Events in Newcomb from loons to fishing
Although not nearly as busy as the summer season, the spring events in the Schroon Lake Region are some of the most fun, interesting and educational events on the calendar. Newcomb is lucky enough to be the home of the State University of New York’s College College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF), a training ground for some extraordinary environmental scientists. As part of ESF’s mission, the management of the Adirondack Interpretive Center (AIC) at Newcomb fall to this educational institution. What better pairing could there be?
Adirondack Interpretive Center at Newcomb
The AIC is an educational and recreational facility located in the town of Newcomb, with trails open to the public from dawn to dusk daily. The Interpretive Center building is open 10 am - 4 pm Tuesday through Saturday. The many events on the calendar are both fun and educational, with some geared to families or kids and others for adults.
After this year’s long, cold winter, getting outside to view and hear the awakening forest may be the perfect remedy for spring fever. Most programs at the AIC are free and open to the public, unless noted otherwise. The administration likes to have a handle on attendance numbers, so calling ahead to pre-register or let them know you’re going are greatly appreciated.
Outdoor events for all to enjoy
Some of the exciting events for the spring season follow.
Saturday, April 19th - 9 am - 11:00 am:
WETLAND DETECTIVES TRAINING WORKSHOP
Frogs and Toads - Research has shown that climate change will likely cause drastic changes to Adirondack wetlands. Join in as a citizen scientist and help conduct surveys that will be used to help preserve these vital ecosystems. It’s the perfect opportunity to not only learn about the natural world, but help protect it as well. A follow-up to this workshop is scheduled for May 17th.
Saturday, April 26 - 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm:
AMPHIBIAN NIGHT HIKE
Join us to explore the vernal pools and unlock the secrets of their inhabitants - frogs, salamanders and toads! Witness these amazing animals’ springtime rituals. This is a great event for kids and all ages are welcome. Appropriate clothing and hiking shoes are strongly advised. Call to pre-register.
Loony fun(d) raiser..
Looking ahead to the early part of the summer, one of our favorite events takes place Saturday, May 24th.
ANNUAL LOONS AND LOGS DAY
This ever-growing popular event features the most iconic bird of the Adirondacks, the Common Loon, as well as demonstration by the SUNY ESF woodsmen team. One of the highlights of the event is the much-anticipated rubber Loon race. Sponsor a loon for a chance to wine prizes from local businesses (see video above).
Fly fishing workshop..
If you’ve been planning to learn how to or improve your skills at Fly Fishing, spend the weekend of May 31st thru June 1st in Newcomb and attend this AIC workshop. One of the Adirondack’s legendary guides, Rick Kovacs, will be teaching the finer skills of fly fishing along with some natural history in both indoor and outdoor sessions. Join in and hone your skills or learn how. Pre-registration is required.
Stay and hike or bike awhile...
If you haven’t spent much time in Newcomb, spring and early summer are great times to visit and check out the AIC events and/or do some paddling on the amazing waterways, which include the upper reaches of the Hudson River. Hike or bike the 4.7 miles to Great Camp Santanoni through the beautiful winding roads of the preserve to the main lodge of this historic and restored Adirondack Great Camp.
If you don't plan on attending any of the events or programs at the AIC, you can still visit anytime and hike their trails whenever it suits your schedule, for free.
Check out the entire events schedule for other options while in the Schroon Lake Region.
