Lake Placid: Placid Meadows, 4 BR, 3.5 BA, 11.23 private acres, beautiful views, open floor plan, finished walk-out lower level, heated inground saltwater pool, landscaped grounds, trails, borders NYS land, deeded access to Alford Pond. $1,040,000
Willsboro: Constructed in 1810, the historic Ross Mill, built along the Bouquet River has been updated with a new roof and new timber frame supports, views and sounds of the river are captivating!
$529,000
Essex: Own a 5000 sq. ft. boat storage facility and a 1500 sq. ft. fully equipped restaurant, overlooking Lake Champlain. ROW for the road/ launch site, 47 ft of owned waterfront. Close to the Essex ferry to VT. $395,000
Lake Placid: 2 newly built private riverfront log homes on the Chubb River, 2 BR-2 BA Main Cabin, 1 BR- 1 BA Guest Cabin, enhanced details reclaimed from an 1800’s barn, existing house plans avail. or customize to reflect your own unique vision.
$689,000
Saranac Lake: Adirondack Style, turn key townhome on the shores of Ampersand Bay on lower Saranac Lake with 3 stories, new siding and HVAC system, on-site restaurant & wine bar, great rental potential. $549,000
Saranac Lake: 1920’s 5 BR, 2.5 BA home overlooking Lake Colby beach with an outbuilding housing 2 - 1BR apts, currently rented on a month to month basis. Main house was once a 2 unit and could be converted back to 4 units. $459,000
Jay: Adirondack style ranch, located in Ausable Acres is being sold fully furnished and includes two tax map parcels. Recent upgrades & renovations include - completed lower level plumbing and electric,scratch proof flooring, gutters, hot tub, furnishings/bedding $568,500
Wilmington: Private 22 acre nature park & tourist attraction on the Ausable River, year-round profitable business, Adk style main lodge, gift shop, restaurant, cafe & bar seats for 46, event/ wedding venue, offered turnkey. $8,700,000
Lake Placid: Camp Two Pines 4 BR, 4 BA yearround waterfront retreat on Lake Placid, 1.2 acres, covered boat slip, open boat slip, large swim dock, private sandy shoreline overlooking the Sunset Straight, peaceful setting. $4,195,000
‘POSITIVITY’ Through workouts fills unique fitness studio
By Grace McIntyre
Afitness boutique is carving out a space for itself in sports-oriented Lake Placid with unique class offerings catering to all levels and abilities.
Perched on the second floor of 2663 Main Street and facing the Olympic Oval, Studio Upstate is outfitted with Pilates reformer machines and poles, with aerial silks hanging from the ceiling and mud room that is especially handy in the winter months.
Zoe Brown, owner and instructor at the studio, said that when she moved to the area in 2019, the small community of Lake Placid offered her a unique opportunity.
“I was in such a fortunate and unique situation to have the opportunity to be the only Pilates studio here,” she said. “Because if you’re in other states and other communities, there’s probably neighboring Pilates studios within five or 10 minutes of each other.”
However, Studio Upstate has much more to offer than just Pilates. Brown has a panoply of disciplines in her fitness repertoir — from yoga and Pilates to aerials and fire dancing. However, she said pole dancing was her first love, having practiced it for 14 years.
Originally from Boulder, Colorado, Brown’s journey with pole dancing began when she saw a Groupon for a class nearby. She went with her sister and after one class, she was hooked. She immediately bought a pole and installed it in her basement.
Brown was drawn to teaching because she wanted to create these kinds of spaces for other people. She loved being a student in the pole community, a group of people she has always found to be fun and encouraging.
However, there aren’t a ton of ways to get certified in teaching pole, so she went a more traditional route when it came to teaching, first getting a yoga fitness certification in 2015. She started teaching and was eventually juggling classes at up to six studios at a time, but found herself wanting more.
In 2019, Brown moved to Lake Placid and geared up to open her studio in March 2020. The advent of the pandemic delayed her plans and she was able to open — albeit with restrictions that meant she could only teach a few people in the room at a time — in October of that year.
Now, with a cadre of loyal customers and a growing business, she is happy to say that Studio Upstate weathered a time of isolation and emerged with a new community.
“I’m so glad that we thrived through it,” Brown said. “I don’t even want to say we survived — we totally thrived through it.”
Since opening, Studio Upstate has gained four instructors in addition to Brown, each with their own background and specialties. This is something Brown thinks helps them cater to a broad range of people.
Brown emphasizes their classes are intended for everyone, regardless of level or ability. Her clients range from Olympic athletes — the sliding teams do private lessons with her during the off-season — to people coming off of injuries and women who are doing prenatal or postnatal training.
Chelsi Wright, 41, of Saranac Lake was pulled along by a friend who wanted a buddy to try something new with.
“Going into any sort of new space, especially not knowing what you’re doing or what’s expected of you, is so intimidating,” Wright said. “You walk in there, and it’s like a home. There’s this camaraderie.”
Studio Upstate owner and instructor Zoe Brown in her studio.
To learn more about Studio Upstate, visit tinyurl.com/4bntb7nx.
“I adore everything about the pole community. I love the support of all of the people, and I love that it felt like my first time that I had permission to be strong and to be sexy,” Brown said. “To have that in such a supportive environment, just was life changing for me.”
Laura Rafferty, of Lake Placid, took her first pole class at Studio Upstate in January 2021. Four years later, she’s still going strong. She earned her Pilates certification last fall and has also started teaching pole classes.
“It definitely took me out of my comfort zone,” Rafferty said. “I knew I would feel kind of awkward and uncomfortable — and I did — but even before the first class was over, I was comfortable in this space.”
NORTHERN
CHALLENGE
ICE FISHING DERBY
ABOVE: Dan, Zack, and Nick Daniels.
ABOVE: Todd Froadtert, Jesse Streeter, Corey Wilkins, Jacob Froedtert, Devon Bercume and Tyler Froedtert.
WISHING FOR YOUR OWN PIECE OF THE ADIRONDACKS?
Qualify for more & get more buying power
Loans made easier. It may feel a bit overwhelming, especially for first-time homebuyers. But not to worry, we’ve done this before—many times. Our mortgage loan professionals are committed to making the process as easy as possible.
When you’re ready to buy a home, the first thing you should be armed with is knowledge of your credit and financial history. Knowing this and ensuring any issues are rectified will allow you to be in the best position to get the home you want.
A prequalification certificate for a mortgage will let you know how much house you can afford. These days, many real estate professionals won’t show houses without one.
Creating a detailed budget of all income sources and livings expenses will also help you know how much house you can afford. You should factor in expenses beyond the mortgage: property and school taxes, home maintenance costs, homeowner’s insurance, and more. Don’t forget to include any outstanding debts and your plan to pay them off.
Becoming acquainted with the different kinds of mortgages will help you explore your options. There are many options out there beyond the traditional— like our no closing cost mortgage* option.
With our significant upfront savings, you may be able to also qualify for more and have more resources to better compete in today’s market. We can help you choose the most appropriate mortgage for your situation.
At Community Bank, you will have a mortgage loan professional who takes the time to explain every step of the process and gets to know you. You’ll make decisions together that will impact your future. So choose us, an expert and partner you can trust.
APPLY FOR YOUR NEXT MORTGAGE ONLINE
Scan the QR code to get started or visit cbna.com/mortgage to explore our family of mortgage products, prequalify, and apply online today.
We’re committed to giving you the dedicated service and attention you deserve—meaning your mortgage loan professional will be with you at every step of the process. If you ever have a question or concern, you can always pick up the phone and speak to your local mortgage loan professional, one on one.
OUR MORTGAGES WORK HARDER FOR YOU
Enjoy upfront savings and lower monthly payments with our no closing cost mortgage* and lower-to-no private mortgage insurance options that help boost your homebuying budget and maximize your buying power. Because our mortgages do more than help you get the home you want, they help your money work harder for you.
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
• NOW OFFERING VA FINANCING
•First-time homebuyer programs
•No closing cost mortgages*
•Fixed-rate loans
•Mortgage refinancing
•Home equity loans and lines of credit
•New construction and renovation loans
•Flexible portfolio mortgage programs
•Conventional and secondary market loans
•Property investment loans
•Land loans
•Double
•Government and affordable housing programs
our Showroom! STORE HOURS: Monday - Friday 8AM - 5:30PM Saturday 9AM - 3PM
“Our team of dedicated advisors embodies Engel & Völkers’ commitment to excellence, professionalism, and passion. This dedication is reflected in our sophisticated approach to positioning and marketing your home— ensuring it reaches the right buyers at the right time.”
—Colleen Holmes, Real Estate Broker
Engel & Völkers Presents: The Spring Selling Advantage
Thinking of listing your home? Now’s the time to prepare!
Spring is widely considered the best time to sell a home, thanks to a combination of market dynamics, buyer psychology, and seasonal advantages. If you’re thinking of selling, this season offers the ideal mix of high demand, strong pricing, and favorable conditions to make the process smoother and more profitable.
Preparing your home for sale requires careful planning to maximize its appeal and value. The goal is to showcase it in its best light while helping buyers envision themselves living there.
KEY FACTORS FOR A SUCCESSFUL SALE
Before listing your home, it’s important to consider the following:
✔ Strategic Pricing: Engel & Völkers will analyze market conditions to determine a competitive and realistic price—ensuring you avoid overpricing or underpricing.
✔ Home Preparation: Address necessary repairs, consider a pre-listing inspection, make strategic cosmetic upgrades, enhance curb appeal, declutter, depersonalize and stage your home to enhance appeal.
✔ Market Readiness & Timing: Understand current real estate trends and buyer demand, choose the best season to sell—typically spring or early summer, have a well-planned strategy for showings to maximize exposure.
✔ Expert Guidance: With Engel & Völkers’ local expertise, our advisors will guide you through every step—from pricing and negotiations to closing.
WHO WE ARE
Engel & Völkers is a globally recognized luxury real estate brand that serves clients at all price points. Every client receives the same level of exclusivity, competence, and passion, ensuring personalized service and exceptional results.
With 1,000 locations across five continents, we connect sellers with qualified buyers through targeted marketing and worldwide collaborations—ensuring maximum exposure for your property.
Colleen M. Holmes Real Estate Broker/Owner
We look forward to assisting you with all your real estate needs!
WHY WORK WITH US?
✔ Local Market Expertise – Our advisors have deep knowledge of your market and its trends.
✔ Global Reach – Our worldwide network connects your home with buyers across the Americas and beyond.
✔ Data-Driven Marketing – We leverage cutting-edge strategies to showcase your home to the right audience.
✔ White-Glove Service – Expect expert guidance, personalized attention, and peace of mind throughout the process.through targeted marketing and worldwide collaborations— ensuring maximum exposure for your property.
GIVING YOU THE EDGE
Your property deserves maximum visibility. That’s why we use Extensive Domestic & Global Exposure (EDGE)—our premium marketing platform. EDGE syndicates your listing across high-end media outlets, ensuring it’s seen by qualified buyers 24/7—whether they’re next door or overseas.
READY TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE PRIME SELLING SEASON?
Schedule a no-obligation consultation today, and let our expert team guide you to a successful sale.
VISIT US AT OUR NEW SHOP LOCATION:
2297 Saranac Avenue Lake Placid, NY 12946 (518) 523-4404 DreamADK.com
Adirondack Log Cabin, situated on 2.28 wooded acres with 275 ft river frontage on the West branch of the Ausable River- fished by anglers from around the world. Featuring 3 bedrooms & 2 baths spread over 2,144 sq ft, this home offers the perfect mix of rustic charm & modern comfort. Offered turn key with most contents included. Step inside to be greeted by the open concept living room, dining room with cathedral ceilings & kitchen, while a unique catwalk above leads you to an upper deck where you can enjoy the tranquil sounds & views of the river below. Wood stove to enjoy on chilly evenings. Lower level offers additional full bath, wood sauna & laundry. Outdoors there is something for every nature & recreational sports enthusiast. Screened river front lean-to & sleeping shed can be used for additional guests in the warmer weather. Picnic area, fire pit, firewood storage, additional storage shed, small pond, garden area & paths that wind through the property. Steps lead you down to your own private river front paradise for swimming & fishing.
Adirondack Log Cabin, situated on 2.28 wooded acres with 275 ft river frontage on the West branch of the Ausable River- fished by anglers from around the world. Featuring 3 bedrooms & 2 baths spread over 2,144 sq ft, this home offers the perfect mix of rustic charm & modern comfort. Offered turn key with most contents included. Step inside to be greeted by the open concept living room, dining room with cathedral ceilings & kitchen, while a unique catwalk above leads you to an upper deck where you can enjoy the tranquil sounds & views of the river below. Wood stove to enjoy on chilly evenings. Lower level offers additional full bath, wood sauna & laundry. Outdoors there is something for every nature & recreational sports enthusiast. Screened river front lean-to & sleeping shed can be used for additional guests in the warmer weather. Picnic area, fire pit, firewood storage, additional storage shed, small pond, garden area & paths that wind through the property. Steps lead you down to your own private river front paradise for swimming & fishing.
Log Cabin, on 2.28 wooded acres with ft frontage on the West branch of the Ausable River- fished by anglers from around the world. Featuring 3 bedrooms & 2 baths over sq ft, this home offers the perfect of rustic charm & modern comfort. Offered turn key with most contents included. Step inside to by the concept room, dining room with ceilings & kitchen, while unique catwalk above leads you to an upper deck where you can enjoy the tranquil sounds & views of the river below. Wood stove to enjoy on chilly evenings. Lower level offers additional full bath, wood & laundry. Outdoors there is something for every nature & recreational sports enthusiast. Screened river front lean-to & sleeping shed can be used for additional guests in the warmer weather. area, fire pit, storage, additional storage shed, small pond, area & paths wind through the property. Steps lead you down to your own private river front paradise for swimming & fishing.
Jay Price: $650,000 MLS #203275
Jay Price: $650,000 MLS #203275
. Jay Price: $650,000 MLS #203275
3 Bed, 3 Bath ~ 1,680 Sq. Ft. ~ 1.7 Acres
3 Bed, 3 Bath ~ 1,680 Sq. Ft. ~ 1.7 Acres
3
Open Living, Dining Room and stunning Custom Kitchen ~ Wrap around deck ~ Second Floor Balcony off from Primary Bedroom Walkout Basement ~ Quiet Surroundings
Living, Dining Room and stunning Custom Kitchen ~ Wrap around deck ~ Second Floor Balcony off from Primary Bedroom Walkout Basement ~ Quiet Surroundings Jay Price: $399,900 MLS# 203606
3 Bed, 3 Bath ~ 1,680 Sq. Ft. ~ Open Living, Dining Room and stunning Custom Kitchen ~ Wrap around deck ~ Second Floor Balcony off from Primary Bedroom Walkout Basement Quiet Surroundings Jay Price: $399,900 MLS# 203606
Jay Price:
3 Bed, 1
1,024
0.7
3 Bed, 1 Bath ~ 1,024 Sq. Ft. ~ 0.7 Acres Open Kitchen, Dining and Living Room Vaulted Ceiling ~ Dome Skylight ~ Remodeled
~ Main Level Primary ~ Fireplace with Woodstove Insert ~ Walkout Basement ~ Deck Jay Price: $290,000 MLS# 178997
Kitchen, Dining and Living Room Vaulted Ceiling ~ Dome Skylight ~ Remodeled Bath ~ Main Level Primary ~ Fireplace with Woodstove Insert ~ Walkout Basement ~ Deck Jay Price: $290,000 MLS# 178997
3 Bed, 1 Bath ~ 1,164 Sq. Ft. ~ 24.13 Acres Private Surroundings ~ APA permit allows 1 additional building right ~ New Laundry Rm. Accessory Outbuilding ~ Hiking Trails ~ Small 16’ x 16’ Hunting Camp at back of property Wilmington Price: $345,000 MLS# 201266
3 Bed, 1 Bath ~ 1,164 Sq. Ft. ~ 24.13 Acres Private Surroundings ~ APA permit allows 1 additional building right ~ New Laundry Rm. Accessory Outbuilding ~ Hiking Trails ~ Small 16’ x 16’ Hunting Camp at back of property Wilmington Price: $345,000 MLS# 201266
3 Bed, 2 Bath ~ 1,137 Sq. Ft. ~ 1.1 Acres Knotty Pine Interior Finish with
3 Bed, 2 Bath ~ 1,137 Sq. Ft. ~ 1.1 Acres Knotty Pine Interior Finish with Natural Light Vaulted Ceiling with Skylights ~ Vermont Castings Wood Stove ~ Full Basement for additional Storage Space Jay Price: $299,999 MLS# 203661
MLS# 201530 the open
2 Bed, 1 Bath ~ 694 Sq.
2
~ 0.9
~ Woodstove
2 Bed, 1 ~ Sq. Ft. 0.9 Acres Hardwood Cabinets ~ Woodstove and Electric Baseboard Heat ~ Covered Screen Porch
Setting
Jay Price: $235,000 MLS# 178414
A Adirondack Hunting Camp 500 Sq. Ft.
A True Adirondack Hunting Camp ~ 500 Sq. Ft.
4 Acres ~ Open Interior combines Bunk
Kitchen and Living Room ~ Propane Stove and Lights ~ Dug Well w/ Generator Operated Pump Wood Stove ~ Access to NY State Lands Nearby Jay
4 Acres ~ Open Interior combines Bunk Beds, Kitchen and Living Room Propane Stove and Lights ~ Dug Well w/ Generator Operated Pump Wood Stove ~ Access to NY State Lands Nearby Jay Price: $110,000 MLS# 201530
4 Acres ~ Open Interior combines Bunk Beds, Kitchen and Living Room ~ Propane Stove and Lights ~ Dug Well w/ Generator Operated Pump Wood Stove ~ Access to NY State Lands Nearby Jay Price: $110,000 MLS# 201530
$399,900 MLS# 203606
Bed, 1 Bath ~ 694 Sq. Ft. ~ 0.9 Acres Hardwood Cabinets ~ Woodstove and Electric Baseboard Heat ~ Covered Screen Porch Workshop with Additional Storage ~ Explore the Adirondacks from this Quiet Forested
Bath
Natural Light Vaulted Ceiling with Skylights ~ Vermont Castings Wood Stove ~ Full Basement for additional Storage Space Jay Price: $299,999 MLS# 203661
A True Adirondack Hunting Camp ~ 500 Sq. Ft.
Beds,
Price: $110,000
Open
Ft.
Acres Hardwood Cabinets
and Electric Baseboard Heat ~ Covered Screen Porch Workshop with Additional Storage ~ Explore the Adirondacks from this Quiet Forested Setting Jay Price: $235,000 MLS# 178414
Bath ~
Sq. Ft. ~
Acres Open
Workshop with Additional Storage ~ Explore the Adirondacks from this Quiet Forested Setting
Jay Price: MLS# 178414
3 Bed, 1 ~ Sq. Ft. 0.7 Acres Open Kitchen, Dining and Living Room Ceiling ~ Dome Skylight ~ Remodeled Bath ~ Main Level Primary ~ Fireplace with Woodstove Insert ~ Walkout Basement Deck
Jay Price: $290,000 MLS# 178997
Bed, 1 Bath ~ 1,164 Sq. Ft. ~ 24.13 Acres Private Surroundings ~ APA allows additional building right ~ New Laundry Rm. Accessory Outbuilding ~ Trails ~ 16’ x 16’ Hunting Camp at back of property Wilmington Price: $345,000 MLS# 201266
2 Bath 1,137 Ft. ~ 1.1 Acres Knotty Pine Interior Finish with Natural Light Ceiling with Skylights Vermont Castings Wood Stove ~ Full Basement for additional Storage Jay Price: $299,999 MLS# 203661
This magnificent, private resort has to be seen to be believed. Beautiful 2533 square foot Chalet style house nestled in the heart of the beautiful Adirondacks High Peaks incredible house boasts 9 skylights, giving you an abundance of natural light &
This magnificent, private resort has to be seen to be believed. Beautiful 2533 square foot Chalet style house nestled in the heart of the beautiful Adirondacks High Peaks region offers year-round recreation and relaxation. This 4 bedroom, 3 bath gem can comfortably sleep nine people and features all the amenities you could possibly want. The fully fenced-in backyard patio includes a heated in-ground pool and separate hot tub, a chimenea, and plenty of space for entertaining family and friends. This incredible house boasts 9 skylights, giving you an abundance of natural light & offers an open concept kitchen/living room. Enjoy chilly evenings by the wood burning fireplace in the spacious living room or relax in the attached three season sun room which features its own wood burning stove. A large wraparound deck adds to the outdoor entertainment space.
This magnificent, private resort has to be seen to be believed. Beautiful 2533 square foot Chalet style house nestled in the heart of the beautiful Adirondacks High Peaks region offers year-round recreation and relaxation. This 4 bedroom, 3 bath gem can comfortably sleep nine people and features all the amenities you could possibly want. The fully fenced-in backyard patio includes a heated in-ground pool and separate hot tub, a chimenea, and plenty of space for entertaining family and friends. This incredible house boasts 9 skylights, giving you an abundance of natural light & offers an open concept kitchen/living room. Enjoy chilly evenings by the wood burning fireplace in the spacious living room or relax in the attached three season sun room which features its own wood burning stove. A large wraparound deck adds to the outdoor entertainment space.
Jay Price: $529,000
MLS #202881
Jay Price: $529,000 MLS #202881
4 Bed, 2.5 Bath ~ 1,982 Sq. Ft. ~ 0.9 Acres
Pine Interior and Ceilings ~ Wood Beams
~ Wood
Pine Interior and Ceilings ~ Wood Beams Hardwood Cabinetry ~ Laminate and Hardwood Floors ~ Wood Stove on a Tile and Stone Hearth
Tile and Stone Hearth Front & Back Decks ~ Detached Garage Jay Price: $479,000 MLS# 203107
on a Tile and Stone Hearth
19.3 Acres located in the Hamlet of Black Brook Private and Quiet Building Site with forested Surroundings ~ Potential Mountain Views \Electric Utilities at the Road Side ~ Ideal Location for a Year Round or Vacation Home
Private and Quiet Building Site with forested \Electric Utilities at the Road Side ~ Ideal
Black Brook Price: $132,999 MLS# 178315
19.3 Acres located in the Hamlet of Black Brook Private and Quiet Building Site with forested Surroundings ~ Potential Mountain Views \Electric Utilities at the Road Side ~ Ideal Location for a Year Round or Vacation Home
Black Brook Price: $132,999 MLS# 178315
3 Bed, 1 Bath ~ 1,436 Sq. Ft. ~ 0.34 Acres
3 Bed, 1 Bath ~ 1,436 Sq. Ft. ~ 0.34 Acres
3 Bed, 1 Bath ~ 1,436 Sq. Ft. ~ 0.34
Pine Living Room with Stone Fireplace Spacious Kitchen ~ Full Length Deck
Spacious Kitchen ~ Full Length Deck Minutes from Whiteface Mountain
2
Off Grid ~ 2 Pole Barns ~ 2 RV’s (included)
Used as an Extremely Private Campsite for many Adirondack Vacation Destination
as an Extremely Private Campsite for many years ~ Dug Well ~ Right Of Way access This Quiet Setting can become your personal Adirondack Vacation Destination Jay Price: $80,000 MLS# 202235
3.4 Secluded Acres ~ Road Frontage on 9N ~ APA approved building site ~ Views of the Jay Mountain Range ~ Electric available ~ Within walking distance of the East Branch of the Au Sable River. Jay Price: $60,000 MLS# 203413
3.4 Secluded Acres ~ Road Frontage on 9N ~ APA approved building site ~ Views of the Jay Mountain Range ~ Electric available ~ Within walking distance of the East Branch of the Au Sable River.
APA approved building site ~ Views of the Jay walking distance of the East Branch of the Jay Price: $60,000 MLS# 203413
Jay Price: $60,000 MLS# 203413
1+/- Acres ~ Multiple Building Lots to Choose From ~ Lots have Electric, Public Water and Public Roads ~ Moments from Whiteface and Lake Placid
1+/- Acres ~ Multiple Building Lots to Choose From ~ Lots have Electric, Public Water and Public Roads ~ Moments from Whiteface and Lake Placid Additional Amenities can include 6 Miles of Hiking Trails and Access to Lake Eaton. Jay Prices from $34.000 to $39,000
Additional Amenities can include 6 Miles of Hiking Trails and Access to Lake Eaton.
Additional Amenities can include 6 Miles of
Jay Prices from $34.000 to $39,000
4 Bed, 2.5 Bath ~ 1,982 Sq. Ft. ~ 0.9 Acres Knotty Pine Interior and Ceilings ~ Wood Beams Hardwood Cabinetry ~ Laminate and Hardwood Floors ~ Wood Stove on a
Knotty
Detached 2 Car Garage ~ Swimming Pool Minutes from Whiteface Mountain Wilmington Price: $319,000 MLS# 202874
Used
Knotty
Floors
Stove
Acres
Knotty
Front & Back Decks ~ Detached Garage Jay Price: $479,000 MLS# 203107
Knotty Pine Living Room with Stone Fireplace Spacious Kitchen ~ Full Length Deck Detached
Car Garage ~ Swimming Pool Minutes from Whiteface Mountain Wilmington Price: $319,000 MLS# 202874
Off Grid ~ 2 Pole Barns ~ 2 RV’s (included) Used as an Extremely Private Campsite for many years ~ Dug Well ~ Right Of Way access This Quiet Setting can become your personal Adirondack Vacation Destination Jay Price: $80,000 MLS# 202235
‘MIRACLE ON MCCAULEY’
Major upgrade marks new milestone for ski mountain
By Chris Gaige
It’s a new era for the McCauley Mountain Ski Area. The mountain, which is owned and operated by the town of Webb, began spinning a new triple chairlift on Jan. 17. The new lift replaces a 1973 chairlift.
While new to McCauley, the lift is actually in its second life. Formerly known as the ‘Hudson Triple,’ the lift was originally installed at and operated by Gore Mountain beginning in 2010.
Photo –Kurt Gardner
To McCauley
The former double chairlift at McCauley was still working. Town officials, however, knew that a lift installed in the 1970s was prone to breakdown sooner or later
Kurt Gardner — a former member town of Webb board member — said a mechanical breakdown would leave the town in a precarious position, financially and logistically.
“We’re so thankful and thrilled that this actually happened,” he said. “It saved us.”
The chair is the only ski lift at McCauley to reach the mountain’s summit — the only point to access several of its popular trails. The idea of having the lift out of capacity for so long would have been “devastating” to the mountain and the community, according to Gardner.
“That mountain just means so much to every community member around here and so many people who come ski here,” he said.
Gardner said the old double lift was removed in the spring after the last ski season, and installation of the new lift began in late July. He said that having the lift in service by midJanuary was a remarkably fast timeline.
“You guys have the ‘Miracle on Ice’ up there,” he said. “And now we have the Miracle on McCauley as far as I’m concerned.”
From Gore
Gore Mountain, which is owned and operated by the state Olympic Regional Development Authority, removed and replaced the chairlift chairlift as part of an expansion, according to Matt Allen, ORDA’s alpine operations manager.
McCauley had reached out previously about acquiring other lifts.
“Nothing was a good fit,” Allen — who spent 28 years as a ski lift mechanic before joining ORDA’s corporate team — said. “Not worth the effort of reinstalling.”
When it came to the Hudson Triple, however, ORDA and McCauley officials agreed that it was a perfect fit. Allen said it is still considered a fairly new lift by industry standards and should have a long life ahead at McCauley.
Allen said ORDA and state lawyers first made sure the potential transfer would be in accordance with the organization’s property disposition policy.
After getting legal confirmation that it was, Allen said Gore worked to carefully disassemble the lift and bring its components to the mountain’s base, with McCauley responsible for handling transportation and installation costs.
“It’s good to see a small (ski) area, especially a municipal area, function,” he said. “It’s good. It’s really good. New York state has the most ski areas
LEFT: Town of Webb Supervisor Bonnie Baker cuts the ribbon at McCauley Mountain’s new chairlift opening ceremony on Friday, Jan. 17. Behind her, from left, are state Assemblyman Robert Smullen, R-Johnstown; Jason Blenis and Stephanie Mitchell, who handled the installation process; Herkimer County Legislator Don Haehl, R-Webb; and Town of Webb Tourism Director Mike Farmer.
Photo – Grey Gardner
of any state in the Union, and it’s good to see them keep going.”
A family-oriented mountain McCauley is known for being, “New York’s best family mountain,” according to Farmer.
“This works right in with the triple chair,” he said. “It’s just much better at servicing families.”
Farmer said that nickname lends well to McCauley because of the large variety of terrain. Easy, intermediate, difficult and expert trails all accessible directly from the summit — with all runs meeting back up again at or near the same base location.
“The entire family — no matter if you’re a teenager and you think that part of skiing and snowboarding is slam dancing with mother nature, or if you’re a grandparent or parent, or young kid — they all go up there, they’re one trail away from each other ... we’ve got everything from ‘oh boy’ to ‘oh wow’ to ‘uh oh.’”
The mountain will soon undergo several other major improvements. A number of these upgrades are being made to the mountain’s snowmaking infrastructure. One of McCauley’s bunny hill rope tows is being replaced with a magic carpet -- funded by Herkimer County, in which the ski area is — at the end of this season as well.
With high-capacity snowmaking, high-quality skiing will be able to continue long into the future, according to Gardner.
