In late September I hiked the Cranberry Lake 50, a 50-mile loop around Cranberry Lake, about an hour west of Lake Placid. I knew there had been bear activity reported in the area, and prepared accordingly. Sure enough, I had my first bear encounter (outside of being in a car). Here’s what happened and my lessons learned.

I’m all about hiking and paddling with a qualified naturalist. Maybe it’s a sign of my age, but it adds so much to my outdoors experience when there’s someone to point out hidden gems and explain a little biology, geology or history along the way.

Signing up for a guided group hike/paddle or hiring a private guide can add serious value to your ADK experience. Whether you’re experienced and frequent the ADK or it’s your first visit to this area. A guided trip can uncover new, less crowded trails, bolster your existing skills, help you conquer next-level challenges, or teach you about native wildlife and plants. Whether you’re solo, with friends or traveling with kids and dogs, there are many economical options to fit your priorities and budget.

Lately I’ve been talking to a number of guests who are planning their very first visit to the Adirondacks. Since not everyone lives near mountains, a first-time ADK trip sometimes involves investing in some gear. But there’s really no reason to invest in expensive gear unless or until you’re going to be using it on a more regular basis. With that in mind, I’ve put together a list of top budget gear recommendations for newbies.

The Adirondack region is home to a healthy population of nearly 4,000 black bears, The important thing we can all do when out in the wilderness is to make sure we store food properly. Recommendations from the NY DEC with respect to bear canisters in the Adirondacks.

Here’s my list of top 10 best summer activities around Lake Placid. All these recommendations are within 30 miles or 45 minutes from the village, and most are in town.

We love hosting families at the cottage, and summer is a great time to plan a Lake Placid visit with the kiddos. I’ve put together this list of recommendations for a precious family we know with a 10 year old and an 8 year old. They all love outdoor activities, so family-friendly hikes, paddles and swimming top the list!

Adirondack Mud Season has gotten a bad name. Generally consisting of April and May, it’s the period when snow is melting in the High Peaks, there’s a fair amount of rain in the forecast, and plenty of mud on the trails. The visual image of getting covered in mud doesn’t sound appealing, but it’s really not that bad. People seem to want to avoid mud season in the Adirondacks, but it’s one of my favorite times.

If you read my previous post on the basic intro to winter hiking and snowshoeing, now you’re excited and ready to try it! Right?! Here are some recommendations to get you out there and moving. Grab some snowshoes and enjoy.

If you’re new to winter hiking, this post is for you. I think there’s some anxiety around hiking or snowshoeing in the winter — the concern of getting cold. But if you prepare well, it can be such a rewarding and peaceful experience. So beautiful to walk softly through the snow covered forest, up to higher ground, looking down on a winter wonderland.

Even in the winter, the mountains are calling. You probably know that Lake Placid hosted past Olympics, but may not realize the vast variety of snow activities you can enjoy in this unique area. Check out these 15 suggestions for fun winter activities in the ADK.