I had a great alpine adventure the other day when I climbed the Trap Dike and a slide to the summit of Mount Colden. I try to do this at least once a year as itโs one of the most exhilarating outings in the Adirondacks. Itโs more than a hike. Some … [Read more...] about Trap Dike is an exhilarating, potentially risky scramble
Outdoor Recreation
A new trail for mountain biking novices
My girlfriend Carol and I bought mountain bikes a few years ago and starting exploring the great trail networks maintained by the Barkeater Trails Alliance in the greater Lake Placid region. For the most part, we stick to easy trailsโthose without a … [Read more...] about A new trail for mountain biking novices
Should we stop rescuing people in wilderness?
We need more forest rangers! We canโt afford more forest rangers! That, in a nutshell, is the debate weโve been hearing for many moons. In 2018, rangers participated in 346 search-and-rescue missions. Forest ranger Scott van Laer,ย who is based … [Read more...] about Should we stop rescuing people in wilderness?
Park officials seek comments on backcountry ski trails
The public has until Friday to submit comments on the Adirondack Park Agencyโs proposed guidelines for backcountry ski trails. The agency could vote on the proposals as early as its March meeting. Two regional organizations representing … [Read more...] about Park officials seek comments on backcountry ski trails
Check the ice before skiing on ponds
Recent thaws and rains ruined most of the trails for backcountry skiing over the holidays. The Barkeater Trails Alliance, for example, reports that no section of the Jackrabbit Trail is recommended for skiing. Yet all is not lost. We went pond … [Read more...] about Check the ice before skiing on ponds
Adirondack Park poised to allow wider ski trails
After years of discussion, the Adirondack Park Agency has tentatively approved new criteria for ski trails intended to enhance the experience of backcountry skiers in the forest preserve. The APA board voted unanimously at its December meeting to … [Read more...] about Adirondack Park poised to allow wider ski trails