You can imagine that as editor of a statewide hunting andfishing publication, I see my share of big buck photos. And over the course of my newspaper career I've always been a hands-on kind of editor, so I manage to grab a camera with some regularity still and snap a few shots of big deer, big fish and turkeys.

Sometimes – usually during spring gobbler season – I even end up on the other side of the camera. But it sure hasn't happened for me this deer season, as I've struggled to fill a tag and, even as I write this, am planning to jump out this afternoon in an effort to find a buck. At this point in the season, any buck. They're all trophies now as the next-to-last weekend of the firearms season winds down.  

Things have, however, been heating up in the deer woods, as they always seem to do when the temperatures drop and the bucks are on the prowl for willing does. Some of the best bucks of the season are killed later rather than sooner, and that seems to be the case again this year. 

While I've been beating my head against an oak tree trying to find a buck, the stories keep rolling in all around me. A friend connecting on a big-bodied seven-pointer (5 on one side and 2 on the other) way back inthe high country of the Lake Placid and Whiteface regions, necessitating agrueling, 8-hour drag out of the woods that wasn't completed until the following morning. A neighbor scoring on a fine 8-point not far from where I'd been hunting, filling his tag while I was 300 miles away for the Southern Zone opener. Another friend who, home from college for the Thanksgiving holiday, finally got out and in the first hour of his hunt downed a beautiful 10-pointer that will likely score in the 150s. Sometimes it happens that way. I'm trying to convince myself it could happen to me later today. 

And just as there are big-racked whitetails in the high country, there are also corn-fed beauties along Lake Champlain and in the Schroon Lake Region, in spots like the sprawling Pharoah Lake Wilderness Area. 

Even on Thanksgiving Day itself, I was pressed into duty –with pleasure – with news of Jesse Napper's spectacular 11-point buck, the first ever for the 16-year-old. 

It started harmlessly enough; I was working cleanup duty at a church dinner when his aunt arrived with news that her nephew had killed a big buck. She even had a photo of it on her digital camera. 

When she showed me, I wasn't sitting down. I should have been. It wasn't just a "big buck." This one was something special, a big-bodied, heavy-racked, long-tined monster that weighed in at a field-dressed189 pounds and will almost assuredly score in the 150s when someone puts a tape measure to the massive rack. 

I had to see this one myself, and hustled up the road to the farmhouse the hunters had gathered. This was a big deal for any hunter, but especially for a 16-year-old tagging his first buck. I made sure he was aware of that, even driving back home to fetch a couple of cameras for a photo session, then listening to him re-tell the story of his Thanksgiving morning success. You'll see a photo and story in an upcoming issue of New York Outdoor News. 

I didn't have to ask Jesse to smile for the camera. 

And who knows? Deer-hunting lightning can strike at anytime up here. Some big bucks are still out there. 

Maybe I'll need someone to take my picture. 

Of all the winter sports out there, I think snowshoeing is probably the easiest to learn. Our Adirondack trails simply transform with the seasons. If you can hike there in the summer, you can snowshoe there in the winter, exchanging the bright green for the sparkly white. If you can walk, you can snowshoe.

Snowshoeing doesn't require much more equipment than the actual shoes, though I highly recommend a pair of trekking poles. At first, there's this tendency to step on your own feet, since they are a bit larger than what you are used to. Even after you get the hang of it, having that extra four-point leverage of poles is always a good idea, especially on backcountry trails, or on any descent.

That's one of the reasons dogs do well in snow. They have four on the floor.

Go anywhere

One way to have a great time, even on the first time, is getting some expert help. Cloudsplitter Outfitters in Newcomb rents all kinds of equipment, including snowshoes. Their expert guides will take you out for a trek tailored to your interests and skill level.

They are certified Adirondack Guides who love the area and have everything needed for four-season enjoyment of it. From equipment to accommodation, they can offer a full service experience.

Their store is stocked for all kinds of outdoor needs, and there's an especially fine selection of trail food. Staying fed and hydrated on the trail is an important comfort element.
A recent trek I joined gathered kids and dogs for a festive outing on fresh holiday-season snow.

Make sure to have proper hats, mittens, and socks, because when these sensitive areas are not warm enough, all of you will feel cold. But this day was one of those where the overcast sky actually seemed to keep in the sun's heat, and the lack of wind makes a big difference. On the trail, windbreaks of trees can alternate with the vistas of meadows and lakefronts.

Our guides also have many local stories connected to the history of the area, from the early lumbering days to the mid-century move of the Tahawus mine's "company town" to neighboring Newcomb. Guides also lead trips to Camp Santanoni Preserve, a famous Great Camp that can only be reached using human power.

Get out and snowshoe!

With or without a guide, there are a lot of beautiful places to explore in Newcomb.

Newcomb's Overlook Park has the Hudson River running through it. The abundant forest trails here also have a backdrop of Adirondack High Peaks. There's even an informative display that helps visitors identify the distant mountains.

Newcomb is also the home of the Adirondack Interpretive Center. This beautifully sculpted trail system has bridges over many brooks and lake outlets, including a peninsula trail with plenty of dramatic water views. 

A lot of the trails wind through winter forest landscapes, with abundant tracks from wildlife and benches along the path. I love the sound and sight of half-frozen water tumbling over ice and rocks. The Center is open Friday - Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Use of snowshoes is included in the admission.

Learn more with Snowshoe glory: Adirondack Interpretive Center.

Don't forget food and rest

Although a break can be as simple as a Thermos of coffee or hot chocolate, when you're ready for a full lunch try the Newcomb House Bar and Grill — a popular Adirondack pub. Plan to take a break here and enjoy the warm atmosphere of this local favorite.

Stay right at Cloudsplitter Cabins in their self-contained cabins with kitchens.
Find some more great trails — especially for birding enthusiasts, in the blog, Boreal Birding in Newcomb and Minerva.

The Schroon Lake Region is as gorgeous in winter as it is in summer. From downhill skiing to a warm fire, this is a wonderland of outdoor recreation and festive relaxation.
Choose some cozy lodging. Warm up with our dining. Find the finest snowshoeing trails.
 

Whether you want to fish, swim, paddle, or sail, Schroon Lake is the ideal basecamp for your summer fun adventures!

By the numbers

Need proof? Check out these sweet facts:

Ready, set, plan!

So grab your gear, book your campsite, and start dreaming about all the fun you'll have this summer in the Adirondacks' Schroon Lake Region!

We'll see you on the lake - or maybe at one of our favorite secret swimming holes!

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The Roosevelt Truck Trail in Minerva is one of the most beautiful trails in the Adirondack Park. The road-sized path takes hikers through a lovely, mature boreal forest of spruce and balsam fir trees on a carpet of sphagnum moss.

The 2.5 mile long trail has become a favorite hike during the annual Adirondack Birding Festival.

Flora and Fauna

Year-round boreal birds, such as Black-backed Woodpecker, Canada Jay, and Boreal Chickadee can be found along the Roosevelt Truck Trail.

During the spring, it is one of only a handful of known nesting locations in the Adirondacks for the sought-after Cape May Warbler.

In the fall and winter, both year-round and irruptive finches can be found along the trail if the cone crop is good. With an excellent cone crop this year, Red Crossbills have already made their way into this area.

Wildflowers, lichens, mushrooms, amphibians, and mammal tracks are just as exciting as the birdlife along the Roosevelt Truck Trail! Black bear and moose tracks are often spotted along the path.

August Field Trip

I recently led an August field trip along the Roosevelt Truck Trail. The Long Lake “Little Bus” dropped us at the northern trailhead along the Blue Ridge Road in dense fog conditions.

One of the first birds we found was a female Black-backed Woodpecker!

A few Boreal Chickadees were also found. A total of 9 Boreal Chickadees were tallied this day along the trail.

Several Hermit Thrushes and one Swainson’s Thrush were also found early in our hike.

More than a dozen wildflower species were found during our trip and the first one encountered was the lovely Blind Gentian.

Blueberries were abundant as we hiked the beginning of the trail – as was the black bear scat!

The trail has gradual uphill sections in the first couple tenths of a mile before a steeper downhill section around the half-mile point. Vanderwhacker Brook is crossed on a wooden bridge at the bottom of the hill.

The wide diversity of fungus along the trail was an attraction for everyone.

Spotted Touch-Me-Not, a favorite food of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, and Turtlehead wildflowers were found in a wetland area near a stream.

After crossing Vanderwhacker Brook, the trail has gradual uphill and level sections before the first of two wheelchair-accessible camp areas is reached. We took a food break at the camp site picnic table. The camp sites are roughly the half-way point of the 2.5 mile long route.

The trail has a few more gradual uphill sections before a series of downhill areas end at the southern trailhead parking area.

As we hiked the second half of the 2.5 mile long trail, we spotted Eyebright, a tiny little wildflower that could easily be overlooked!

A feisty Winter Wren, one of several found, called loudly at us! Golden-crowned Kinglets and Red-breasted Nuthatches were abundant along the trail. Several late summer “warbler waves” were encountered and included, Ovenbird, Magnolia, Blackburnian, Black-throated Blue, Yellow-rumped, and Black-throated Green Warblers.

As we neared the trailhead, we heard chainsaws. The local forest ranger and a crew were clearing blown-down trees from the trail. The Roosevelt Truck Trail is a popular cross-country ski route in winter. In summer, those with physical disabilities can gain access through the metal gate and drive to the camp sites, so the trail receives regular maintenance.

Just before we reached the trailhead, one of the participants commented on a huge White Cedar tree at the edge of the trail. Thomas Cullen stood in front of the tree for perspective on its size!

The Long Lake “Little Bus” was waiting for us as we arrived at the southern trailhead parking area located off Route 28N.

How to Reach the Roosevelt Truck Trail

The 2.5 mile long Roosevelt Truck Trail runs in a north-south direction between the Blue Ridge Road and Route 28N. To reach the Roosevelt Truck Trail southern parking area, proceed .3 miles south of the railroad tracks on Route 28N to the paved road east of the highway – it looks like a driveway! Often, hikers decorate a pole near this drive (currently there are 3 American flags in the pole!). Drive in the bumpy paved road for a few hundred feet to where it ends, and park without blocking the gated trail. From the opposite direction, the paved road is 1.6 miles north of the Boreas River Bridge. To reach the northern end of the trail, take the Blue Ridge Road 4.3 miles east from its intersection with Route 28N to the trailhead on the south side of the road, or 10.5 miles west of the Elk Lake Road. The northern trailhead is on a curve and difficult to spot. There is also a metal gate at this end of the trail and stone walls on either side.

With two cars, one at each trailhead, the trip can be a 2.5 mile thru-hike. Otherwise, the round trip is 5 miles.

When you visit, you will find comfortable lodging and restaurants in a beautiful wilderness setting!

All hikers welcome

If your hiking gear has been laid to rest for the year in your garage or under your bed, it's time to dust it off and give it some love! The trails of the Adirondack Hub never rest, and they’ve been missing you this snowy season. See your favorite landscapes and summits transform under winter powder, traverse through new challenges, and embrace the peace and quiet of calm snowy trails. Although the hustle and bustle of summer has ended, you’ll find just how exciting winter hiking can be. The trails are calling this winter, so grab your snowshoes and cross-country skis and let’s go!

Treat this blog as a guide to some of the Adirondack Hub’s most notable trail systems, and choose between easy, medium, or hard trails. Note that just because your favorite trail is easy in summer, doesn’t mean it will be easy in winter!

Easy - AIC

For a beginner's circuit, or for those who like to take things easy, we thought the AIC would be the perfect fit. The AIC (Adirondack Interpretive Center) offers the tranquility of the outdoors with seamless trails that blend gently into the terrain of the property. Located in the town of Newcomb, the AIC is part of SUNY ESF’s Newcomb campus, serving visitors with an education on Adirondack wildlife and its ecosystems. For an easier hike, the AIC is perfect, offering 3.6 miles of rolling trails that aren’t too tough on your leg muscles, and stellar views of Rich Lake and Goodnow Mountain. The property also includes a home base that houses bathrooms, gear, or simply just a place to warm your mitts. Snowshoes are also available for use inside the main building. Note that the AIC is snowshoe only, so no skis!

Medium - Pharaoh Lake Wilderness

Cranking up the difficulty, Pharaoh Lake Wilderness offers shorter beginner trails, as well as more difficult terrain for intermediate hikers. Bordering the town of Schroon Lake, Pharaoh Lake Wilderness includes an oasis of lakes and ponds interspersed with its own mountain, Pharaoh Mountain. There are nearly 70 miles of foot trails, each with their own unique views and terrain. Choose from following the shores of the wilderness’s lakes, or try Pharaoh Mountain Trail to catch the incredible winter views from the summit. Although Pharaoh Mountain isn’t the tallest peak in the Adirondacks, its location offers phenomenal views of the surrounding mountain range. Most trails do not exceed 6 miles round trip, all except for Sucker Brook Trail, clocking in at 7 miles. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are permitted on all hiking trails. Remember to reward your hard work with a pint and a hot meal before the journey back to basecamp.

Hard - The High Peaks 

We won’t sugar coat it, the High Peaks of the Adirondacks are a challenging feat all on their own. Add snow and volatile weather, and you have your very own Indiana Jones adventure brewing. Luckily, these giant beasts can be scaled with proper gear, prep, and patience. Beginners may want to try a few of the previously mentioned trails first before attempting a High Peak. Increasing your stamina and athleticism with easier trails is advised. A High Peak is typically defined by an elevation of more than 4,000 feet, and round trip hikes can vary from 5 to 18 miles. Because of this, choosing which mountain you’d like to hike is step one. Researching your mountain before you go is essential, you can read up on other hiker’s experiences, and any obstacles that you may need to pack for. You’ll also be able to estimate how long the trail will take you, plan on arriving early and leaving before you lose daylight. Because of varying conditions, be prepared to stay overnight if you have to. While winter in the Adirondacks is characterized by frigid temperatures, remember that the air and weather can be completely different at the top of the mountain. While it may look sunny and perfect at the base, you may be climbing right into a snowstorm at the top of the mountain! So proper layering is a must. Start with a base layer of sweat wicking long sleeve shirt and pants, an insulating layer made of wool or polyester, a hooded jacket, and an outer shell. Wool socks should also be worn in your boots. 

Here is a list of other items that should be in your pack: 

1. A map and compass

2. Crampons and/or microspikes

3. Headlamp 

4. Batteries for your headlamp

5. Matches 

6. Sunscreen (you can still sunburn in winter)

7. First aid kit

8. Food- and extra food

9. Water- a lot of water

10. Extra clothing 

Lastly, and most importantly, tell someone before you go, including the mountain you’re climbing, the time you plan to leave, and the time you plan to get back.

After you’re done with just one, you’ll appreciate the few that own a 46er patch.

Gear up, stay warm, have fun

Winter is an exciting time for outdoor lovers of the Adirondacks. Whether you’re a snowshoe champ or cross-country skiing aficionado, there's a trail that’s ready to match your skill set and challenge your athleticism. If you’re a slow-and-steady kind of person, the trails of the AIC and shorter trails at Pharaoh Lake Wilderness are here to offer tranquil hikes without the heart racing thrills of some of our routes. No matter the path you take, proper gear and research is important. At any level of expertise, pick your trail based on your comfort zone, knowing yourself and your limits up here is necessary! Be aware of weather conditions and prepare for unforeseen obstacles. And if the weather isn’t that great, consider rescheduling. The trails will be right where you left them. 

The Science of Pack Fitting

Fitting a backpack can be very hard work and quite frustrating outside of a well-experienced gear shop. However, many of your best deals can be found online and that is why it’s very important to get some basics down before you take that chance and order something from across the country (which you may just end up having to return). It also helps to know what you are looking for before you head into a gear shop so that you can answer the questions that will be thrown at you.

Pack Size

First off, you need to figure out what size pack you want. Essentially this will be determined by what you are going to be doing. If you are looking at a rucksack or small daypack, you might be out of luck for custom fitting. Many come as a one-size-fits-most option - and in many cases that translates to one-size-fits-a-few. However if you want to go with something slightly bigger than a book bag type daypack, there are some moderately-sized rucksacks out there with sizing of XS-XL. They may not be able to be adjusted any further, but some may have a small varying range of adjustment. Essentially this sizing will at least get you a fit within that wider category or torso length.

Are you a long-day hiker? A weekend explorer? Maybe you are a multi-day backpacker? This will raise the size of the pack as well. A long-day hiker may need a slightly bigger pack or a larger rucksack as explained above. A weekender is slightly bigger and has better opportunities for a nice fit and has the options to carry overnight gear. A backpacker or someone who is out for many days may need the largest of packs - and these have lots of bells and whistle for a nice fit, if chosen correctly. With overnight bags it is even more important to get the right fit.

Now winter time is another story, but typically the pack is slightly bigger than one you use in summer - but there is no specific fit for winter. One of the important things to keep in mind when buying a pack for all seasons is the way it will fit with many layers on under it.

 

Brand

Don’t get hung up on brand, most companies have a wide variety of options and price ranges. Find one that fits correctly and is anatomically correct for your body. With that being said, different brands have different fits, so shop around if you can. Don’t be too narrow-sighted, the latest and greatest by company X just might not be best for you (no matter how awesome it looks in a picture of the perfectly fit outdoor hiker). One model of Northface for instance might not fit the same as another model. Even models of a different year fit differently. Maybe you had a 2009 model rucksack you loved, chances are the 2013 model may have been totally redesigned and fit better, or worse.

Comfort Rating

Not all companies have a comfort rating for their packs. Gregory is one that does, and it can be quite helpful in finding a place to start. A comfort rating is the number of pounds that the pack will handle and still be considered comfortable for the wearer. This rating is of course not a scientifically-proven system, but it's a good guideline to start with, and quite honestly, I feel pretty accurate. If you are going to carry 50-pounds on a long weekend, don’t get a pack with a comfort rating for only 30-pounds; the best fit in the world won’t alleviate 20-pounds of dead weight. You may have a 5 pound variance in the rating, which is quite significant.

Measurements

You have to know your torso length before you can go any further. “How do I figure that out,” you may ask? Measure from your C7 vertebra in your neck (it’s the one that sticks way out when you bend your chin to your chest), down to your iliac crest or the top of your hip bone (same thing). This measurement will put you in a range from XS-XL. While each company has their own range for pack size, they usually won't vary by all that much. Now you know where to start looking. If you find yourself right on the edge of one size or another, this can be a bit more time consuming because you are going to want to try both on. Typically I find that it’s better to size down and be at the max end of the smaller size.

Sex

Now that I have your attention, are you a man or a woman? This is very important, as you might have guessed, but I am still talking about pack fitting here. In most cases, a woman’s shoulders are much narrower than a man’s. Because of this, a woman’s specific pack has narrower shoulder straps and in many cases they're placed a bit closer together. Sizing is also different than a man’s as far as the XS-XL range is concerned. Straps are shorter and the pack width is a bit narrower. You should shop within your gender specific pack, if you can, and if they are available, before you venture outside of it. Women’s specific packs are much easier to come by online than in retail shops. A woman may need to size-down in a man’s pack, and a man may need to size up in a woman’s pack, but it’s not all that out of the ordinary — essentially they look very similar, in many design and color cases.

So many straps!!!

Once you get your pack size figured out, and it’s adjusted to your torso length, you will need to put it on for a final fit. You need to put on a pack that is filled with the approximate weight that you will be hauling - otherwise the straps will sit funny and you won’t get an accurate fit. Load up that pack even with a bit more, just to test it out. There is an order for strap closure and adjustment. Start with all the straps loose and open. Then go in this order:

1.Waist strap – hike it up onto your iliac crest and tighten it down to a comfortable level. You should have about 3-5 inches of strap left on each side of the buckle, it should not be all used. If it is all used that means you have too large of a waist strap and many companies will swap them out free of charge. It could also mean that your pack is too big. Some companies like Osprey offer heat-molded options, but many retailers don’t.

2.Shoulder straps – Pull these down equally on both sides. The buckle should end somewhere under your armpit. If you max them out with no extra strap then the shoulder straps are too big. Some companies will swap these out free of charge, or the pack is just too big. If the buckle is out in front and near your chest, the strap could be too small, again maybe they can be swapped out or you need a bigger pack. There should be no gap between your shoulders and the shoulder strap; they should wrap your shoulders perfectly.

3.Sternum strap – get this buckled and comfortable, this one is very simple, you just need to be able to snap it.

4.Load lifter straps (shoulder) – these straps connect your shoulder straps to the top of your pack. Pull these in to pull the load in closer to you and off your shoulders. This will put more of the weight on your hips and off your shoulders. You should notice a huge difference in how the pack sits and you should rightfully say “ahhhh.” The angle of the strap should be around 45-60 degrees.

5.Load adjustment straps – these are located on the waist strap and bring the bottom of the load closer to your waist. These are good for small adjustments, and over long distances they are very handy. Some pack do not have these, but most overnight packs will.

Packing your pack

A science in itself, follow this packing order rather than just throwing your stuff in:

• 1. Light and bulky on the bottom (sleeping bag, down jacket).
• 2. Then place medium-weight stuff on top of this area if needed.
• 3. Heavy stuff should be in the middle closer to your back (bear canister, stove, and food).
• 4. Outside-middle should be lighter items - you don’t want the weight pulling you back. Use clothing pieces to fill any gaps.
• 5. Top can be lighter stuff and things you want to be able to get to quicker.
• 6. The brain of the pack is the top lid and should be the essentials, but not too heavy and over loaded (headlamp, snacks, knife, gloves, hat, etc...).
• 7. Lastly, don’t strap too much stuff to the outside even though you may have ample straps to attach the kitchen sink, a full-sized chainsaw, a small child, goodies from your favorite local eatery, and who knows what else. The more you strap to the outside the more awkward the pack will feel and the more out of balance it will become. Leave the outside straps for your bed roll, a jacket and maybe a tent.

As you can see backpack fitting can be very time consuming and kind of like a jigsaw puzzle. There are many different factors so please feel free to get in touch with me if you need help or need some questions answered. I don’t claim to know it all, but time has been a good teacher of mine and the best lessons learned are through experience and trying. You can also stop into a local gear shop and get fitted as well. Good luck and have fun with it!

The Dix Range

5 Mountains over 4,000 feet

Known for its namesake Dix mountain, the Dix Range is home to five mountains over 4000 feet; East Dix, South Dix, Macomb, Hough and Dix. Of the five peaks only Dix has a maintained trail and the other four have herd paths that lead to each of the summits. The paths, while not official trails, are maintained fairly well and not too difficult to follow with some experience in navigation. There are multiple routes to the peaks - one from Elk Lake and two from Route 73 at the Boquet River and Round Pond. Our group of six hikers chose to complete a traverse of all five peaks in a day starting at the Boquet River on Rt. 73 and finishing at the Round Pond trailhead. The traverse from this route is close to 18 miles and over 6000 feet of elevation gain.

How our trail begins

We left two cars at the Round Pond trailhead and used another to ferry our group over to the start of our trek at the Boquet River. We started off around 6:30AM to stormy skies and a forecast of rain. The path for this section is not officially maintained and had a few spots that were washed out. Generally it follows the river all the way to the slide on East Dix (now officialy known as Grace). Grace is a relatively low angle slide and not too exposed making it a great first slide to learn on. When we reached the slide the weather, which had been starting to clear up, changed and we had a slight misting of rain. Luckily for us the rock is very good on the slide and there are almost no slippery spots to worry about even when wet. To be safe we wore microspikes to provide additional traction.

A change in weather = change in scenery

As we climbed the weather changed for the better and we even had a few appearances of the sun and a small rainbow to accompany it.

As we approached the top of the slide there were a few more exposed sections where we helped some of our less experienced climbers along with the assistance of a rope.

 

Shortly after we reached to top of the slide and the cliffs. The weather had really cleared up and it started to get very warm. We enjoyed the views of our first summit of the day and moved on to the true summit a few hundred yards from the cliffs after a short break in the sun.

From the summit of East the path progresses down to a col and back up to the summit of South Dix (Carson). The trip took us about 40 minutes. The true summit of South Dix is in a wooded section but there are some great views a short distance away in an open rocky area.

From the summit of South Dix the path descends an open rocky area and then continues up Macomb. From here the views are amazing - you can see Macomb, Hough and Dix nearby along with Nippletop and much of the Upper Great Range in the distance.

As we moved on from the openness of the rock we descended into a forested area before leveling out and beginning our climb up Macomb. The weather changed yet again and it started to rain and we could hear the rumbling of thunder off in the distance. We moved quickly, hopeful the storm would not reach us, and reached the summit of Macomb where we made a brief stop and headed down. We backtracked over to South Dix and just before the summit took the turnoff to Hough.

Hiking to Hough

The path to Hough takes you down from South Dix and over a false summit before heading back down and then climbing steeply to the summit of Hough.

From Hough through the clouds we could just make out the Beckhorn, a feature on the side of Dix, which would be our next destination. The path descends steeply after leaving Hough’s summit and then begins to ascend close to 1000 feet. Near the top there is a tight spot between two cracks known by some as the Beckhorn Crack. There is a short length of rope that was left by other hikers to assist on the way up, but if you are feeling ambitious you can climb through without use of the rope. Here the path meets up with the DEC trail over Dix Mountain. From the top of the Beckhorn you can see the true summit of Dix a few hundred yards down the trail.

Looking back at the Beckhorn from the summit of Dix you can see Elk Lake off in the distance.

After a few pictures on the summit of Dix we headed down the trail. The trail down Dix is known as one of the steepest in the Adirondacks but we descended quickly and without any issues.

A popular lean-to

Near the bottom of Dix the trail merges with the Dix slide and there is a view of the valley with Noonmark in the distance. From here the trail leads out to a Lean-to which proved to be quite a popular spot this weekend with several large groups making camp as we passed though. As we approached the trailhead we made a quick stop off at Round Pond to take in the view.

After round pond it’s a short hike back to the cars for some well deserved rest and relaxation.

Interested in a hike like this?

Check out the Schroon Lake hiking page, and find a great places to stay and dine.

Women are strong and powerful, right? That's why I was not surprised to find the large number of women owned lodging properties in the Adirondack Hub. These quaint Adirondack cottages and B&Bs will have you feeling at home in no time. You will have no trouble finding a place to rest your head as a basecamp to all of your adventures in the Adirondack Hub. 

Loon Cabins: Linda Osterman

Loon Cabins is a small owner-operated seasonal rental in the Adirondack village of Schroon Lake, NY. "I have three vintage cabins within walking distance of the lake and town" Osterman said. "My husband and I purchased the property in 2008 to use for our family, but as he passed away in 2018, I am now operating a cabin rental business. It is a great base camp for hiking in the High Peaks, lake activities, and the beauty of a small town. It has a friendly personal touch as I clean and manage all aspects of the business. It is truly a labor of love. The cabins were built in 1945 and have been operated since that time as part of Rawlins Cabins and Cottages."

Chamlar Lakefront Resort & Cottages: Beth Champeau

"The property is co-owned and operated by myself, Beth Champeau, and my three daughters:  Tabitha, Brielle and Valerie," owner Beth Chamepeau said.  

"Chamlar Lakefront Resort & Cottages in Schroon Lake has been in the Champeau family since 1967, and consists of five charming lakefront housekeeping cottages only two blocks from the center of town.  When my daughters and I took over the business in October 2010, we decided to specialize in multi-generational vacations for grandparents, their children and grandchildren looking to share an old-fashioned, lakefront vacation together, as well as larger groups looking to vacation all on the same property.  We have been very successful in our business, and 'our families' come back year-after-year to enjoy their 'together' time at the lake.

Chamlar Lakefront Resort & Cottages is unique in that it allows several generations of families or larger groups of friends to vacation and make memories together in a beautiful Adirondack lakefront setting.  Our amenities include five lakefront housekeeping cottages with full kitchens and screened dining porches with fantastic lake and mountain views, 250 feet of private sandy beach with swimming, boating and bonfire areas, beautiful gardens throughout the property, and the convenience of being only two short blocks to the town's Main Street and just a few miles from the Northway. 

 

Rocky Acres B&B: Laura Donaldson

"I have worked at the chamber, catered, and after my husband passed, I used my love of people, food, and large home to become a B&B to supplement my sewing business," owner Laura Donaldson said.

"My B&B is unique because I cater to individual needs. Want to get up early, sleep late, and eat healthy and light? I will accommodate. It’s very quiet here with no background noise from no I-87 or Route 9. Guests can feed the birds outside of bedroom windows for up close enjoyment."

SunderLand Cottages: Susan and Toni Sunderland

"We inherited our business from our parents, who bought it in 1950," said owners Susan and Toni Sunderland. "We came to Paradox as children and became deeply attached to our beautiful cove and all of the surrounding area.

Betty's Funny Farm B&B: Betty Lemay

Betty’s Funny Farm is located on the 14th Rd in Minerva.  After the closing of her gift store in Olmstedville, Betty Lemay decided that she would miss seeing the folks she met over the years. She fixed the upstairs of her house to accommodate a party of up to five people. Then she added a small shop in the barn with homemade gifts, jams, and jellies. People know her from her critters that greet them (especially Dominic the donkey) when they drive in with his loud brey.

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No matter where your next adventures in the Adirondack Hub may lead, your comforting and cozy lodging awaits!

Fall is such a lovely time in the Schroon Lake Region. Our acres of forest blaze into visual action. Then they are reflected from our crystalline lakes and reached via our miles of hiking paths or some of the most scenic drives in all of the Adirondacks.
There are also some wonderful events that might give you new ideas for how to best enjoy this crisp and colorful time of year.

Most rowdy

Every September, Newcomb celebrates our bigger-than-life U.S. President, Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt, with their annual Teddy Roosevelt Weekend. This year it spans September 15-17, 2017.
This is a three-day celebration of Theodore Roosevelt’s historic journey from Newcomb to the White House, adjusting to suddenly becoming America's 26th president.

Then-President McKinley was at the Pan-American Exposition on September 6, 1901 when he was shot by the anarchist Leon Czolgosz. His vice president, Roosevelt, got the news during a luncheon with the Vermont Fish and Game League. He immediately left for Buffalo. After a few tense days, McKinley's surgery had gone well, and Roosevelt was urged to get back to his arranged schedule. It was thought the sight of him hanging around would make the public worry that a transition was imminent.

Roosevelt then left for the Tahawus Club near Newcomb, and was climbing New York's highest mountain, Mount Marcy, when the Tahawus Club received the message that McKinley's condition had suddenly, and dramatically, worsened. Club guide Harrison Hall managed to find Roosevelt, who returned to the Tahawus Club to await further word.
Teddy Roosevelt was not a person who could wait patiently. At midnight he decided to set out for the North Creek train station. In 1901 this 35-mile trip would take at least seven hours in daylight. Roosevelt was in a buckboard wagon with a driver. He changed wagons and drivers three times, arriving at the station around 4:45 a.m. It was there that he learned McKinley had died, and he was now president.
With the help of Joe Wiegand, premier Teddy impersonator, the thrilling moments are re-enacted and events fill all three days, each of which has their own historic theme:

• Friday: Women’s Suffrage Movement and the Centennial of Women Winning the Right to Vote in New York State
• Saturday: United States Enters World War 1
• Sunday: Upper Works and Tahawus Day

Most beautiful

The Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival bills itself as "the most beautiful 26 miles, 385 yards you’ll ever run!" The route circles the lake, bestowing views of nearby mountains, the rolling hills, and the whispering shade of forest crowding close to the runners.

It's also one of the most accommodating, since they offer a full marathon, half marathon, and two-person marathon relay on Sunday, September 22, 2017. Or choose from a 10K, 5K, and Children’s 1K Fun Run, on Saturday, September 23, 2017.

This event was voted best race of 2012, and is always fondly spoken off by competitors and spectators alike. It can seem like the whole town turns out to cheer, have picnics, and catch the spirit of gorgeous nature — at whatever speed.

Whether you have run the course, or cheered the ones who did, don't miss the post-race party at Sticks & Stones Bistro.

Most talented

Every Thursday, enjoy our joint Adirondack Artists & Crafters Expo and Farmers Market for 2017. September 7 will be the final Thursday.

This event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the grounds of the Schroon Lake town hall. All kinds of beautiful crafts, with quilts, baskets, and ceramics from our local artisans. There are jewelry boxes, balsam items, maple syrup, honey, crochet, and knitted items, catnip (think of the kitties!), key chains, scented soap, and yes, fresh produce.

If you aspire to your own craft — of writing — there's a Fiction Writing Weekend Workshop at Great Camp Sagamore from September 15-17, 2017.

This is definitely an atmosphere of inspiration.

Most interactive

The Adirondack Interpretive Center runs a fascinating series of tours and workshops in late summer and into the fall.
On Saturday, August 26, 2017, make your own journal with Artist-in-Residence, Emma Percy, using the exposed-spine coptic binding method. The next Saturday, September 2, 2017, there's a Guided Nature Hike with Peter O'Shea.

A wonderful leaf viewing option is their Huntington Wildlife Forest Bicycle Tour, on Saturday, September 9, 2017. This is a 3- to 4-hour bicycling tour of the Huntington Wildlife Forest.
One of their Science Sundays will be Sunday, September 17, 2017 with a Mushroom ID Foray. Join mushroom expert Susan Hopkins for a morning of mushroom hunting along the AIC trails.

However you like to enjoy this most precious and fleeting of all the Adirondack seasons, there's probably a wonderful option to combine two or more of your favorite things.

Choose your favorite kind of lodging. Indulge in our delightful dining. See all of our events.

Submitted by guest blogger Erin Davis

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

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

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

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

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

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