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CHARTER FISHING Sure Strike Charters
Sport Fishing Lake Champlain 4584 Harbor Rd. Shelbourne, VT 05482 802-324-2289 Captain Brian www.fishvermont.com
Captain Brian and Captain Paul are USCG licensed and fully insured with over 50 years of combined experience fishing Lake Champlain. Enjoy beautiful Lake Champlain and its great Landlocked Salmon and Lake Trout fishing on our 281⁄2 foot Baha Sport Fishermen Boat. We specialize in catching Lake Trout and Salmon but also target Walleye, Brown Trout and Steelhead.
FLY FISHING The Hungry Trout Fly Shop 5239 Route 86, Wilmington, NY 12997 518-946-2117 flyfishing@hungrytrout.com www.hungrytrout.com www.hungrytrout.com/fly-shop Over 20 years of professional fly guiding and instruction. Premium fly fishing brands and seasoned, professional fly fishing guides, Winter Ice Fishing. Lodging, dining, group and multi-day packages available. Voted 2017 “Best Outfitter” in Adirondack Life’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
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Having spent my life in the outdoors, there is nothing more enjoyable than spending time in nature with others. Mountain Roots Guide Service provides guiding for fishing, ice fishing, hunting and other outdoor activities that you want to enjoy. Let's make memories that will last a lifetime! Mountain Roots Guide Service LLC- Managing Member: Kelly Starkweather
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2861 NYS ROUTE 73 P.O. BOX 130 KEENE, NY 12942 (518) 576-2400 ADIRONDACKLANDTRUST.ORG
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603-455-2416
5812 NYs Rte 86 • Wilmington NY mountainrootsguideservice@gmail.com
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Contents
Girl Scouts complete CAT challenge....................3 A Quest to Become Saranac Lake Ultra 6er...........4 Fly Fishing Tips................................................6 2021 was safest season for hunters....................8 Chasing Waterfalls..........................................9 Outdoor Recreation for Kids.............................10 Solar Eclipse.................................................11 Experience Spring at the VIC.............................12 ADK closes on Cascade Ski Center.......................14 The Golden Hour...........................................15 10 Outdoor recreation essentials......................16
12 Experience Spring The Paul Smith’s VIC
Cover Photo: David Reber lands a brook trout on the AuSable River in Wilmington during a Fly Fishing National Championships. Photo by Justin A. Levine
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A Quest
Becoming an Ultra 6er
EMBARK Adirondack Adventure Guide
What you should know
PH O TO S W AN TED Do yo u ha ve a n a m a zin g p ho to o fa n o u td o o r a d ven tu re in the Ad iro n d a cks?
Brought to you by the publishers of the
W e’d lo ve to p u b lish them !
and Publisher: Trevor Evans, ext 14 Managing Editor: Elizabeth Izzo, ext. 22 Advertising Manager: Lindsay Munn. ext. 20 Circulation Coordinator: Liz Murray, ext. 32 518-891-2600 PO Box 318, 54 Broadway, Saranac Lake, NY 12983 2
Fly Fishing
S en d yo u r a w eso m e p ho to w ith a sho r tca p tio n to : lm u n n @ a d iro n d a ckd a ilyen terp rise.co m Pho to sho u ld b e hig h reso lu tio n 1M B/3 00d p i
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Girl Scouts complete Champlain Area Trails Northern Pathways Challenge
(Provided photos —Champlain Area Trails)
A Girl Scout Troop at Long Point Trail
snake Mountain north of Willsboro which they chose to hike on national “Take Your Daughter on a Hike Day.” Many parents came out with their girls that day to walk up the sometimes-steep trail to see wonderful views looking out over Willsboro Bay and Lake Champlain towards Vermont. Ava Currie, a 9-year-old scout said, “This was the first time I hiked a mountain. The view at the top was beautiful. I really had fun talking to my friends as we hiked.” They chose the Little AuSable
River Trail in Peru as the final trail to meet the Challenge. It goes along the river by the main part of the town. It’s a paved, accessible trail with interpretive signs with some offering educational messages about planets in our solar system.
Zilpha Irland, age 9, said, “My favorite part of the Little AuSable River Trail was the planet signs that were spaced out to show their distance from each other. It was snowy so we had fun guessing which planet was next before we uncovered the snow!”
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Explore NY’s Champlain Valley
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WESTPORT — Last fall, leaders of Girl Scout Troop 4202 of Morrisonville, NY wanted the girls to hike some trails to earn their Trail Adventure Badge. When they learned of Champlain Area Trails’ Northern Pathways Challenge, they knew this would be perfect because the girls would hike three trails by December 31st. With support from a NYS Health Foundation grant, Champlain Area Trails (CATS) created the Northern Pathways Patch Challenge to publicize and encourage people to hike trails in and just north of the Adirondack Park. To complete the Challenge participants had to hike three of five designated trails shown on the CATS Trails Maps. “It was a quiet day in the office when Lauren Currie, the troop leader, called to see if they could participate as a group,” said Emily Segada, CATS Operations Manager. “As a former Girl Scout, I was thrilled to hear they wanted to do this challenge. So, we sent them maps and said to let us know of their progress.” With girls ranging in age from five to eleven, the Challenge became more than exploring the three trails. It showed how these girls could experience hiking a variety of trails together and earn their badges. They first hiked the 2-mile Long Point Trail at Point au Roche State Park that goes through forests along Lake Champlain’s shoreline. Next up was Rattle-
And CATS’ 67 miles of uncrowded, family-friendly trails.
Hikers at Rattlesnake Mountain
Spring 2022
For maps of all the trails in the Champlain Valley visit:www.champlainareatrails.com
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Ampersand Mountain
By Justin Levine Adirondack Council Communications and Outreach Assistant
At 4:15 a.m. on a dark, cold November morning, I picked up my friend Christian in Saranac Lake and we went to Berkeley Green, signed the register, and officially started our quest to become Saranac Lake Ultra 6ers. Well, that’s not quite true. Our quest had begun months earlier but started in earnest that Friday at 4:21 a.m. I had enough caffeinated jelly beans in my pack to kill a horse, and I hoped it was enough to get through the day.
The Saranac Lake 6er Program
One of the more popular hiking challenges in the Adirondacks is the Saranac Lake 6er program. It requires people to climb Haystack, Scarface, McKenzie, St. Regis, Ampersand, and Baker mountains to earn a certificate and patch. If all six peaks are climbed in less than 24 hours, then you can become an Ultra 6er. The upshot is that the six mountains combined hold about 30 miles of hiking and almost 10,000 feet of elevation gain.
we trail ran each of the peaks with the exception of Baker Mountain, only because Baker is fairly short and we’ve each been up it dozens of times. While we had spent the summer months trail running the mountains, we also talked about the routes we would take during the Ultra, and which peaks we would do in what order. So as September rolled into October and the days got shorter and shorter, Christian and I finally pulled the trigger and put in for the day off on Friday, Nov. 5. Officially, there would be about 10 hours of daylight that day, and the sun wouldn’t come up until more than three hours after we started in downtown Saranac Lake.
Haystack and McKenzie
Leaving from the bandshell in
Saranac Lake, we drove to Lake Placid to tackle Haystack and McKenzie mountains. McKenzie is the longest and highest of the six peaks, and we wanted to get it over with. The trail was slick with ice and a little snow, and the only light came from our headlamps. We made good time going up Haystack first, then backtracked a bit to head up McKenzie. Just as we reached the summit, the sun came up over Lake Placid, giving us a pretty nice reward for the early start.
On to Scarface
Despite a couple of slip and falls on the ice, we successfully made our way back to the car after almost four and a half hours and more than 8.6 miles on the trail. We congratulated ourselves for being one third of the way done. With full sun now, Scarface was
next and went pretty smoothly, but we were already beginning to feel the pain of doing this much climbing and hiking in one day. Luckily, since you have to drive between mountains, we were able to stop at Christian’s house in town to get some food, water, and warmth and put on dry clothes. My friend even put his clothes in the dryer for a few minutes, while I was left to regret that I didn’t.
And to Ampersand
Then we headed to Ampersand Mountain, with big puffy clouds in a mostly blue sky. But more importantly, we had plenty of daylight. We set out from the parking area at about 1:30 in the afternoon and were soon enjoying the beautiful view from the top. But the wind Continued on page 5
Preparing for the Ultra
Early in the spring of 2021, Christian and I decided to tackle the Ultra 6er. We knew it would be a long day, full of sore feet, sweaty clothes, and the possibility of injury. With that in mind, we set out in May to begin training for the attempt. Over the course of the summer, 4
Sunrise at McKenzie Mountain EMBARK ~ Get Up, Get Out
Spring 2022
(Provided photos —Justin A. Levine)
A Quest to Become Saranac Lake Ultra 6er
Christian Wissler and Justin Levine at the Scarface Mountain Summit Continued from page 4
was strong, so after a minute we ducked back into the trees and continued on our way. By now, Christian and I, who are both in our 40’s, spent most of the drive time between mountains talking about the various aches and pains that had cropped up during the day. Luckily, nothing serious had happened and we managed to consume a stupid amount of calories on the way to St. Regis Mountain, perhaps my personal favorite hike in the entire Adirondack Park.
St. Regis - One of my favorites
The sun had started to dip low in the sky as we set out on the 3-mile hike to the fire tower, and even though we were able to start the hike without headlamps, the additional light soon became necessary. The ice situation on St. Regis wasn’t as bad as it had been on McKenzie earlier in the day, and despite the miles already accumulated we made good time. However, by the time we reached the summit, the sky was pitch black, and due to the ridiculous amount of climbing we had already done,
neither Christian nor I opted to climb the fire tower. By the time we reached the parking area, our conversation mostly consisted of what we wanted to eat after finishing the final climb of our adventure. At this point, we were about 16 hours into the Ultra and had already covered more ground than a traditional marathon. And we still had one mountain to go. On our way back into town from St. Regis, Christian’s wife ordered us a pizza (bacon and tomato) since it looked like we wouldn’t be done before Little Italy closed. With the thoughts of hot pizza and cold beer in our heads, we pulled up as the lone car at the Baker Mountain trailhead, the sky dark and our bodies weary.
Last but not Least - Baker Mountain Baker is a short hike, less than a mile, but that mile felt tough. With fresh batteries in our headlamps, we made our way carefully up the mountain, not wanting to slip and fall and get injured now because there was no way in hell we were doing this whole thing again. After a fall-free ascent, Christian and I stood at the top of Baker, essentially completing our quest for the day. While it was incredibly rewarding and honestly hard to believe that we had accomplished the Ultra, we were bone-tired and
our celebration was hardly anything that would have woken up the neighbors. We went down Baker and got back into the car to officially finish the Ultra 6er back where we started at Berkeley Green in Saranac Lake. Seventeen hours and 48 minutes, more than 30 miles, and almost 10,000 feet of elevation gain later, and it was hard to believe we were still standing. From there, we went to Christian’s house to devour pizza, a reward for a job well done. That first slice of room-temperature pizza may be the second-best meal I have ever eaten. And it was well deserved.
Remember to Leave No Trace
Whenever you’re out in nature in our Adirondacks, please recreate responsibly. Remember to follow the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace and help us protect the Adirondack Park for future generations. The Leave No Trace Seven Principles are: Plan Ahead and Prepare; Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces; Dispose of Waste Properly; Leave What You Find; Minimize Campfire Impacts; Respect Wildlife; and Be Considerate of Others. The Adirondack Council is a proud Community Partner of the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics.
IT’S NO SMALL FEAT, to preserve the Park for small feet.
Together we can preserve access to wilderness for current and future generations to explore.
103 Hand Ave., Elizabethtown, NY 12932 342 Hamilton St., Albany, NY 12210 518.873.2240 | 518.432.1770
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(Provided photos —Evan Bottcher)
5 things you NEED to know for early season Fly Fishing
By EVAN BOTTCHER Owner of Hungry Trout Fly Shop and ADK Ice Fishing
As winter comes to an end in the Adirondacks, the days get longer and warmer temps return to the region. The snowpack from the High Peaks starts to melt and replenish the areas lakes, rivers and streams. For the fly angler this means one thing - fishing season has arrived! Check out these 5 tips to make the most out of your spring fishing season
advantage of areas of open water along the edges of receding ice. “Ice Out” is a short, but productive time of year for big fish and good numbers while waiting for river conditions to improve.
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The mayfly, caddis and stonefly hatches in the Adirondacks are one of the most exciting aspects of fly fishing in the Adirondacks. The first bug life of spring will be your early brown stoneflies, but the first major hatch in the area is the Hendrickson Hatch. In 2021
the action was in full force by May 15th, with awesome hatch activity and evening skies full of migrating mayflies. Its little different each season, but we are always ready the first weekend of May for the hatch season to begin. The timing Continued on page 7
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Historically fishing season on inland streams began on April 1. This year the DEC regulations changed so anglers can now fish inland streams year round with a Catch and Release regulation in place from October 15 - April 1. Although fishing season is open, the rivers during early season are quite cold and can have very high flows through most of April. Historically, peak season starts around Mothers day (May 8th this year) and goes until the summer heat kicks in (usually end of June). The first mayfly and caddis hatches of the year are usually around the second weekend of May and continue through the month of June.
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This early season is often the best time to hit the flat water options. Having spent the winter under a blanket of ice, lake trout, brook trout and landlocked salmon will cruise close to the lakes’ surface chasing forage fish and taking 6
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3.
Each Spring the state and county hatcheries will start their stocking routines. Thousands of fish will be stocked in the areas’ rivers and streams and the schedule is often dictated by the flow, temperature, and access of the locations. As a rule of thumb, you can count on most stocking to be completed by the second week of May. There is a stocking schedule and lots of information on the New York State Department of Conservation website to help research productive zones to target.
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streamers and nymphs. Attractor nymphs like Squirmy Wormies and mops can be a good lead fly early season in tandem with more realistic flies like micro stones, birds nest, red fox squirrel nymphs and pheasant tails. We also fish a lot of stonefly nymphs which is a larger presentation (#6-#12) fished in tandem with smaller flies (14-20) to cover all size ranges of insects. Wooly Bugger variations, Sparkle Minnows, Mickey Finns and other classic streamers are a good early season option. When the water is cold you want to fish a slow and easy to eat presentation and be ready for very subtle takes. As we enter into May and the water is warming above 50-55 degrees F we will be ready to fish dry flies on a 9’ 4x or 5x leader. Smaller the fly = smaller the tippet. Because of our bouldery and steep gradient rivers and our large insect assortment we can fish much larger flies than
other watersheds. I fish a lot of size 10 to 12 AuSable Bombers and AuSable Wulffs in the spring as an attractor that fits the profile of early season mayflies. You can attach a 12” to 18’’ dropper to a smaller nymph or Caddis Pupa as well to increase you chances. There is a lot of information to digest when it comes to fishing a new region. Hopefully, these tips and tactics help lay the groundwork on how to tackle the start of the season. Fishing is a very subjective activity and can be done many many different ways. Ask around, fish with new anglers and continue to add to your knowledge base. For more information on when and what to fish, when and how to rig them, call your local Fly Shop! There are great guiding options and fishing resources around to make sure you have a wicked good time fishing the Adirondacks.
(Provided photos —Evan Bottcher)
Continued from page 6
of the hatch differs river by river, but they are generally within a week of one another. The Hendrickson Hatch if often accompanied by solid Caddis hatches which continue all season, followed by the March Brown, Sulfurs, Stoneflies, Green Drakes, Blue Winged Olives and terrestrials (beetles, hoppers, ants) as the warm temps settle in.
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CAT appoints new director of development and communications Champlain Area Trails announced on Jan. 21 that it hired Amber Adamson to be Director of Development and Communications. Chris Maron, Executive Director of CATS stated, “We are so pleased to have Amber join the CATS team. Her significant experience in fundraising and donor relations will be a tremendous asset for us as we look to the next 10 years of CATS’ programming and support.” Adamson was recently the Director of Development and Communications at Starfinder Foundation in Philadelphia which uses soccer to inspire social change and transform the lives of youth in underserved communities. Her prior experience includes development leadership work for Big Brothers Big Sisters in Philadelphia; Students Run Philly Style, a running and mentorship program, AmeriCorps/Vista in Philadelphia; and the Providence Animal Center in Media, PA, which focuses on life-affirming rescue, medical care, protection and placement of companion animals. “Amber has a terrific set of fundraising experiences over many years in the nonprofit sector and her interest and leadership in youth development, outdoor exercise and underserved communities are important strengths she brings to CATS,” Maron said. Adamson has a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Pennsylvania, Fels Institute of Government; a bachelor’s degree from Swarthmore and is a board member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and co-chair of National Philanthropy Day. She started her work at CATS on January 24th.
DEC announces 2021 was safest-ever season for NY hunters New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos announced on Feb. 22 that the 2021 hunting seasons in New York were the safest ever, with the lowest number of hunting-related shooting incidents since record-keeping began. DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers investigated nine hunting-related shooting incidents in 2021, including one fatality. “Hunting is an enjoyable and safe form of outdoor recreation with a long and storied history in New York State,” Commissioner Seggos said in a statement. “This past year was the safest-ever on record in New York, with the lowest number of hunting-related shooting incidents since DEC’s Hunter Education Program began in 1949. I’m proud of our Hunter Education Program, and our educators and volunteer instructors, working to ensure licensed hunters experience a safe hunting season. Every hunting fatality is preventable when New Yorkers hunt safely and responsibly.” Seven of the nine HRSIs that occurred in 2021 were two-party firearm incidents; two incidents were self-inflicted. All identified shooters were experienced hunters with an average of 40 years of hunting experience, emphasizing the need for all hunters to remain vigilant when heading afield. All incidents could have been prevented if those involved followed hunting safety rules. A new hunting regulation that took effect in 2021 extended legal shooting hours for big game to 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. None of the deer hunting incidents last year took place during the new extended hours. The four incidents involving deer hunters occurred between 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Another new regulation change effective last year requires all persons hunting deer or bear with a firearm, or anyone accompanying these hunters, to wear a solid or patterned fluorescent orange or fluorescent pink hat, vest, or jacket, visible from all directions. Unfortunately, the single fatality that occurred in 2021 involved a deer hunter not wearing fluorescent orange or pink. The hunter was mistaken for game and shot by a hunting partner. Also new in 2021, 52 upstate counties passed local laws allowing 12- and 13-year-old licensed hunters to hunt deer with a firearm or crossbow
while under the supervision of an experienced, licensed, adult hunter. None of the nine HRSIs investigated in 2021 involved a 12- or 13-yearold hunter. All first-time hunters, bowhunters, and trappers must successfully complete a hunter, bowhunter, or trapper education safety course before being eligible to purchase a hunting or trapping license or bowhunting privilege in New York State. DEC-trained and -certified volunteer instructors have taught hunters and trappers to be safe, responsible, and ethical since 1949. Learn more about DEC’s Hunter Education Program. DEC encourages hunters to remember the primary rules of hunter safety: ¯Treat every firearm as if it were loaded; ¯Control the muzzle, keep it pointed in a safe direction; ¯ Identify your target and what lies beyond; ¯Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire; and ¯ Wear hunter orange or pink. For the past several years, DEC has also tracked and investigated Elevated Hunting Incidents, previously referred to as tree stand incidents. EHIs are underreported and DEC is not always notified when these falls occur. In 2021, 10 EHIs were reported; one was fatal. Only one of the 10 hunters involved was wearing a safety harness. However, the harness was not connected to the tree when the fall occurred. Tree stand safety is integrated into DEC’s hunter education course because these incidents have become a major cause of hunting-related injuries. The proper use of tree stands, and tree stand safety equipment will help prevent these injuries and fatalities. Used correctly, a full-body harness and a lifeline keep hunters connected from the time they leave the ground to the moment they get back down. Most tree stand incidents are preventable when hunters follow the “ABCs” of tree stand safety:
Always inspect the tree stand before every use; Buckle full body harness securely every time; and
Connect to the tree before your feet leave the ground.
DAY BROTHERS BOATS 4661 Route 9, Plattsburgh, NY 12901 Tel: 518-562-2628 | Fax: 518-561-0198 www.DayBrothersBoats.com
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Spring 2022
Chasing Waterfalls (Editor’s note: This story was first published in the April/May 2018 issue of Embark.) With the onset of spring, one can never really be sure what to expect weather-wise in the Adirondacks. Snow, rain, sleet, sunshine, thunderstorms and hail are all likely, and sometimes even happen on the same day. But one thing is certain, and that is water in streams and rivers will be flowing hard, meaning that spring is one of the best times to visit waterfalls. It should be noted that waterfalls, and the waterways and surrounding areas that make them, are inherently dangerous. A fine mist of water covers everything in the vicinity of most falls, creating slick and sometimes icy conditions that raise the risk of falling. Waterfalls can also be tempting swimming holes, especially later in summer, but unfortunately people die at these spots. And while it’s not a regular occurrence, three people have died at waterfalls in the Adirondacks in just the last two of years. But don’t be discouraged. Waterfalls can be great places to check out and can often be reached after brief hikes. And for the less faint of heart, there are even a couple spots that offer guided hikes and safety measures for extra piece of mind. The list below can easily be turned into a day trip by car from Lake Placid, making a circuit that could also include a stop in Plattsburgh.
Cascade Falls
Cascade Mountain is probably the most popular of the 46 High Peaks, and at its base sit the Cascade Lakes.
Spring 2022
The two lakes are between cliffs on the mountain side and state Route 73, and are separated by a little spit of land. The state Department of Environmental Conservation maintains a small parking and picnic area on this land, which is also where Cascade Falls descends from the mountain. From Lake Placid, take state Route 73 east toward Keene. From the ski jumps, go 6.6 miles to the unmarked road on the right. The road is rough and drops steeply down to the shore of the lake. There is a herd path that leads to the base of the falls from the parking area.
The Flume
The Flume waterfall in Wilmington is a popular spot for locals and tourists, but can also be deadly. A man drowned there in 2017 when the water was high, and two teens drowned right around the time they graduated from high school a few years ago. Requiring just a short 0.1-mile hike from the road, the Flume is a nice place to explore, with the falls quickly turning into a relatively benign stream that is wide and shallow. However, the steep cliffs that lead directly into the water, while tempting, should only be approached with caution. From Wilmington, take state Route 86 toward Lake Placid for 1.7 miles to a dirt parking area on the left. A trail leads to the falls.
Roaring Brook Falls
One of the highest falls in the area, Roaring Brook cascades off the slopes of Giant Mountain — another High Peak - and is easily reached after a short 0.3-mile walk over flat ground to the base. While tall and beautiful, Roaring Brook Falls have also proven
(Enterprise file photo — Justin A. Levine)
By JUSTIN A. LEVINE Former Staff Writer
Wilmington Flume
to be fatal on more than one occasion, but accidents here are less frequent. From Keene Valley, take state Route 73 2.5 miles to the Giant Mountain parking area on the left. Take the trail at the end of the parking lot and then bear right just about a tenth of a mile in. There is also a DEC trail to the top of the falls that clocks in at just 0.5 miles, although it’s a bit steeper. From the base of the falls, it’s hard to see the upper section. This can be remedied by stopping at another parking area just a tenth of a mile farther up state Route 73 that offers unobstructed views of the upper falls.
Entry fee
While there is no shortage of waterfalls across the Adirondacks, there are two spots in the North Country that offer a more controlled environment while still allowing for a close-up look at the power of water. High Falls Gorge, on state
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Route 86 between Lake Placid and Wilmington, offers access via trails and lookouts to a series of falls on the AuSable River. Including two glass-floored walkways, a gift shop with food and drinks, and some wheelchair accessibility, this can be a great option for families or those looking to grab lunch or a beer. For more information, including pricing, go to www.highfallsgorge. com AuSable Chasm, dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks,” is located on state Route 9 between Keeseville and Peru. The main falls of the chasm can be seen from the Route 9 bridge, but this paid-entry attraction has much more than just a look at falls from a distance. With tubing, whitewater rafting, rock climbing and hiking trails, AuSable Chasm can easily be turned into a full day for the whole family. Visit www.ausablechasm.com for a full list of activities and prices.
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My fondest memories as a child are those spent outdoors. Swinging on my grandmother’s tree swing in her backyard brought endless joy. I can still visualize myself holding tightly onto the rope as I swung high. I would look up at the leaves in the trees and feel embraced with love. Every spare moment outside my normal routine was spent outside. I rode my bicycle, roller skated, and swam with delight. I recall the joy of running as I played games with my peers. I loved to go barefoot. When I was in first grade, my family went to the beach where I collected a pile of rocks that glistened like gold in the water. I was fascinated by the wild animals, bugs, and the flowers. I held my mom in awe because of her love of plants. She had studied botany in college and knew all about plants. Although my father was not an outdoors person, he still sought out opportunities for us to participate in outdoor fun. He took us canoeing, set up a tent for outdoor play, and took us horseback riding. I grew to appreciate the quality of fun I had with my peers in the outdoors. I got to be a girl scout which gave me even more insight into how wonderful the outdoors could be. I’ll never forget my first campfire experience where we made s’mores with our marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate bars. In looking back, it is easy to see how important these experiences were in my development. Research shows, outdoor play is essential to child development. Playing outside develops fine and gross motor skills, provides wonder in exploration, and develops judgement through risk-taking. Spending time playing outdoors allows children to learn how to move in their bodies. Children learn how spatial relationships work through play. How does a canoe respond when I move my arms through the water? How does mud respond when I step in it? Spending time outside allows children to learn a lot about how nature works regarding plants, animals, insects, soil, rocks, ice, and water. How does sand feel and flow? How do plants grow? How do butterflies form from a chrysalis? How do deer jump? Outdoor experiences give children opportunities to develop curiosity and sense of identity with the world. How do I fit into this big world? How does the world look from a treetop versus from 10
(Provided photo —Rivka Cilley)
By Rivka Cilley Columnist
Outdoor Recreation for Kids
the ground? How can I maneuver in climbing up a rock face? There are millions of different sensual experiences that can only be explored through nature. Children must experiment with the world of nature to find out how hard surfaces feel, how hot a rock feels that is exposed to the sun versus the shade, or how a thorn feels when I poke it against my finger. Most importantly, getting plenty of outdoor time allows children to breath in lots of fresh air, to feel fully alive and set themselves free. My time spent outdoors exploring nature was one of the most important things I did as a child. Childhood is a time of innocence when we are cared for and provided for by others. It is a time when we have little responsibility, except to be a child. It is a sacred time set aside for us to grow, and explore, and get to know ourselves as we go
from walking to running. It is a time when we get to play, laugh and just have fun. For me, outdoor time remains at the top of my priorities list. It continues to bring me joy and opportunities for
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expansion. I feel the most alive and happy when I am outdoors. Rivka Cilley is a Licensed Clinical Therapist, Certified Art Teacher, and co-owner of St. Regis Canoe Outfitters.
Spring 2022
(Provided photo —Jonathan Zaharek)
Solar Eclipse
The June 2021 Solar Eclipse event is viewed from Mt. Skylight overlooking Basin Mt., Mt. Mansfield, and Gothics in the foreground.
WALK THROUGH HISTORY
Spring 2022
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(Provided photos —Scott van Laer)
Experience Spring at the Paul Smith’s Visitors Interpretive Center
Great Blue Heron
By Scott van Laer VIC Director
Spring is the season of change and transition in the Adirondacks. The sap begins to flow in our sugar maples, dormant resident animals, like black bears, emerge from their slumber and migrant birds return to nest. The snow covering the ground gives way to
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wildflowers, as pollinators, like bees and butterflies, seek them out. The spring transition can be slow, and at times torturous for those looking to get back into hiking. It is full of starts and stops, setbacks, unwanted April snowstorms and of course, mud. Those who live in the park colloquially refer to the spring as
“mud season”. In the spring it’s important to plan trips that avoid muddy trails, but if you do find mud on your hike, embrace it, travel through it, not around it. Get your boots and clothing dirty. When you walk around the puddles and mud you are only making the section with ponding and mud wider.
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Ideally, however, plan carefully; avoid steep, high elevation slopes. Seek out well designed low-grade trails. Hiking muddy trails leads to erosion, soil compaction and can-do long-lasting damage to the trail. The Paul Smith’s College VisiContinued on page 13
Spring 2022
Continued from page 12
tors Interpretive Center is the perfect place to enjoy the Adirondack springtime. Our core trails, Boreal Life, Barnum Brook and Heron Marsh, are designed to withstand use during this trying season. There are no steep slopes with severe runoff and drainage issues and they are “surfaced” with wood chips or stone dust preventing the pooling and erosion that causes mud holes to develop. These trails also have boardwalks and benches to stop comfortably and enjoy the landscape. The Heron Marsh trail is one of the best locations in all of the Adirondacks to observe the river otter in its natural environment. The largest member of the weasel family, these gregarious mammals seem to relish the melting away of the ice on Heron Marsh. During the winter, otters are limited in the entrances and exits to get underwater where they find their food sources like fish, amphibians and invertebrates. When the ice is melting and thin, Otters can be found running and sliding across the surface seemingly looking for the “rotten” ice where they can break through. It looks like a fun game of tag as two or three will be doing this together for minutes at a time. They also find solid portions of the surface ice and lounge on their sides and back, looking skyward, enjoying the spring sun in the same way we do. The other exciting thing to watch, or listen for in the spring at the VIC, is the return of our Spring 2022
migrant birds. The cold, quiet winter mornings give way to loud spring mornings as the birds sing, looking for mates and letting others know what their territory is. Bird species that are rare to the Adirondacks, like the Canada Jay, Palm Warbler, Lincoln’s Sparrow and Black-backed woodpecker, are often heard and observed on our Boreal Life trail. We offer numerous programs during the spring for those wanting to learn more about the natural world at the VIC. One of most popular is our boreal bird and peatland plant interpretive program. Participants venture out onto our boreal life trail and learn about the complexities of the bog habitat, finding and identifying unique plants like Sundews and Pitcher plants that survive and thrive in the acidic environment. You also learn to identify the unique bird species that live in the bog from expert naturalists and scientists from Paul Smith’s College. Speaking of birds and birding, I am so pleased to announce that the Great Adirondack Birding Celebration is returning to the VIC on June 3rd-5th and will include guided trips, lectures, food, music, vendors as well as anything and everything else bird-related. Earlier in the spring, May 21st and 22nd, we will be hosting the Festival of Big Trees. It will be a great celebration of the large old growth trees around Paul Smiths and includes field trips to old growth stands with forestry professors, learning to determine
how tall a tree is through height measurements and aging them by counting rings through boring. We will also host lectures, axe throwing and even a comedic set by The Logger, Rusty Dewees. If you’re seeking to improve your technical recreational skills, we also provide program instruction in Rock Climbing, Map and
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Compass and Boater Safety. Information on these and all of our programs can be found on the calendar portion of our website at Paulsmithsvic.org. Get out and explore safely and responsibly this spring. Learn more about the natural world and hone your recreational skills at the Paul Smith’s College VIC!
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ADK Mountain Club closes on Cascade Ski Center LAKE PLACID — The Adirondack Mountain Club is now the official owner of the Cascade Ski Center. The club announced on Jan. 21 that its purchase of the property had been finalized. The club purchased the center and its property from the Jubin family, who will run the ski center as-is until ADK officially takes over on April 1. After the takeover, ADK plans to continue offering cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at the center during the winter. The club also has plans to expand current offerings at Cascade to “make the property a four-season destination,” according to a press release from ADK. Details about those expansions are expected to come out as the club develops a master plan for the property. “In addition to its superb recreational offerings, Cascade Ski Center is perfectly positioned to offer hiker information services, education programs, restrooms, and other public services in an area of great importance to the Adirondack Park,” ADK Executive Director Michael Barrett said in a statement. “As we work through the details, we look forward to working alongside our partners and supporters to ensure that Cascade Ski Center is not only a pillar for ADK, but also the local community and visitors to the region.” ADK’s board of directors approved a contract to purchase the Cascade Cross Country Ski Center last October. They agreed to purchase the 200-acre property on Cascade Road for approximately $2.5 million, and the club was awarded a $500,000 state grant last December to help with the purchase. Barrett revealed some ideas last year for how the club might expand its current efforts after purchasing the center. At that point, many of the club’s indoor classes were held in three yurts not far from the Adirondak Loj, and with a limited capacity: the yurts fit about 15 people comfortably, more if there’s a crowd. The club offers all kinds of classes on everything from how to use compasses and maps, to Leave No Trace principles, to environmental education for school children. The ski center’s grand room could hold up to 80 people, Barrett said last August. 14
The Cascade Cross Country Ski Center
He said that the center’s location — on Cascade Road, state Route 73 — would give the club the opportunity to interact with hikers in a more visible space to passersby. He said those interactions would allow the club to spread out hiker impact on resources by directing hikers to less busy locations. Barrett said ADK was also motivated to purchase the ski center because they want to expand their educational efforts. Another factor in the club’s decision to purchase Cascade was housing for its employees. Much like almost every other business and nonprofit organization in the Tri-Lakes region, a lack of affordable housing in this area has constrained the club’s ability to bring on new staff. ADK Deputy Executive Director Julia Goren said in a statement that engaging with stakeholders will be key in how ADK moves forward with offerings at the center. “In the coming weeks and months, ADK will hold a number of forums to hear from various constituencies on what they would like to see at this location,” she said.
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Spring 2022
(Enterprise File photo — Andy Flynn)
By LAUREN YATES Enterprise Staff Writer
(Provided photo —Jonathan Zaharek)
The Golden Hour
By JONATHAN ZAHAREK Special to Embark
Golden hour sunrise from Mt. Skylight, overlooking Mt. Marcy and the Great Range. Early season fragile alpine plants can be seen on this lushful summit such as Diapensia, Alpine Sedges, Lapland Rosebay and Alpine Azalea. Remember to stay on the trail and to do the “rock hop” when walking amongst these mountain tops.
THIN ICE CAN BE FATAL ICE CONDITIONS CAN RAPIDLY CHANGE
We are committed to public safety and providing a safe recreational experience. Use extreme caution around rivers, lakes, and streams when snowmobiling, ice fishing or hiking. WEAR IT www.safewaters.com
Spring 2022
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10 outdoor
View from Goodman Mountain
1. Navigation items: Map, compass, GPS system and extra batteries
6. Fire: Matches in waterproof container, lighter and fire starters
2. Insulation/rain gear: Waterproof and windproof jacket, hat, extra undergarments
7. Nutrition: Bring high protein, high-calorie items like GORP, trail mix, pack extra food
3. Headlamp: Flashlight, lantern and extra batteries
8. Water: Water filtration or purifying system, pack at least 2 liters per person, carry more than you think you will need
4. First-aid kit: You can build your own or use a premade kit and include a couple of days supply of any prescriptions you need 5. Emergency kit: Whistle, signal mirror, duct tape, pocket knife or pocket multi-tool
9. Sun and insect protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, bug repellent, bug net 10. Emergency shelter: Tent, space blanket, tarp, rope
(Enterprise file photo — Mike Lynch)
Another task all hikers should do before heading out into the outdoors is dressing appropriately. A comfortable pair of hiking boots, dressing in layers and dressing for the weather will make it a much nicer hike.
Forget Me Nots
Hiking Gear 16
Spring Fiddleheads
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Spring 2022
(Enterprise file photo — Peter Crowley)
By the Enterprise Staff
(Editor’s Note: This information was provided by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. For more information, visit www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor.) Getting outdoors in the Adirondacks is a great way to enjoy nature. Great views, wildlife and plant life nurture the soul. But all hikers should be prepared for the unexpected so that the outdoor experience remains enjoyable. There are 10 essentials that every hiker should carry with them:
(Enterprise file photo — Peter Crowley)
(Enterprise file photo — Justin A. Levine)
recreation essentials
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