Hammond Pond Wild Forest continues to provide great outings this winter. To celebrate New Year's Day I skied from the Sharp Bridge Campground to East Mill Flow with two great friends.

Sharp Bridge Campground is one of the prettiest campsites in the Adirondacks and likely one of the oldest. The first campsite was placed at this location in 1920 according to DEC. The campsite where the trail begins is about 3 miles south of Exit 30 on Rte 9 in North Hudson.

Five days after the perfect first snow storm of the winter (Dec. 27-28), we expected to find that someone had already packed out the trail and we were rewarded for most of the way. Someone had clearly skied to the height of the trail and enjoyed the ride back.

From the parking area the trail follows the Schroon Brook southeast for about a mile. The going is easy and allowed us to test our wax—mine was lacking—and adjust. There's one place along the water where a road once crossed and you can see the remains of an old stone bridge. It's amazing what stands and what crumbles along the banks of these Adirondack Rivers.

We headed up a long hill to about 1250 feet through forest still heavy with snowy branches, looking forward to a great descent as reward on the return. From the top of the hill the route rolls along gently which allowed us to get into a nice ski rhythm.

Just was we were starting to feel an appetite, the forest opened into the East Mill Flow.   The Flow is an extensive beaver flow that was well-frozen. We checked out the nice canine tracks, complete with scent marks. Probably both coyote and fox. There were seed heads from dried sedges and stiff, dark leather leaf foliage showing through the snow as we skied across to a rocky edge. The rock radiated warm sunshine that felt good after the shady trail.

Delicious, left-over maple-banana-walnut waffles slathered with peanut butter made a timely appearance followed by the special Bengal spice tea with honey and milk that David always carries in winter. We all had plans for the late afternoon so didn't linger although I was curious to continue the route to its end on Ensign Pond Road.

The trip back was perfect. I was less concerned with making progress than I had been on the way in. I noticed the high ledge that the trail follows and imagined bobcats napping in the sunshine up there. The trail was tracked out enough to make nice gliding. The sunshine made a light show in the canopy of bare branches and deep green needles.  We returned to the cars after three and a half hours completely satisfied. 

With untouched wilderness, pristine lakes, and miles and miles of winding roads prime for cycling, golf might not be the first outdoor activity that comes to mind in the Adirondack Hub. But nestled between nostalgic small towns and epic adventures, are two courses that might be the Adirondacks’s best kept golf secrets! Schroon Lake and Newcomb are both home to unique and exciting courses that will pique the interest of beginners and give old pros something new to try. If you’re ready to take a swing and see if you can make par, check out the High Peaks Golf Course in Newcomb and the Schroon Lake Golf Course in Schroon Lake.

High Peaks, low score

The High Peaks Golf Course in Newcomb has to be in one of the most beautiful locations around. While most people are busy shuffling off to the Upper Works Trailhead or getting ready to canoe, you can be hitting the links at this wonderful course that opened to the public in 2005.

Quick stats:

• Holes: 9
• Par: 33
• There are 4 holes at par 3, 4 holes at par 4, and a par 5
• 4 sets of tees: pro, mens’, seniors’ (gold), womens’
• Yards: 2,575 from pro tees
• On site amenities: Clubhouse with pro shop (gloves, snacks, beer and wine, etc., for sale), clubhouse restrooms, course bathroom, club rentals, practice putting green

We asked course staff a few questions to help you get to know the course a bit better.

Q: Is it walkable? Are there cart rentals?

A: There are ups and downs (it is the Adirondacks!), but this is a very walkable course. Pull carts and mechanical carts are available for rent.

Q: What makes this course stand out?

A: The beauty! There are mountain views from each tee and/or hole, starting with an amazing view of Santanoni Mountain right from hole #1. Some people just come here to take photos because it is really that beautiful. 

Got your irons in hand yet? With only 9 holes and a par 32, you might as well play a few rounds! Despite having a breathtaking view of the High Peaks, this course is still a hidden gem. Tee times are not required, but you are required to have a tee-rific time!

An un-fore-gettable course

Where the High Peaks Golf Course brings new challenges, the Schroon Lake Golf Course brings classic charm that dates back to 1917. Donald Ross designed this 9 hole course (yes, the same Donald Ross who designed Pinehurst in North Carolina. Yes, the same Pinehurst where many professional golf championships have been played.).

Quick stats:

• Holes: 9 (but you can double it and play 18)
• Par: 36
• There are 2 holes at par 3, 5 holes at par 4, and 2 holes at par 5
• Sets of tees: blue, gold, red
• Yards: 2,929 
• On site amenities: Clubhouse restroom, course restroom, pro shop with snacks and golf gear for sale, club rentals, practice putting green

We asked course staff a few questions to help you get to know the course a bit better.

Q: Is it walkable? Are there cart rentals?

A: A lot of people walk this course. There are some hills, but it's very walkable. There are pull and mechanical cart rentals available.

Q: What makes this course stand out?

A: We get a lot of comments on how beautiful this course is and how well maintained it is. One of the holes is up on a hill, so you can look out over the waters of Schroon Lake. People love this course. We even have "before/after hours" fees, so you can start golfing at sunrise if you'd like. During summer we're open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., but if you wanted to golf at 6 a.m., for example, you could just place the $6 fee in the box and play a round while most people are still sleeping!

This historic course has your name on the next scorecard! Even in the early days, people were lining up to play a round. History also tells us that caddies came from across the state to work at the Schroon Lake course! Whether you’re the next Tiger Woods, Donald Ross, or Happy Gilmore, this course is sure to please.

Quit wasting time and puttering around!

Get to the Adirondack Hub today! Even if you aren't a seasoned pro, both courses offer club rentals (and cart rentals!), so you can get out on the fairways without having to purchase your own set of clubs. If you can’t get in all the golf you want in one day, that’s fine; the Adirondack Hub has plenty of comfy places for you to call your home-away-from-home for a few days. There are also lots of places for a delicious post-round meal. With so much to offer, the Adirondack Hub could be the location of your best golf vacation “by par.”

Birding and setting up camp

Any chance to spend time in Vanderwhacker Mountain Wild Forest is an opportunity to be grasped, so I was glad when work took me that direction a few weeks ago. I had started my day by birding along the route from home toward my planned camp along Moose Pond Club Road, the road which leads to the trailhead for Vanderwhacker Mountain itself. The birding continued as I explored the road and set up my tent as the afternoon and evening coolness seemed to fuel the birds to chatter.

There were Black-throated Blue, Black-throated Green, Yellow-rumped, Nashville, and Black-and-white Warblers, the complex trills of Winter Wrens, both Blue-headed and Red-eyed Vireos, and lots of Swainson’s Thrushes – one of my favorite songs to hear in the evening. After pitching my tent, the birds lured me for a walk along the road and my list soon included Red Crossbills which buzzed and called overhead. Red Crossbill numbers have grown in the Adirondacks this summer with our current cone crop, and I’ve been coming across them regularly since June.

The night in camp

I returned to camp to battle a growing contingent of mosquitoes while I made my dinner, but despite the bugs, the natural ambience and birds made a camp meal of boxed macaroni and cheese and canned green beans taste like fine dining; there are few more peaceful things than enjoying a meal in the woods.

I headed off to investigate around Cheney Pond for the evening – my camp was centrally located for places to explore – and I returned to camp after darkness had fallen, listening for a Barred or Northern Saw-whet Owl. I’ve heard both species while camping in that vicinity in the past.

I didn’t hear either on this occasion, but as I was leaning against my car and listening to the darkness, I noticed a northern dusky salamander crawling across my campsite. I scooped it up and took it down by the nearby stream rather than have it risk a long overland journey or possibly hide beneath one of my car tires. I then decided to retire to my tent, where as I usually do, I looked over maps and plans for the next day. I was soon falling asleep on my maps and notes, and I finally decided to turn off my light.

A new morning

Daybreak came early and I woke to the songs and calls of the surrounding cool, foggy forest, forcing my sleepy eyelids open to look around at the gray world. I was tired and it was rather chilly outside of my sleeping bag, but I love that time of day. And so I pushed myself reluctantly to my knees to get my bearings as the world awoke to Purple Finches, Black-capped Chickadees, and both Hermit and Swainson’s Thrushes, and then I slowly clambered from the tent.

I organized my gear for the day before starting on breakfast, the cold milk in my cereal bowl further chilling my cold hands in the morning air. But I found a Black-backed Woodpecker as I did – no good bird comes without a little sacrifice! – and the cool air kept the mosquitoes at bay so I was appreciative of it. I’ll always take cold hands over incessant buzzing and itching!

My camp chores and breakfast finished, I headed down the road; I would return to take down my tent later. My first stop was the trail into Hewitt Eddy, accessed along Route 28N near the junction with Moose Pond Club Road – so it was a convenient place to begin. The trail winds along the Boreas River, cutting through a combination of mixed forest habitats – some with a boreal nature – and the birds I found reflected that fact with Blue-headed Vireos, Red-eyed Vireos, Dark-eyed Juncos, Winter Wrens, Swainson’s and Hermit Thrushes, and a list of warblers which included Blackburnian, Northern Parula, Black-throated Blue, and Magnolia. I also found yet another pair of Red Crossbills which zipped above calling throughout my hike so it was difficult to know for certain how many crossbills there actually were.

The trail is not long or difficult, but it is currently overgrown, so anyone going should be prepared for tangles of vegetation crossing the trail, and I pushed my way through the dew-drenched leaves, soaking myself with chilly water in the process. But the route not only offers birds but also the peaceful babble of the Boreas River, before it leads to Hewitt Eddy itself where I’ve found beavers in the past.

I eventually retraced my steps and drove back to camp, but before I continued down the road for another adventure, I enjoyed a peaceful time sitting and reflecting in camp and taking in the wilderness-like seclusion it offered. That is one of the things I love the most about camping anywhere, but in the remote places in the Adirondacks in particular. I have no television, no cell phone reception, and no computer to occupy my time and energy. Even though I’m often camping to help facilitate my early morning work schedule, the simplicity camping offers is restful and therapeutic. And so I took in the setting for a while, before turning my attention to cleaning up the campsite, collecting bits of trash which others before me had left behind. It is always a good goal to leave a campsite cleaner than you found it.

My tidying and reflection complete, I loaded up and headed down the road.

Late summer and fall offer amazing Adirondack camping and adventure opportunities! Don’t miss out! And if camping isn’t your thing, then check out our lodging and dining pages to learn how you can enjoy an Adirondack getaway!

 

This coming St. Patrick's Day, Flanagan's Pub & Grill turns 21. If you are looking for an Irish good time on this festive holiday, they are ready for you. But then, every day is a fine day to go to Flanagan's.

Pub is short for Public Houses, which distinguished them as a place where all were welcome, unlike the more affluent "Private Houses" which charged membership fees. When 19th century British legislation banned pubs it became a point of pride to keep them going in Ireland. Now, "Irish Pub" evokes a welcoming, festive, atmosphere that Flanagan's owners, Doug and Penny, are proud to offer the area.

A long heritage

It is no surprise that proprietors Doug and Penny have blended Adirondack authenticity into their pub. Irishtown is nearby!

Part of the history of the area is the period from 1840 to 1860, when large numbers of Irish immigrants moved through New York City and Boston to settle in what is now the Minerva area. It was known as Irishtown.

This was a transitional time, when the local forests had been logged and the lumberjacks moved further west. The cleared land they left behind was attractive to aspiring farmers, who left big city life and raised large families, which were assets in agrarian pursuits. By 1865 the population numbered 1082, with the majority of them Irish. Minerva's school colors were emerald green and white, nicknamed the "Fighting Irish."
So an Irish pub fits right in.

The building began as Wilson's Restaurant but became Flanagan's Bar in 1952. The simple menu was deli sandwiches. In 1986 a new owner added bar classics like pizza, wings, and burgers. It wasn't until 1997 that Doug King and Penny Edenfield purchased Flanagan's and began a series of renovations. The kitchen was moved to a new and larger location and completely updated. This added hot sandwiches and appetizers to the lineup.

The look they have now started in 2002, with lots of local help. The dining room acquired local cedar ceiling beams and columns, then rustic bar stools and booths. A deck was added in the back for outdoor dining. Doug built the booths and tables. Doug and Penny are celebrating their 21st Anniversary of the pub with pride in the Adirondack feel they have created, inside and out.

Flanagan's is now a center of celebration.

That special day

It began as a Catholic feast day in the 17th century, honoring Ireland's own Saint Patrick, who was credited with popularizing three-leaf clovers to explain the Trinity and driving all the snakes from Ireland. Once the Irish got St. Patrick’s Day, which falls during Lent, they developed a new tradition of attending church in the morning and then dancing, drinking, and feasting in the afternoon.

Because when all was said and done, this was, and is, an Irish holiday. "Giving things up" is not in the right spirit.

One Flanagan's touch is themed desserts, as seen in this edible "pot o' gold" from a previous St. Patrick's Day celebration. I sat down with Penny to ask about what is on the schedule for this year.

"Corned beef and cabbage, of course! Or a Shepherd's Pie with soup and salad. Drink specials, including Guinness pints for three dollars."

This is in addition to their regular menu, with its variety of appetizers, main dishes, and those wonderful desserts. I told her how much I love the coconut shrimp appetizers, and that they are gluten-free. She confided they were a favorite of hers, too.

"Everyone gets into the spirit. We always decorate the place with lots of green things."

"Irish coffee and Irish whiskey specials. Also, since it is our 21st anniversary and St Pat's falls on a Saturday this year, we are extending it to the whole weekend."
I think that's a fine idea. St. Patrick's Day(s).

Doing it right

Every time I have stopped by Flanagan's after a hike or snowshoe, I've had a great meal. But this is more than a fine pub and local restaurant. Flanagan's really is a neighborhood gathering place.

They have a special Father's Day and Mother's Day menu. Groups meet there for activities. Everyone is welcome. Even folks who aren't Irish.

"I tell people we're like Cheers," Penny said with a laugh. "We know most people's names, and if you are new, come on by and introduce yourself."
You won't be a stranger for long.

Snuggle up in our lodging. Spring hiking means sunny days and lots of light on the trails, since the trees aren't leafed out yet. See what other events are coming up.

I'm more of a skater than an angler so I use any hike I can to check for ice. This week I went to Hammond Pond.

An easy walk on a wide trail leads through pretty forest to a wide spillway where you get a great look at Bloody Mountain. It's hard to say why someone would name a mountain Bloody Mountain. The youngsters who were with me were intrigued but they said we shouldn't stay too late in the day.

Ice is definitely trying to form. The boys whacked sticks as hard as they could to test it. A few loud cracking noises made exciting sound effects but also made it clear it's too early to start skating so we headed up the trail in search of mink or otter tracks along the brook.

The trail continues on a nice easy grade. We checked out an old scat that was full of bones and looked at liverworts with scaly patterns. The boys determined that Troll Skin is a better name than liverwort for the flattened, moss-like mats.

Although it's somewhat inconvenient for hikers and mountain bikers, the bridge being out over Black Brook was a good addition to our expedition. We easily forded it using what remains of a makeshift handrail strung by wire to some trees. There were a few large blowdowns that required some scrambling but we followed the trail all the way to the big open wetland at the end. There were deer trails everywhere. A good spot to go back for birding in the spring.

On the return we took the detour up to Bloody Pond. You have to pay close attention and follow the signs of footfall. The leaves and downed limbs made it easy to get off trail. You gain some elevation as you climb up and away from the stream. On the way up there's a nifty chimney through some boulders that made us think we were passing through a secret gate.

We had lunch on a nice knoll and headed back with a bushwhack down the stream and a second chance to see Hammond Pond. The side of the pond the trail follows was in the shade and the small hummocks along the edge looked like mysterious, dark islands. The ice looked thicker. We will definitely go back with skates as the temperature gets colder. 

Looking for summer relaxation? Consider an Adirondack lake beach, for a delightful blend of the familiar and the exotic.

The familiar is the expanse of sand and sun, and the availability of picnic treats from beachside vendors. What might be different is the super-slow lap of the waves, and the fringe of forest at the far edge of the water.

Whether we are new to Adirondack summer traditions or seeking to explore our usual places, the charming Minerva Town Beach has everything we need for a fun family outing.

The beach

Of course, people have been swimming in our lakes for many centuries. The Adirondack natural sand beaches are great for sunning and sandcastle action.

There's the lovely lake, but also some easy hiking trails, two playgrounds, a tennis and a basketball court, and even horseshoes. The lake does not allow motorized boats, so it's a fine paddling spot, with a boat launch and rentals.

Explore the three small islands in the lake.

According to the Adirondack History Center:

In 1931 and 1932, the town built a dam across Jones Brook creating an artificial lake, a beach and a playground. The beach is named for Francis Donnelly who first became Town Supervisor in 1934. He was part of a large Irish clan arriving in Minerva in the mid-19th century. Donnelly served as Supervisor until his death in 1980, a total of 46 years.

Fun fact: Mr. Donnelly holds the world record for the nation's longest serving town or county official.

The eats

Summer is the best season for picnics, of course, and Minerva Town Beach has a lot of picnic tables with a gorgeous lake view. Choose from beachside or along the shore in the wooded areas on either side.

The beach snack shack is The Stand at Minerva Lake. Eat indoors or out, with classic Adirondack ice cream stand fare. They offer bacon cheeseburgers and fries and frozen treats, but also specials like shrimp tacos, beer-battered fish and chips, and a grilled chicken Caesar wrap.

And worms. But those are for fishing.

Forget anything? Mammy & Pop's General Store is right in town and has you covered along with all kinds of summer needs like beach toys and sunscreen. They also have a deli, so you can pick up that picnic lunch.

See all the shopping choices in the area.

The ambiance

This is one sweet little gem of a beach. It is set away from the town, on its own road. So the only sounds are children playing, happy birds, and the wind in the trees.

It's not just a beach, though. It is a delightful recreation complex, with lots of room for hiking, paddling, and scenic picture taking.

Go further and camp there too. Choose from 56 lovely tent sites, with public bathroom access and hot showers. Each site has their own fire pit and picnic table, and are separated from the beach area by the basketball and tennis courts. A row of trees screens them from the road and parking area.

Minerva is nestled among some of the loveliest nature areas in all the Adirondacks. The south is bordered by the Indian River and Boreas River which flow into the Hudson. The northwest is dominated by the Vanderwhacker Mountain Wild Forest and the wonderfully imposing bulk of the mountain itself. The beach itself is on the shores of Minerva Lake, which was formed by damming Jones Brook for the lumber trade, in the early 1930s.

 This place has a little bit of magic.

Find that special lodging. Indulge in our dining. Find a fun summer event.

 

 

It's mud season. That means the snow is melting and where it has there are mud puddles. Many folks sit mud season out, but if you have a kid who's been inside for way too long, mud season is a time to get creative and get outside.

Gull Pond is a short hike from Alder Meadow Road on the northeast side of Schroon Lake. The half-mile walk from the trailhead is mostly flat. The pond is a popular swimming hole in the summer. During mud season it is quiet.

We've been to Gull Pond many times and my nine-year-old son, Tristan, was getting bored with it. The easy trail is a good way to start the hiking season, however, so I proposed an option that interested him. We got out of bed early and hit the trailhead around 6:00 a.m. In early spring it's still dark until 6:30 a.m., and this day it was foggy and drizzling. Dressed warm for the just-above-freezing temperature, we donned our headlamps and, following the beams of light, started in, picking our way around muddy patches and trying not to slide on the icy snow.

The pond was still frozen over except for a couple of feet around the outside edges. Assuming it must be thinning, Tristan tried to break the ice with a long branch, but it proved too strong to break. We did not attempt to walk on it, though. The water is very cold and we wouldn't risk falling through.

The sun came up while we were at the pond. It would have been spectacular if it wasn't too cloudy to see. The drizzle didn't stop the birds from serenading us, though. A woodpecker provided percussion for the morning song. 

We walked out without our lights. There was a brief hiccup when Tristan's boot sunk into the mud and he needed help pulling it out, but it gave us a good laugh. We were home in time for breakfast, and our hiking season was off to a great start.

A sunrise walk with headlamps or flashlights is a great way to bring new variety to an easy hike for kids. Make sure to dress warm and bring hats and gloves. Adirondack mornings can be chilly, even later in spring.

A chance to witness history from my skis

For Adirondack history buffs and cross-country skiers alike, Camp Santanoni may offer an equally alluring attraction. After all, the site boasts one of the last best surviving Great Camps in the Adirondacks and it requires a nearly five mile trek (each way) to visit.

I was fortunate enough to time my recent visit during one of the open house weekends put on by the New York State DEC, the Friends of Camp Santanoni, and Adirondack Architectural Heritage, when the main camp, gatehouse, and artist’s studio are open to the public. The boathouse is generally open even when the other buildings are not. There are three such weekends during the winter: Martin Luther King Jr. weekend, Presidents weekend, and this year (2019) the weekend of St. Patrick’s Day.

A splendid winter day

And so after making a stop at the gatehouse, I set off beneath beneath a sky of variable clouds and cobalt blue on the long and winding road (Newcomb Lake Road) turned ski and snowshoe trail to visit the National Historic Landmark. I was not alone. The open house and beautiful winter day had attracted loads of folks interested in the opportunity to explore the historic buildings with a full parking lot to show as evidence. No doubt that the DEC had their hands full in clearing the parking area of all the snow which has engulfed the Central Adirondacks this year. After all, Newcomb has piles of snow. Monuments of snow. Mountains of snow.

But with so many people coming, the DEC and the volunteers had packed down the road to the Great Camp, not to mention the help of the many feet of history-seeking pilgrims. And so I made good time on the route, and for the most part the snowshoers stayed in the middle of the trail, while a nice set of ski tracks was kicked in on the side (sometimes both sides) of the trail.

The long and winding road

Anyone exploring Santanoni — whether during an open house weekend or at any other time — should know that for the most part the trail climbs toward the camp as it meanders around curves and sits high (particularly with so much snow) above ditches which sometimes line its flanks. After the initial climb, I removed an additional clothing layer before I became too warm and sweaty, which was a good call since I knew I’d be walking around the buildings of the camp for a while and the sweatier I was the more likely I’d become cold once I stopped skiing.

About a mile into the ski, I reached the camp’s farm complex, and while those buildings were not open as part of the open house, I paused to have a look around and to take a few photos. From there I continued my trek, mostly climbing but here and there enjoying some respite from the effort with a downhill stretch.

I passed many people going in both directions on the trail as I went. The parking lot had not misled me regarding the popularity of the destination. I was making good progress, and I stopped occasionally for more photos before topping the hill which drops toward Newcomb Lake and Santanoni's main camp. From there my pace quickened as the final mile or so to the camp is largely flat and downhill, and I stopped for more photos at the bridge which spans the finger of Upper Duck Hole which connects Lower Duck Hole with Newcomb Lake.

Santanoni

Once at the main camp — which was first built in 1893 and owned by Robert and Anna Pruyn — I stepped out of my skis and ducked away from the wind coming off the lake to grab some food, water, and to re-don my extra clothing layer in order to help me stay warm while I walked around. With that I wandered through the main lodge, marveling how one room went into another and then another and then another, while admiring the view of ice-covered Newcomb Lake through the trees from the sweeping porch. I believe if I had been at Santanoni during the camp’s heyday I would have wanted to spend time no place else, but the wind on this day was chilly and a bit less inviting to remain on the porch for too long.

I bumped into some friends, who, like others who had made the trip with their kids, were having a picnic in the main room of the lodge. I continued wandering until I eventually found my way to the artist’s studio (built by the Pruyns for their son Edward) where a tightly packed crowd of folks was enjoying a warm fire and hot cocoa and tea thanks to a crew of volunteers who were sleeping there for a few nights in order to make the event possible.

The room was warm and friendly, and I was able to ease my cold fingers back into life while I chatted with folks and learned more about both the camp and their efforts to show others – like me – its story. The volunteers were happy to share such information, and everyone seemed to be in a joyful mood with a warm place to unwind and hot cocoa after a wintry outdoor adventure will have that effect. This excitement of other people added to my experience and I found myself thinking that I may have to return to Santanoni for a future open house weekend.

The return trip

Buoyed by chocolate and pleasant conversation, I left the gathering to continue poking around the lodge for more photos, and stopped at the refurbished boat house (the snow load on which was immense) before clipping on my skis for the return trip. A wave of folks had departed shortly before me so I was soon passing them on the long climb from Newcomb Lake before I found myself cruising on easy downhills for much of the trip back to the parking area. It’s always nice when the return journey — when you’re generally more tired — is easier than the outbound trip.

With gravity on my side (the return trip took less time than the outgoing ski), I soon found myself again admiring the stonework on some of the buildings of the farm, and not long after that I was arriving at the parking area and car where more food and water welcomed my tired body. I was soon off to the Newcomb AIC where a warm visitor center (and bathrooms for changing) are available.

We still have a lot of winter left and snowshoers and skiers should plan their next winter adventure by checking out our lodging and dining pages. And not only is another winter open house at Santanoni approaching this St. Patrick’s Day weekend, but the DEC, the Friends of Camp Santanoni and Adirondack Architectural Heritage also run trips into the camp during the warm months as well. It is a great opportunity to blend Adirondack history with outdoor adventure.

This week in ADK news:

On the ice

Fuel up for fun

Cabin fever relievers

Groomed to perfection

For the art lovers

An icy good time

7 wonders of Shaheen's

 

I have a favorite road in the Schroon Lake Region, Blue Ridge Road. It has scenic delights and fun attractions. This is especially true in the autumn. It runs between North Hudson and Newcomb through dense forest and across bridges, with frequent places to pull off and enjoy abundant photographic opportunities. Unless a car is passing, it is so quiet you can hear the birdsong. Here's how to make the most of those 17 miles.

Wonderful water

Almost the moment you make the turn onto Blue Ridge Road, there's Palmer Pond. Look for the little spot to park and enjoy the small pond, which brings the distant trees close enough to catch with a photo.

Just a few more minutes down the road, there's a combination of instant gratification and scenic beauty. Blue Ridge Falls is hard to beat for ease. It has roadside parking, well-marked trails, and the roar of a long set of falls.

The rapids tumble over a river stretch full of rocks, with a mountain in the background. The trail by the river requires some care, as it is rocky and narrow, but the forest paths are broad and easy. These shaded trails are often where the first leaves change.

It is always a great idea to seek out water if I want to view the trees changing because I get twice the leaves that way. The beautiful reflections can also put a different spin on your view, with even brighter colors, since the water slows down the light more than the air does.

Just a few more miles of scenic drive takes you to the Adirondack Interpretive Center at Newcomb. They have beautifully groomed hiking trails with lots of water features, outlook platforms, and benches to sit upon. There's also a small natural history museum, and nature displays in their Great Room.

Treasures and buffalo

The Blue Ridge Road leads you to the only buffalo in the Adirondacks! And yes, real buffalo. They like it here.

The Adirondack Buffalo Company includes a farm, gift shop, and scenic viewing deck with a telescope. Pick up fine buffalo products, Indigenous people's crafts, homemade baked goods, custom souvenirs, and all kinds of treats and gourmet food items. Their Sunshine Marmalade is a favorite at my house. Gokey's Outlet Stores are right at the beginning of the Blue Ridge Road, and their many buildings offer incredible treasure hunts. That is a good enough reason to take a little time in North Hudson, but there's plenty of fine scenery there.

As you admire the scenery be on the lookout at the edges of rivers and ponds where the fall wildflowers are most abundant.

Ghost town drive

Near the Newcomb end of the Blue Ridge Road, you might feel the need for more scenery. So look for the turn north that leads to Old Route 25. If you reach the T intersection with Route 28N, where the big hanging Tahawus sign appears in a triangle of land, you have gone too far. Backtrack until just before the road takes a curve to the south.

This is the Tahawus Mines Road, 19.6 miles (there and back) of forest, meadows, and lakes. While this paved road is narrow and has no shoulders, it is paved all the way through, and low traffic. It ends near where the Hudson River flows into Henderson Lake.

This is what remains of what was once the largest titanium mine in the world. Rock hounds will love picking through the edges of the tailing piles. Look for lingering signs of the ghost town of Adirondac, which was mostly moved to Newcomb when the mine failed. Bring a picnic and explore. Blue Ridge Road is also the anchor for the Grand Loop, which takes you past such attractions as Natural Stone Bridge & Caves and Paradox Brewery.

Choose a charming place to stay. Feed that appetite with our dining. Explore more scenic drives.

 

Theodore Roosevelt was not only one of the few presidents of the United States that many feel were born to do the job, but a true activist for the Adirondacks and wilderness. Roosevelt’s love of wilderness and the Adirondack Park would take an unforeseen turn in 1901, which no one had dreamed of and would put him in the front seat for a wilderness campaign.

On September 6, 1901, President McKinley was be shot while visiting Buffalo, New York. Roosevelt made an urgent trip to the bedside of the president from a luncheon on Lake Champlain. Within a few days, McKinley made a turn for the better and looked to be in the clear; Roosevelt would continue to be McKinley’s Vice President to the United States. Knowing everything was going to fine and to show good faith to the public, Roosevelt left Buffalo and headed to Tahawus, a mining company town deep in the Adirondack wilds. On the outskirts of Newcomb, Tahawus (originally named Adirondac) was booming with activity in Roosevelt’s time. (Fun fact: Tahawus - the entire town - that was literally moved.)

Roosevelt met up with his wife, Edith, and their children in this rural village. He then made arrangements to be guided up to the top of New York's tallest mountain, Mount Marcy, by Noah LaCasse. On September 12, 1901 they set off on their hike from Upper Tahawus. They walked past Flowed Lands and Lake Colden, and past the Opalescent River and eventually to Lake Tear of the Clouds. They were beneath the mammoth slopes of Marcy, eating lunch, when nature guide Harrison Hall relayed a telegraph message that strongly urged Roosevelt to come back to Buffalo. Roosevelt wasted no time in descending the peak - which he did in presumably three and a half hours - much faster than a large majority of all current day hikers, and under poor conditions of rain and foul weather.

The midnight ride

Returning to Tahawus, Roosevelt decided to wait until day break before he made the 40-mile journey by stagecoach to the North Creek Railroad Station. It wasn’t long before a second telegraph came through. In the pitch black night, Roosevelt was advised to leave immediately to McKinley’s bedside, for he was getting much worse. It would be 10:30 in the evening of September 12th that Roosevelt would step foot onto a one-seated coach, called a buckboard wagon, and start his “midnight ride.” These smaller, lighter wagons would move faster over the wet and slippery carriage roads and would waste no time in him getting to the train. The trip was made at such a rapid rate that there had to be several stops along the way to switch wagons. The trip would wear heavily on the drivers and horses that he would end up changing about every 10-12 miles. The first stop would be at the post office before departing Tahawus and a few hours later at the famous Aiden Lair Lodge near Minerva.

The Aiden Lair Lodge rests along Route 28N between Newcomb and Minerva, a memorial sits out front of the building. Near the lodge rests a small land mass commemorating his midnight stop, Roosevelt Hill. This small knoll, quite insignificant as you drive by, has no trail or even a view, but is a piece of history no less.

From here he would make the final push with the proprietor of the lodge, Mike Cronin. Around 4:45 a.m., at the station in North Creek, Secretary William Loeb would relay the news of McKinley’s passing at 2:15 a.m. that morning; Roosevelt had already become president well over an hour prior at that point.

Roosevelt, as the man he was, wasted no time in continuing his journey aboard a locomotive of the Delaware & Hudson Railroad, which took him to Albany. After switching trains in Albany, Roosevelt headed toward Buffalo, arriving at 1:34 p.m. on September 14. At this time, Roosevelt was still in his muddy clothes from the shoulder of Mount Marcy! He freshened up, payed his respects to McKinley and his widow, and at 3:30 p.m. that day, Teddy Roosevelt was officially sworn in as the 26th President of the United States.

In commemoration of Theodore Roosevelt

TR Mountain, a 3800’ peak near Tabletop Mountain and Indian Falls is also called Theodore Roosevelt Mountain. This formerly unnamed mountain was given a proper name in honor of the President in 1999. Standing as one of the 100-highest mountains in the Adirondacks it towers above many, but sits unexplored by the crowds of the High Peaks. A faint herd-path from the Van Hoevenberg Trail will lead one to this wooded summit. (Please keep in mind, this hike is a bushwhack and requires the use of map and compass to safely complete.)

More on the beaten path, Route 28N from Long Lake to North Creek has been marked as the Roosevelt-Marcy Trail in commemoration of Roosevelt’s midnight ride to the presidency. The once narrow, dangerous route is now a scenic byway for all to explore and experience in a much safer fashion.

For more information and historical reading about Theodore Roosevelt, check out titles by Edmund Morris at a local Adirondack store. Interested in doing a historical hike to Mount Marcy or seeing Lake Tear of the Clouds? See what a local guide can do to set that up for you. And, of course, mark your calendars now for the annual Teddy Roosevelt Weekend held in Newcomb each September.