Saratoga County Fair: July 12-17
162 Prospect Street, Ballston Spa 885.9701 www.saratogacountyfair.org
Pay One Price Rides (handstamps)
All the rides, all the time. Animal rides not included.
Tuesday-Friday 12noon-midnight $20
Sunday 12noon-11pm $20
Fair Gate Discounts
Tuesday-Thursday $7 adult admission
Wednesday $4 senior (65 and over) admission until 5pm
Friday thru Sunday $10 adult admission
All gate fees include FREE parking in our lots when available
Grandstand Events
Tuesday– J M Productions Demolition Derby
Wednesday–NYTPA Tractor Pull
Thursday–All American PRCA Rodeo
Friday– All American PRCA Rodeo
Saturday–4×4 Truck Pull
Sunday–JM Productions Demolition Derby
Greene County Fair: July 27-July 31
Route 145, East Durham 943-4222 www.greenecountychamber.com
Tickets
$8 per person includes parking, shows, and concerts
$7 wristband includes unlimited number of rides all day.
Children under 5 are free
Times:
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: noon–Midnight
Saturday: 10am–Midnight
Sunday: 10am–9pm
Midway opens 1 hour after fair opens.
Features:
Wednesday: Demolition Derby
Thursday: $1 Senior Citizen Discount
Friday: Classic Car Cruise In
Saturday: Bed Races;Fireworks
Sunday: Demolition Derby Finals
Concerts:
Wednesday: Thunder Ridge
Thursday: Donna Hubler’s tribute to Shania Twain
Friday: Beach Bums (A tribute to the Beach Boys)
Saturday: Night Moves & Teaser
Sunday: Jackinnany
Everyday:
Midway
Wild Animals of New York
Wild West Trading Post Teepee & Campfire
Petting Corral
Cranberry the Clown
Mark Perpetua’s Reptile Encounters
Poppytown Puppets
Drag Racing Stinkers
Paradise Frog Show
Sylvia Markson’s
The Magic Trunk
Tykes – To – Teens Tent
Sunshine Fair: August 9-14
Cobleskill Fairgrounds, Cobleskill 234.2123
Ticket Prices
Daily Admission Ticket
Adults Tuesday-Thursday: $8 daily; Friday-Sunday: $10 daily
Seniors (62+) Tuesday-Sunday: $6 daily; Friday-Sunday: $8 daily
Children Ages 6-12: $2 daily; Under 6: FREE all Week!
3-Day Pass: Adults $20; seniors (62+) $15; children (ages 6-12) $ 5
Parking while available – $2
RV Parking – $5
If 4 or more adults are in a car, parking on grounds is free.
Grandstand:
All shows free!
Season Passes: Adults-$30; seniors (62+)-$25; children (ages 6-12) – $9
Exhibit buildings open at 10am every day except Progressland and Grandstand, which will open 10:30am every day.
Midway
Tuesday–Midway Hand Stamps good from 6pm-10pm – $15
Wednesday–Reduced rides from 1pm-6pm. All ride tickets purchased on Wednesday at half price can be used all week.
Thursday–Midway Hand Stamps 12pm-10pm – $12
Friday–Midway Hand Stamps good from 6pm-10pm – $15
Sunday–Midway Hand Stamps good from 12pm-7pm – $12
Grandstand Shows
Tuesday–Figure 8 Race
Wednesday–Harness Races, 4 cyc Demo Derby
Thursday–Rodeo
Friday–Sanctioned Tractor Pull
Saturday–Mini Van & Pickup Truck Specialty Heat Derby; Demo Derby
Sunday–ATV Drag Racing, Feature Demo Derby
Altamont Fair: August 16-21
129 Grand Street, Altamont 861.6671; altamontfair@yahoo.com
Pay One Price Rides (handstamps)
All the rides, all the time. Animal rides not included.
Tuesday-Friday 12noon-midnight $20
Sunday 12noon-11pm $20
Fair gate discounts
Tuesday-Thursday $7 adult admission
Wednesday $4 senior (65 and over) admission until 5pm
Friday-Sunday $10 adult admission
All gate fees include FREE parking in lots when available
Grandstand Events
Tuesday – J M Productions Demolition Derby
Wednesday – NYTPA Tractor Pull
Thursday – All American PRCA Rodeo
Friday – All American PRCA Rodeo
Saturday – 4×4 Truck Pull
Sunday – J M Productions Demolition Derby
Washington County Fair August 22-28
392 Old Schuylerville Road (Route 29) Greenwich 692.2464
Ticket prices
General admission adults – $8
Children under 14 – Free
Senior citizens (62+, Wednesday only) – $4
Season pass all seven days – $24
Free parking
Hours: Gates open Monday at 5pm, Tuesday-Sunday 9am
Farmers Markets
Renesslaer County
Troy
Troy Waterfront Farmers’ Market
River Street
Saturday, 9am-1pm
Troy Farmers’ Market
Downtown Troy on Broadway between 3rd & 4th Streets
Wednesday, 10am-2pm
For more info: 692.7312
North Greenbush
St. Michael’s Church
Williams Rd. (Rt. 136) North Greenbush
Thursday, 2:30pm-5:30pm
For more info: 283.5187
Saratoga County
Ballston Spa
Ballston Spa Business & Professional Association
Wiswall Park
Thursday, 3pm-7pm; Saturday, 9am-noon
For more info: 885.6693
Clifton Park
Saratoga Farmers’ Market Association
St. George’s Church, Route 146–Thursday, 2pm-5pm
Park and Ride Lot on Fire Road–Sunday, 10am-1pm
For more info: 885.8888
Corinth
Arther White & Son True Value Store Parking Lot
Corinth Merchants Association
Saturday, 9am-1pm
Malta
Saratoga Farmers’ Market Association
Malta Community Center, Route 9
Tuesday, 11am-2pm
For more info: 885.8888
Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Farmers’ Market Association– Wednesday, 3pm-6 pm
Summer Market at High Rock Park – Saturday, 9am-1pm
Winter Market at the Waldorf School on York Avenue – Saturday, 9am-noon
For more info: 885.8888
South Glens Falls
Saratoga Farmers’ Market Association
Village Park
Monday, 10am-1pm
For more info: 792.0198
Warren County
Glens Falls
Glens Falls Farmers’ Market Association
South Street Pavilion
Saturday, 8am-12pm
For more info: 638.6501
Glens Falls Civic Center Market
1 Civic Center Plaza
Glens Falls Farmers’ Market Association
Tuesday, 11am-2pm
For more info: 638.6501
Queensbury
Glens Falls Farmers’ Market Association
Elks Lodge, Cronin Road
Monday, 3pm-6pm
For more info: 638.6501
Warrensburg Riverfront Farmers’ Market
River Street, Route 418
Friday, 3pm-6pm
For more info: 623.2612
Washington County
Cambridge
Cambridge Village Farmers’ Market
Cambridge Freight Yard, East Main & Washington Street
Sunday, 10am-2pm
For more info: 279.4655
Fort Edward
Broadway Lanes Parking Lot, Route 4
Friday, 10am-1pm
For more info: 792.0198
Greenwich
Main Street, Former IGA Parking Lot
Thursday, 2pm-5:30pm
For more info: 854.3750
Hudson Falls
Sutherland Farms, Lower Dix Avenue
Tuesday, 10am-1pm
For more info: 792.0198
Middle Granville
Middle Granville Road
Monday 2pm-5pm
For more info: 854.3750
Salem
Salem Park, Main Street
Saturday 10am-1pm
For more info: 854.3750
Whitehall
The Boulevard
Tuesday, 10am-1pm
For more info: 854.3750
Half Moon Tours
June 4-5; June 11-12; June 18-19; June 25-26; 10am-4pm
Adults $5, students; $3. Students under 12 years of age are admitted free with the purchase of one adult ticket.
The Half Moon is a full-scale replica of the Dutch East India Company ship that Henry Hudson sailed in 1609 and is also a floating museum about New Netherland. The replica ship is owned and operated by the non-profit New Netherland Museum. The original Half Moon was the first European vessel to explore what we know today as the Hudson River Valley
The Half Moon docks at the Pumping Station in the Corning Preserve in Albany. To reach the Half Moon, park in metered spots or parking areas along Broadway in downtown Albany and walk over the Hudson River Way pedestrian bridge (entrance at Broadway and Maiden Lane). For more Albany information, visit Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center, located at the corner of Broadway and Clinton Avenue, Albany. Free parking is available in the Visitors Center parking lot, adjacent to Quackenbush Square (off Broadway via Spencer Street). For more info: 434.0405; www.albany.org
USS Slater Tours
Summer schedule
April through November
Tours: Wednesday-Sunday
10am-4pm
Work Crews: Monday-Tuesday
Adults $6 (over 14); Senior citizens $5 (over 65); $4 children 6-14; Children 5 and under (with adult) Free.
The Slater is a Cannon Class Destroyer Escort. Of the 565 destroyer escorts produced in World War II, USS SLATER (DE-766) is the only one remaining afloat in the United States, and the only one with original battle armament and configuration. These trim but deadly warships had the duty of looking out for enemy submarines and kamikazes as they escorted ship convoys across the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Visitors have a chance to see what life was like for the sailors who manned these vessels when they come aboard this Cannon Class destroyer escort. Moored on the Hudson River the USS Slater has undergone an extensive ten-year restoration that has returned the ship to her former glory. The USS Slater is on Broadway, at the foot of Madison Avenue in Albany. For more info: 431.1943.
Alive at Five
Now entering its 16th season, Alive at Five has kept downtown Albany’s spirits high after work on Thursdays throughout the summer. The stage comes alive with music from national, regional and local artists. Attendees can also sample an array of summer favorites such as ice-cold beer, fresh squeezed lemonade, cotton candy and delicious BBQ from some of the area’s favorite local vendors. Join in the fun and music of this wonderful series that is a signature event and a summer staple in the Capital City.
2005 concert schedule
Opening bands begin at 5pm; headline bands begin at 6:30pm. Shows end at 8pm.
All shows are held at Albany Riverfront Park in the Corning Preserve. For info: www.albanyny.org.
June 2
Beach Party with The Surf City All Star Band
Opening band: The Tom Healey Band
June 9
Celtic Party with Blackthron
Opening band: The McKrells
June 16
Eddie Angel Guitar Party featuring the Neanderthals
Opening band: Rocky Velvet
June 23
Salsa Party with The Spanish Harlem Orchestra featuring Ruben Blades
Opening band: Mundo Nuevo
June 30
Motown Party with Mary Wilson
Opening band: Tammy Fletcher and the Disciples
July 14
Sam Bush
Opening band: Donna The Buffalo
July 21
Little Feat
Opening band: Boston Horns
July 28
Leon Russell
Opening band: Folding Sky
August 4
Terrence Simien
Opening band: Rosie Ledet
August 11
Eileen Ivers & Immigrant Soul
Opening band: The Jimmy Kelly Band
Visit the Adirondacks
The Adirondack Park
The Adirondack Region of Northern New York includes the six million-acre Adirondack Park, surrounding countryside and the entire western shore of Lake Champlain. The region is best known for its mountains (including the highest peaks in New York) and lakes (more shoreline than Vermont and New Hampshire combined). But villages, farms, museums, restaurants, artisan shops and a wide variety of accommodations also characterize the Adirondacks.
Forever Wild
The Adirondack Park was created in 1882 by the New York State Legislature, which enacted measures that guarantee public lands will remain forever wild. The Park itself is the size of the state of Vermont, with a structure unlike any other state or national park in the nation: it is a patchwork of public and private lands. There are expansive blocks of backcountry interspersed with private homes, villages and tracts of corporate forest lands under active management. In the Adirondacks, it is possible to hike to an isolated waterfall in the afternoon, then spend the evening strolling Main Street.
The Blue Line
Within the “Blue Line,” as the park boundary is called, more than 40 state-operated campgrounds, 2,000 miles of hiking trails, hundreds of miles of canoe routes and 42 peaks over 4,000 feet in height entice travelers from all over the world. During the winter, visitors enjoy Alpine and Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, skating, dog sledding and relaxing in front of gigantic stone fireplaces.
Interstate Rt. 87 passes through the Adirondack Park along its eastern side, originating in the Albany area and continuing north to the Canadian border, but there are over 40 other roads entering the park as well. As a result, there is no “entrance gate,” and no admission fee. (Fees apply at state campgrounds, but hiking, canoe and boat access on state lands are free.)
Hike. Canoe. Boat. Fish. Swim. Ride mountain or road bikes. Ride horses. Camp. Ski. Snowmobile. Hunt. Tour Olympic sites. Visit museums chronicling the hard-knock history of farmers, loggers and health care pioneers. Shop artisan outlets. Take architectural tours. Enjoy theater and art exhibitions. Sit on the veranda sipping drinks and watching the sun slip behind the mountains. Or do it all.
Wildlife
The Adirondacks are home to black bears, white tailed deer, common loons, mergansers, bald eagles, beavers, coyotes, fishers, bobcats, brook and lake trout, land-locked salmon and more.
Forests
Its forests are comprised of hardwoods and softwoods, including maple, black cherry, beech, balsam fir, hemlock, Scotch and red pine and spruces of several varieties. Woodland wildflowers such as showy ladyslippers bloom in the spring, while many waterways are graced with white and yellow water lilies throughout the summer. There are several Alpine summits in the Adirondacks where rare plants thrive under adverse conditions. Hikers are cautioned to stay on paths or bare rocks when visiting these summits.
Young Mountains
The Adirondacks are part of the Canadian Shield. Contrary to popular belief, these mountains are not old, “worn down” peaks, but relatively young mountains born as a result of orogeny, or uplift, followed by etching and carving by mile-high glaciers. It is theorized that there is a geologic “hotspot” beneath the Adirondacks that is causing continuing uplift. The mountains continue to grow at the rate of 1.5 millimeters annually.
While the mountains themselves are young, the rock of which most are formed, anorthosite, is among the oldest of the various types found on earth.
For more information visit www.adk.com or call 800.487.6867.
Gore Mountain Region
If you’re an outdoors enthusiast, then the Gore Mountain area is a dream come true. Hikers can take one on of the area’s 46 mountain peaks, including Mount Marcy, which stands more than a mile high. Better yet, join the Adirondack Forty-Sixer organization by climbing them all! Mountain bikers will also appreciate the numerous trails. The ride into nearby Camp Santanoni and the annual Old Forge and Inlet Races are all fan favorites. Give life in the water a try at some of the abundant beaches, pools, and saunas located at the base area. Local campgrounds offer pristine lakes for very reasonable fees. For more info: www.goremountainskiresorts.com.
Indian Lake
The long wait for prime fishing season can come to a successful end at Indian Lake. The area sports several species of fish, including pickerel, bass, pike, pan fish, and the always-abundant population of lake trout. Boat rentals are available to aid the process, and being in the middle of the lake enhances the beautiful view of the nearby mountain landscape. Golfers can try their luck at Wakely Lodge & Golf Course and Cedar River Golf Club & Motel. For a real thrill, try out Helms Aero Service to see the Adirondacks from a bird’s-eye view. For more info: www.indian-lake.com.
Blue Mountain Lake
One of the most picturesque hiking paths in the region, the Blue Mountain path offers two and a half miles of trail up to the top of the mountain itself, offering a staggering view of 16 lakes and 165 other Adirondack mountains. Blue Mountain lake sits at the base, offering a plentiful supply of trout, smallmouth and largemouth bass, and salmon. The “Must See” of the area is the Adirondack Museum, with both indoor and outdoor exhibits.
Long Lake/Raquette Lake
Canoeing has been one of the best ways to spend the time at Long Lake and Raquette Lake for ages, dating back to the mid-1800s. As a matter of fact, the two lakes are actually part of the revered Fulton Chain Adirondack Canoe Route, which branches off to additional lakes and ponds. Hikers can jump on the Northville-Placid trail and keep an eye out for ospreys and white-tailed deer. The area is also close to official Department of Transportation bike paths, and separate paved and gravel paths are also available. When your day is over, take your pick of eight separate campsites to spend your nights in. For more info: www.centraladirondacks.com.
Newcomb
Newcomb is the home of the famous Camp Santanoni, which boasts 12,500 acres of scenic splendor and Santanoni Lodge, more than a century old and one of the most popular resorts in the state. Lake Harris campground boasts 90 separate camping spots, as well as picnic areas and a public beach. The main landform, Goodnow Mountain, is 2,685 feet high, which is small compared to the other Adirondack mountains. However, the peak of the mountain, which is part of the 15,000-acre Huntington Wildlife Forest, sports a 60-foot high fire tower, which provides climbers with a breathtaking view. For more info: www.newcombny.com.
Lake George Region
Bolton Landing
Always having problems finding a place to stay? Not here. The Bolton Landing area has 39 unique lodging areas for you to choose from, as well as five private resorts. Bolton Landing Marina has more than enough amenities to satisfy boaters from all across the state, including the new and exclusive “Dry Rack” boat storage facility. Town Park is located directly next to the Marina, where boaters go to play a few games of tennis, laze around on the public beach, and experience outdoor meals in the picnic area. For more info: www.boltonchamber.com.
Hague
One of the more scenic hiking areas in northern New York, Hague has numerous trails that lead to several landmarks, including Jabe Pond, Deer Leap, Five Mile Mountain, Berrymill Pond, and Rogers Rock. All of these spots are great choices when “getting away from it all” is on the agenda. To see local artifacts on display, take a glance into the Clinton F. West Historical Museum, located in the Hague Community Center. For the history buffs in the family, the famous Fort Ticonderoga is not too far away, featuring daily musket firings (depending on the weather). For more info: www.hagueticonderoga.com.
Lake George
The question here isn’t, “What can I do at Lake George?” but “What CAN’T I do at Lake George?” This 32-mile lake is heaven for fishers of all ages, boasting scores of different species of fish; too many to list here! The Lake George Escape Evergreen Resort is one of the more popular camping spots in the area, able to accommodate RV’s, tents, and even those who desire to rent their own camping unit for a while. Take the family hiking up Hadley Mountain or through the Inman Pond trail, which leads to the pond itself and a beaver dam. The more adventurous hiker will be honored to try the challenging Buck Mountain, nearly seven miles in a round-trip. Spend a leisurely day walking and visiting the many shops in Lake George Village or hit the outlets only a few minutes away. And of course, you simply can’t go wrong with a trip to Great Escape and Splashwater Kingdom. For more info: www.lakegeorge.com.
Lake Luzerne
If you’ve been having a hankering to check out some live rodeo action, then Lake Luzerne is the place for you. What better way to spend some time than watching bucking broncos and fearless cowboys, followed by grabbing some treats at Papa’s Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlor. Lake Luzerne is also a sure-fire spot to test your nerves at whitewater rafting on the Hudson and Sacandaga rivers, the latter of which bears the landmark Historic Bow Bridge. For more info: www.lakeluzernechamber.org.
Paradox Lake
Named after its bizarre habit of flowing backwards during the yearly run-off, Paradox Lake is one of the most serene places in the Lake George region. Folks have been camping here since 1931, and the habit is not likely to die out anytime soon. The south end of the lake hosts multiple paths, guaranteed go satisfy even the most discriminating hiker, and fishers will be sure to try their luck snagging the yellow perch, northern pike, and smallmouth bass that call the lake their home. For more info: www.dec.state.ny.us.
Queensbury
The town of Queensbury has been in existence since 1763, but its appeal to the outdoorsy types has not aged at all. One of the main aspects of this town is the preservation of the Karner Blue Butterfly, an endangered species and the “Official Butterfly” of Queensbury since April of 2001. The town has been engaged in a long-running preservation project of the butterfly and the wild lupine plant, the Karner Blue’s sole food source. For more info: www.queensbury.net.
Warrensburg
A mere five minutes away from Lake George in the Southern Adirondacks, Warrensburg is a picturesque little village with a post-Colonial atmosphere, right down to the modified water-driven mills (which are now being used as shops and restaurants). Go swimming in Echo Lake’s newly renovated beach, or give your audacious side a treat and experience the Class V whitewater rapids. Warrensburg also offers you their well-preserved dude ranches, dating back to the glory days of the 1940s and ’50s. For more info: www.warrensburgchamber.com.
Lake Champlain & Northern New York Region
Essex
A member of the National Register of Historic Places since 1975, Essex is located between the foothills of the Adirondacks and the western shore of Lake Champlain. The entire town itself is quite popular with tourists, but they always manage to converge into Beggs Park, which provides a view of Vermont’s Green Mountains. Vermont natives who come to visit Essex are actually luckier: they get to experience the 30-minute ferry ride from Vermont to the little town. If Vermont is on your agenda, then hop on the ferry for the return trip! For more info: www.essexnewyork.com.
Lake Champlain
You’ve read the stories. You’ve heard the rumors. Why not take a trip to Lake Champlain and see if you can sneak a view of Champ, the lake’s resident monster? The beast was last seen on July 28th of 2004, when a Maryland man fishing with his four grandchildren witnessed a dark-colored, humped, snake-shaped creature pluck a seagull out of the air for an afternoon snack. Aside from creature hunting, there are plenty of boating, golfing, hiking, and rock-climbing opportunities to keep you and your family occupied. For more info: www.lakechamplainregion.com.
Plattsburgh
Residents of “P-Burgh” possess a very strong sense of pride in their hometown, which is clear to see upon going there. The fishing here is some of the best that anyone could ever hope to experience, with more that 60 different species of fish up for grabs. There is also an ongoing plan to construct a well-formatted system of bike paths sometime in the near future. For an educational experience, stop by the Kent Delord House Museum, which was once used by the British as their headquarters during the Battle of Plattsburgh. Historical lighthouses also dot the area. For more info: www.cityofplattsburgh.com.
Saranac
Most people picture the famous and various types of bottled beer upon hearing the word Saranac. In fact, the family-owned brewery is one of the most respected landmarks in the town of Utica, not Saranac itself. There’s actually much more to this town than you would expect. Golf, hiking, biking canoeing, and camping are only a few of the ways to pass the time here. For more info: www.saranaclake.com.
Malone
Referred to as “The Star of the North,” this is the home of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s character Almanzo, from the “Farmer Boy” series. In fact, Malone has a full museum dedicated to him! For those looking for a little more action, bowl a frame or two at Lucky Strike Lanes. Resurrection Park and the Franklin County House of History are two of the best ways to relax and sightsee here. For more info: www.maloneny.us.
Inlet/Old Forge Region
Inlet
Inlet has been buzzing on the shores of Fourth Lake since 1902, and was first used by guides of the Adirondack region to show would-be explorers how to live in the wilderness. To this day, camping is one of the most popular pastimes for the 485 residents of the town. The area is ripe with ponds, streams and lakes, all of which are prime real estate for camping. The three public boat launches and the seaplane rides are some of the other interesting treats in this place, as well as horseback riding, golfing, mountain biking and taking a stroll through Arrowhead Park. For more info: www.inletny.com
Old Forge
Right smack dab in the southwest region of the Adirondack Park sits Old Forge, about ten miles south of Inlet. The bike trails here are used by NORBA for the annual Mountain Bike Challenge. Like its neighbor, Inlet, there are numerous spots to go out camping here, including one site owned by the well-known KOA. One of the most exciting things to do at Old Forge is to tangle with “The Moose.” Moose River has two separate spots to go rafting. Middle Moose is a Class I, II and III area, and the very experienced rafters try their hand at the Class V rapids of Lower Moose. For more info: www.oldforgeny.com
Lake Placid/Tri-Lakes Region
Lake Placid
The home of the historical 1980 Winter Olympics still manages to keep visitors rolling in to this day. The full-length Ironman Triathlon and the Lake Placid Horse Shows are two of the reasons for this, as are the incredible outdoors opportunities found all over the Adirondack region. Racers, mountain bikers, and leisurely tourist riders all have plenty of spots available to serve their needs. Those who cast their lines into Lake Placid are sure to take on a bevy of fish, including several different kinds of trout. For more info: www.lakeplacid.com
Tupper Lake
Tupper Lake is better known as the “Crossroads of The Adirondacks.” Hikers love to toss on their hiking boots and take a trek up Coney Mountain. In fact, they’ve done it so many times they wore their own trail into the ground! When Coney Mountain has been done, they like to take a drive west for a few miles and scale up Mount Arab, in order to climb the steps of the Mount Arab Fire Tower and to take a gander at the spectacular view. Tupper Lake is also the host of the “Tinman” Triathlon. For more info: www.tupperlake.net.
Cranberry Lake/Five Ponds Wilderness Region
Cranberry Lake
About 50,000 acres of forestland and trails make up the area surrounding Cranberry Lake. You have the option of camping out in one of the 46 campsites along the shore of the river, or trekking out into the wilderness and pitching a tent out there. Expert fishermen claim that multitudes of small mouth bass lurk around the rockier areas of the lake, while brown trout and brook trout can be found in the streams that flow into the lake itself. The Cranberry Lake Guide Service hosts an outdoors school for those who wish to learn how to rough it in the best ways possible. For more info: www.dec.state.ny.us.
Wanakena
Wanakena is a small village situated on the western border of the Adirondacks. Its main landmark is The Foot Bridge, which stretches about 130 feet. It was built over the Oswegatchie River in 1902 to aid families who wished to travel back and forth between two logging mills. It was declared a historical landmark in 1999 and residents call it a symbol of their town’s history. While you’re there, go visit “The Ranger School,” also known as The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. For more info: www.esf.edu.
Ausable Chasm
The “Grand Canyon of the East,” Ausable Chasm is the oldest natural attraction in the USA, established in 1870. People of all ages enjoy the natural splendor of this Adirondack wonder, which began its formation during the Cambrian age–500 million years ago! This is when the rushing water of the powerful Ausable River began cutting its way deeper into a fault in the Potsdam sandstone strata. Today a tour of Ausable Chasm is an education on Adirondack natural history and a recreational vacation rolled into one! For more info: www.ausablechasm.com.
Whiteface Mountain
The Whiteface Mountain Region of the Adirondacks has been drawing summer visitors for well over 100 years. It’s a great place to rejuvenate your batteries and destress. Every kind of outdoor activity you can imagine is available here, including hiking, biking and fishing. There’s also no better to do absolutely nothing.
Located just over two hours from Albany, it’s a great destination to visit any time of year. Whiteface Mountain Ski Center, located in the town of Wilmington, is rated one of the best ski mountains in the East and boasts the steepest vertical drop. Site of the alpine competitions during the 1980 Winter Olympics, Whiteface continues to host world-class ski competitions each year. In the summer, the Cloudsplitter Gondola takes visitors to the top of Little Whiteface for scenic views of the region. For even more dramatic views, drive to the top of Whiteface Mountain (elevation 4,867 feet). The scenic road to the top is also the site of the Annual Uphill Races (Foot Race and Bike Race), both held in June.
Wilmington, known as “The Village at Whiteface Mountain”, is also home to several other great attractions, including High Falls Gorge and Santa’s Workshop–the oldest theme park in the US. Since 1949, children have been visiting Santa, feeding his reindeer and enjoying the rides and shows. The park is open during the summer months as well as selected weekends before Christmas.
For superb fly fishing, the West Branch of the Ausable River is famous. It’s one of the most pristine and scenic regions in the East, with miles of pocket water, vast stretches of slow moving runs, deep pools and long channels. Several excellent fly-fishing shops in the area cater to every fisherman’s needs.
The Whiteface Mountain Region is home to many talented artists and craftsmen. Visit the towns of Wilmington, Jay and Upper Jay for galleries, gift shops and craft shops featuring locally created works. For live music and entertainment, bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a performance at the Jay Village Green or the Wilmington Beach each week.
There are a numerous lodging, camping and dining opportunities in the Whiteface Mountain Region. For more information, contact the Whiteface Mountain Regional Visitors Bureau toll free at (888) 944.8332, or visit www.whitefaceregion.com.
Exploring Schroon Lake Region
It isn’t called the “Trailhead to the Adirondacks” for nothing. The Schroon Lake Region, located just an hour and a half north of the Albany region, is one of the most scenic sections of the Adirondack Park, characterized by rolling topography, numerous lakes and ponds, and large tracts of forests unbroken by roads. Nestled in a valley between two large Adirondack Wilderness areas, Schroon Lake is the perfect home base for hikers, bikers and outdoor recreational enthusiasts.
Hiking and biking
The Region offers miles of hiking trails for both the novice and avid hiker and rewards them with spectacular scenery that can only be found in the Adirondacks. The Schroon Lake Region is named for its largest lake, which is 9.1 miles long, and located between the Pharaoh Wilderness, Hoffman Notch Wilderness and Hammond Pond Wild Forest areas.
The Pharaoh Lake Wilderness is an extremely scenic section of the Adirondack Park. The highest mountain in the range, Pharaoh Mountain, reaches an elevation of 2,577 feet above sea level. Steeper grades provide views of both Vermont and surrounding Adirondack Mountain ranges, including the High Peaks. Hikers, rock climbers and fishermen delight in the solitude and spectacular backcountry experience that this large tract offers.
The Hoffman Notch wilderness is a bow tie-shaped wilderness area that encompasses over 36,000 acres in the towns of Schroon and North Hudson. It is the epitome of wilderness, unblemished and untamed. The few marked and maintained trails include Big Marsh and Loch Muller and follow abandoned logging roads through low woodlands and mountain passes. Hikers should take the proper precautions including maps, compass or GPS, food, water and appropriate clothes.
Road and mountain bikers are in for a treat. On- and off-road loops and trails are available for both touring and advanced mountain biking in the region. Just north of the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness, the Hammond Pond Wild Forest beckons mountain bikers. Visitors to Wild Forest designated areas in the Adirondacks allow limited use of motorized vehicles and mountain bikes, making the Hammond Pond Wild Forest a perfect destination for knobby-tire enthusiasts.
Fishing
Fishing in Schroon Lake, Paradox Lake, and the Schroon River, along with numerous other ponds and streams is an angler’s dream. The region’s waters are fully stocked, brimming with landlocked salmon, perch, small and large mouth bass, rainbow and lake trout, great northern pike and pickerel.
Outdoor recreational paradise
Canoe, kayak or sail the crystal clear waters of Schroon and nearby Paradox Lakes. For swimming, the town beach in Schroon Lake is truly one of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the region, complete with lifeguards all summer. If you prefer to be on the water, launch your own boat, rent one for the day, or take a scenic boat tour.
There are even more recreational opportunities in the region. Play a match on the free public tennis courts, which offer hard, true surfaces. And, golfers will enjoy the Schroon Lake Golf Course, a challenging nine-hole, par 36 gem.
Cultural center
Schroon Lake has long been associated with music. The Seagle Music Colony has hosted a summer training program for gifted musicians for 90 years and performances are open to the public and presented throughout the summer. The Schroon Lake Arts Council offers an outstanding summer schedule of cultural and musical events, from theatrical and opera performances to big band concerts. Arts and crafts fairs are held throughout the summer, or enjoy weekly square dances in the park every Wednesday night!
Summer events highlights include the Strawberry Festival in June, an old fashioned 4th of July parade and the Adirondack Folk Festival in August. The area has gained attention for its most famous event, the annual Adirondack Distance Festival, which is held in September each year. A Boston marathon qualifier, this half and full marathon circumnavigates Schroon Lake itself, and is noted as “the most beautiful 26 miles, 385 yards you’ll ever run.”
Relax–Adirondack style
Offering a diverse combination of activities to visitors–from true backcountry pursuits to renowned cultural events, the Schroon Lake Region is the perfect adventure “home base”. Stroll down the charming main street, where you’ll find a variety of shops, eclectic restaurants, the Schroon-North Hudson historical museum, the Strand movie theatre, antiques and more. Choose from accommodations that range from cozy and historic Bed & Breakfasts to country motels to rustic cabins in the woods to the perfect campsite.
Schroon Lake is located just off the I87 Northway at exits 27-29. A comprehensive biking map guide, hiking and accommodations resources are available at the Chamber of Commerce office on Main Street. For more information about the area, visit www.schroonlakeregion.com, or call 800.447.5224 ext. 161.
Fort Ticonderoga
May 10-October 23. 9am-5pm.
Admission: $12/adults; $10.80/seniors & students; $6/children ages 7-12, free for children under 7 and for residents of Ticonderoga, Hague, Silver Bay, Putnam, and Crown Point, New York, and Orwell and Shoreham, Vermont.
Fort Ticonderoga consists of the restored 18th century Fort and a museum with over 30,000 objects. In addition, there is the Log House Restaurant and Museum Store. The Thompson-Pell Research Center houses the administrative offices and the research library with over 13,000 rare books and manuscripts. Below the Fort on Lake Champlain is The Pavilion, which is slated for future restoration. Next to The Pavilion and open to the public are the King’s Garden at Fort Ticonderoga, the 18th-century garrison garden, and the Native American garden.
History
Fort Ticonderoga was built by the French from 1755-1759 and called Fort Carillon, located above the narrow choke-point between Lake Champlain and Lake George, which controlled the major north-south inland water “highway” during the 18th century. Due to this strategic location the Fort was the “key to the continent” as the superpowers of the 18th century, the French and the British, contested for empire in North America. On July 8, 1758 the Fort was successfully defended by French forces under the command of the Marquis de Montcalm despite overwhelming British forces led by General Abercromby. This was France’s greatest victory in the Seven Years’ War and a humiliating and devastating defeat for the British. The following year, the British did defeat the French at Fort Carillon under General Amherst.
At the outset of the American Revolution just a half-company of British soldiers manned the Fort. On May 10, 1775, Ethan Allen, Benedict Arnold, and the Green Mountain Boys crossed Lake Champlain from Vermont under cover of darkness. At dawn they surprised the sleeping garrison and overwhelmed them, making Fort Ticonderoga America’s first victory of the Revolutionary War. From then until July 1777, Fort Ticonderoga served as an important staging area for the American army while invading Canada, outfitting America’s first navy, and fortifying Mount Independence in Vermont, and building extensive defensive works within a 10-mile radius. In addition, the Fort was where vessels for America’s first navy were rigged and fitted out. This fleet, under the command of Benedict Arnold, fought the Battle of Valcour Island on Lake Champlain in 1776. Although the American fleet was utterly defeated, the fight stalled the British on their march south. In July 1777 the British commander, General Burgoyne, managed to place cannon on Mount Defiance and forced the Fort’s American garrison commanded by General Arthur St. Clair to evacuate the Fort on July 6th. One more attempt by the Americans retake the Fort failed in September 1777. This was the last major military action to take place at Ticonderoga.
In 1820, William Ferris Pell purchased the ruins of the Fort and the surrounding “garrison grounds” to preserve it for posterity. In 1826 he built The Pavilion as a hotel to serve the growing number of tourists who came to see the Fort ruins. In 1908 Stephen and Sarah Gibbs Thompson Pell began restoration of Fort Ticonderoga and in 1909 it was opened to the public with President Taft in attendance. In 1931 Fort Ticonderoga was designated a private not-for-profit educational historic site managed by the Fort Ticonderoga Association.
For more information visit www.fort-ticonderoga.org.
The Adirondack Museum
Blue Mountain Lake 352.7311; www.adirondackmuseum.org
Called “the best of its kind in the world,” by The New York Times, the Adirondack Museum at Blue Mountain Lake overlooks the lake of the same name.
Twenty buildings on 32 acres of grounds and gardens house exhibits on logging, boats and boating, mining, outdoor recreation, transportation, rustic furniture…, and on-going programs and special events offer a variety of interesting activities for the whole family.
Behind the scenes in the Adirondack Museum Library one can find more publications, maps and other printed material about the Adirondacks than in any other single location; and over 65,000 historic photographs offer a rich visual resource. All museum collections are accessible to the public by appointment.
The Adirondack Museum is best reached by car and is located on Route 30 in the Hamlet of Blue Mountain Lake, New York, midway between the well-known resorts of Lake George and Lake Placid (home of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics).
The museum is just a two-hour drive from Albany. Within the Adirondack Park, the museum is just an hour drive from Lake George or 90 minutes from Lake Placid.
An average visit to the Adirondack Museum is 3-4 hours and usually includes lunch or a snack in the Lake View Caf, and shopping in the Museum Store, which is open daily until 5:30 pm and offers regional crafts, books, prints, toys and jewelry.
Hours and Fees: Adults (13 and older) : $14; Children (6-12): $7; Children under six: Free; Museum Members: Free
Year-round residents of Adirondack Park free during the month of June and on the last day of the season, October 30, 2005.
Admission good for two consecutive days. Group rates available
Open daily* 10am – 5pm through October 16, October 22-23, October 29-30. In July and August hours are 10am-6pm.
The museum is closed the day prior to the Rustic Furniture Fair in September to allow for exhibitor set up. Please call for specific dates.