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Winter

Ampersand in Winter
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Mar
02
2021
Ampersand Mountain is a wonderful peak that sits about 8 miles south of the village of Saranac Lake, off Route 3 going toward Tupper Lake. While the trail is wildly popular in the summer, a wintertime excursion up Ampersand is likely to be both quiet and totally new. Snowshoeing up Ampersand is completely different from a summer hike, with new views opened up and new challenges on the trail.... [Read More]
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Author:Justin Levine
Categories:Winter, Snowshoe, Mountain, 6er
A Winter Hike Up Haystack
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Jan
04
2021
Ok, so technically it wasn’t winter. But with the thermometer reading 9 below zero and a couple inches of snow on the ground, it sure felt like winter.  Officially, doing a “winter” hike in terms of hiking challenges like the Saranac Lake 6er requires mountains to be hiked from December 21 to March 21 each year. But in the Adirondacks, winter can start and end much earlier... [Read More]
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Author:Justin Levine
Categories:Winter, Hike, Snowshoe, 6er, saranaclake6er
From the Adirondacks to the Olympics and Back
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Mar
11
2020
Andrea Kilbourne-Hill was born and raised in Saranac Lake, and is now doing the same with her own family. But between those bookends, Kilbourne-Hill has earned a degree from Princeton and a silver medal in Olympic women’s hockey. And while that may seem like a lot for a small-town kid, she is really just getting started. [img:20200224-162358.jpg] Kilbourne-Hill is now back in her hometown... [Read More]
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Author:Justin Levine
Categories:Hockey, Winter, saranaclake
Ice Fishing in Saranac Lake
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Feb
24
2020
Submitted by Guest Writer Mike Crawford, licensed guide and owner of Upstate Guide Service.  All images provided by Upstate Guide Service. The lake and mountain country of the Adirondacks have excellent ice fishing, with several close-to-town lakes that offer ice anglers convenient and productive ice fishing opportunities. One of the coldest places in the northeast each... [Read More]
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Author:Guest Blogger
Categories:Ice fishing, Winter, fish
Dip into Winter on the Jackrabbit
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Jan
22
2020
The Jackrabbit Ski Trail is well-known inside and outside of the Adirondacks. Connecting the towns of Paul Smiths, Saranac Lake, Lake Placid, and Keene, the trail stretches for more than 30 miles across the North Country. Luckily for us, the trail is accessible in a number of places, and one of the best sections to ski is just outside of Saranac Lake, where a quick, roughly 4-mile ski will bring... [Read More]
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Author:Justin Levine
Categories:saranaclake, winterfun, winterf, Winter
Getting Back to Nature: Forest Bathing in Saranac Lake
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Jan
10
2020
The healing qualities of nature are no mystery to the Adirondacks, especially in Saranac Lake. From 1873 to the mid-1900s, Saranac Lake was a world-renowned hub for tuberculosis treatment. Until 1944 when a drug treatment was developed, patients were prescribed time outdoors, as much time as possible, to regain their health in the fresh mountain air. Today, tuberculosis treatment is less of a... [Read More]
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Author:Janelle Hoh
Categories:Winter, saranaclake, Snowshoe
Sweet Indulgences - Saranac Lake's Coffee Hotspots
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Nov
28
2019
  Snowy winter days mean outdoor adventure, cross-country skiing through pine forests, ice skating on a frozen pond, and gleefully tubing down local hills and mountains. It also means warming up and getting cozy with a hot drink and a tasty treat. Saranac Lake has a delightful variety of coffee shops and restaurants perfect for finding ideal sweet indulgences and the best coffees. We’... [Read More]
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Author:Aurora Wheeler
Categories:Dining, Family Fun, Historic Downtown, Winter
'Tis the Season
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Nov
24
2019
’Tis the season to get out and celebrate the holidays and all things winter. Good thing Saranac Lake has no shortage of winter. In fact, we specialize in it! You might have heard of our annual Winter Carnival, which is a ten-day spectacle that involves outdoor adventure, competition, and lots of that unique village charm giving us our motto: decidedly different. In addition to... [Read More]
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Author:Sabrina Alli
Categories:Events, Winter
Five Ideas for Winter Family Fun
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Nov
13
2019
If a game of King of the Hill that ends in tears and a handful of snow down your collar is your typical day of winter family fun — let me help you out! Saranac Lake is bursting with cool things to do that will leave the whole family smiling from ear to ear. Here are five things for your clan to try on your next Adirondack winter vacation in... [Read More]
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Author:Kelly Brunette
Categories:Family Fun, Outdoor Recreation, Winter
Saranac Lake Adventure Travel
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Oct
18
2019
Adventure by definition is “an exciting or remarkable experience," immediately followed by the add-on, “usually involving danger and unknown risks.” How risky you want to get is up to you, but we promise a visit to Saranac Lake is not complete without a little adventure — or a lot of adventure, if that's your thing! Step outside your comfort zone [img:sl-1.jpg] We are a... [Read More]
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Author:Kelly Brunette
Categories:Fall, spring, Summer, Winter
A Day of Winter Indulgence
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Mar
02
2019
When it comes to quality of life, there is no place like the Adirondacks. It’s true, a lot of people visit the region to explore the outdoors, but the same mountains, lakes, and fresh air that inspire the adventurous also make it the perfect place for rejuvenation and indulgence. And for the record, indulging doesn’t always mean a day at the spa, but it certainly can!  Morning Shake off... [Read More]
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Author:Brooke O'Neil
Categories:Wellness, Winter
An Artist's Haven
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Feb
22
2019
We refer to Saranac Lake as decidedly different for a reason. We are very proud to be a hub of eccentricity in the Adirondacks. Because of this, the town is also known for its vibrant local arts scene. For generations it has attracted artists and other creative types, leading it to become the arts haven it is today. Downtown Saranac Lake has several galleries that feature and celebrate... [Read More]
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Author:Sabrina Alli
Categories:Arts, Winter
Hardwater fishing, decidedly different!
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Feb
08
2019
Winter should not stop anyone from fishing. Cold temperatures beckon to the dedicated angler, who regards ice on frozen lakes the same way most people think of milkshakes: the thicker, the better. Snug shelters and fish finding skills come to the fore in this sport, since techniques like fly casting are unable to be practiced under the ice. Here are some special spots and... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Fishing, Winter
Lodging to Fit Your Winter Travel Style
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Jan
25
2019
A captivating place to visit any time of year, Saranac Lake especially glistens in the winter. While some dread the cold and snow that winter brings, others see it as a perfect time to bask in the peaceful nature and serene beauty of the season. If you are the latter, Saranac Lake is for you! Saranac Lake offers a true variety of accommodations, from mom-and-pop run motels to a historic... [Read More]
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Author:Kelly Brunette
Categories:Winter
Cross-Country Ski The Jackrabbit Trail
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Jan
24
2019
It’s December 21 in the Adirondacks, the sun rises at 7:30 a.m. and sets at 4:30 p.m.; it seems it wouldn’t leave much of a window for anything to be done. Don’t let those short winter solstice hours fool you — they assuredly will not put a halt to adventure in the Adirondacks. A few years ago, on this same day, my family set out on an adventure that would... [Read More]
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Author:Traci Wagner
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Winter
Finding Winter Finches — and other Cold-Weather Species
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Jan
24
2019
Winter Specialties A few weeks ago, the Saranac Lake Christmas Bird Count (CBC) was held around the New Year as it always is. And so Wren, my dog, and I did our part covering a segment of the count area, hiking through the winter snow, and counting birds as we went. One of the hopes of the CBC was to find the “winter finches” — those sought-after species which are generally more common at... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Fall, Hiking, Natural History, Outdoor Recreation, Wildlife, Winter
Skiing from Placid to Saranac Lake
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Jan
20
2019
Did you know there is a railroad track that goes all the way from Lake Placid to Saranac Lake? I knew about it, but I never paid it much attention until I started to think about its potential as a cross-country ski. Winter hit early in the Adirondacks this year and I was ready to set this idea into action. I headed out that morning with one goal in mind — to ski from Lake... [Read More]
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Author:Traci Wagner
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Winter
6 Must See Winter Carnival Events
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Jan
17
2019
Winter is here and Saranac Lake is ready to celebrate  Photos by Mark Kurtz Photography Winter Carnival is what happens when you take Saranac Lake and throw it into a cauldron, sprinkle in a clever theme, and boil it down until all that’s left is a sweet syrup of feisty good humor. When Winter Carnival is on you can’t walk through downtown, let alone buy a cup of coffee,... [Read More]
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Author:Shaun Kittle
Categories:Events, Winter
Mt Pisgah: Local and Loved Ski Hill
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Jan
14
2019
Like many Adirondack towns, Saranac Lake has a hometown ski hill. Here is where local children have learned to ski for generations. Saranac Lake started skiing in 1892 when the first pair of skis came to town, courtesy of John R. Booth of Ottawa (yes, it was news).  [img:044a2722.jpg] Mt. Pisgah, after the peak which revealed the promised land in the Bible, has snowmaking, two main... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Skiing, Winter
Become a Saranac Lake Winter 6er
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Jan
11
2019
The Saranac Lake 6ers: Baker, St. Regis, Scarface, Haystack, Ampersand, and McKenzie. You hiked them one-by-one in the summer and marveled at the variety of views they afforded — distant High Peaks and uniquely shaped lakes. So now what? Time to try them in winter, that’s what! In the Adirondacks, nice summer hikes turn into full-blown adventures in the winter. It’s a beautiful... [Read More]
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Author:Shaun Kittle
Categories:Saranac Lake 6er, Winter
First Day on the Bog
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Dec
19
2018
Submitted by guest blogger Kaet Wild. Being from Buffalo, snow is nothing new to me, but somehow, I had never gotten into cross-country skiing. But, when a friend brought it to my attention as a possibility, it appeared to be a cheaper alternative to downhill skiing. Plus, I could bring my dogs along... sold! “Have any plans for tomorrow morning?” my good bud, Tyler, asked... [Read More]
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Author:Guest Blogger
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Winter
Saranac Lake's Snowshoe Centers
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Dec
18
2018
Don’t stay inside this winter Climbing a mountain in the winter requires a lot of preparation and a bunch of gear. It’s fun, beautiful, and rewarding but it’s also a lot of work. The good news is snowshoeing doesn’t have to be hard. In fact, if you can walk, you can snowshoe!  If you’re new to snowshoeing or you’re simply looking for a way to get out for a few hours, Saranac Lake’s cross-... [Read More]
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Author:Shaun Kittle
Categories:Outdoor Recreation, Snowshoeing, Winter
Snowshoeing at the VIC
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Dec
01
2018
The VIC Paul Smith’s College owns and operates the Visitor Interpretive Center (VIC), and in turn, opens it to the public. Just 13 miles north of downtown Saranac Lake, the VIC offers a snapshot into the six million acre Adirondack Park. It has mountains, marshes, forests, and streams for you to explore year-round. Located on 3,000 acres with 25 miles of trails —... [Read More]
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Author:Kelly Brunette
Categories:Outdoor Recreation, Snowshoeing, Winter
A Quintessential Holiday Experience
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Nov
29
2018
It’s officially the most wonderful time of the year in the Adirondack Mountains. In our house, the day after Thanksgiving marks the first day of the holiday season. On this day, it has become a tradition for us to welcome the holiday spirit by cutting down our Christmas tree at a local tree farm. Over the years, we have had numerous people encourage us to visit Moody Tree Farm, and this... [Read More]
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Author:Elisabeth Marchbanks
Categories:Shopping, Winter
Saranac Lake Winter Fashion
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Nov
09
2018
The weather Saranac Lake is literally a winter wonderland. The temperature in Saranac Lake during the winter is around 24°F. And that’s the average, lows drop into negative digits. Saranac Lake will be cold - no doubt about that. But it will also be beautiful! Saranac Lakers have their share of sayings —“You’re only cold if you’re standing still” and “There is no bad weather, just bad... [Read More]
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Author:Kelly Brunette
Categories:Shopping, Winter
A century of playing in the snow
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Nov
03
2018
Playing in the snow is a very old Adirondack tradition, but it took a while for this activity to become more enjoyable than practical. Depending on the level of development where people lived, skiing and snowshoeing was simply the way people got around in the winter. Local indigenous people, like the Huron and Algonquin, taught European explorers and trappers the usefulness of the right footgear... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Skiing, Snowshoeing, Winter
5 Paths to Winter Adventure in Saranac Lake
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Nov
01
2018
Saranac Lake calls to people in different ways. Yes, there’s art, music, good food, and good people here. There are also events like Winter Carnival that bring visitors and residents together for a blockbuster, two-week celebration of all the things that make this village so unique.  It’s a quirky place that draws the adventurous, the curious, and the creative, but when all of... [Read More]
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Author:Shaun Kittle
Categories:Outdoor Recreation, Winter
The Excitement of Early Spring Birding!
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Apr
28
2018
Chilly Spring Weather While it may not have been welcomed by many folks, my skis and I were happy about the chilly weather we had for much of March and April. I was out skiing and enjoying the snow as much as I could. But, when the weather turned warmer and finished off the cross-country skiing season, it ushered in spring birding and I happily set aside my skis for my binoculars... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Hiking, Natural History, Outdoor Recreation, spring, Wildlife, Winter
WINTER IS COOL
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Mar
22
2018
In the microclimate of Paul Smith's College Visitor Interpretive Center (VIC), I find myself in a winter wonderland, as if a Hollywood special effects crew came through and sprayed and hosed down the vast landscape with deep, sticky, fake snow, but this is real stuff here - natural.  An intimate museum  In the center of this special museum is the map table giving you an... [Read More]
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Author:Troy Thomas
Categories:Outdoor Recreation, Winter
So Much Snow! And Some Great March Skiing!
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Mar
16
2018
A Happy Change in our Snow Fortune I’m not going to lie. A few weeks ago I was pretty miserable about our lack of snow. In fact I was really quite grumpy. The ground was muddy and brown with patches of ice. The sky threatened rain and then delivered on its promise. And I looked continually at the forecast in the hopes that it would turn to more seasonable temperatures. It finally did. In... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Dog friendly, Family Fun, Natural History, Outdoor Recreation, Skiing, Winter
Let's Glide - Enjoy Fish Creek Park!
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Mar
15
2018
So much to do I just love winter and sometimes I feel like there are not enough days to do everything I want to do: downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating. It is also hard to squeeze in the not-so-fun things that I must do, such as laundry, cleanin,g and filing income tax! On this particular Sunday I had promised myself to do laundry and file my income tax. Plans... [Read More]
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Author:Lisa Sciacca
Categories:Outdoor Recreation, Winter
A Beautiful Ski on the Jackrabbit Trail
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Mar
06
2018
A change in the fortunes of the weather Let’s be honest. January was a frustrating month in the Olympic Region for anyone who loves skiing and winter sports. Check that – January was a wildly frustrating month for anyone who enjoys such activities. Our variable and constantly changing temperatures gave us rain and warmth followed by frigid drops which froze everything solid –... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Winter
Top 5 tips for fishing on Lake Colby
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Feb
27
2018
Saranac Lake is home to some great waterways. Popular fishing and paddling waters are now frozen over and the shanties and augers are out for ice fishing. Before you head out, here are five fun tips to ensure you get the best out of this cold-weather experience! 1. Get there early to get your favorite spot  [img:41737lpr.jpg] Lake Colby is a popular ice fishing spot. It seems like... [Read More]
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Author:Brooke O'Neil
Categories:Fishing, Outdoor Recreation, Winter
Top Reasons to Visit Saranac Lake This February
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Feb
06
2018
In winter, this Adirondack village is a haven for skiing, snowshoeing, winter hiking challenges, snowmobiling, and exploring a lively downtown full of artsy shops and restaurants. A favorite time of year is when the snow flies and locals and visitors can get out into the woods on skis or snowshoes, and embrace the season with outdoor events. This February, there is more reason to celebrate... [Read More]
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Author:Carrie Gentile
Categories:Winter
Canoodlers and Lawn Chair Ladies
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Feb
06
2018
If you’ve ever been to Saranac Lake, especially in winter, you’ve probably heard of Winter Carnival. It’s the longest-running event of its kind in the U.S., and it’s also one of the quirkiest. Let me explain. Every year, volunteers pull large blocks of ice from Lake Flower to build the ice palace, a stunning blue structure that people can walk through after the 10-day... [Read More]
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Author:Shaun Kittle
Categories:Events, Family Fun, Winter
Woods and Waters Trail, a great ski!
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Jan
29
2018
Researching! In early November a group of us had hiked into Black Pond and Long Pond. We vowed to go back to check out the Woods and Waters trail. At the end of November we returned for another hike via the same entrance, the Black Pond trail. For some reason Paul Smiths seems to get more snow than the surrounding areas; I knew that as I grew up in Paul Smiths. However,... [Read More]
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Author:Lisa Sciacca
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Equipment, Exhibits, Family Fun, Hiking, Outdoor Recreation, Skiing, Winter
A Holiday Ski!
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Jan
02
2018
Monitoring the snow depth The beginning of ski season is often a game of figuring out how much snow depth we have and how much snow coverage is needed to explore certain trails. So early season skis tend to be on open trails and fields which catch more snowfall – unless the wind is pushing it off. With the depth of our snow increasing of late and with the storm late last week, Wren (my... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Dog friendly, Family Fun, Natural History, Outdoor Recreation, Skiing, Wildlife, Winter
First Skis of the Season!
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Dec
31
2017
Winter is finally here! It took a long time to show up this year with our crazy warm fall, but winter weather has finally started to arrive in the northern Adirondacks. Our recent wet weather aside, little by little we’ve built up some snow as evidenced by my regular need to shovel. It all makes Wren, my four-legged companion, excited as she plays with her tennis ball in the snow... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Dog friendly, Family Fun, Natural History, Outdoor Recreation, Skiing, Winter
Downtown Holiday Shopping Guide
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Dec
19
2017
Lets do this! With less than a week until Christmas, its time to check those final things off your gift list. In Saranac Lake, shopping downtown offers a low-pressure experience and so many different options. Plus, smaller stores mean shorter lines. So, go! Find the ideal gift, make it meaningful…and get back to enjoying the holiday season. Here are six gifts for those types... [Read More]
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Author:Kelly Brunette
Categories:Historic Downtown, Shopping, Winter
Getting First Night Ready
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Dec
12
2017
New Year's Eve is a special, even unique, holiday. It is the only one which celebrates both the old, and the new. It is a time to look backward and forward. To take the stress off of such endeavors, you should also have a good time. To help with that, Saranac Lake's First Night gives you many choices to celebrate the turn of the year — your way. It's also a great gift... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Events, Winter
Sprung!
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May
22
2017
A changing landscape Spring is an amazing time of transition in the Saranac Lake Region of the Adirondacks. For the past few weeks Wren and I have been exploring it on our daily – and often twice daily – walks, monitoring the changes as they’ve been happening. Even as the woods remained filled with snow, the indications of spring were everywhere. Here are a few highlights of our April... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Dog friendly, Family Fun, Natural History, Outdoor Recreation, spring, Wildlife, Winter
Skiing and Exploring the Jackrabbit Trail
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Apr
04
2017
Deep Snow It's spring and the Adirondacks are, predictably, unpredictable. Recently we've had a few amazing snow falls alternating with warm spring days. There's no guarantee how long the snow will last, or if another storm will grace us before the warm weather firmly settles in the mountains. For now, I'll take advantage of the snow that's still here, and although not the... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, Wildlife, Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Dog friendly, Cross Country Skiing
Big Snow!!!!!
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Mar
17
2017
A Tantalizing Forecast I noticed the prediction for snow over a week in advance — my work and interests require me to check the weather regularly. But then forecasters played with our hearts and minds, increasing the projection for snow the one day, only to drop it the next. Accurately foreseeing the weather (and something as specific as snowfall) is a difficult thing to do, no matter how solid... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Winter
A Great Ski on the Jackrabbit Trail!
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Feb
23
2017
Deep SnowSnow had been falling here seemingly every day for a few weeks, punctuated by a few big storms which rapidly increased its measure in the woods. With each day, Wren and I had been taking full advantage of the bounty, going on snow-filled walks and practicing our animal tracking skills, while I attempted photos of snowy landscapes.Last week we tried to combine those activities when we set... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Dog friendly, Cross Country Skiing
Dewey Mountain - Just Wild Enough
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Feb
22
2017
Imagine a snowy mountain that is also in a town. We can go there, get outfitted for trail exploration, visit a mountain that is just wild enough, and come back to enjoy a cup of cocoa at a beautiful little lodge. Well, we have it, only one mile from downtown. It's Dewey Mountain Recreation Area. As they like to say, "thirteen is your lucky number." Dewey grooms that many... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Cross Country Skiing
Treat Your Valentine With An Unforgettable Experience
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Feb
14
2017
Submitted by guest blogger/photographer: Elizabeth Abrams It seems to me, Valentine’s Day has evolved over the last couple of years. When we were younger, it was a time to give friends candy or little gifts in pink decorated shoeboxes. Now, it seems to be about the person courting the girl, bringing roses or chocolates, and spending money on a romantic meal. I wonder what it means to people... [Read More]
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Author:roostadmin
Categories:Winter
Get out and snowshoe!
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Feb
07
2017
Aaaah, February! This is the month of many in the Saranac Lake region! Many what you ask? Events, activities, and attractions, to name a few things! This year in particular is a busy February. We just wrapped up some events from the Empire State Winter Games, and we're smack dab in the middle of the ever popular Saranac Lake Winter Carnival — which is in its 120th year! Next up, ... [Read More]
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Author:Marjorie Waterson
Categories:Snowshoeing, Winter
Ice Fishing First-Timer
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Jan
25
2017
No stranger to the iceI’ve spent many winters - and summers - on the ice, but it’s usually on an indoor ice rink where I figure skate! And, although I've been known to skate on outdoor rinks and frozen lakes on occassion, for this adventure I left the blades at home and hit the frozen waters with some tip-ups and an auger.I had never tried ice fishing until recently. My boyfriend, Ian, has gained... [Read More]
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Author:Brooke O'Neil
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Fishing
Winter Carnival Invention: Arctic Golf
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Jan
21
2017
What requires no skill, no scoring, and only a sense of fun? Arctic Golf. In times past, many northern communities had a Winter Carnival. Avid Carnival goers would hit balls for distance out on the frozen lakes, despite them being covered with snow. It was called Arctic Golf. This lives on with Tupper Lake's Fire and Ice event, which includes a golf tournament on the snowy golf course. But... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Events, Winter
Counting Birds in the Olympic Region
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Jan
10
2017
The time of year to count birds While many of our regional Christmas Bird Counts occur closer to Christmas, the Saranac Lake count happens near the New Year and I was able to help with it again this year. The count is popular with local birders because it covers both Saranac Lake and Lake Placid and because it also covers Bloomingdale Bog, Bigelow Road, and some of the boreal habitats... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Winter
Finding Birds on the Saranac Lake Christmas Bird Count
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Jan
06
2017
A Welcome Reprieve After Holiday Sickness After battling sickness through the holidays, I was ready to head out into the woods once I began to feel better. As a result, the timing was good for the Saranac Lake Christmas Bird Count – this year held on New Year’s Day. The day sent birders across a count area which included both Saranac Lake and Lake Placid, and as I was given a portion of the... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Winter
2016 Most Popular Blogs
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Jan
04
2017
2016 TOP 3 BLOGS IN REVIEWWe scoured our blogs for the most popular, most informative, and just downright oddest pieces from the past year. In case you missed them when they were first published, here are our top three picks from the Saranac Lake Region. Enjoy!3) Five cool fall viewsThere are many, many places to view our spectacular autumn foliage. In the interest of easy access, we've narrowed... [Read More]
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Author:Kim Andresen
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Events
We can dash through the snow
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Dec
28
2016
Every holiday season, when we sing "Jingle Bells," do we want to go for a ride in a sleigh?That can happen.After all, what's the point of having a winter wonderland without as many magical elements as we can gather? Thanks to the amazing draft horse program at nearby Paul Smith's College, Lake Clear Lodge and Retreat can offer lantern-lit sleigh rides.It's a wonderful experience to slide along... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Heritage, Family Fun
If self-care is naughty, I don't want to be nice
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Dec
21
2016
Do you ever get stressed out just hearing the phrase "the holidays"? Me too. It's a wonderful time of year when everyone is super cheery and friendly and everything is beautiful and there are so many parties and social events and I love it — and it's completely exhausting and stressful. You need to make sure to buy presents for everyone, make a dish for some party or event, and you're... [Read More]
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Author:Jess Collier
Categories:Winter, Wellness, Cultural
Get it together — First Night Saranac Lake
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Dec
20
2016
It's no small feat throwing the biggest party of the year. Sue Patterson would know. She’s the chair of the First Night committee, a group responsible for organizing and implementing Saranac Lake’s alcohol-free, kid-friendly New Year’s Eve blowout, First Night.  Party time If you’ve attended a First Night Saranac Lake anytime in the last... [Read More]
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Author:Shaun Kittle
Categories:Events, Winter
Make Holiday Memories at Moody Farm
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Dec
14
2016
I am sad to admit that in my 27 years as an Adirondack native I had never been to Moody Tree Farm until last month! I recently bought a house, and my aunt wanted to get my boyfriend and me a holiday wreath as a housewarming gift. I was very excited because I truthfully haven’t done much decorating since we moved in at the end of August, and I was definitely looking to spruce the place up!However... [Read More]
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Author:Brooke O'Neil
Categories:Winter, Shopping, Family Fun
Cross Country Skiing in Lake Clear
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Dec
13
2016
A Regular Trip in WinterWith snow falling almost every day, it was only a matter of time before Wren and I set out to explore the cross country ski trails off Fish Hatchery Road in Lake Clear. It is a fun network of trails and there always seems to be more snow there than there is in town. The trails are also great because they can be skied as a challenging backcountry experience, or skiers can... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Natural History, Cross Country Skiing, Winter, Fall, Wildlife, Outdoor Recreation, Dog friendly
Early-Winter Skiing!
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Dec
11
2016
Changing Seasons I’m always a bit slow on getting prepared for cross-country ski season. My mind slowly arrives at the realization that winter is at our doorstep as I look at a snowy forecast and I begin to think about getting my ski gear out of summer hiding. Of course that means making space by clearing out canoeing gear which is likely still sitting by my front door hoping it is summer. I... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Winter
Enjoying Late Fall Cold Fronts And Their Migrants
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Dec
09
2016
Birds on the MindWhile a certain bird was on the minds of most people last month with the Thanksgiving holiday, Wren and I were out each day trying our luck to see what other birds we could find. With the recent cold front bringing snow and north winds, I was hoping it would reverse our fortunes of the previous week when warm air from the south stopped many things – particularly waterfowl - from... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Fall, Birding
A tree for the whole family
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Nov
16
2016
Submitted by guest blogger: Carrie Gentile   Here's a marathon any family can do: a Saranac Adirondack Holiday Marathon. What are the hallmarks of a classic holiday day in the coolest town in the Adirondacks? It starts, naturally, with snow and time spent with loved ones, melded with festive events and tried and true traditions. classic tree My favorite tradition is akin to a... [Read More]
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Author:roostadmin
Categories:Events, Winter
Great Fall Birding!
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Nov
12
2016
A Shifting Mix of DucksAs always this time of year, the birds Wren and I see on our walks change daily, and it is always enjoyable to see what we will find. That means I have to get out as much as I can and Wren is good about not allowing me to forget to do so. Lake Colby is always a happening place this time of year, and once again it has not disappointed us this year. Ducks use the backside of... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Fall, Birding
The thrill of snowmobiling
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Nov
01
2016
Snowmobiling is a highly modern way to have fun in the snow. The first United States patent for a "motor sleigh" was in 1916. Even before that, people were trying to motorize their sleighs, or put skis on their automobiles. Still, snowmobiles didn't really catch on until the early 1960s, when Joseph-Armand Bombardier came up with what is considered the modern snowmobile. His Ski-Doo was... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter
Wonderful Weddings in Cool Places
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Apr
06
2016
Wondering where to toss that bouquet? Saranac Lake has some amazing places for that dream wedding. Gorgeous wilderness backdrops, charming churches, giant fireplaces, and soaring "Great Rooms," along with picturesque docks and boathouses and wildflower meadows.[img:wwppcakeandwildflowers.jpg]We also have talented artisans to craft those wedding favors, letter those invitations, make those... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Summer, spring, Music, Family Fun, Fall, Events
Springing!
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Mar
22
2016
Signs of SpringWhile winter has not yet been sent packing from our forecasts here in the Adirondacks, its rather light grip on us this year has been getting pried free by warm temperatures and fingers of sunlight. They have melted almost all of our snow and are now pressing on our frozen lakes to thaw. And our earliest arriving birds are responding to the cues.Blackbirds and SongA couple of weeks... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, spring, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Birding
Our Winter Waxwing
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Feb
29
2016
Flocks of Feeding Birds Winter birding across the region often involves searching for specialty birds which migrate to our area or linger during the cold months. With our warblers, flycatchers, vireos, and others long gone, this usually means we are looking for flocks of birds – many of which visit yards and bird feeders to help get them through this lean time of year. Bohemian Waxwings Have... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Winter
Cross-Country Skiing on the Bloomingdale Bog Trail
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Feb
04
2016
A Sluggish StartIt's a fact that our cross-country skiing season did not start quickly or with a lot of snow this year. While we have a had a few great days in mid-January, they've been followed by an icy, rainy affair with little white powder left to help hide the hard, silver ice beneath. Take a misstep and you soon find out that our snow in many places has only been a veneer which hides slick... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Family Fun, Dog friendly, Cross Country Skiing
Yeah, we're cool - no matter what we're wearing!
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Feb
02
2016
Carnival Style: A class all its ownTravelers to the Adirondacks in any given February will surely behold an unusual sight (or two) as they come upon the super-cool village of Saranac Lake. Walking along the streets, sipping coffee in a restaurant, or simply shopping at the grocery store, one is sure to encounter myriad characters, costumes, and just super-cool carnival celebrities.To the... [Read More]
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Author:Kim Andresen
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Events
Jones Hill and Blue Hill, a mighty duo
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Jan
25
2016
What is the draw of the Debar Mountain Wild Forest? Why does it in intrigue me so much that I must go back and play, time and again? I can only guess it’s the friendly forests and the surprisingly unique views that the mountains provide. This new territory for Brandon and I would be an exciting day of interesting finds and steep, rocky terrain. With our rucksacks packed to near capacity we both... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Snowshoeing, Winter
Gray Jays!
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Jan
12
2016
The Thing Everyone Wants to DoWhenever anyone comes to visit me in Saranac Lake there is always one thing on their to-do list: feed the Gray Jays along the Bloomingdale Bog Trail. They are a sought-after boreal species which draw many birders to our area, but more than that they are simply fun to observe. So whether it is my birding brothers looking for species they can’t find at home or my niece... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Hiking, Family Fun, Fall, Dog friendly, Birding
Snowshoeing: day to learn, lifetime of fun!
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Jan
11
2016
Snowshoeing is the fastest growing winter sport in the world. Because it's so easy, and so much fun. Appropriate for any age and skill level, too. If we are hikers who don't want to stop getting outdoors just because it's winter, this simple addition to our gear collection will let us hit those same trails in a new way. Whether our trail is packed down or brand-new, snowshoes let us actually... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Snowshoeing, Winter
Fun with Ice: Saranac Lake Creativity
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Jan
05
2016
In winter, our friendly forests grow hushed with snow, and our lovely lakes freeze over. We are dedicated to having fun all year 'round, and that includes a few creative options.When people think of our Winter Carnival, they think of our snowy landscape. But there's more to Carnival than that. In Saranac Lake, "ice" is far more than something to throw in our drinks. We have fun with it!ice... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Events
2015 Most Popular Blogs
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Dec
28
2015
2015 Top 3 Blogs in ReviewWe scoured our blogs for the most popular, most informative, and just downright oddest pieces from the past year. In case you missed them on the first go-round, here are our top three picks from the Saranac Lake Region.3. A Century of Ice PalacesSaranac Lake has a long history of building amazing structures from ice as a centerpiece of their Winter Carnival festivities.... [Read More]
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Author:Kim Andresen
Categories:Winter, Summer, spring, Outdoor Recreation, Heritage, Family Fun, Fall
First thing's first: An insider's guide to First Night Saranac Lake
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Dec
22
2015
There's never a dull moment in Saranac Lake The hardest thing about attending First Night Saranac Lake is knowing where to start. At its core, the event is more than a family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration. It's more like a smorgasbord of all things Saranac Lake. That means there's so much art, music, dancing and revelry crammed into the little mountain village it's impossible to see it all... [Read More]
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Author:Shaun Kittle
Categories:Events, Winter
Dewey Mountain Recreation Area: A Great Place to Enjoy Winter!
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Dec
15
2015
The Dewey Mountain Recreation Area is a great place for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter, and it’s also great in the warmer seasons for hiking and mountain biking. It’s really close to Saranac Lake Village, just one mile west of downtown Saranac Lake on Rte. 3, but you would never know you’re that close to town. It’s like being in the middle of nowhere up on the top of the... [Read More]
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Author:Tom Boothe
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Winter
Winter Events You Won't Want To Miss
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Dec
01
2015
When I moved to the Adirondacks a few months ago, I knew it would be great for outdoor activities, but I did not know what to expect as far as scheduled “events.” So imagine how excited I have been, with something going on every weekend -and often on weekdays -here in the Saranac Lake Region! Here are a few upcoming events that I definitely won’t miss during my first winter in the Adirondacks!... [Read More]
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Author:Chelsea Cook
Categories:Events, Winter
Trotting for Turkeys
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Nov
24
2015
 The Trot comes to Saranac LakeI am, by no means, a runner. So the first time my co-worker Frank asked if I wanted to do a turkey trot, I was a little skeptical. What could possibly be appealing about getting out of bed on one of those rare days I get the chance to sleep in? (I should probably mention that during the work week, my shift doesn't start until 11 am, so I actually get to sleep... [Read More]
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Author:ADK Grasshopper
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Events, Dog friendly
Select seven: Family hikes under four hours
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Nov
19
2015
Black Pond LoopDistance, round-trip: 2.5 milesTime: 2 to 3 hours[img:p2204177.jpg]Brief Overview: Heading in a clockwise direction from the trailhead, the trail starts flat and quickly comes to a lean-to on the western shore of Black Pond before coming to a narrow trail on a steep side slope. Continuing on, you will come to an intersection at the north end of Black Pond. Crossing the... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Hiking, Family Fun
Dewey Mountain - satisfy that snow craving
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Nov
10
2015
Here in the Adirondacks, there doesn't have to be much snow on the ground for us to have fun on it. Saranac Lake loves Dewey Mountain, whether we want to cross-country ski or snowshoe. This great destination is right in town, too. Generations have enjoyed the recreational possibilities of this mountain. With community and town support, it keeps getting better. a long history In the late 1800s... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Winter
Tubing: the sport to please the masses
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Nov
09
2015
Tubing in Saranac Lake is fun and friendly. Pretty much, if a person can sit down, they can go tubing - Adirondack style! The complex at Mount Pisgah Veteran's Memorial Ski Center (we just call it Pisgah for obvious reasons) is a great place for winter fun, and their tubing hill is a popular attraction.If I'm going out with a group of my friends, tubing is tops on our list of fun activities... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Cultural
Timeless Tubing at Mount Pisgah
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Nov
04
2015
When I moved to the Adirondacks in August of 1999, it was after living on Long Island, and working in New York City, for eighteen years. Saranac Lake was a big change for me.But I was seeking change. After years in the workforce, I was going back to school. After only seeing my brother and nephew on visits, I would be living in the same town. They would become guides to my new life.culture shockI... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun
Brighton: Dusk 'til Dawn
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Oct
13
2015
A wonderful family filled day of fun can be found right in the heart of Brighton. A town located just outside the Village of Saranac Lake and spreading through the Hamlet of Paul Smith’s. Brighton offers a tremendous amount of history, feasts, and fun. HistoryBrighton is overflowing with history starting in 1815 when the first settlers appeared to this small town. There were railways created... [Read More]
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Author:Mary Gallagher
Categories:Winter, Shopping, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Heritage, Family Fun, Fall
Coming Home to Saranac Lake
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Jun
23
2015
The State Of New York“Blah blah blah?”“Blah blah.”It was a slow day at work. I had been wiping down the same 10 square feet of counter space for the last two hours, half listening to my co-workers discussing plans for the weekend. It was not until I heard “blah blah Adirondack-” that I started paying attention. I whipped around like a dog who has just heard the word “walk,” every atom now attuned... [Read More]
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Author:ADK Grasshopper
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Music, Events
Learning to Love Every Season
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Apr
28
2015
Seasons mean so much here in the Adirondacks. It is here, like no other place I’ve lived before, that they delineate themselves as wildly separate and distinct experiences. Each is filled with unique delights that can be obtained at no other time.Saranac Lake is a place which embraces all of them. We have festivals for each season, featuring the way each one is celebrated in the Adirondacks. I’m... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Summer, spring, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Fall
In Defense of Mud Season
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Apr
21
2015
To Everything There is a SeasonTransitions are always times of uncertainty. A big move. A new job. Starting at a new school. So it can be with the changes of the seasons. As winter ends and spring begins, we muddle through a time of year when the weather can be warm and bright one day and the next day see rain, snow, or sleet. This variation from warm spring days to frigid, arctic conditions when... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Cross Country Skiing, Dog friendly, Family Fun, Hiking, Natural History, Outdoor Recreation, Paddling, spring, Wildlife, Winter
Skiing in April and on Easter - No Foolin'!
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Apr
06
2015
The Battle of the SeasonsThe past few weeks have seen the sun and winter battle for supremacy across our region. The sun’s rays on longer days have been beautifully warm, and yet our skiing base has stayed strong thanks to consistently chilly temps and cold nights. The result has been great cross-country skiing. While trail skiing comes and goes and has been icy and largely un-skiable of late,... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, spring, Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Dog friendly, Cross Country Skiing
Boreal Birding In and Around Town
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Mar
26
2015
A Crew of Students from SyracuseThe birding club from SUNY-ESF in Syracuse came up this past weekend to look for Adirondack birds with me. I teach Field Ornithology courses for ESF at Cranberry Lake Bio Station during the summer and I’m always excited to see folks again. We met in Bloomingdale Bog where the group was having difficulty attracting the attention of any Gray Jays near the feeders. So... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, Wildlife, Outdoor Recreation, Dog friendly, Birding
The Joy of Spring Skiing
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Mar
20
2015
The First Warm Days of SpringThe temperatures a few days last week broke into the 40s marking the beginning of spring skiing conditions across the region. The warm days and soft snow were a big change from the cold weather which had dominated our forecasts for much of the winter. It arrived right on time - after all, spring officially begins this coming weekend. Soft spring snow may be slow, but... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, spring, Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Dog friendly, Cross Country Skiing
Winter Birding with Signs of Spring
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Mar
14
2015
Cold Weather Birding Winter birding in Saranac Lake and the rest of the Adirondacks often revolves around finding resident boreal species – not a bad consolation for a cold walk. And so, Wren and I have been out throughout the winter to find species like Black-backed Woodpecker, Gray Jay, and Boreal Chickadee. The past month has also brought Bohemian Waxwings – a winter specialty – from the... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Winter
Adirondack Cure for Cabin Fever
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Mar
12
2015
If you've got Cabin Fever, the only prescription is... Saranac Lake!Cabin Fever was first officially called that back in 1838. It describes the psychological reaction to being cooped up indoors without interesting things to do. Irritability, restlessness, listlessness, and even paranoia can be symptoms of Cabin Fever. According to a paper in Psychological Science, February 2008, it can... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Wellness, Outdoor Recreation, Events, Dog friendly, Cultural, Cross Country Skiing
Jackrabbit Trail: Lake Placid to Keene
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Mar
03
2015
Jackrabbit Trail Day 3 of 3:Lake Placid Pub & Brewery to Old Mountain Road[img:p3143279.jpg]Day three of our three-day cross-country ski tour from Paul Smiths to Keene found us at the Jackrabbit trailhead behind the Lake Placid Pub & Brewery. We were looking forward to finishing off this trail with what we've heard are probably a few of the best sections. If you are just catching up with... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Cross Country Skiing
Jackrabbit Trail - Day 2: McKenzie Pond to Lake Placid Pub & Brewery
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Feb
24
2015
The Jackrabbit Ski Trail--Day 2Day one of our cross-country ski trip on the Jackrabbit Trail had us travel from Paul Smiths to McKenzie Pond Road. It was now a week later, and we were now looking at day two. For this, we decided to go with a much shorter day that would get us from McKenzie Pond Road to the village of Lake Placid. Doesn’t seem like much when you put it that way, but it will... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Cross Country Skiing
Winter Birding: Saranac Lake and Paul Smiths
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Feb
17
2015
Using the Long Weekend to Go Birding My brother Dave recently took advantage of the long weekend and came up for some winter birding in our area. Saturday’s weather offered up light snow showers, but warmer temperatures than we’ve had of late, and we headed out with Wren to Bigelow Road to start our day. Despite the pleasant temperature, the road was quiet, although we did hear a Boreal... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Winter
Jackrabbit Trail: Paul Smiths to McKenzie Pond Road
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Feb
16
2015
The Jackrabbit Trail in 3 Helpings -- Day 1: from Paul Smiths to McKenzie Pond RoadThe Jackrabbit Trail is a prime piece of cross-country skiing real estate in the Adirondack Park. This trail is roughly 35 miles in length and runs from Paul Smiths to Keene. However, the sections from McKenzie Pond Road to Keene are used much more than the Paul Smiths to Saranac Lake sections. Either way, the... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Winter, Cross Country Skiing
An evening snowboard session at Mt. Pisgah
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Feb
16
2015
I grew up in Tupper Lake and have lived in Saranac Lake for a while now, so it’s probably quite strange that I had never been to Mt. Pisgah. But finally last week, I was assigned to write a blog post about the Saranac Lake ski slope, so I headed on over one afternoon after work. [img:img-3450.jpg] That’s one of the best things about Mt. Pisgah: It's open most weekday evenings, and there's great... [Read More]
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Author:Jess Collier
Categories:Skiing, Winter
Newbie Skier Tackles Titus
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Feb
14
2015
aka: A beginner’s guide to making a fool of yourself while having a great time trying out a new-to-you activity. The day was sunny and blue, perfect for loading up the Jeep for the quick hour drive to a local, super family-friendly, ski-mountain. Since we always love a good deal and we've never skied Titus Mountain in nearby Malone, when the North Country Chamber offered one of their Ski Day... [Read More]
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Author:Kim Andresen
Categories:Winter, Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun
Memorable Firsts: Carnival & Cross-Country Skis
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Feb
12
2015
Traveling North For CarnivalMy niece Rebecca has been asking to come to Winter Carnival in Saranac Lake the past couple years, but has always had conflicts with school and other obligations. This year her regular requests finally won my family over and they came north last weekend to enjoy the beginning of Carnival for the first time. They explored the ice palace both during the day and at night... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Wildlife, Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Dog friendly, Cross Country Skiing, Birding, Winter
Friendly Snowshoe Up Baldface Mountain
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Feb
09
2015
A Bushwack snowshoe through the Debar Wild Forest Baldface Mountain weighing in at just less than 2900-feet in elevation has been itching at me for quite some time to visit, and this winter was my time. But to give you a little background in my fascination of this peak I will start with a small hike that led up to it. Debar Pond It was a warm day and I was exploring the region, doing small... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Snowshoeing, Winter
Skiing the Fish Pond Trail
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Feb
06
2015
Lots of Snow So We Can PlayAs usual, Wren and I have been cross-country skiing on a regular basis this winter as our snow, once a bit thin, has been piling up. One of our favorite places to go is the network of trails off of the Fish Pond Trail in Lake Clear. The trails there are designated cross-country skiing trails and they wind through beautiful deciduous and mixed forest and around the... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, Wildlife, Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Family Fun, Dog friendly, Cross Country Skiing
Two sides of the Trifecta
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Feb
05
2015
People love to come to the Adirondacks to hike our forests, explore our ponds, and climb our mountains. But perhaps only Saranac Lake offers this wilderness experience in a compact and versatile package that is right in town.It's the Trifecta, and one of its charms is how we can hike through it, and back, two different ways. The different parts make it adaptable to any skill level, in any season... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Summer, spring, Saranac Lake 6er, Outdoor Recreation, Hiking, foliage, Family Fun, Fall
Wedding planning with the pros
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Feb
05
2015
So you just got engaged. Congratulations! The next step is to get married. And of course you want to get married in Saranac Lake, because there’s no better place to do it. So how does one go about making that happen?Though I’ve lived through a lot of wedding planning with a lot of friends, I’ve never been married, so I thought I’d talk to a professional to write this blog post about planning a... [Read More]
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Author:Jess Collier
Categories:Winter, Summer, spring, Family Fun, Fall, Events
Get ready to jam at Winter Carnival
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Feb
04
2015
By far my favorite thing about Saranac Lake Winter Carnival is the abundance of live music all over town. The Waterhole has a great lineup this year, including Moon Hooch and Donna the Buffalo, among others, and additional venues are stepping up their music game as well. Eric Munley, who books bands for the Waterhole, told me that he originally thought about trying to get all '60s-style bands,... [Read More]
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Author:Jess Collier
Categories:Events, Music, Winter
Enjoying Winter Birding
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Jan
30
2015
Looking for Exciting Winter BirdsWinter birding in this region is often a game of looking for very specific species, rather than it being about seeing lots of species in a single day. This year has been predicted to be a good year for Common Redpolls arriving from the north, but it has been difficult to find redpolls during the beginning of the winter. In the past week or so that has begun to... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Hiking, Dog friendly, Birding
A Winter Hike into the McKenzie Mountain Wilderness Area
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Jan
23
2015
New Snow, New Tracks As the day warmed from its initially cold beginning, Wren and I took an afternoon this week to hike into the McKenzie Mountain Wilderness Area from the Haystack Mountain Trailhead along Route 86 in Ray Brook. The day had started out not only cold, but clear and blue. Gradually the clouds drifted in to blot out the sun before we departed, but the afternoon was pleasant, and... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Hiking, Winter
Nordic Skiing - Five Great Places
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Jan
22
2015
Saranac Lake is a wonderful destination for Nordic skiing. The rolling expanse of our lake country makes for scenic trails which run the whole range of challenges. From groomed cross-country paths with parking lots to beautiful backcountry locations, we have a trail for every taste. Dewey Mountain Saranac Lake has a hometown cross-country skiing complex at the edge of town. Half of the... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Winter
A Century of Ice Palaces
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Jan
16
2015
Saranac Lake has a long history of building amazing structures from ice as a centerpiece of their Winter Carnival festivities. Throughout the cycles of our village's famous winter festival, the Ice Palace has been both a focal point and a marker of what our Winter Break signifies in our history. At its heart, it is a reminder of how it all started, with the cycle of the seasons. In summer,... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter
Adirondack Traditions, then and now
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Jan
13
2015
The unique geography of the Adirondacks has created some distinctive cultural traditions. The remote location, rugged beauty, and abundant wilderness led the small village of Saranac Lake into ways of life we still observe today.Celebrate with us!WINTER CARNIVALOne thing we must have in our Winter Carnival is the Ice Palace -- our term for the amazing structure we create as a focus for the... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Summer, Natural History, Family Fun, Events, Dog friendly, Arts
Enjoying White Snow to Take Away the Winter Blues
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Jan
12
2015
Catching the Holiday Crud My holidays were nice as I celebrated the season with friends and family. But there has been one lingering reminder of them that I’d like to shed. Somewhere in a concoction involving lack of sleep, traveling, visiting friends and family, and eating poorly, I managed to succumb to a spreading crud and get sick. Sick enough that I have been laid up for a bit and I have... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Outdoor Recreation, Winter
An Evening Sleigh Ride in the Adirondacks
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Jan
07
2015
It was just after Christmas and I was riding the traditional high that comes from the Holidays spent with family and friends and looking to keep that feeling going through to the New Year. Having recently learned one of our local lodges was going to be offering lantern lit sleigh rides this year, I figured there were few better ways to embrace winter and stay in the holiday spirit than taking... [Read More]
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Author:Glenn Pareira
Categories:Cultural, Family Fun, Heritage, Winter
An Adirondack You for 2015
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Jan
02
2015
Saranac Lake is a great place for learning and renewal. As a new year begins, let's make plans now for special ways of revamping ourselves. We can use the village's unique Adirondack charms to meet our personal improvement needs. New Year's Day has a tradition of being the holiday where people decide they are going to make themselves do things they don't really want to do. By the end of January... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Wellness, Winter
Race, jam, dance and more in January
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Dec
31
2014
The great outdoors Dewey Mountain Recreation Center has a full schedule of cross country ski and snowshoe events on tap for this winter. Every Tuesday night at 5:30 join in the Graymont Tuesday Night Race Series. Kids XC races start at 5:30 pm and adults at 6 pm. Visitors are always welcome, so if you feel your competitive spirit coming on, drive on over and join in. You'll meet some great... [Read More]
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Author:Sue Cameron
Categories:Winter
A Winter's Hike up Baker Mountain
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Dec
28
2014
A Perfect Day for Photos  The icy, mixed precipitation we’ve had recently has coated the forests in the North Country white, and I was excited by the prospect of a bright, sunny day to head out with Wren and my camera for photos. We woke early on a clear cold morning and after allowing the temperature to raise a touch, I layered up, grabbed my snowshoes, and we set out into a blindingly... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Hiking, Snowshoeing, Winter
Four Seasons of High Points
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Dec
27
2014
Looking back at 2014 in the Adirondacks, there were so many memories of Saranac Lake. I decided the only way to narrow them down was to look at each of our lovely, distinctively different, four seasons. Each one has its own events, traditions, and activities.Each one has its own special charm.MAGICAL WINTERThe 2014 Winter Carnival “Ice Palace” (the term we use regardless of the structure)... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Summer, spring, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Fall, Events
Hiking & Tracking Wildlife on Scarface Mountain
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Dec
23
2014
Heading to Scarface It had been a little while since I had been there, so the other day Wren and I grabbed my snowshoes and headed to the Scarface Mountain Trail in Ray Brook. My usual choice for winter activity is cross country skiing. But, I often find that I am more observant of my surroundings when I’m on foot, since I’m able to take my time. This means I don’t have to focus on the terrain... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Hiking, Saranac Lake 6er, Snowshoeing, Wildlife, Winter
Extreme Ice Fishing
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Dec
16
2014
We are a land of many lakes, be they liquid or solid. This gives Saranac Lake an abundance of extraordinary Adirondack ice fishing venues, from large and accessible to small and remote, or anything in between. So we are the place to explore all that ice fishing can offer... even when it gets extreme! And out there, on the edges, things can get extremely interesting. Here are the important... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Fishing, Winter
Skiing - and Falling - in a Winter Wonderland
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Dec
15
2014
A Snowy Landscape Winter Storm Damon dumped about a foot and a half of snow on us last week and Wren and I were ready for it. The first chance we had, we headed to the Jackrabbit Trail along McKenzie Pond Road in Saranac Lake. The day was overcast and not terribly cold and the popular trail was already fairly well skied in. We skied through a landscape of snow-laden spruce bent low with the... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Dog friendly, Family Fun, Natural History, Outdoor Recreation, Skiing, Winter
Early Season Cross-Country Ski Destinations
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Dec
12
2014
Early Season Cross-Country Ski DestinationsSure Saranac Lake is loaded with cross-country skiing destinations, but not all are perfect for early season conditions when snowfall is light and the base is very thin. But if you have the chance, these five locations have a lot to offer and all are within a stone’s throw of the Village of Saranac Lake.Grass Pond and then the Hayes Brook Trail to Sheep... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Cross Country Skiing
Fly our Adirondack skies
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Dec
11
2014
Saranac Lake is fortunate in its many geographical gifts. One of them is a bit unusual. We have a wonderful airport. Most people regard their local airport as a necessary annoyance. It has a long drive to an un-lovely area, and the people are all rushed and harried, and someone sadistic designed the terminal. But Adirondack Regional Airport is different in many of those ways. I don't know... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Fall, spring, Summer, Winter
Searching for Boreal Birds
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Dec
06
2014
A Cold and Snowy Time of Year With the holidays and colder months of the year looming, some folks may think that birding in our area has gone into hibernation with many of our mammal species. But in fact the winter months can be a great time to explore the quiet, white woods, and it can be a particularly good time to search for boreal species of birds. After all, while most of our species... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Winter
St. Regis Canoe Area - An Interesting Ski Tour
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Dec
05
2014
St. Regis Canoe Area - An Interesting Ski Tour OK, maybe the ski wasn’t entirely in the St. Regis Canoe Area, but it was very close – more like a perimeter ski tour. I thought I would share a trip we did last winter, in hopes that it might interest you enough to head over that way once the snow makes a permanent presence. Watching the local forecast We had a forecast of balmy ahead of us for... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Winter
Where to find hot beverages
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Nov
27
2014
Updated: November 13, 2015When the weather gets chilly, the chilly turn caffeinated. It’s not just the coffee. Hot beverages, like chocolate or cider, are another famous Adirondack tradition we love to share.There’s something special about warming hands around a mug, and warming hearts around a good chat. If the blood is feeling a bit thin, pop into a place where the meal crowd has left, the... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Wellness, Shopping, Historic Downtown, Family Fun, Fall
The First Ski of the Season!
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Nov
22
2014
Snow has been FallingThe almost daily snowfalls of the past week have quickly transformed our landscape to look a bit like February, and as I walked Wren the other day I realized it might be worth swapping my boots for skis. And so, we headed out in the evening to the North end of the Bloomingdale Bog Trail. The sky was mostly clear and the air was cold as we set out; me on my old, beater, rock... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, Family Fun, Fall, Dog friendly, Cross Country Skiing, Birding
A picture's worth a thousand words - epic winter events
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Nov
17
2014
ABOVE: Saranac Lake's famous Lawn Chair Ladies perform at a past Winter Carnival Parade. The Lawn Chair Ladies are one of the most popular units in the parade each year!First night saranac lakeAs the old adage goes, a picture's worth thousand words. So here are some of Saranac Lake’s best of the best winter events images for this coming season!First big winter event on the docket for Saranac Lake... [Read More]
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Author:Sue Cameron
Categories:Winter, Music, Historic Downtown, Family Fun, Events, Cultural
A Guide to the Great Indoors
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Oct
30
2014
so much more than a beautiful viewTop things to do when you don't feel like being outsideWe love our Adirondack outdoors. We love our changeable mountain weather. But sometimes, they just don’t go together the way we planned it. Still, many weather challenges are not as daunting as they might appear.A misty day is easy to dress for and does not disturb a lovely walk in the woods. If it's a... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Shopping, Historic Downtown, Heritage, Family Fun, Fall, Exhibits, Cultural
New fun at Titus Mountain Ski Area
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Oct
24
2014
 Now that we’ve had a taste of snow in the Adirondacks (a little dusting last Sunday), I cannot wait to get back on the slopes at Titus Mountain Family Ski Center! Titus is currently my favorite ski slope in the area, because it’s a good size without being too big for me, and they tend to have the best snow coverage for my type of snowboarding.[img:titusmap1415-finalnologolowres.jpg]And... [Read More]
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Author:Jess Collier
Categories:Winter, Wellness, Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Events
The Horse Knows The Way
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Sep
24
2014
Horseback riding is a wonderful way to experience our Saranac Lake wilderness. We see Adirondack forest from a new perspective, get the benefit of a guided tour, and experience nature with a large animal companion. Emerald Springs Ranch, in nearby Lake Clear, has extensive trails and friendly horses. They are all Registered Quarter Horses, born and raised on the ranch. During the rider... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Wildflowers, Wellness, Summer, spring, Outdoor Recreation, Natural History, foliage, Family Fun, Fall
Mount Pisgah getting ready for winter ski season
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Sep
22
2014
Mount Pisgah Ski Center is a village mountain with big appeal. Downhill skiing, cross country trails, and fun tubing runs, all in the heart of Saranac Lake.Family Fun this winterOf course, it's a bit too early to actually ski, but preparations start well before the season. The lodge is readied for visitors, logs are laid in the big fireplace, equipment is checked, and trails are walked. There are... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Cross Country Skiing
VIC music sweetens a ski Sunday
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Mar
10
2014
We learned last month how awesome the Paul Smith’s VIC is.  What could make it even cooler? You guessed it. Live music.  The VIC has been bringing in musicians to entertain visitors for a Sunday afternoon series, running from the end of January and wrapping up after this weekend. The series is free to anyone with a ski pass, though donations are accepted, and is underwritten by... [Read More]
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Author:Jess Collier
Categories:Music, Outdoor Recreation, Winter
Skiing Upper Saranac Lake Loops
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Mar
04
2014
Sweet Day on the Floodwood Loop- A Ski to remember The Drive: From the intersection of Route 3 and Route 86 in Saranac Lake follow Route 3 toward Tupper Lake. Continue to Route 30 between Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake and then follow Route 30 toward Fish Creek. Continue for just under 9.0 miles to Floodwood Road on the left. Follow Floodwood Road for around 3.0 miles to the trailhead on the left... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Winter
Winter Foodie Scene
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Feb
26
2014
As you walk down the streets of Saranac Lake, you will find a plethora of different food options. But it’s hard to tell what they offer simply by their name or even what their storefront looks like. It’s especially hard to tell what restaurant to choose and if they will be a good fit for your wants and needs. Well, I am here to help you out. I am going to give you a little inside peak of each of... [Read More]
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Author:Courtney Petkovsek-Powers
Categories:Winter, Wellness, Family Fun, Cultural
Winter 6'er Hiking Mount Baker
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Feb
19
2014
My First 6'er Mountain climbing is one of the most popular sports in the Adirondacks, and one that is enjoyed year round. In Saranac Lake, it is popular to embark on the journey of Being a 6er. This is climbing the six peaks which ring the village and lend it the distinctive "mountain town" character we love. On any such challenge, be it hiking or snowshoeing, we must start at the bottom... of... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Hiking, Saranac Lake 6er, Winter
Thursday Night Music Jam
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Feb
15
2014
Ceilidh Music Sessions, Thursday Night Fun For AllOn Thursday nights as you pass the Saranac Lake Vistors Center office, you may notice a lot of cars in the parking lot and all the lights on and wonder what is going on. Most people would assume that it is something chamber related (maybe a board meeting or something) that is closed to the public, but that could not be farther from the truth... [Read More]
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Author:Courtney Petkovsek-Powers
Categories:Winter, Summer, Music, Heritage
Paul Smith Visitors Interpretive Center
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Feb
10
2014
Paul Smiths Visitors Interpretive Center (VIC) An Adirondack family ski and snowshoe destination [img:dscf1012.jpg] Just a short drive from Saranac Lake is an outstanding resource for multi-use trails for the entire family. Paul Smith’s College has constructed a rather large trail system to provide a wide range of activities at the VIC. The major emphasis and goal was to engage the college... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, Winter
Night Skiing at Mt. Pisgah
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Feb
09
2014
With all these absolutely beautiful sunny ‘blue bird’ days, you know you want to be outside all day. But what happens when the sun sets and you are not quite ready for the day to be done? You go to Mt. Pisgah! Mt. Pisgah offers Night Skiing and Night Tubing! The mountain is lit up with multiple flood lights all the way up the mountain side. They have a very nice base of snow already and with... [Read More]
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Author:Courtney Petkovsek-Powers
Categories:Winter, Skiing, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun
Mid-Winter Events 2014
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Feb
06
2014
Winter carnival As Saranac Lake Winter Carnival winds down, the last big events of the celebration include the Gala Parade on Saturday, Feb. 8, followed by the I Love NY Winter Carnival Slide Show and the Guide Boat Realty "Storming of the Palace" Closing Fireworks Display at the ice palace on Sunday, Feb. 9, bringing this 2014 edition to a close. The fireworks and slideshow are a not-to-be-... [Read More]
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Author:Sue Cameron
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Historic Downtown, Fishing, Family Fun, Events, Cultural
Winter Carnival means live music
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Feb
05
2014
Live music enthusiasts should be super psyched about the lineup this year for the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival.Saranac Lake already has a thriving music scene for such a small, secluded village, but Winter Carnival is one of the times each year when the music scene shines even brighter than usual. For 10 days, the village comes alive with live music from solo acoustic acts to marching bands to... [Read More]
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Author:Jess Collier
Categories:Winter, Music, Events
Top Five Winter Break Activities
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Feb
04
2014
Top Winter Activies List in Saranac Lake NY Family fun is easy in Saranac Lake. No matter what size, shape, or attention span that family might have. Whatever the weather, we have activities to help everyone explore winter at their own pace. Share our amazing wildlife up close, slide down a snowy mountain, and ride our indoor carousel. Don't worry about what to do with the kids. From their... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Family Fun, Winter
Best Ice Fishing Holes
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Jan
28
2014
Saranac Lake's Top Cool Spots for Ice FishingWhat are the best fishing holes, in the winter? It seems that all of them have some kind of appeal. Ice fishing in Saranac Lake offers so many different places, and everyone has a favorite hard water spot.Finding out where they are… well, that’s not easy! But it helped when I added, “Great fishing that everybody knows about.” Then, I got some sighs of... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Fishing, Family Fun, Dog friendly
Building the Ice Palace
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Jan
21
2014
Building with IceSaranac Lake's Winter Carnival is a wonderful Adirondack festival. One of the strongest attractions happens even before Carnival officially begins. That would be the building of each year's Ice Palace.Festivities began back at the turn of the century, when Saranac Lake was already established as an internationally famous wellness center. Between winter enthusiasts,... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Historic Downtown, Heritage, Family Fun, Events, Dog friendly, Cultural
Tubing Adventures at Mt. Pisgah
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Jan
14
2014
Snow Tubing Anyone? What to do? What to do? Here it is, Friday afternoon and no plans after work. Well, luckily my husband had read Mount Pisgah was opening their tubing hill that evening. We’ve been tubing before, but not at Mt. Pisgah, so we decided to make it a date night. After work we went out to a lovely dinner in town and went home to change into our snow suits. Don’t forget your... [Read More]
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Author:Courtney Petkovsek-Powers
Categories:Family Fun, Winter
Skiing Before the Melt
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Jan
11
2014
            Unfortunately for those of us who love to play in the snow, our temperatures have been fluctuating widely this ski season.  Our warm ups have been followed closely by deep freezes, creating an icy base and constantly varying conditions.  As a result you can’t waste time in enjoying good ski conditions – otherwise they... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Winter
Basics for Ice Fishing Gear
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Jan
06
2014
With fishing a favorite pastime in the Adirondacks, it’s no surprise that our anglers don’t let low temperatures stop them. Ice fishing, aka hardwater fishing, keeps the fun going all the year 'round.  Saranac Lake is an ideal spot for the sport. It’s dotted with small lakes which are quick to freeze, and dotted with avid anglers who love to get out there. That fishing staple, the fishing... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Fishing, Winter
First Time Ice Fishing
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Jan
05
2014
Taking on Ice Fishing in Saranac Lake Ice fishing is a premier Adirondack sport, and Saranac Lake can lay claim to having some of the best. Our abundance of lakes and ponds, many of them easily accessible, puts us right at the top of hard water fishing places. We also get lots of great winter to freeze them up! Despite the early freeze, I had managed to not go myself until just the other day.... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Fishing, Winter
Slip Sliding Away Winter Hiking
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Jan
01
2014
Slip Sliding away on Gothics & Armstrong The winter climbing season is upon us in the Adirondacks The winter climbing season is a very exciting time of year and when the conditions are good, the climbing is exceptional.  This goes for all of the mountains in the Adirondack Park, but for those aspiring to be winter 46ers, this is especially true. Saranac Lake makes for an... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Hiking, Winter
Silent Night
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Dec
20
2013
            Snow covered landscapes the world over have a few things in common.  They are white.  They are generally cold – recently true around here.  And they are quiet.               The day following our recent snow storm Wren and I skied north from the north... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Outdoor Recreation, Winter
Lost and Found
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Dec
19
2013
How I don’t get lost in the woodsI had a great day snowshoeing at the Paul Smiths Visitor Interpretive Center. It combines so many Adirondack passions into one place; wilderness, the arts, and learning. While it seems a world away, it’s so close to Saranac Lake.I set out because it was a “bluebird day,” with blue sky above and white ground below. The VIC has wonderful hiking paths in summer, and... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Wildlife, Snowshoeing, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Dog friendly
Snowshoe Shopping
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Dec
19
2013
How to choose the right snowshoeI enjoy many delightful spots based on the abundant wilderness in Saranac Lake. As my fall hiking got later and later into the holiday season, the decision to become a snowshoer, aka winter hiker, became an inevitable next “step.”Many sports seem to demand the equipment before we even get started. How can we canoe… without a canoe? Good luck pole vaulting without... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Snowshoeing, Shopping, Outdoor Recreation, gear, Family Fun, Equipment, Dog friendly
New Years Eve Saranac Lake NY
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Dec
12
2013
First Night 2013 First Night’s origins trace back to mid-70’s Boston, where community-minded artists created a new kind of New Year’s party. Now, with upwards of 75 official “First Night” cities across the USA, the well-established First Night Saranac Lake shines in Northern New York as one of the best. In fact, in 2011, the Saranac Lake First Night button won the award for best event button in... [Read More]
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Author:Sue Cameron
Categories:Events, Winter
Short & scenic hikes
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Dec
05
2013
How to pick your pathSaranac Lake is on the edge of a great lake wilderness, and offers many short and scenic hikes. Our gentle terrain means lots of lovely woods to walk in.When we are spoiled for choice there is another dilemma. Which path is best, right now? Each season brings a different joy.Consider the seasonAs the weather shifts, so do my favorites. An early winter snowfall is my signal to... [Read More]
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Author:Pamela Merritt
Categories:Winter, Snowshoeing, Outdoor Recreation, Hiking, Family Fun, Dog friendly
Winter Family Events
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Dec
04
2013
Top Family Winter Events in Saranac Lake  Sparkle Village Craft Fair  This year, as in winters past, Saranac Lake pulls out all the stops for the events that have made their mark on the winter calendar.  The fun starts with a shopper's delight, Sparkle Village Craft Fair.  Over the past 26 years Sparkle Village has grown from a small event into one with a very long waiting... [Read More]
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Author:Sue Cameron
Categories:Events, Winter
Mount Arab
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Dec
04
2013
Snow Shoe In Saranac Lake Mount Arab is located so close to the Saranac Lake Region, yet it gets very little attention from visiting hikers and snowshoers. This 2,500’ peak is a gem in the tri-lakes area and with its attractive firetower, it boasts has some pretty amazing views.  I had never been up Arab with snow on the ground before and I thought this would be a great day to change that... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Hiking, Snowshoeing, Winter
First Ski of the Season!
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Dec
03
2013
            As what The Weather Channel was calling Winter Storm Boreas was bearing down on us, many folks were apprehensive about their Thanksgiving travel plans.  On the other hand, others of us were excited about the possibility of some snow and the chance to get out cross country skiing.  Thanksgiving morning dawned clear and... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Cross Country Skiing, Winter
Less than two weeks to Sparkle Village Craft Fair!
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Nov
27
2013
The first Sparkle Village Craft Fair I attended was a small affair in the upstairs lobby of an old Saranac Lake hotel back in the early 90’s. I was producing and selling fleece headwear at the time and took in a modest amount over the two days.  The craft fair was in its early days and attendance was good, but not stellar by any means. A group of about a dozen vendors comprised the event at... [Read More]
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Author:Sue Cameron
Categories:Winter, Shopping, Historic Downtown, Events, Arts
Debar Mountain and Black Peak
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Nov
23
2013
I have been in search of climbing all the fire tower peaks in the Adirondack Park; not only those that still have towers, but those that also once had.With this little venture, it placed Debar Mountain was on my list. Corenne and I have been flirting with Debar Mountain for quite some time and something always got in the way from us actually climbing the peak. This week was our week to go and... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Winter, Snowshoeing, Outdoor Recreation, Hiking
Saranac Lake Art Attraction Nov 22 - Dec 28, 2013
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Nov
21
2013
Take a cool Adirondack art community with talented artists, add some holiday cheer and you get a festive art attraction. New this season from November 22nd - December 28th, BluSeed Studios is bringing Saranac Lake a trendy twist on the craft fair. Dubbed the “Starving Artist Exhibit and Sale,” local artists will be presenting a range of new work on sale for the holidays. This month-long event... [Read More]
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Author:Kelly Kennedy
Categories:Winter, Shopping, Family Fun, Exhibits, Events, Cultural, Arts
Ducks and Otters at Lake Colby
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Nov
21
2013
            On my regular walks along Lake Colby in Saranac Lake, I’ve been finding a variety of ducks and other water birds.  The other day was no different as I found five Bufflehead – all males – almost immediately as I started walking along the railroad bed.  There were also two Common Loons on the main body of the lake – both... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Birding, Dog friendly, Fall, Outdoor Recreation, Wildlife, Winter
Muskrats!
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Nov
13
2013
            I see muskrats almost every day that I’m out walking with Wren or looking for birds.  I find them in most streams, lakes, and marshes in the region from Bloomingdale Bog to the waterways which empty into Lake Champlain.  This is particularly true during the fall as our days grow shorter and after we change our clocks to... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, Summer, Paddling, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Fall
Goodman Mountain
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Nov
03
2013
Through the grapevine I had heard about a new trail up Goodman Mountain, formerly known as Litchfield Hill. I knew nothing about the DEC forming a trail up this peak, but it would be a good idea, I thought to myself. I had been up this 2000’ peak a few years ago in winter and found the woods to be very open and a pleasant bushwhack; it would be nice to see it under different terms.  This... [Read More]
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Author:Spencer Morrissey
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Hiking, Family Fun, Fall
Ducks on the Pond
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Nov
01
2013
            The fall is the time of year when Wren and I take regular walks on the railroad tracks which run along Lake Colby in Saranac Lake in search of migrating ducks and other water birds.  But with all of the warm weather and southerly winds we’ve had this fall, the waterfowl migration has been slow to get started.  And so our... [Read More]
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Author:Alan Belford
Categories:Winter, Outdoor Recreation, Hiking, Fall, Birding

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Upcoming Events

Paul Smith's College VIC - What to Know
Monday, April 12th, 2021
The nature trails at the Paul Smith's VIC are open dawn to dusk for hiking. Take advantage of great trails on our spectacular natural landscape! The VIC offers something for everyone, with...
Call for artists: Adirondack Plein Air Festival
Monday, April 12th, 2021
Registration is open for the 13th Adirondack Plein Air Festival, held in Saranac Lake, NY on Aug 16-21. Artists will spend a week in the Adirondack Park, surrounded by the picturesque scenery that...
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Recent Blog Posts...

Treat Yourself, Spring ADK Edition
Friday, April 2nd, 2021
Self-care is earning a very good name for itself, and even when visiting the Adirondacks, no one is immune to the necessity of such a rich practice. Whether it be a yoga class, an outdoor adventure...
The Gift of the Maple Tree
Friday, February 26th, 2021
If you ask me, the maple tree is rather wonderful. In fall, the astonishing change of color from vivid green leaves to shades of yellow, red, and orange light up the Adirondacks to the awe of...
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Earn Your Patch There’s an adventurous spirit in all of us. In Saranac Lake, you can answer that call by becoming a Saranac Lake 6er.
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Unplug Outdoors The mountains, rivers, and lakes bordering Saranac Lake aren’t just for show, and those boots on everyone’s feet aren’t a bold new fashion statement.
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Enter to Win Sample Saranac Lake with this getaway package. Enter now!
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Saranac Lake Welcome Center
39 Main Street
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