When I hiked Jay Mountain for the first time many years ago, I was struck by the size and craftsmanship of the cairns I saw along the ridge. Some of them were nearly as tall as me. At the time, I thought they were cool. Now I am not so … [Read more...] about When is it OK to stack rocks on the trail?
Trap Dike is an exhilarating, potentially risky scramble
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 it’s one of the most exhilarating outings in the Adirondacks. It’s more than a hike. Some … [Read more...] about Trap Dike is an exhilarating, potentially risky scramble
Judge delays snowmobile bridge
A judge has blocked the state Department of Environmental Conservation from constructing a bridge over the Cedar River until legal arguments can be heard next month. The ruling by State Supreme Court Justice Robert J. Muller is an interim victory … [Read more...] about Judge delays snowmobile bridge
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 trails—those without a … [Read more...] about A new trail for mountain biking novices
Wilderness trust buys a new Adirondack preserve
The Northeast Wilderness Trust has purchased more than 2,400 acres in the Champlain Valley, the organization’s biggest project in the Adirondack Park to date. Jon Leibowitz, the trust’s executive director, said the property—dubbed the Eagle … [Read more...] about Wilderness trust buys a new Adirondack preserve
Should we stop rescuing people in wilderness?
We need more forest rangers! We can’t afford more forest rangers! That, in a nutshell, is the debate we’ve been hearing for many moons. In 2018, rangers participated in 346 search-and-rescue missions. Forest ranger Scott van Laer, who is based … [Read more...] about Should we stop rescuing people in wilderness?