Late Summer Paddling at DEC Campgrounds

By Rich Macha

The NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation operates 52 campgrounds in the Catskills and the Adirondacks (NYS Parks operates campgrounds in other parts of the state), many of which close in early September. However, a fair number of campgrounds do stay open through October 9 this year, and offer some quiet water paddling opportunities at or near the campground. Non-campers can access these locations with an Empire Pass or by paying a small day-use entrance fee of $6 to $8 ($10 at Nicks Lake and North-South Lake) per car. READ MORE

Surfing Lake Champlain

By Caroline Patten

It’s 5:05am, and the WhatsApp group dings with a message from Gary K of South Hero, VT: “It's blowing solid. Dawn patrol or miss it.” A quick swipe to Sailflow confirms his report – the breeze is up, reading 19 gusting to 24 knots at the Colchester Reef meter, and wind enthusiasts all around Lake Champlain are starting to chatter about where they are going to link up for a session that morning. READ MORE

Rethinking Balm of Gilead Mountain

By Bill Ingersoll

Sometimes the small mountains are the best hiking experiences. I keep a list of them in my metaphorical “back pocket” to recommend for people who want a memorable experience for modest effort. There are many such mountains scattered throughout the Adirondack Park, although many are bushwhacks; in my opinion the region would benefit if a few more of these “low peaks” had trails. READ MORE