The Park: A Boot and Paddle Story
A moose eats from the edge of a small, secluded pond. The sky is golden, and the afternoon light catches the hatch of bugs that are rising from the still water. The moose raises its head and looks around, water and plants dripping from its mouth. On the other edge of the pond, two backpackers sit stock still, captivated by the large animal.
This is just another mealtime in the Adirondacks. The park holds 6 million acres of land with 46 high peaks, three thousand lakes and multiple ski mountains. There’s something out there for everyone. However, it’s not just wilderness; there are many towns as well, and each has its own personality. Tupper Lake, New York has a quaint main street, Lake Placid holds the spirit of two Olympics past, and Speculator seems to be stuck in the mid 1900s.
With the entrance to the park only being twenty minutes away from campus, it is close to home. In addition, there are multiple organizations on campus that frequently plan and lead trips into the ADK Wilderness. For example, joining the Outing Club on adventures in the park has been a favorite pastime of SLU students since the club was founded 86 years ago. Now, the tradition of good ol’ fashion outdoor fun is carried on by the current members of the club, who continue to serve the campus with trips for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
With so much to explore in the Adirondacks, it may be overwhelming to decide where you might want to visit. Fortunately, there are a whole host of resources available both in the park and online. The Adirondack Mountain Club Info Center located in Lake Placid is a great place to visit when looking for information regarding trail and weather conditions, as well as trip planning and gear recommendations. Additionally, the Department of Environmental Conservation dec.ny.gov has online maps and guides for camping, hiking, canoeing and any other activity you may want to do in the park. They also have resources for rules and regulations regarding all types of recreation in the different areas of the park. For example, many areas limit group sizes or have fire bans in effect.
When entering the Adirondacks, remember that the park is a fragile yet unforgiving place. Some high peaks hold rare moss, plants, and lichens, which can only be found on a few of New York’s tallest mountains. These same mountains regularly clock wind speeds of up to 75 miles per hour. Unexpected weather or forgotten gear can be the difference between a good trip and a dangerous one. Checking the weather before you leave is an obvious but often forgotten step in departure. It is also important to tell someone where you plan to go and how long you will be there. Adequate gear is a must as well. If there is gear you need, the SLU Outdoor Program rents it to students free of charge. Remember to practice ‘Leave No Trace’ and carry everything you carried in back out. It is important to have a solid plan as well as an understanding of the rules, regulations and risks of the area you plan to visit. There is no place like the Adirondacks and no time like the present. So, make the most of all the park has to offer. What’ll it be, another day in ODY? Another predictable college party? Or, an Adirondack adventure that you’ll never forget.