Winter 2016 - Adirondack Guest Informer

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WINTER 2016
Dear Adirondack Guest,
Welcome to winter in the Adirondacks. Or, should I say, hopefully winter
will arrive soon.
Although snowfall has been less than abundant, I can assure you that
our ski areas are making plenty of snow for the avid skier and I can
also assure you that the snow is on its way. Autumn last year has been
especially warm and the usual December snowstorms never materialized
but winter is here and snow it will for this is after all the “North Country”.
To help you orient the Adirondacks, we have a handy map on page 4.
Prior to leaving on your favorite destination, peruse our calendar pages
to find out what is going on, and where. Perhaps a great Adirondack event
is waiting for you in your destination town.
Please make sure to read all our informative articles and mention to our
advertisers that you saw them in our pages.
Stay warm,
Miroslav Ivkovic
Publisher
[email protected]
Winter 2016 In This Issue
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6
ADIRONDACK MAP
CALENDAR OF EVENTS / Sarah Rijsewijk
A listing of regional events for Winter 2016
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14
RESTAURANTS
16
20
ATTRACTIONS
STORIES FROM HOME
John Van Alstine / Kelly Gallagher
Saratoga Brewfest / Michael La Point
SnoCade / Kelly Gallagher
ADIRONDACK NIGHTLIFE / Michael LaPoint
COVER PHOTO
Rodney Bentley
Illustrator & Artist
WINTER 2016
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WINTER 2016
Celtic
Treasures
A PIECE OF IRELAND IN DOWNTOWN SARATOGA SPRINGS
By Kelly Gallagher
B
roadway is a busy place in Saratoga
Springs, but despite the bustling
streets and colorful storefronts, Celtic
Treasures can be noticed from all the way down
the block, thanks to the two flags—one Irish
and one American—flanking the entrance to
the shop. Inside, visitors are greeted by friendly
staff, and may be lucky enough to exchange a
few words with the hardworking Paul O’Donnell,
who has owned and operated Celtic Treasures
since 1992. While many people search for years
to find their calling, Paul was introduced to his
future vocation at an early age. “I had spent
many summers in Ireland as a boy, and had a
natural fondness for all things Irish,” Paul says.
“I thought it would be cool to work for Guinness,
but decided it would be more fun to be my
own boss!”
“
“
I had spent many
summers in Ireland
as a boy, and had a
natural fondness for
all things Irish,
owner Paul O’Donnell
A name like Celtic Treasures evokes high
expectations, and O’Donnell’s shop surpasses
them, offering a wide selection of carefully
selected merchandise perfect for anyone who
is Irish, or wishes they were. Products adorned
with shamrocks and Celtic knots have their
place in the shop, but alongside those standard
items, one can find an excellent selection of
unique products with direct ties to Ireland,
such as Nicholas Mosse pottery, Belleek China,
Galway crystal, Waterford crystal, and gold and
silver jewelry from all four corners of Ireland.
Shoppers can also find imported food items,
music, paintings, jewelry, hand-knit and handloomed Irish wool sweaters, tweed hats and
caps—and much more.
Paul and his wife chose to open their shop in
Saratoga Springs because, he says, “it seemed like
a magic place to do business.” This premonition
has certainly rung true, but it’s not a question of
Irish luck. Rather, it is the result of a dedicated
owner and staff members putting their hearts
into what they do, and actively seeking to take
part in their community. O’Donnell believes
that the friends he has made over the past 23
years have been the best thing about running
his business. “There is a wonderful sense of
comradery in this town,” O’Donnell says.
In addition to being open seven days a week,
Celtic Treasures also participates in the Saratoga
Springs Victorian Streetwalk every year, at which
the store proudly features many talented Irish
musicians.
Although Saratoga Springs is located on
the southern edge of the Adirondacks, entering
Celtic Treasures, (located at 456 Broadway),
might—for a minute—make you believe you’ve
been transported to the Emerald Isle. Visit www.
celtictreasures.com to learn more about the
shop’s products, or drop in. Just look for the
Irish and American flags!
Kelly Gallagher is a freelance writer originally from
Troy, NY. She currently lives in Scotia, NY with her
husband Alan and their baby boy, Hudson.
The Adirondack Guest Informer is published quarterly by ADKGI, a partnership
company. Reproduction of this magazine, in part or whole, is prohibited without
written permission from ADKGI. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of
all published information.
WINTER 2016
Publisher
MIROSLAV IVKOVIC
[email protected]
Music
Columnist
MICHAEL LAPOINT
[email protected]
Photographer/
Designer
MARIA KARAKOV
[email protected]
Famous
Adirondackers
KELLY GALLAGHER
[email protected]
Feature
Writer
SARAH VAN RIJSEWIJK
[email protected]
Graphic
Designer
JENNY KERR SCHROEN
[email protected]
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WINTER 2016
SUNDAY
MONDAY
JANUARY EVENTS
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
WORLD CUP BOBSLED
Mt. Van Hoevenburg
Lake Placid, thru 1/10
3
4
10
24
17
SUNDAY SURPRISE (24TH)
Hyde Collection, Glens Falls, 12-3pm
STAR WARRIORS (24TH)
Zankel Music Center
Skidmore College, 3pm
6
PRO ICE HOCKEY
Civic Center
Glens Falls, 7pm
SUNDAY SURPRISE
The Hyde Collection
Glens Falls, noon -3pm
10K SNOWSHOE RACE
Saranac Lake
10am-1pm
FIREWORKS/PARADE
Gore Mt.
North Creek, 4pm
5
PRO ICE HOCKEY
Civic Center
Glens Falls, 7pm
LADIES ESCAPE
Gore Mt.
North Creek
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11
MARTIN LUTHER
KING DAY
BOARDER/SKIER CROSS
Gore Mt.
North Creek
18
12
13
19
25
PRO ICE HOCKEY
Civic Center
Glens Falls, 7pm
7
14
27
28
2
DROP IN & DRAW
The Hyde Collection
Glens Falls, 10am-3pm
PRO ICE HOCKEY
Civic Center, Glens Falls, 7pm
WINTERFEST
ADK Loj, Lake Placid
ICE FISHING DERBY
Lake Adirondack
Indian Lake
WINTER CARNIVAL
Long Lake
22
ADK ICE BOWL
Woods Inn
Inlet, 8am
PRO ICE HOCKEY
Civic Center
Glens Falls, 7pm
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For anyone familiar with the Adirondacks,
and especially the Lake Placid region, you know
what it’s like driving down Route 73 and coming
up on the immensely daunting, steep ski jump.
If you are like most people you may shake your
head in awe and a conversation in the car starts
up about what it must be like to fly down that
jump on a set of skis.
Well thankfully January 14th- 16th there
will be several events dedicated to that popular
conversation and curiosity!
Beginning Thursday January 14th on the
Wilderness Trail at the spectacular Whiteface
Mountain, spectators can watch as world class
athletes take on a challenging Mogul course and
compete for first place. Men and Ladies will both
be competing with qualifications in the morning
and finals taking place after 1:30pm.
If you would like to check out this event you
must have a valid lift ticket or Season Pass and
the ability to ski intermediate terrain to view the
WINTER 2016
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7
16
VALENTINE’S
DAY
SUNDAY SURPRISE
Hyde Collection
Glens Falls, 12:30
ICE FISHING TURNEY
7279 Route 8
Brant Lake, 9am
FARMERS MARKET
Spa State Park
Saratoga Springs, 9am-1pm
BRIDAL EXPO
Canfield Casino
Saratoga Springs, 11- 4
WEDDING SHOW
Longfellows Restaurant
Saratoga Springs, 11-3
DROP IN & DRAW
Hyde Collection
Glens Falls, 10am-2pm
PRO ICE HOCKEY
Civic Center
Glens Falls, 7pm
SUNDAY SURPRISE
Hyde Collection
Glens Falls, 12-3
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FIS Freestyle Cup Visits Lake Placid – January 14th – January 16th 2016
By Sarah Van Rijsewijk
Moguls competition. An award ceremony will
follow at 2:50 pm.
On Friday, January 15th head on over to
the Olympic Ski Jumping Complex to watch
in amazement as more incredible athletes start
their qualification and training rounds in the
Aerial Division at the Freestyle Hill. Training
and Qualifications start at 1:30 pm at the
Jumping Complex and at 8pm, join us to watch
the Finals taking place under the lights. Awards
will be handed out around 9:30pm.
Saturday, January 16th will be more Aerial
competitors. Starting at 12:30pm, at the Olympic
Jumping Complex Freestyle Hill. Spectators can
come watch these world class athletes – many
of whom we can expect to see at the 2018
Winter Olympics – as they soar 50-60 feet in the
air off of the notorious ski jump, twisting and
turning mid-air, and sticking a perfect landing.
Qualifications, Training and Finals will take
place throughout the day Saturday, with Finals
TUESDAY
taking place again under the lights. Around
8:45, stick around for the award ceremony and a
beautiful winter fireworks display.
This is Lake Placid’s 27th year hosting the
event. They are proud to have so many incredible
athletes taking place in what is sure to be an
amazing 3 days. The event brings in thousands of
spectators every year and is just one more great
way to honor the history the Olympic Village.
The event is family friendly and very
affordable for any budget. Admission for adults
is just 16.00. Juniors (7-12yrs) and Seniors (65+)
are just 10.00 and if you purchase your ticket
online you can save 4.00. As an added bonus,
show your Olympic Sites Passport, Whiteface,
Gore, Bellearye or Mt Van Hoevenberg Season
Pass and you’ll receive FREE admission to the
night aerials event.
Feel free to visit http://www.whiteface.com/
events/lake-placid-fis-freestyle-cup
for
more
information!
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SUNDAY SURPRISE
Hyde Collection
Glens Falls, 12:30
9
15
21
CAN-AM HOCKEY
Mirror Lake
Lake Placid
26
8
POND HOCKEY TURNEY
Lake Placid,
thru 1/17
EASTERN
ORTHODOX
NEW YEAR
FREESTYLE CUP
Whiteface Mt.
Wilmington
20
SUNDAY SURPRISE(31ST)
Hyde Collection
Glens Falls, noon -3pm
RESTAURANT RACE DAY
Gore Mt.
North Creek
EASTERN
ORTHODOX
CHRISTMAS
GILBERT GOTTFRIED
Civic Center
Glens Falls, 7pm
MONDAY
POLAR PLUNGE
Long Lake, 1pm
DROP IN & DRAW
Hyde Collection
Glens Falls, 10am -2pm
1
SUNDAY SURPRISE
Hyde Collection,
Glens Falls, 12:30
SUNDAY
SATURDAY
POLAR PLUNGE
Shepard Park, Lake George, 1pm
FIRST NIGHT CELEBRATIONS
Saranac Lake, Saratoga Springs
FEBRUARY EVENTS
14
WEDNESDAY
GROUNDHOG
DAY
PRO ICE HOCKEY
Civic Center
Glens Falls, 7pm
8
2
3
9
10
21
22
28
29
4
16
17
FRIDAY
WINTER WEEKEND
town park
Hague, thru 2/14
WINTERFEST
Indian Lake, thru 2/14
11
CAMP FOR KIDS
Gore Mt.
North Creek, thru 2/19
SATURDAY
CHOWDERFEST
Saratoga Springs
11am – 4pm
WINTER CARNIVAL
Lake George
5
12
ANNUAL SNOW RUN
Old Forge, thru 2/20
NORDIC FESTIVAL
Lake Placid, thru 2/21
BEER WEEK
City Center
PRESIDENT’S DAY Saratoga Springs, thru 2/10
SNOCADE BEGINS
Indian Lake, thru 2/21
BOARDER/SKIER CROSS
Gore Mt., North Creek
ALMA THOMAS EXPO
Teaching Museum
Skidmore College, thru 2/28
15
THURSDAY
EMPIRE STATE WINTER GAMES WINTER CARNIVAL
various venues, thru 2/7
Saranac Lake
Thru 2/14
WINTER CARNIVAL
McCauley Mtn.
Old Forge, thru 2/6
18
WINTER CARNIVAL
Oak Mountain
Speculator
FROSTFEST
ADK Museum
Blue Mt. Lake
6
13
SNOWSHOE CHAMPIONSHIP
Oak Mountain
Speculator
19
RUSH HOUR CONTEST
Ski under the lights
Gore Mt.
North Creek
20
FROZEN FIRE & LIGHTS FEST
Inlet, thru 2/28
SNOWSHOE SOFTBALL
Indian Lake
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24
25
26
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2016 Lake Placid Nordic Festival and Lake Placid Loppet - February 18th – 21st
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you know
very well that The Adirondacks are a full time
playground as soon as the snow starts to fly.
Thankfully there are some wonderful events
taking place in the Olympic Village all winter
long!
February 18th – 21st, the Mount Van
Hoevenberg Olympic Ski Center opens up to
Nordic and Cross Country Skiers of all ages
and abilities. There will be many different
merchandise vendors set up, some wonderful
food vendors, ski demonstrations and clinics,
head - lamp ski tours and the 34th annual Lake
Placid Loppet – Nordic Skiing Marathon Race
taking place on Sunday the 21st.
Anyone who loves to take part in Nordic and
Cross Country skiing should find themselves at
this event. Come ski some of the best conditions
in the Adirondack Park, utilizing the Olympic
ski trails. You’ll be sure to find them pristine and
beautiful, surrounded by the snowy High Peaks
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By Sarah Van Rijsewijk
in the distance.
On Saturday, February 20th, you are invited
to take part in the Citizens Challenge Race. Take
your pick between a 6.25 km race or 12.5 km
race on the Mount Van Hoevenberg ski trails.
This event is family friendly and skiers of all
experience levels are welcome. You are invited to
register online or in person by Friday February
19th.
The fee for admission is just 25.00 and
includes a commemorative T-shirt! If you are
an Olympic Sports Complex Season Pass
holder you’ll save 5.00 on your admission fee.
Additionally, skiers under 18 years old are
just 18.00. This is the 2nd year the Citizens
Challenge Race has been offered and is a great
way for those who are new to Nordic Racing to
get their feet wet.
On Sunday, February 21st, Recreational and
Expert Nordic skiers are invited to take part in
the Lake Placid Loppet, a challenging citizen’s
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race that mimics the course route used during
the 1980 Winter Olympics. This event has been
offered for well over 30 years and is one of the
most unique events of its kind in our country! It
is offered by the Olympic Regional Development
Authority on the Olympic Sports Complex
Cross Country Ski Trails. There are several
different course options for you to choose from
and different registration fees - starting at 75.00
if you are an Olympic Complex Season Pass
Holder and up.
Feel free to visit http://www.whiteface.com/
events/lake-placid-nordic-fest for more information
and registration.
Sarah Van Rijsewijk is a certified life coach from
Corinth, NY. She owns a private practice in the
historic Shirt Factory Arts and Healing Center in
Glens Falls. More at naturalpiececoaching.com
WINTER 2016
SUNDAY
MARCH EVENTS
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
1
6
PRO ICE HOCKEY
Herb Brooks Arena
Lake Placid, 7pm
ECHL HOCKEY
Herb Brooks Arena
Lake Placid
7
2
8
3
PRO ICE HOCKEY
Civic Center, Glens Falls, 7pm
9
10
SNOWFEST
Snowmobile Preview
Old Forge, thru 3/12
HS BOYS BBALL TOURNEY
Civic Center
Glens Falls, thru 3/13
4
SPRING
BEGINS
5 MILE RUN
Special Olympics, Glens Falls
CHILI COOKING CONTEST
Lake George
20
14
15
16
PRO ICE HOCKEY
Civic Center
Glens Falls, 7pm
21
ST. PATRICKS
DAY
17
18
PURIM
22
23
24
FARMERS MARKET
Spa State Park
Saratoga Springs, 9am-1pm
CARDBOARD RACE
Oak Mountain
Speculator, 1pm
FARMERS MARKET
Spa State Park
Saratoga Springs, 9am
11
PARADE
Old Forge, 5pm
ST. PATRICKS WEEKEND
Indian Lake, thru 3/20
13
HIKING TRAILS in the ADIRONDACKS
SATURDAY
ALMA THOMAS EXPO
Teaching Museum
Skidmore College, thru 3/6
12-5pm
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The six million acre Adirondack Park is not only the largest park in the US but also contains some of the most scenic (and difficult) trails in the country.
More than 2,000 miles of hiking trails wind through the park. Our picks for Winter 2016.
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12
MAPLE DAYS
Maple Syrup Harvest
Thurman, thru 4/3
ROCK THE BLOCK
Irish Festival
Lake George, thru 3/20
PRO ICE HOCKEY
Civic Center
Glens Falls, 7pm
MAPLE DAY
Gore Mt.
North Creek
19
26
50TH CELEBRATION
Chapman Museum
Glens Falls, 10am
EASTER
BUFFET BRUNCH
Gore Mt.
North Creek
Pharaoh Mountain (2,556 moderate)
This is perhaps the most scenic trail in the central
region of the Dacks. Take exit 28 on the northway
and follow route 74 about 5 miles to trailhead
parking lot. The Swing trail will wind 3.7 miles
through a beautiful old wood forest passing many
tranquil ponds and gently flowing brooks until
merging with the main trail near the base of the
mountain. Rest here near a cool stream and then
proceed the remaining 2.3 miles to the summit.
On the way pass beautiful conifer trees but be
wary of slippery rocks. The top has four splendid
views of the area. See Hoffman Peak to the west,
the high peaks to the northwest, Lake Champlain
to the east, and Schroon and Paradox lakes to the
southwest. About 7 hours round trip.
Chimney Mountain (2,721 moderate)
The lure of this small peak is the intriguing rock
formations on the summit, as well as a series of
small ice caves, the bigggest being Eagle Cave.
This trail ascends directly uphill so although it
is not long, it is steep. From route 87, take exit
23 to rt. 9. Take 9 north five miles to 28 north
towards Gore Mountain. After about 30 miles you
will see a big chair on the right. Go five miles
past the chair and make a left to Chamberlain
Rd. Continue straight past the first stop sign, over
bridge, then past Starbuck Rd. and over second
bridge. Continue straight past a private camp to
parking for trailhead. Bring the bug spray. About
2 hours RT.
Hadley Mountain (2,675’ moderate)
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28
29
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Bands ‘N Beans – A Celebration of Great Local Food, Music and Art!
By Sarah Van Rijsewijk
On Sunday, March 20, 2016 you are invited
to attend the 25th annual Bands ‘N Beans Chili
Cooking Contest at The Roaring Brook Ranch
in Lake George NY.
This event is 20.00 per person and is being
held to benefit the Lake George Arts Project –
a group with the mission to provide exposure
and income opportunities to professional and
emerging artists, as well as to provide quality arts
programming for the residents and visitors of the
Lake George region.
Each year in mid-March, some of the best
restaurants in the Lake George Region bring
in batches of their best chili concoctions and
compete for several different award winning
titles. Some of the titles that are up for grabs are
the Hootin’ N Tootin’ Awesome Chili award, the
Hot Stuff Award, the President’s Choice award
and the Director’s Choice Award.
Some of the Restaurants that will be taking
WINTER 2016
CENTRAL ADIRONDACKS
place in the 2016 event are the Barnsider, The
Docksider Restaurant, Caffe Vero, Dunhams Bay
Lodge, the Friends Lake Inn, The Full Moon Bar
and Grill, The Georgian, King Neptunes, The
Log Jam Restaurant, The Longhorn Restaurant
and Pub, The Upriver Café and many many
more!
Along with incredible chili, you can look
forward to award winning breads from Rock Hill
Bakehouse, and Ice Cream for sale from Ben &
Jerry’s incase the heat is too much!
Here is a preview of what was happening last
year at the 2015 event. 1st Place went to The
UpRiver Café in Lake Luzerne. The Hootin’ N
Tootin’ Awesome Chili Award was presented to
Giovanna’s on The Lake (At the Georgian). The
Hot Stuff Award went to Frederick’s Restaurant
in Bolton Landing. The President’s Choice
Award was presented to The East Cove in Lake
George and The Director’s Choice Award was
8
given to The Log Jam in Lake George.
But this awesome afternoon isn’t just
about Chili and great food Along with dozens
of fabulous restaurants from the area, you will
also get to experience music from amazing local
musicians and bands as well. Thanks to these
great musical artists and awesome restaurants,
the heat will be turned up all afternoon!
So if you are looking for a good way to spend
a Sunday afternoon check out the 25th annual
Bands ‘N Beans Chili Cooking Contest. You
will leave in a great mood thanks to the bands,
you’ll be full and happy thanks to the awesome
food, and you’ll have contributed to a fantastic
local cause in supporting the Lake George Arts
Project. That’s a great day in my book!
Get a beautiful view of Great Sacandaga Lake
and climb a restored Fire Tower on this short hike.
The trail has some steep sections but is of short
duration as the entire round trip can be made
in about than three hours. From exit 21on the
Northway drive towards Lake Luzerne (9N) and
then make right to route 4. Go over Hudson bridge
and make right to route 1. Follow signs for Fire
Tower to parking lot. Hoffman Peak Wilderness
(easy) From route 9 in Schroon Lake , take
Hoffman Road six miles west to Loch Muller Road,
turn right and drive to end. If you are looking for
solace and true wilderness, then there are several
very remote trails you will in appreciate in this area.
The trails here are overgrown, and be prepared for
mud and plenty of insects, but also two pristine
mountain lakes. From the main trail, steep ridges
rise along both sides of Hoffman Notch, and the
best views will be at Big Marsh-about four miles
from the trailhead . Two of the three trails in
this area are lowland trails with no access to the
summit of Hoffman. The shortest trail is a one
hour walk to Lake Leary.
Crane Mountain (3,200’ difficult)
This is one of the shortest vertical hiking trails
in the central region but the reward lies in the
scenic trail and view from the summit itself. The
trail is a modest ascent almost the entire way to
the summit and follows a small brook during the
first ¼ mile. Because the trailhead is already at
altitude, the remaining 1200’ ascent takes no
longer than an hour and one is quickly emerged
in an evergreen forest. Along the way, the use of
latters is necessary but you should find solace at
the top because this trail is relatively unknown.
Take exit 23 on the Northway and head towards
Warrensburg. Turn left at the second traffic light
and follow signs to Thurman/Athol.
Blue Mountain (3,750’ difficult)
Located in Hamilton County on route 28N, this
beautiful peak is just a mile east of the Hamlet of
Blue Mountain Lake and a half mile up the hill form
the Adirondack Museum. Since the trailhead is
located at 2,200’, the elevation gain is a little over
1,500 feet and about two miles each way. The
trail itself is well maintained with a large number
of wooden planks which are necessary because
many small mountain stream cross the path. At
first the trail is a wide, gentle slope but becomes
increasingly steep. The last mile of the trail is a
sharp incline but view from the fire tower on top
of the mountain is a fitting reward for those who
attempt the hike. The view from the historic Blue
Mountain Fire Observation Station stretches in all
directions and is listed in the Register of Historic
Places.
LAKE GEORGE REGION
Black Mountain (2,640’ easy to moderate)
This is the highest peak in the Lake George area
and easily has the best view from the summit. The
first .8 mile of the trail is a gravel driveway, followed
by a half mile of flat woodland trail and finally a
mile of ascending mountain trail to the summit.
The summit boasts a small weather station, an
abandoned fire tower and a rather noisy wind
Tongue Mountain Lake George
lakeshore trail (easy)
For fantastic views of Lake George from the
western shore and fine wide trail, you can’t beat
this hike. This mountain is accessible from route
9N, only a few miles north of the town of Bolton.
Park at the first of three lots next to a small pond
in an area called Clay Meadows. Follow the trail
downhill for half a mile and over wooden bridge
and bear right after bridge. The trail meanders
through marshaland and tall conifer forest and
ends at shores of Lake George. About 5 hours RT.
Buck Mountain (2,334’ moderate)
The summit of this beautiful mountain is located
directly across Lake George from the town of
Bolton Landing. From Queensbury, take Ridge Rd.
(or route 9L. ) Turn left to 9L heading north about 6
miles. Turn right to rt. 32 for Pilot Knob. The
trailhead will be the first on right. (look for Buck
Mountain trailhead sign) This area is known for
rattlesnakes and the summit area has many bare
rocky spots. From the top, view most of Lake
George, Black. Mt. , Gore Mt. to the west, and
many high peaks. About 4 hours RT.
Prospect Mountain (2,030’ moderate)
This is the most accessible trail in the ADK’s
and will offer great views of Lake George, Gore
Mountain, and Vermont. From exit 21 on I-87, take
Route 9 into Lake George and drive downtown.
Make left to Montcalm Street to Intersection of
Smith Street. You will see trailhead sign as well as
foot bridge which crosses I-87 and follows remains
of old cable railroad to summit. This trail will cross
the Veterans Memorial Parkway at two locations
and will lead to beautiful picnic facilities just below
the summit. About 3 hours RT.
Pilot Knob (easy)
Take route 9L north to rt. 32 and drive past Buck
Mountain trailhead. This is a family trail which
meanders through beautiful decidious forest to
a small plateau just above Lake George. Here
you can take in the views from a small pagoda or
continue southward to a beautiful waterfall. About
3 hours RT.
LOCAL SHOPPING MALLS
Spend the day shopping in one of the Adirondack’s premier malls.
ADIRONDACK OUTLET MALL
CHAMPLAIN CENTRE
AVIATION MALL
60 Smithfield Boulevard
Plattsburgh, NY
(518) 561-8660
1444 State Route 9
Lake George, NY
(518) 793-2161
578 Avaiation Rd.
Queensbury, NY
(518) 793-8818
CAROUSEL VILLAGE
2100 Saratoga Road
Ballston Spa, NY
(518) 885-0615
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turbine. View Vermont, the northern Lake George
region as well as the high peaks. From route 22
turn to route 6 at Hulletts Landing. Drive two miles
and then make left to Pike Brook Road. Trail is half
mile on right. About 3 hours RT.
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Megamall with 58 stores and 6 eateries
located only 22 miles from the canadian
border.
WILTON MALL
Route 50 and Loudon Road
Saratoga Springs, NY
(518) 583-2138
WINTER 2016
South Adirondack Restaurants
South Adirondack Restaurants
Open 7 Days Year Round!
Wood Fired Bistro & Bar featuring
authentic Neapolitan style pizza, steaks,
chicken, fresh seafood, pastas, salads,
gluten free and vegetarian options. Dine
alfesco on our dog friendly patio by the
fire pit or fireside in our handcrafted
lodge. Our exquisite handmade cherry
bar serves up the best in local craft
drafts, fine wines and made to order
cocktails.
739 US Rte. 9, Schroon Lake
518-532-WOOD
adirondacksticksandstones.com
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www.ADKGuestInformer.com
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WINTER 2016
Country Corner
High Peaks Restaurants
ROUTE 30 ONE STOP
6236 Route 30 • Indian Lake, NY 12842
(518) 648-6364
~groceries
~deli
~cold beer & soda
~sandwiches & subs made to order
~ wings, fries & large selection from our fryer
~homemade soups & salads
~DVD Rentals
~CAR WASH & LAUNDRYMAT
We serve Green MT Coffee
OPEN 7 DAYS 6am - 9pm
COME SEE WHAT WE CAN GROW!
2 DeCKs
OVeRLOOKING
MIRROR LAKe
with the
2405 Main Street, Lake Placid • (518) 523-9902 besT view
in Lake Placid
OPEN 7 DAYS 11am to 1am
-burgers
-wings
-nachos
-wraps
- soups
- salads
- kids menu
- private dining areas
HAPPY HOUR
14 Large TV’s so
you can catch your
favorite team in
action
every day from 4pm to 6pm + daily drink SpecialS
ADIRONDACK MARKETPLACE
ADIRONDACK ADVENTURES
Saratoga Skydiving Tandem Skydiving,
training courses, video & stills of your skydive.
518-895-8140 www.skydivesaratoga.com
Adirondack Rafting Co.
Rafting trips in the Adirondacks.
www.lakeplacidrafting.com (518) 523-1635
Adk Mt. Stream & Guide Service
Hunting, Fishing, Hiking, Canoeing, Camping,
X-Country Skiing. Jamie Frasier. Licensed NYS
Guide (518) 251-3762 [email protected]
ACCESSORIES
Games & Paintball
Paintball supplies, playing fields, card games,
sports cards, used video games. Visit us in South
Glens Falls only 2 miles off exit 17 (518) 745-4263
ANTIQUES
Hand Crafted Furniture Lawn Furniture Shop
does all work on premises. Adirondack chairs,
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www.ADKGuestInformer.com
picnic tables, playhouses, rocking chairs, etc. Exit
33 of Northway, Willsboro (518) 963-8630
Poor Richard’s Antiques
We buy and sell single items or complete estates.
179 Glen Street, Glens Falls.
Stitches & Time Antique and Gift Shop
Farmhouse furniture for shop, office or home.
945 Route 29 East, Saratoga Springs.
Open year round. (518) 695-5643
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
PUBLISHING
Own your own magazine business for only $4,999.
Full training in US. Call (518) 744-8090
FOOD
Ballston Spa
Hand Blended Organic Tea Cures cold and flu.
(518) 584-2340 Call Gina
Locust Grove Smoke House
Quality meats since 1973. Smoked meats,
cheeses, pickled polish sausages, local maple
syrup & honey. Open year round. Route 40,
Argyle NY. (518) 638-8591
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LODGING and RENTALS
Fully equipped, year round cabin
near Lake Champlain (518) 597-3645
MISCELLANEOUS
Aunt Polly’s Material Girls Quilting Shop.
For all your quilting needs. Adirondack quilts for
sale at “GREAT PRICES”. On the Hudson River. 3
Hudson River Road, Newcomb, NY 12852
(518) 582-2260 www.auntpollysmaterialgirls.com
The Tattoo Clinic
Custom Tattoos and Body Piercings. Conveniently
located at 77 Main Street, South Glens Falls.
Walk Ins Welcome. (518) 743-9678.
www.tattooclinic.com Mention ad for 10% off.
Hand crafted & custom made chess, checker
and backgammon boards. (518) 356-5028
Meadow Crafts Arts and Jewelry
from semi precious stone, glass, fine art and much
more. www.meadowcrafts.com
Garnet Studio
Specializing in Adirondack Garnet & other colored
Gem stones, custom gem cutting. North River
(518) 251-3368 www.garnetstudio.net
WINTER 2016
Stories From Home
Stories From Home
Famous Adirondackers
SCULPTING TREASURES FROM STONE AND SCRAP
T
By Kelly Gallagher
o encounter John Van Alstine’s enclave
of sculptures is like stumbling upon a
gathering of otherworldly creatures. It almost
feels like a strong strike of lightning could jolt
them to life. Yet for all the energy these creations
radiate, they largely exist in solitude, due to the
remote location of Van Alstine’s studio in the
hamlet of Wells, on the banks of the Sacandaga
River. Blink, and you’ll miss the property’s
driveway. Perhaps that’s what the world-renown
sculptor was aiming for when he located his
studio and small sculpture garden here—a tiny,
quiet kingdom into which his creations could
come to light.
Van Alstine works primarily in metal (often
in the form of found objects) and granite. He
sculpts using an assemblage method, rather than
the more traditional approach of subtraction,
and often references mythology in his work. His
sculpture garden and studio are located on the
site of a 19th-century wood products mill. Since
acquiring the property, the buildings have been
restored, an effort which has been recognized
with the “2000 Adaptive Historic Re-use Award”
from the Adirondack Architectural Heritage
Organization.
Born in Gloversville, New York in 1952, Van
Alstine was raised in the Adirondack Mountains,
but his career as an abstract sculptor has taken
him around the world. His piece, Rings of Unity,
Circles of Inclusion was installed in the Olympic
Park for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
Other creations can be found in galleries and
public spaces in places like New York, New
Mexico, Baltimore, Massachusetts, New Jersey,
Michigan, and Portugal. Along with artist
Noah Savett, Van Alstine created a 35-foot 9/11
memorial sculpture using steel beams from the
fallen World Trade Center towers. The final
piece, Tempered by Memory, stands in High
Rock Park in Saratoga Springs.
Van Alstine continues to create and lecture,
and appears at symposiums near and far. An
artist with such an impressive resume could
easily take his pick of the place he’d like to live
and work. Van Alstine chose a sleepy corner in
the Adirondacks. It’s the type of place that gets
creative juices flowing.
A CURE FOR CABIN FEVER
By Kelly Gallagher
T
he Town of Indian Lake is well acquainted
with the icy grasp of Old Man Winter.
Many municipalities are content to hide under
snow-blanketed rooftops and count the days
until spring thaw, but not Indian Lake. Rather
than ignoring the ice and snow, these residents
instead choose to celebrate the season with a
series of events known as SNOCADE.
Now in its third year, SNOCADE was
originally conceived as a snowmobiling event,
and as an expansion of the town’s Winterfest
activities. As planning continued, however, the
Town committee saw no reason to hold back,
and let the event evolve. SNOCADE has since
become a multi-day winter celebration, offering
what committee chair Sally Stanton calls “the
total winter package.”
“Indian Lake is a perfect place to spend the
winter break,” says Stanton. “The SNOCADE
schedule expands each year with fresh and
unique options for cold weather fun.”
There really is something for everyone
at SNOCADE. A short list includes guided
snowmobile rides, a radio play, a winter water
rescue demonstration, a mystery dinner theater,
a night sky guided tour, youth hockey, dog sled
rides, a snowshoe hike and organized children’s
activities. The sheer quantity and variety of
events available at SNOCADE is a testament to
the number of people who are willing to donate
their time and talents to brighten up wintertime
for Indian Lake residents and visitors.
“There has been an high level of participation
from organization and volunteers,” says Stanton.
“It is amazing to watch them come together to
help enrich the community and let the event
grow.”
Stanton urges visitors to check out the
festivities, even if you’re the type who typically
prefers to hibernate during the winter. “Whether
you’re an outdoor enthusiast or prefer indoor
activities, you’ll find both,” says Stanton. “Be
prepared to have fun and make friends.”
SNOCADE takes place at a variety of
locations from February 12 to February 21. A full
list of events, as well as their times and locations,
is available on the community calendar at
http://indian-lake.com/community.php.
BREW UP SOME WINTER FUN By Michael LaPoint
SaratogaBeerWeek.com
Saratoga City Center, 522 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Use Exits 13N, 14 or 15 off I-87 (The Northway) for access to Saratoga Springs
February 16-20, 2016
Do you like beer? Who doesn’t, right? Three
Cheers for Beer! Seriously, if you like beer,
and not just the generic and sometimes bland
supermarket brands, there’s an annual event in
Saratoga Springs you’re going to want to check
out. 2016 marks the 5th anniversary of Saratoga
Beer Week in Saratoga Springs, NY taking
place Tuesday, February 16th through Saturday,
February 20th. It’s five days of events city-wide
centered on beer, food, music and fun. If you’re
not that into beer, there’s also an event on Friday
evening called Cider Night, started just last year.
Beer Week kicks off Tuesday with a sampling
party, this year’s location to be announced.
Events on Wednesday and Thursday (as well as
the weekend) include pubs and restaurants (and
WINTER 2016
even a beer distributor) throughout the city.
Featuring specials on regional and international
brews, you can sample as well as have dinner
and some venues will include live entertainment.
These events are all free admission. Friday night
features Cider Night with hard ciders from 30+
cideries and then Saturday culminates with the
Beer Summit represented by 90+ craft breweries.
Both of these events take place at the Saratoga
Springs City Center in a 20,000 square foot
venue with plenty of room for vendors of both
beer and food and for samplers to have a good
time.
Tickets for Friday night are $30 and the
event is 6:00 - 9:00 PM allowing for three hours
of cider sampling. Tickets for the Beer Summit
on Saturday are $40. There are two sampling
“sessions,” so you have a choice for when you
want to start drinking. The afternoon session
is from 1:00 - 4:00 PM or choose an evening
session from 5:30 - 8:30 PM. Both allow for three
hours of taste testing. Tickets increase by $10
at the door and are limited, so book early and
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check out the event schedule (which includes
dozens of events) before arriving to plan out
your sampling adventure. Both Cider Night and
the Beer Summit include live entertainment
with The WonderBeards (thewonderbeards.
com) performing on Friday and The Revenuers
(facebook.com/TheRevenuers) on Saturday
night. Both events also include a souvenir
sampling glass. If you’re coming from Clifton
Park or Albany, don’t drive, take the shuttle for
$10. For more information and the schedule,
check the official website. All events should be
confirmed 3-4 weeks beforehand.
I’ve been in contact with Ashly EmersonKeating from Townsquare Media about the event
and she had this to say: “...the Beer Summit has
sold out every year and is expected to again in
2016. We are pacing well ahead of last year so
people should not wait to buy tickets. We feel
that the reason for our continued success is
that we have improved the experience each year
without raising prices making this, by far, the
best value for the beer lover’s dollar.”
www.ADKGuestInformer.com
www.ADKGuestInformer.com
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WINTER 2016
Attractions
Attractions
GANIENKEH TERRITORIAL
SUPER JACKPOT
$1,000/Full Cards
MINI
BINGO
B
ADMISSION
9 FACE CARDS
$5.00
2 SPECIAL BOOKS $5.00
10 70/30 GAMES $8.00
Wednesday & Friday doors open at 5pm • Games start at 6:30pm
Sun. doors open at 10am & Games start at Noon.
51 8 - 4 9 3 - 2 247 • D e v i l ’ s D e n R o a d v i a A l t o n a , N Y
I
N
G
O
More HIKING TRAILS in the ADIRONDACKS
The six million acre Adirondack Park is not only the largest park in the US but also contains some of the most scenic (and difficult) trails in the country.
Giant Mountain (4,627’ difficult) This
Cascade Mountain (4,098’ moderate)
This mountain is the easiest of the High Peaks to
climb and offers tremendous 360 degree views of
the high peaks region, the Keene Valley, as well
as Lake Placid. The trail is a consistent uphill
climb but it is not steep. The summit itself is an
interesting plateau of rock formations and some
dangerous cliffs. Once exiting from the evergreen
forest, follow the cairns to the summit. Access the
trail from route 73 near the Lower Cascade Lakes.
This trail has an elevation gain of over 2,000 and is
about 4 hours RT.
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high peak is the closest peak to the Northway
and offers amazing 180 degree views at the
top. Follow the Roaring Brook Trail to the rocky
summit. From the summit view Schroon Lake,
Vermont, Quebec province, the Dix range and the
Keene Valley. Be prepared for mud and many
steep sections. This trail is not recommended for
children or amateurs as there is some Class IV
scrambling . A more scenic trail is the Ridge Trail.
Hiking time is about the same but this trail is much
steeper and much of it is exposed to the weather.
Wear a hat and sun glasses if choosing this route.
Access from route 73 directly across Chapel Pond.
Both trails are about 7 hours RT.
17
Lower Wolf Jaw (4,175’ difficult)
Nestled off route 73 in Keene Valley, the trail
for this high peak passes near the summit of
Rooster Comb (a moderate trail up to this point)
and Hedgehog Mountain (3,369’) The views
of the Keene Valley as well as the Dix Mountain
wilderness are spectacular from this trail which
zig zags to Rooster Comb and then gains steady
elevation to Hedgehog with some third grade
scrambling to reach the summit of Lower Wolf Jaw.
Once on the summit, enjoy great views of Gothics,
Marcy, Algonquin, and many other high peaks.
Algonquin Peak (5,114’ extreme) This is the
second highest mountain in the Adirondacks and
a true adventure in every sense of the word. This
trail is for experienced hikers only. See waterfalls,
amazing vistas, and hike above About 8 hours RT.
WINTER 2016
FORT ANN
HUDSON FALLS
LAKE PLACID
SARANAC LAKE
BOARS NEST BAR & GRILL
1263 Pattern Mills Rd.
518–761–9088
Live local bands
The Rock Sports Bar
Lower Maple Street
518-747-2387
occasional solos and duos
ROOMERS NIGHT-CLUB
2559 MAIN STREET
518-523-3611
dance club / DJ’s
THE DOWNHILL GRILL
74 Main Street
518-891-3663
occasional live entertainment
GLENS FALLS
INLET
SARATOGA SPRINGS
FENIMORE’S
Queensbury hotel
Ridge and Maple Street’s
518–792–1121
MATT’S DRAFT HOUSE
(At Screamers Eagle Pizza)
172 Route 28
315-357-6026
pub atmosphere
WISEGUYS
3 School Street
518-523-8221
live music / karaoke
LAWRENCE ST. TAVERN
28 Cooper St.
518-223-0791
Live local bands
SANDY’S CLAM BAR
41 South St.
518-792-4345
Happy hour / live bands
SULLY’S EAST
214 Maple St.
518-793-8958
Solo performers
ZIGZAGS
134 Mirror Lake Drive
518-423-8221
live bands often
LAKE GEORGE
MINERVA
163 TAP ROOM
163 Canada Street
518-685-5347
live entertainment
SPORTY’S IRON DUKE SALOON
1723 State Route 28N
P.O. Box 903
518-251-5260
special events
FULL MOON BAR AND GRILL
490 Glen Lake Road
518-793-1509
live local bands
PLATTSBURGH
KING NEPTUNE’S
(closing November/
reopen December)
1 Kurosaka Lane
518-668-2017
solos/duos and bands
MONOPOLE
7 Protection Avenue
518-562-2222
live music / open mic
OFF THE HOOKAH
37 Court Street
518-324-2200
live music / karaoke
VAPOR NITE CLUB
Saratoga Casino
518-584-2110
live bands / DJ
SOUTH GLENS FALLS
HALFTIME BAR & GRILL
1498 Rt 9
518-792-4869
live local bands
HUMBUGG’S
569 Gansevoort Road
518-745-4410
live local bands
TUPPER LAKE
TRAIL’S END
1880 St. Rt. 30
518-359-7135
occasional entertainment
D
ON’T HIBERNATE, CELEBRATE By Mike LaPoint
While we’ve had a very mild and
snowless winter so far at the writing of
this piece, you know winter in the Adirondacks
is going to get chilly and we will be shoveling
and firing up the snow-blowers soon. Here are
some ways to take a break from the winter
chores and kick back. If you’re visiting from
out of town, these events will allow you to see
how we deal with winter in the Adirondacks.
Long Lake Winter Carnival - the annual
winter carnival takes place on Saturday, January
16th on Mt. Sabattis. From the website: “This year
will feature a snowmobile parade followed by the
crowning of the King and Queen and a Town Wide
Photograph. Events of the day include the Wacky
Hat Parade and Contest, the infamous Cardboard
Box Derby Race, the ever famous Ladies Frying
Pan Toss competition and introducing the
Gentlemen’s Frying Pan Toss competition.” The
events culminate with a firework display. For more
information visit: mylonglake.com or call (518)
624-3077.
winter event takes place Friday, February 5th
through Sunday, February 14th and includes live
entertainment throughout the Spa City as well
as other activities including Chowderfest on the
6th and the Saratoga Frozen Springs Classic Pond Hockey Tournament on the 12th. For more
information, see: saratoga.com/winter/winterfest.cfm.
490 Glen Lake Road, Lake George, NY • 763-1509
Dine In or Take Out • Casual Adirondack Dining
Saranac Lake Winter Carnival - An annual
10 day festival from Friday, February 5th - Sunday,
February 14th, this is the 119th anniversary of the
carnival begun in 1897. Highlights are sporting
events, parades, performances and a fireworks
display over the Ice Palace built by volunteers
from blocks of ice cut from Lake Flower. This
year’s theme is “Superheroes and Villains.” More
information: saranaclakewintercarnival.com or
call/e-mail the Saranac Lake Area Chamber of
Commerce:(518)891-1990/ [email protected].
HELPFUL WEBSITES
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT ON WEEKENDS
WINTER 2016
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to and kick back with some spirits to warm
your soul.
Mike LaPoint’s life has been about music.
He has made a living playing in multibands and
as a solo act. His current CD “The Return Home”
is available where he plays.
WINTER MUSIC EVENTS
Saratoga Winterfest - the annual week-long
• PIZZA
• BURGERS
• HOT SUBS
• STEAKS
• ITALIAN DINNERS
• MEXICAN SPECIALTIES
• JUMBO WINGS
• CLUBS
• DAILY SPECIALS
We don’t hibernate, we celebrate! Smaller
venues featuring live entertainment are myriad
throughout the mountains. Start with the
Nightlife page here in the Adirondack Guest
Informer for some suggestions or find your
own using the web-sites below. There’s usually
a pub or tavern just around the corner from
where you’re staying with a solo performer
or a band jamming for you to tap your toes
www.ADKGuestInformer.com
Lake George Winter Carnival - Weekends
during the month of February 2016. Events
include parades, outhouse races, polar plunges,
cook offs, snowmobile, motorcycle and ATV
races, children’s activities, balloon rides, ice
slides, sleigh rides, and of course, live music
in all the village venues during the weekends in
February. Free admission to most events. Various
events have registration fees, etc. Check the website for specific details: lakegeorgewintercarnival.
com, find them on Facebook or call
518-240-0809.
Oak Mountain Winter Carnival - The
ski area in Speculator, NY is hosting an all day
winter carnival Saturday, February 13th with live
entertainment from 7-11 PM and the crowning of
Oak Mountain Royalty. For complete information,
see: oakmountainski.com/home or like their
Facebook page: facebook.com/oakmtn.
Saint Patrick’s Day in March - People
celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day (Thursday, March
17th) everywhere in the Adirondacks, so almost
anywhere you are, you’ll find something going on
nearby. For more specific events, the web-sites
listed below will detail where, when and what if
you search specifically for events in March of
2016. Music and Saint Patrick’s Day go hand
in hand.
Entire Adirondacks: visitadirondacks.com
Lake George: lakegeorge.com/events
Lake Placid: lakeplacid.com/events
Old Forge: oldforgeny.com/events.html
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VENUES
Some larger venues that have year-round
entertainment where you can get out of
the cold.
The Charles Wood Theater,
207 Glen Street Glens Falls, NY 12801.
(518) 798-9663 or visit woodtheater.org.
Hudson River Music Hall,
122 Main Street, 2nd floor Hudson Falls,
NY 12839. (518) 321-2620 or visit
HudsonRiverMusicHall.com.
Lake Placid Center for the Arts,
17 Algonquin Drive Lake Placid, NY 12946.
lakeplacidarts.org.
Pendragon Theatre,
15 Brandy Brook Avenue, Saranac Lake, NY
12983. (518) 891-1854 or
visit pendragontheatre.org.
Vapor Nightclub, Saratoga Casino + Raceway
Crescent Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
vapornightclub.com
View,
3273 State Route 28, Old Forge, NY
13420. (315) 369-6411 or visit viewarts.org
Saranac Lake: saranaclake.com
Plattsburgh: northcountrychamber.com
Tupper Lake: tupper-lake.com/event-calendar
WINTER 2016
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