (and that was quite a long time ago). I was totally psyched to find out that it wasn’t just a summer attraction. In the winter, visitors can throw on their snowshoes, or rent equipment on-site, and hit the miles of awesome trails on most Fridays-Sundays. (They also have extended holiday hours and can arrange group tours on weekdays.)

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We pulled into the driveway and found the Store 'Open' sign. We were promptly welcomed by Greg, who has been running the family business for the past 15 years or so. He cheerfully greeted us and after establishing how much time we had and our level of experience, we had a plan of action. He explained all the little details: how to read the trail map, which routes we might want to take, what we should expect to see, what we should be aware of, etc.

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Greg was also happy to share some of the history surrounding the place. It has been in his family since the Revolutionary War when a soldier relative was awarded the land. It went through a few changes of ownership (grandparents, aunts & uncles) until Greg became the most recent Rock Guy in charge.

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We hadn’t brought our own gear, so we were quickly suited up with the proper equipment and given a quick lesson. Now, you may be questioning the fact that we got a lesson - but here is where I must once again note how clumsy I am. I had never even tried on snowshoes, so Greg explained how the crampons worked, foot placement, and which way to work the intricate-yet-super-easy lacing system. (No problem, I got this!)

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We are ready to go and at the suggestion of Greg we decide to take the Stone Bridge Cave Loop and then move on to a few of the longer paths that connect to it. We planned on a few miles and probably an hour on the trail. That seemed like a good starting point, and a great way to try out a new activity.

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Within minutes we are out of view of the office and surrounded by nature. The trails are very well-marked and there are cool viewing spots and interesting objects to spy along the way.

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Upon departure we had been given a laminated map to wear (smart move) as well as a card with alphabetical markers that explain different features that we may spy along the trail. For example, the letter J spied upon a tree was explained as pileated woodpecker holes. I think one of my favorite things was the light-hearted humor that was melded so seamlessly into some of the descriptions. To totally paraphrase one of the notes which identified a white birch, it ended with something to the effect of 'watch out when you look up, the tops fall off first.' A true fact, but a fun, informative way to pass along the info.

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Little did we know that we might run into Sasquatch along the way, things just kept getting more and more interesting.

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While I wouldn’t say we took a strenuous route - as a matter of fact, we weren’t anywhere near the expert trails - there were some decent hills and even an area with a rope ladder to ease the climb.

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We were soon in a great groove, and I have to admit I wish we had had more time - there are 14.5 miles of trails to explore and we hadn’t even done a quarter of the property. But, it was time for us to head back to the office and on to our next adventure - a warm lunch and some shopping and exploring in Schroon Lake.

As we made our way back toward the check-in area we took a quick tour of some of the summer season activities which are offered in addition to the Cave and Adventure Tours: gemstone mining, disc golf course, climbing wall, playground, ice cream stand, picnic area.

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The store is full of fun items from locally produced items to exotic rocks and postcards. Who doesn't need a new coffee mug to remember their trip by? I can't say no!

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We returned our gear and Greg took a few minutes to highlight some of the winter activities. As mentioned earlier, there are self-guided tours which are available from 10am-4pm from Friday-Sunday. In addition there are Saturday Moonlight Evening Snowshoe Tours at 6pm by prior reservation (these fill quickly - call to ensure your place!). There’s also a great little fire pit area and hot cocoa to warm up with after a day on the trail. Yum!

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Depending on the amount of time you have and your level of experience, you can expect to check out part of the summer trail going over the Stone Bridge and down to Mediation Isle for a close up view of the Stone Bridge, Sawmill Waterfalls, and ice flows. Other trails include geological features including: sinkholes, large glacial erratic boulders, and vertical ledges.

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And, of course, there’s lots of local animal activity. You’ll encounter large trees and stumps felled by beavers, and tons of tracks in the snow (deer, rabbits, squirrels, bobcats, coyotes, turkeys, fishers, pine martins, and more). We saw evidence of this within minutes of starting our walk - of course, we have no idea what we were looking at, do you?

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Here's a hint on the below pic - I couldn't make any phone calls until it dried out :)

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Natural Stone Bridge and Caves will definitely be on our summer tour list. While I don’t think Oliver would enjoy snowshoeing for any great distance (he likes to ski and run and 'go fast’), he will LOVE digging rocks and running trails and exploring caves once the weather is warmer. And, I can’t lie, after looking at the pictures of the many Tour Adventures - I can not wait to return and actually see the caves! (Check out the summer adventure pics on their website.)

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What a great day. Tried a new activity. Visited a new (very old) attraction. Got to walk some awesome trails and got some great girl-bonding time. Now that I have a little experience it's time to search for some other great snowshoeing trails in the Schroon Lake Region. Heck, I may even try downhill skiing again, Gore is right up the road, and so is the small hill in Schroon Lake! I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again - I love the Adirondacks and all there is to experience! What should we do next? Suggestions happily accepted :)

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Daily storage of your winter gear

Throughout the winter season your gear gets wet then dry, wet then dry, and this process happens over and over again all season long – this can be tough on gear. The more
active your season the more important it is to take care of your gear, which in turn takes care of you. While I don’t have all the answers to extend the life of your gear, I would like to get you started in the habit. Be sure to join in if you have some tricks of the trade and share them so everyone can see. Also this blog is not for off-season storage, care, and repair, that will come closer to the spring storage season, this blog is intended to help you get through the season while your gear is in consistent use.

Snowshoe Care

There isn’t too much to do to your snowshoes during the season. The best thing you can do is bring them inside to melt away any snow or ice build-up. Before each use it is wise to also look for any possible damage from the previous outing that could cause a complete breakdown of the equipment and your mental state when you are in the field. Crampons can be sharpened using a flat file, but do not sharpen to a point - these are not weapons, they just need to be sharp enough to do the job.

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Crampon Care

As with snowshoes, it is important to get crampons dry after each use and check for any damage before each new outing. Use steel wool to clean off any surface rust that shows up throughout the season and don’t be afraid to add a light coating of 4-in-1 oil. Crampons can be sharpened using a flat file as well, but not to a deadly point. Sharp points can break down the hardening of the metals and can be more prone to breaking. Crampons are best stored and carried in a crampon pouch or bag. This bag doesn’t protect the crampons, but it does keep the gear around the crampons from getting damaged.

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Microspike Care

The same as with snowshoes and crampons, it is important to get your microspikes dry after each use and check before each outing for damage. Microspikes are best stored and carried in a pouch or bag to protect the gear around them from getting damaged and wet. Be sure to check the rubber near the grommets to locate any tearing that could have occurred. While this is very uncommon, it does happen and should be replaced.

Cross-Country Ski Care

As for your skis, bring them in at night for best protection or at least every few days to dry out the bindings and remove any ice build-up. To remove any light surface rust on the metal edges you can use a piece of steel wool. If you want your skis tuned before or during the season I recommend bringing them to a reputable place to get them serviced.

In the field you could always use a bit of F4, blue glide wax, to aid with better glide and this will also reduce wet snow from building up under the kick zone of your skis. F4 works under a wide range of temperatures, it is also inexpensive and easy to apply. Don’t leave them on top of your car all season, the metal edges will surely rust and possibly parts of your binding as well.

Pole Care

There is a simple process for maintenance of poles. If you have a one-piece pole, there really is no maintenance, just check for damage. If you have a 2 or 3 section pole simply take them apart to dry and keep them in a warm area whenever possible. If there is any dirt between the sections wipe them free before you put them back together. Periodic care is all that is necessary.

Tent Care

A four-season tent is the best way to go for winter camping for many reasons but the care for it should be the same as for any other season. When you first get your tent you should seam seal the top of the tub, which is essentially the top of the floor, typically located about 4-inches from the bottom. Also, check to make sure there are no factory defects and that all the pieces are in the bag.

When you come back from camping your tent will be wet, and in many cases frozen solid, in your pack. If you have the space, you should set the tent up inside to let it dry. If space is at a premium you should at least hang it up. Use the curtain bar in your shower and flip the tent around a couple of times to be sure it all gets completely dry before storage. If you store it wet for too long it will begin to grow mold and mildew, this can break down the tent over time, and if nothing else make it smell terrible.

Sleeping Bag Care

Down sleeping bags are the same as down outerwear and should be treated with care. Down should only be washed with a down wash which is free of heavy perfumes and harsh chemicals. It can then be placed in the dryer to fluff up the down balls that are created by water. Use low heat and throw in a tennis ball or two to help break up the down balls in the sleeping bags baffles. Down should only be washed in a front load washing machine to avoid water loading and abrupt movements.

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Synthetic sleeping bags are much easier to clean. They should also be put in a front load washer only. Synthetic fillers can also bunch up when washed and should be dried in the same manner as a down sleeping bag.

Storage is important and should not be overlooked. All bags should be hung and/or stored flat if you have the room. I realize this is not an option for many people. You can also store your bags in a large storage sack or laundry bag. The important thing is to not store them compressed for a long period of time. Extended periods of compression can mat the fillers and over time they'll lose some of the loft and warmth ratings. Also, rodents love sleeping bags, so keep your bags in a bin if you can - especially if you are storing them in a basement or an out building.

Backpack Care

These are simple to care for, but often get overlooked. If the inside of your pack stays dry you don’t need to do too much other than hang it up. If the inside of the pack gets wet all you can really do is empty it and hang it upside down to drain and drip dry. If you feel the sudden urge to wash your pack, it is best to just hand wash with a cloth and light detergent as needed. Dirt adds character, don’t fuss over it.

Outerwear Care

Base-layer: Cold water is best to clean your base-layers. You can by a wool wash specifically for the wool, or a base wash for both wool and synthetic materials. You can also put them in your regular wash although the perfumes in the detergent are said to breakdown the fibers quicker, I have not found this to be the case. The base wash is a bit of a different compound and is typically used for base layers with a lingering odor. Oh, DO NOT PUT IN THE DRYER, they will shrink. If you do try the dryer, use a delicate cycle and even then there's the potential of shrinkage - just hang it, they dry very fast.

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Fleece: This should be done to the instructions on the garment. Many brands of fleece like to pill when washed with other materials, especially if the other materials have
excessive buttons, velcro closures, and buckles. Velcro is not a fleece’s best friend and can do more damage to your jacket than a spruce tree. Fleece is best washed in a
separate load or with other like materials.

Waterproof/Breathable: It is best to wash these pieces with a detergent designed for this type of clothing. Using regular detergent tends to not rinse off well enough and over time will clog the pores of the jacket making it less breathable. Wash with like garments and no more than 4-pieces at a time. For heavily soiled pieces, be sure to rinse off all excess dirt before putting in your washing machine.

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Drying can be done on low temperature if needed, but not typically necessary because they tend to dry quickly. Drying on a low temperature can also take back some of the waterproofing that was manufactured into the material.

Putting waterproofing back into a material can be done with a spray on or wash in waterproofing substance. Use the spray on for outerwear that is lined or insulated. Using wash-in waterproofing is perfect for shell jackets or pants. Using wash-in waterproofing on insulated pieces can cause the pores to get clogged and in turn lose some of the
breathability.

Gaiters: Brush off any excess dirt, mud, or debris. You can throw gaiters in the washing machine but be very careful about what materials you put in with them, the velcro can make a mess out of other gear. They are best hand washed in a laundry sink or bathtub then hung to dry. To keep their shape, it's best to store as flat as possible or to hang with the velcro sides mated.

Hats, Balaclavas, and Gloves: Depending on the material, washing is typically very easy and can be mixed in with your regular laundry. Best if mixed in with similar outerwear—fleece with fleece---waterproof/breathable with waterproof/breathable and so forth. Hang dry to avoid shrinking and use cold water as well. Warm water will be OK, but hot water should be avoided. Presoak and hand scrub heavily soiled gloves and then wash in cold water.

Down Clothing: See above down sleeping bag care and follow the same procedure.

Boot Care

Boots can be washed best by brushing off excess dirt as needed and often, and then hand washed. To dry your boots you need to be a bit more careful. Excessive heat is bad for glued seams and leather. Excessive heat, such as placing them on or near a heater will dry out the glues which can cause a shoe to break down much quicker. High heat also dries out leather which also causes sewed seams to break down and the body to crack. Do not place in dryer it’s not good for the boots or your dryer.

It is best to remove the foot bed before you start to dry them to allow for adequate air flow. Then you have the option to leave them alone in a dry, warm environment, if you are not in a hurry. If you are in a rush you can stuff them with newspaper to soak up the excess moisture. You can also purchase boot stacks that simply move air into and around the inside of the boots, these work like a charm.

Electronics Care

So you think your GPS or camera didn’t get wet, think again. Whether in your pocket or in a carry case moisture gets in, especially once they hit warm air. Ever see someone wearing glasses walk into a shop and their glasses instantly fog up, this happens with your electronics, too. When you get home take your electronics apart to air dry. Take out the batteries, take off the lens cap, open up the compartments, extend the lens to zoom, and set them all someplace safe. Wipe any excess moisture off the lens and body with a soft cloth or lens cloth.

Still have questions, give me a shout right here. You can also stop into a local outfitter for details, and while you’re there be sure to see what they have for the care products you need. Looking to hit the trails so you can try out these handy tips - check out these great snowshoe and cross-country skiing options!

The best snow tubing trails for winter fun

When winter blankets the Adirondack Hub in a shimmering coat of snow, it transforms into a playground for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Among the many ways to enjoy the season, snow tubing stands out as a thrilling, family-friendly activity that’s as fun for kids as it is for the young at heart. In the Adirondack Hub, there are plenty of tubing trails where adventure and unforgettable memories await. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely slide or a heart-pounding ride, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the top spots to tube this winter!

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Tips for tubing

Tubing is one of the easiest and most accessible winter activities—no skiing or snowboarding skills are required! You don’t even need any special equipment, as most tubing parks provide the tube. However, for areas that don’t have a tow line or designated tubing facilities, consider bringing your own tube or sled for some do-it-yourself fun. Just make sure to dress warmly and in layers to stay comfortable in the cold and snow, and don’t forget to wear gloves and a warm hat to protect yourself from the chill. Unlike skiing, tubing doesn’t involve much physical activity to keep you warm. You’ll either be lounging in the tube as you’re pulled up the lift or walking back uphill, followed by flying down the hill in the chute. Plan accordingly for a day of exhilarating fun in the snow!

Free tubing and skiing in Schroon Lake

Not to be overlooked is the Schroon Lake Ski Center, offering free skiing and tubing right in the heart of the village of Schroon Lake. Located at the local golf course, this spot features a free tow rope for skiing as well as a tubing and sledding hill. It’s a great place for beginners and families to enjoy a day of winter fun—at an unbeatable price. Keep in mind that the tow line may not always be operational. For added convenience, consider bringing your own sled or tube to ensure you’re ready for the slopes.

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Sledding in Newcomb

Bring your sled, tube, or toboggan and enjoy the thrill of racing down the slopes at the sledding hill in Newcomb! Perfectly sized for both younger kids and adventurous parents, it offers a safe and approachable slope for hours of fun amid the picturesque, snow-covered scenery of the Adirondacks. Families often bring thermoses of hot cocoa to warm up between runs, making it a full day of wholesome winter enjoyment. Whether you’re racing each other to the bottom or simply soaking in the serene winter backdrop, the sledding hill in Newcomb is the perfect destination for outdoor sledding and tubing. 

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Tubing at Gore

Note: Gore Mountain is not currently offering tubing. Please check their official website or contact them directly for updates on tubing availability before planning your visit.

Staying in Schroon Lake puts you just a short drive from Gore Mountain, a destination best known for its exceptional downhill skiing. But did you know it also offers fantastic opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and tubing—all with convenient rental equipment available? The tubing hill, located at the North Creek Ski Bowl, features its own parking area, lodge, and a hand-tow lift for easy access. Imagine a lazy river, but with snow and ice, leading to thrilling, fast-paced 800-foot chutes—an adventure you won’t want to miss!

You arrive Gore & park at the North Creek Ski Bowl. Once you park, head to the lodge to get your tubing pass, pick out the tube you like and get in line at the tow lift. Then voila, just sit or lay down in your tube and let the tow lift pull you up, no exercise required. From the sounds of tubing hill you should just be prepared to bring a smile, laughter and perhaps your best roller coaster scream or two! The main chutes as I said are a fast & fun 800' long, but there is also a smaller family chute available for those less daring.

The Ski Bowl Lodge

While I do enjoy the après-ski scene at the base lodge’s Tannery Pub & Restaurant (definitely worth a stop in for the adults), the North Creek Ski Bowl has the Ski Bowl Lodge conveniently located at the bottom of the tubing hill. This cozy lodge offers food, snacks and drinks, as well as a fireplace to warm up by and watch all the fun outside. This is a great way to spend a winter’s day, afternoon or evening with friends and family. The North Creek Ski Bowl offers group tubing rates and hosts tubing parties as well.

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Après and stay

Looking for a relaxed and easily accessible getaway in the Adirondacks? Discover the cozy lodging, delicious dining, and endless outdoor adventures waiting for you in the Hub. Whether you’re tubing down snowy hills, exploring scenic trails, or simply unwinding by a crackling fire, this charming destination has something for everyone. From family-friendly fun to peaceful retreats, your perfect winter escape starts here!