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Visit our Inside This Issue: Central • Cycle Adirondacks Supported Tour - page 2 Adirondack • Area Bike Ride Descriptions - pages 4 & 6 towns... • Inlet & Indian Lake Trail Descriptions - pages 8-9 Indian Lake • Central Adirondack Recreation Map - pages 10-11 518-648-5112 • 800-328-LAKE • Sponsor Spotlight: Epic Outdoor Adventures - page 12 www.Indian-Lake.com • Adirondack Birding Festival - page 12 Inlet • How the Black Fly Challenge Was Born - page 12 315-357-5501 • 866-Go-Inlet • BFC Mountain Bike Rodeo & Races - page 13 www.InletNY.com • French Louie in the Moose River Plains - page 14 Raquette Lake • Great Adirondack Moose Festival - page 14 518-624-3077 • Great Camp Sagamore BFC Weekend Special - page 15 www.MyLongLake.com • Pedals & Petals TREK Charity Ride - page 15 Old Forge • Sponsor Spotlight: Pedals and Petals - page 16 315-369-6983 • Cool Things To Do BFC Weekend - page 17 www.OldForgeNY.com • The 2016 Black Fly challenge - page 20 photo by Dave Scranton Welcome to the Central Adirondacks! Adirondack Happenings Please take a few minutes to leaf through the new Central Adirondack Outdoor Guide for a sampling of the attractions, around Inlet and Indian Lake events and activties found in the mountain towns that surround The Central Adirondack region The Bad Chaperones, on July 18, Party at The Woods Inn and the the wild and scenic Moose River Recreation Area: Inlet, Raquette offers four-seasons of activities, 6 – 10pm. full orchestra under the tent at 7 Lake, Blue Mountain Lake, Indian Lake and Sabael. events and attractions that appeal Music in Byron Park will pm (EveningwiththeSymphony. In addition to maps, trail descriptions and outdoor info, the to people of all ages. feature The Washington County com). On August 15, the Cousins Guide is flled with ads for local shops, services, dining, lodging Whether you’re looking for Line Bluegrass Band, July 31, 7 – That Care 5K Run/Walk will and camping. pure adventure or a relaxing 9pm at Byron Park Pavilion. start and end at The Ole Barn Take some time to visit the local shops and information offces diversion, a solitary experience The Adirondack Mountain fundraising for an awesome or one that can be shared with Antiques Show runs Wednesday, group of local cousins who for maps and expert advice before heading out on the trails. friends and family, you’ll fnd it September 16th through Sunday, give back to the community A few minutes spent getting a map and directions can greatly here. September 20th. (CousinsThatCare.com). Inlet’s enhance your outdoor enjoyment. Adults and kids alike can The Great Adirondack Moose Fall Festival on September 19 This Guide is produced in conjunction with the Black Fly Challenge bike fnd fun stuff to do simply by Festival is Saturday and Sunday & 20 is fun for the whole family race. The Adirondack Mountain Bike Association (AMBA) is proud to visiting the Inlet and Indian Lake September 26th and 27th. with live music, jugglers, food, produce both the Outdoor Guide and the BFC bike race. Happy Trails! websites: Indian-Lake.com and For more information visit vendors, pumpkin painting and InletNY.com. Indian-Lake.com. much more (InletFallFestival. Black Fly Challenge Celebrates 20 Years The list of events and activities Inlet is adding an “Adirondack com). October 3 is the 4th annual is far too numerous to mention Renaissance Fantasy Festival” to Adirondack Kids Day featuring In celebration of ‘the Adirondacks’ Greatest Race’ we share this here but a few highlights will give the 2015 calendar which will take children’s authors & illustrators, quote from Eric Schillinger in the Albany Times-Union Bike Blog you a glimpse of the variety… place at Fern Park on July 11 & fshing derby, petting zoo, bounce “This is likely the only place in the world where the mass start Indian Lake events include 12. The Rochester Philharmonic house, horseback rides and more of over 300 racers encompasses people on cyclocross bikes, Community Block Parties in the Orchestra will return for “An (AdirondackKids.com). Market Parking Lot featuring Evening with the Symphony” mountain bikes, unicycles, tandems, and even something I’ve Cool Things To Do on the Fulton Chain Gang, July on July 24 with a free children’s Black Fly Challenge never seen before or even know the name of – a bike like a tandem, 11, 6-10pm. The Adirondack concert at 3 pm in Arrowhead Weekend - page 17 but with three riders instead of two. Hell, I wouldn’t be surprised Challenge Block Party features Park, a 4 pm Beneft Cocktail if there was a pogo stick somewhere in the melee. Saying it was beautiful bicycle chaos would be an understatement… This race Look Inside the Guide for reminded me why I ride bikes in the frst place – its a blast.” • Mountain Bike Rodeo & Races: page 13 • Sagamore BFC Weekend Special: page 15 The Black Fly has since grown to nearly 800 entries in 2014. for more info visit www.BlackFlyChallenge.com. Black Fly challenge Black Fly challenge read: How the Black Fly Challenge Was Born, page 12 Women’s Champion Profle Men’s Champion Profle below: The start of the second Annual Black Fly Challenge in 1997. BFC 2014 Women’s Champ: Rosanne Van Dorn BFC 2014 Men’s Champ: Alec Donahue from Lake Placid, NY from Easthampton, MA Time: 2:01:58 (Women’s Cyclocross, 40-99 age class) Time: 1:46:22 (Men’s Cyclocross, 30-39 age class) Rosanne tied Ruth Sherman’s course record for the Alec defended his BFC title and set a record for Inlet to Indian Lake direction. the second year in a row! Team: Farm Team Elite Women’s Cycling Team: Captain of Team JAM Fund A group of riders comprised of women, junior, Age: 37 (as of BFC 2014 race day) and espoirs supported by Anthem Sports. Occupation: Cycling coach, organizes UCI Age: 40 (as of BFC 2014 race day) races & cycling camps. Occupation: Physical Therapist/ Full Time Mom Alec is a repeat champion so instead of the usual Cycling & Athletic Experience: A Category profle info we asked him a few different questions... 2 Road/Cyclocross racer, (continued on page 2) (continued on page 2) Cycle Adirondacks Central Adirondack The frst fully supported road-bike tour of the Adirondack Park Dining, Lodging, Services, Shopping, Information, Attractions If you want a truly immersive Adirondacks experience – and one that’s a little different than the Black Fly - come spend a week touring the region on a road bike! The Wildlife Conservation Society created Cycle Adirondacks to shine a spotlight on a region that combines spectacular scenery and riding with important conservation work. The tour starts Sunday, August 23, in Saranac Lake and follows a loop route with overnight stops in Star Lake, Boonville, Camden, Old Forge and Long Lake before returning to Saranac Lake the following Saturday. Daily routes average about 65 miles, and overnight sites will offer amenities including catered meals featuring locally sourced foods; a beer and wine garden featuring local brews and vintages; a live entertainment stage; a mobile spa with massage, yoga and other wellness services; and local wildlife and conservation experts offering education and information. photo by L.E. Baskow (continued on page 11) BFC Champion Profles continued... BFC 2014 Women’s Champion Rosanne Van Dorn (continued from page 1) Rosanne started racing bikes back in 2000 for 5 years and then took the next 5 years off while raising 2 little ones. Have been having fun riding and getting back into some races the past couple of years. Being a native Adirondack’r, my background is more outdoor adventure oriented w/ rock/ ice climbing, mountaineering, and skiing then transitioned to more aerobic sports like biathlon, marathons, Ironman…; settling with cycling as my favorite. Cycling Experience over the past year: I have enjoyed participating in a team that helps promote advocacy for women’s cycling of all ages and abilities, especially return to sport for women after kids. Any Special Training: My kids are getting bigger and faster so I like to think chasing after them keeps me in shape. I continually have to evolve and be creative to carve time out and fnd time to ride. I enjoy joining a training partner or jumping into a local group ride for some social rides. Cycling Goals: I have been very fortunate to have a supportive family that makes me feel like I am on the podium everyday so my goals are always met. Returning to the BFC to repeat a win and ride in the opposite direction would be a highlight. Why the BFC? I remember hearing positive accolades about the race from a co-worker a decade and 1/2 ago, so the buzz was there. I had never raced a MTB race before, but my interest had been peaked when I heard you could race on a cyclocross bike. How is the BFC different? I had never raced a gravel race before so was a little unsure of what to expect. What I got was an 800-person mixed-gender mass start, point to point race, on every combination of 2 wheels w/ fast intense pace lining, rough rocky pot-holed dirt roads, sinking sand, muddy puddles, white-knuckled descents, and lung burning climbs. My kind of FUN. It was EPIC! How can we improve the BFC? I think your current model has proven success so the best improvement would be to make none. Riders and racers will return because it is a great well-run race, in a beautiful locale, and an amazing experience. I have seen other gravel races with a “winner takes all” approach and this would defnitely elevate the level of elite attendees. However, the current generous prize purse lends to the appeal of the masses. Having only this years experience from Inlet to Indian Lake my only suggestion would be to allow an open road for a feld sprint fnish. Etc.: Looking forward to the 2015 race from Indian Lake to Inlet!

above: Rosanne Van Dorn before BFC 2014. below right: Alec Donahue at BFC 2014 - frst across the fnish line for the second year in a row. Photos by Pat Hedick Photography

BFC 2014 Men’s Champion Alec Donahue (continued from page 1) What’s new with you, Alec? Our team had a really big year in cyclocross. We had wins at the highest level in the U.S., a national champion, racing in Europe, worlds team selection, and another signing to a top pro team. You brought a group last year. Are you bringing more this year? I brought a few of our riders last year, and we plan on bringing 4-6 again this year. They range in age from 17 to late 20s. What is your opinion of Fat Bikes? Do you think we should add a Fat Bike category? The more the merrier. I have only heard good things about them, so they should try the Fly. Cycling & Athletic Experience: Alec runs Team JAM Fund, a non-proft cycling organization. “We run a developmental cycling program where we help kids get into racing, buy licenses, help them with training. We have a van that we use to drive them to the races. Each year we bring a couple more people to the BFC.” Training: Starts to do training rides in April, does occasional trail runs. Cycling Goals: Alec said before last year’s race that he wanted to repeat as BFC Champ. He accomplished that goal and more, setting the record for fastest time for the second year in a row. He now owns the record in both directions. And as far as coaching goes, “I’m always looking to improve my coaching techniques so I’ll do some trials on myself. I’m always tinkering with my training, just trying not to get too much slower as I get older.” Why the BFC? Learned about it from NYCROSS members; “I try to promote it (the BFC) when I’m talking to other racers.” “The course is super fun, lots of course marshals, everything was well marked. My only comment is that I didn’t see any black fies.” How is the BFC different than other races? Alec likes that it’s point to point, “It’s unique to start in one place and end up in another place.” “The remoteness of it is really interesting too. You don’t really see any cars or traffc. It makes it feel like even more of a professional event. It feels big time even for the amateurs. The mass start is another thing that’s unique. I like that everybody starts at the same time... there’s more people to ride with. It doesn’t matter if you’re a man or woman, young or old... you have a great group of people to ride with. I like racing with whoever can race.” Etc.: Likes Indian Lake to Inlet BFC race route better because of the singletrack at the end. Likes BFC better than Battenkill. “The Black Fly is a fantastic value” and “Nothing against Battenkill, but Visit Indian Lake and Inlet online: www.Indian-Lake.com • www.InletNY.com I like more dirt roads.” 2 3 Area Rides The West-Central Adirondack region has some of the Central Adirondack best bike routes in the Adirondack Park. Dining, Lodging, Services, Shopping, Information, Attractions Here and on page 6 are brief descriptions and maps for some of our favorite rides TOBIE (Trail 5), Rondaxe-Carter Station Loop trx easy - various mileages These trails follow roads, old railroad beds and snowmobile trails with gentle grades and many scenic views making this fun for beginners and a great aerobic workout for serious riders. You can ride all or part of this ride from Inlet, Eagle Bay or Rondaxe. Here, we’ll start in downtown Inlet and all distances will be from Arrowhead Park. From Inlet, take the paved TOBIE trail to Eagle Bay along SR 28, which at 2mi reaches a parking area on the NE corner of Big Moose Rd. From the NW corner of Big Moose Rd, TOBIE Moss Lake Loop - easy to intermediate - 2.5mi w/ optional 1mi spur trq(s trail follows a gravel road W through a commercial area for .3mi A scenic circuit trail, this short loop is best done counter-clockwise so head N/W from the parking and abruptly transitions to a wide, smooth trail under a tall forest area(s) on the W side of Big Moose Road (2mi from SR 28.) The wide, fat trail winds past campsites and canopy. TOBIE continues along the NW side of SR 28 past an the few remains of a Girl Scout camp that occupied the site decades ago on the L then narrows to singletrack access point across from The Brookside and begins turning away and ascends the N side of the lake. Roots and rocks on the following descent may present a small challenge from the highway toward Cary Lake. At 6.5mi on the L a primitive to beginners but it’s the only technical spot on the loop. At the bottom is a bridge over the lake outlet and campsite at Cary Lake makes a nice rest stop. TOBIE continues N a great spot for a scenic break. Continuing S and E the Bubb Lake trail spur is on the R and well worth the ascending the E toe of Bottle Mt before turning E then N then SW extra 1mi (round trip.) Heading E and N back to the parking area(s), a weather station is in the feld on the R and more campsites are on the L. and beginning a long descent to Rondaxe Rd at 8.7mi. The trail turns R and heads NW between Rondaxe Road and Don’t Forget the Roads! Rondaxe Lake. Here is another scenic break spot and parking as Cyclists touring Adirondack roads will fnd hundreds of challenging miles and be well. Staying R, the trail continues NW onto Carter Road, past a rewarded with truly spectacular views. The maps shown here in the 2009 Central closed sand pit, over the North Branch of the Moose River and Adirondack Cycling Guide are from the defnitive (but now out of print) Adirondack past North Shore Rd on the R at 9.5mi. Smooth and wide, Carter road touring guide, 25 Bicycle Tours in the Adirondacks. The maps below are excerpted from this excellent old reference book. Rd continues N then W through mature forest and a rock cut, then past a private camp and a spur to the railroad track on the R before coming to Carter Station on the L. Carter Road turns R across the railroad track, crosses the Clear Pond outlet and continues straight but our route turns immediately L onto snowmobile trail 89. Heading SSE is the Little Safford Lake outlet at 12.5mi from downtown Inlet. This is a great scenic break spot and if you’re there on a Summer morning you can wave to the passing Adirondack Railroad train and passengers. Continuing SSE 200’ the trail turns L over the railroad tracks, and heads E ascending and descending two hills. At the bottom of your second descent the trail goes straight through two intersections with other snowmobile trails, fattens out and at 13.6mi crosses a steel bridge over the North Branch of the Moose River. This is a favorite put- in spot for canoeists and kayakers paddling to Old Forge. From here the trail ascends L onto the road and continues E to an intersection where you can choose to bear R and then turn L onto the paved Rondaxe Rd, or bear L and after 500’ turn R through some very loose sand onto Carter Rd. Either of these choices will bring you back to the Rondaxe Rd - TOBIE (Trail 5) intersection. TOBIE Trail Rondaxe-Carter Station Loop: distances from downtown Inlet - to Eagle Bay, 2mi - to Cary Lake campsite, 6.5mi - to Rondaxe Rd., 8.7mi - to North Shore Rd. 9.5mi - to Little Safford Lake, 12.5mi - to Moose River bridge, 13.6mi - back to Rondaxe Rd/TOBIE Trail, 14.7mi - round trip: Inlet to Carter Station & back - 23.3mi

Another Great Road Ride in the Central Adirondacks

Visit Indian Lake and Inlet online: www.Indian-Lake.com • www.InletNY.com

4 5 Support Mutli-Use Recreational Trails! Many Adirondack visitors don’t realize that mechanized recreation of any kind is prohibited in Area Rides Adirondack Wilderness areas - that means snowmobiles and mountain bikes are not allowed. (continued) Within the Adirondack Park mountain bikes are permitted on New York State lands designated as Wild Forest but not on State lands designated as Wilderness. In recent decades the majority of land added Fern Mt. Recreation Area to the Adirondack Forest Preserve has been designated as Wilderness. easy to expert This is not good for mountain bikers and snowmobilers! If New York State keeps buying up every available acre in the Adirondacks and designating it as trq Wilderness we will soon have no forestry jobs, dwindling towns and few places to ride mountain bikes Note: The East end of Fern Mt is a mix Town and private property. and snowmobiles within the Adirondack Park. Logging operations on private lands have created many skids trails that You can protect current and future recreational trails by telling your local State legislator and can be confusing... So make sure to look for trail markers! The Western the New York State DEC that you want MORE Wild Forest and LESS Wilderness! half of Fern Mountain, which is NY State land, remains undisturbed. Be an Advocate for More Wild Forest and Multi-Use Trails!!! Some sweet singletrack trails are found on Inlet’s Fern Mountain. So sweet in fact that BIKE magazine was inspired to claim that the Inlet Region 5 - [email protected] Region 6 - [email protected] area has “the best trails you’ve never ridden” on the cover of the Spring 2003 issue. The Fern Mt system has a few smooth easy trails but is mostly intermediate to expert with lots of roots, rocks and technical riding. This is a large system with miles of intersecting trails so it is strongly suggested that before heading out, you obtain a map from Pedals & Petals, the Inlet Info Offce, or the trailhead register in Fern Park. Talk to the experts that ride there and tell them what you’re looking for. In a few minutes they can mark up a map and give you the local scoop on the best ride(s) for your level of ability and sense of adventure. By quadrant, the NE section, which includes Fern Park, has the most trails and is generally easy to intermediate with some experts spots. The SE section is easy to intermediate and has access from Limekiln Road. The SW section Perimeter Trail is intermediate to expert. The NW section has the second-most trails, including the highly technical Rock Garden, and is almost exclusively expert trails. The Fern Mt system is marked by numbered intersections with some named trails and USSA ski signs that closely approximate the level of diffculty for biking. The Town of Inlet is currently in the process of making and posting new trail name and intersection signs throughout the system. The three Fern Park trailheads are: Trailhead 1) Pasture Trail - to Lakeview Trail & Lakeview Loop, Woods Pasture, Ralph’s Run and SE trails; Trailhead 2) Walter’s Ski Trail (not recommended in Summer); and Trailhead 3) Fifth Lake Trail - to the NE Corner (intersection #6), Jasper Day Trail and Snowmobile Trail. Bug Lake Trail (Old Uncas Road) Sucker Brook Bay Trail easy to intermediate - 3mi one way trqxs easy to intermediate - 6mi round trip This trail is, in fact, the old Uncas Road that went from Eagle Bay to Camp Uncas on Mohegan Lake. From the parking area on the S side of Uncas Road (3mi from SR 28) the wide trail ascends trqs localadk.com gently through the forest, past a couple of meadows to the Black Bear Mt trail at .9mi on the R. The trailhead is a gate on the E side of Upper Brown’s Tract pond. From Continuing L the old road descends and crosses No Luck Brook, the inlet to Upper Brown’s Tract Eagle Bay go NE on Uncas Road 6mi from SR 28. From Raquette Lake go Pond, and gently ascends about .4mi before beginning a short descent to Bug Lake. The trail along W on Brown’s Tract Road 2.7mi from Antlers Road. This trail, the old Sucker the lake is very scenic with several nice spots to stop for a break and catch a glimpse of the ever- Brook Bay Road (a.k.a. West Mt Road) is a mostly wide, smooth and enjoyable present loons. Continuing S the trail descends and at the bottom the side trail to Eagles Nest Lake trail that is slightly easier on the return. The trail starts along a sandy beach on is on the L - a nice diversion but the roots and rocks make it a better hike than ride. Continuing E the E shore of Upper Brown’s Tract Pond and crosses a bridge over the Pond’s along the old road, a bridge over the Seventh Lake inlet brings you to the end of the trail at Eighth outlet before a short ascent into the forest and along the W shore of Lower Lake Campground. Brown’s Tract Pond. Shortly after the Lower Pond are intersections with the Shallow Lake trail* on the L and the Brown’s Tract Campground trail on the R. The trail continues along easy grades another 1.4mi, where the Raquette Lake- West Mt trail comes in on the R just before the old road descends to Beaver Brook. The bridge is gone but the intermittent stream is often dry and easy to cross. Ascending through an open area thick with ferns the West Mt trail goes L and the Sucker Brook Bay trail continues R another .25mi to a sandy beach that’s great for swimming and sunning. *Shallow Lake is a beautiful remote Wilderness lake and well worth the 2.2mi round trip hike - bikes are not allowed in NYS Wilderness areas.

Red River easy - 15+ mi tx This ride has low technical diffculty so it’s great for sturdy beginners but the long steep climbs make it a good training ride for any cyclist. Starting from downtown Inlet, follow SR 28 N .8mi and turn R onto Limekiln Rd. (Intermediate+ mt bikers can access Limekiln Rd via the Fern Mt trails, if desired.) Go 2mi S on Limekiln Rd, turn L onto the access road at the Moose River Recreation Area entrance and sign in at the register. The gravel road goes SE then turns E making a steep ascent of the saddle between Fawn Lake and Seventh Lake mountains. After cresting the saddle the road turns S and begins a gradual two-mile descent to the Moose River Plains. Be careful how much speed you carry into the corners - two sharp rights are full of loose gravel and can be hazardous if you’re out of control. Turning SW the road begins to level off, the Red River comes into view on the L and you arrive at Red River intersection (app 7.5mi from Pedals & Petals.) There are several campsites nearby that, if unoccupied, are good spots for a rest break. At this point you have options, which include turning around and going back to Inlet, or exploring a bit of the Plains frst. From the Red River intersection you can continue SW on Rock Dam Rd nearly 4mi to its dead end terminus and the Rock Dam trailhead. Less taxing and maybe more fun is to turn L over the Red River onto Moose River Rd, go .25mi SE and turn L following the snowmobile trail through a gravel pit and www.ADKTrailMap.com into the woods. This shady little trail loops back to Moose River Road where you’ll take a R to get back to Red River (adding only 2mi to your trip.) The riding, hiking and camping opportunities available in the Moose River Recreation Area are far too numerous to mention here but suffce to say that it could take you years to explore them all. Two caveats to remember: 1) If you cycle into the Plains, head back out before sunset - those roads are too fast and too loose to do in the dark; and 2) Stop at a bike shop to get a map and some directions - a few minutes there could save you wasted hours in the Plains. 6 7 Inlet Area Trails Guide One-of-a-Kind Chimney Mountain trqxs= Excerpted from Pete Klein’s Note: Trails in Wild Forest areas are multi-use. is home to many Indian Lakers. They proudly call and obvious to Chimney. But once you get to the Adirondack Hikes in Hamilton County. Trails in Wilderness areas do not allow motors or mountain bikes. themselves Big Brookers. Driving down Big Brook, Chimney, all of your exploring will be up to your Check a proper map before you go if you plan to bike or snowmobile. Nowhere else in Hamilton County, and perhaps not you can see by the young trees how much of the area own imagination and some well-worn but unmarked in all the Adirondacks, can one hike up to a more was once farmed and had apple orchards. paths. This is where all of the fun begins. But be 1. Rondaxe Mountain Fire Tower (Bald Mountain): Halfway between Inlet & interesting summit than that of Chimney Mountain. The gravel road sections have ownership split careful! Old Forge on Route 28, turn onto Rondaxe Road, travel .2 miles and the parking This is a relatively short hike of about 1.6 miles between the state, International Paper Company and The Chimney does look a lot like a sandstone and trailhead are on the left. The trail is intermediate and the peak can be reached from the trailhead. The guidebooks say you are only other private owners. chimney that tilts at an angle. Everything is jumbled, by a brisk 30-minute hike. This parking also allows access for trailheads to Fly climbing 760 feet. Don’t let the facts fool you. The When you park in the parking area, please don’t with huge rocks strewn about to form passageways Pond .3 miles, Carry Pond .6 miles, the old railroad bed .7 miles and the spur trail forget to go to the little box and put in two dollars for children and adults can enjoy exploring. to Mountain Pond 1.7 miles. climb is gradual for about half the way and then it really pitches up and up. the privilege of parking on private land and starting Views to the southwest, west and north are great. 2. Vista Trail: The trail is about 4.5 miles long (easy). The DEC has put in a new Even the way to the start of the trail can be your hike over private land. Also, sign in at the The Snowy Mountain Range dominates the west. parking area at this location which also allows access to Bubb Lake .8 miles, Sis interesting if you have never gone there. trailhead registration booth. Blue Mountain is easy to see to the northwest. Lake 1.5 miles and the spur trail to Mountain Pond. On the south side of the hamlet of Indian Lake, off Trails starting from here include the trails to Enjoy the views. Rest up from the climb and have a 3. Moss Lake: Off of Route 28 turn onto the Big Moose Road in Eagle Bay, travel Route 30, is Big Brook Road. From here, you’ll drive Chimney Mountain, Puffer Pond and Kings Flow. bite to eat. But don’t stop here. There is more. Much 3.8 miles and use the parking on the left. There are two separate parking areas. The almost nine miles before reaching the parking area This is the main northern way into the Siamese Ponds more! trail around the lake is easy and 3 miles. This also serves as the trailhead to Bubb at Chimney Mountain Wilderness Lodge on Kings Wilderness Area. Lake 1.5 miles and Sis Lake 2.5 miles. Flow. About four-ffths of the way is blacktop. The I started by saying the hike is short but steep. It is. Pete’s book is available at http://www.lulu.com/ravenwolfpublish 4. Cascade Lake: Off of Route 28 turn onto the Big Moose Road in Eagle Bay, last portion is on gravel. It’s a very scenic drive. I made it up to the Chimney in about 40 minutes. I Editor’s Note: Chimney Mt is renowned for having many caves. travel 1.8 miles to the trailhead parking on the right. The trail to the lake is 2 miles The ride is interesting because Big Brook Road think this is about average. The trail is well marked If you venture into them, go with an experienced spelunker! (easy) and to Cascade Falls is 3 miles (easy). A spur trail continues to Queer Lake 4.6 miles (intermediate). Chimney Mt. photo by Dave Scranton trqs= 5. Trail to Rocky Mountain Summi: On Route 28, just south of downtown Inlet. Cedar Creek Swamp from Black Bear Mt. photo by Dave Scranton More Indian Lake Area Trails & Peaks From the trailhead to the top it is .6 miles of intermediate climb. Parking area is also

used for Black Bear Mountain. TRAILS The Town of Indian Lake, which includes Blue Mountain All of the following are popular hiking and Baldface Mountain (1 mi. paddle across 6. Black Bear Mountain Summit: On Route 28, just south of downtown Inlet. Lake and Sabael, is home to 300 miles of hiking trails that snowshoeing trails in Indian Lake, Blue Indian Lake, 1.1 mi. hike) Leave your boat at Norman’s Cove, and hike up this The trailhead is all the way to the right of the parking lot. From the trailhead to the will take you to hidden lakes, amazing rock formations and Mtn. Lake, and Sabael, and can be found summit is 3.5 miles (steeper intermediate) or you can take the steeper, more diffcult by consulting the map provided in this short mountain to find spectacular views the tallest fre tower in the Adirondacks. brochure. The initials XC are placed after from the open ledges on the summit. 2.1 miles. Parking area is also used for Rocky Mountain. Tackle the tallest mountain in the southern Adirondacks, the trail if it is also commonly used for Snowy Mountain or take an easy tour around Rock Lake. cross country skiing. Snowy Mountain (3.9 mi.) This is the 7. Uncas Black Bear Mountain Trail: Take the Uncas Road off Route 28 near Paddle across Indian Lake and climb Baldface Moutain or tallest mountain in the southern Eagle Bay, travel 4 miles parking on the right. Look for signs for the ski trail access. explore the geological wonders of Chimney Mountain. Whortleberry Pond (3 mi.) & Ross Adirondacks, and the final climb at the top 2.2 to the top of the mountain (intermediate). Trail also continues to Bug Lake 3.1 Pond (2.5 mi.) XC, Both of these trails is steep and demanding. The rocky start at the same trailhead. Most of the summit ledges and fire tower should be miles and Eagle’s Nest Pond 3.8 miles. route is an old jeep road. There is a approached with caution and offer an steep spot going over the height of land outstanding view of Indian Lake and the 8. Trail to Bug Lake and Eagle’s Nest: 5 miles north of Inlet, on Route 28, enter north of Bell Mountain. distant High Peaks. the Eighth Lake Campground. Trailhead is straight ahead, to the left of the beach. Trail to Bug Lake 1.5 miles (easy) and to Eagle’s Nest Pond 1 mile. Look for ski Bullhead Pond (.5 mi.) XC, An easy, Watch Hill (1.2 mi.) This trail is easy but quick trail. This is a great fishing spot for steep at the end and offers great views. It trail markers to continue to Black Bear Mountain 4.5 miles. families. is not marked by the state. You will follow an old road for about .7 mi to an orange 9. Self-Guided Nature Trail: Enter the Limekiln Road from Route 28, north of Clear Pond (1.3 mi.) XC, Easy trail, with painted metal stake, keep to the right. down town Inlet, travel 2 miles to the Limekiln Campground entrance. Pay the day nice views. This pond is known for good Keep right at both forks up the trail, which use fee. Self- guided nature trail brochure at trail- head, 1.5 miles (easy). Also access brook trout fishing. finally passes a beautiful overlook before reaching the summit. to the trail to Limekiln Falls 3 miles (intermediate) and Third Lake, 8 miles. on’s Pon .5 i. XC, Popular skiing trail, with beautiful views of beaver Pillsbury Mountain ( 1.6 mi.) The access 10. Cathedral Pines: 3 miles north of Inlet on Route 28, watch for small pull off on meadows, the subtle remains of the early road to the trailhead is rough and may only the right at the end of a long straight stretch. Trailhead is across the road. The trail is Little Canada settlement, and strand of be passable by a four-wheel drive vehicle. .5 miles (easy). Trailhead may be diffcult to fnd, it has a small worn sign. plantation red pine planted in the 1930s. After some steep climbing, you will reach the abandoned fire tower and views from 11. Ferd’s Bog: Turn onto the Uncas Road from Route 28 near Eagle Bay, travel 4.8 Puffer Pond XC, This pond has two the summit to the east and south. points of access from Indian Lake. The miles and use left shoulder. The trail is .4 miles - half trail, half foating boardwalk. mountain trail is marked in blue, the pond Sprague Pond (.3 mi.) XC, An easy trial is marked in red. There is a beaver quick hike. Look for the yellow gate to mark 12. Fern Park: Turn on to the South Shore Road in Inlet, travel .2 miles and take a dam en-route. At the pond the trail the trailhead. left on Loomis Road. Trails vary in range from easy to diffcult. Maps are available continues east to 13th Lake. at the trailhead and at the Inlet Information Offce. Wakely Mountain (3 mi.) Moderately Chimney Mountain (1.4 mi.) This is a difficult, steep at the end with great views. popular trail because of the great broad The tallest fire tower in the Adirondacks is Paddle Along the Route of the Adirondack Canoe Classic ~ Old Forge to Long Lake views and unusual geological chimney located at the top. foundation. Use caution around the maze Mile 0.0 – Use the docks next to Central Adirondack bathrooms, and Inlet has an Information Center at Raquette Lake is large and infamous for being windy. of caves found at the top. Association Information Center Rt. 28 Old Forge, to the head of the park. . There are restaurants, Be sure of your course before you cross. The Golden launch. The Info Center can supply you with the NYS camping & supply stores, ice cream, places to stay, Beach campground is to your right about 3.5 miles. TRAILS CONTINUED WHAT YOU WILL NEED WHERE YOU WILL FIND DEC map and trip description. They also can help and groceries available here. It’s about 2.5 miles to the campsites on the north side West Central TO BE PREPARED WHAT YOU NEED you with long-term parking. The dam to the left of of Lonesome Bay, and only about 1.3 miles to the sites the launching site, originally constructed in 1799 , Mile 11.4 – The channel to 5th Lake and 5th Lake on Big Island. It’s about 3.3 miles to the Tioga Point Sawyer Mountain (1.1 mi.) Nice views Be dressed for the weather and the 1. The Lake Store holds back some 6.8 million gallons of water. In front itself are less than ½ mile long. At the end of 5th campground. On Long Point is the site of the Catholic Adirondackfrom this easy to moderate climb. Located on Route 30 in Sabael, locally of the dam is a covered bridge used by snowmobiles Lake is your first carry. Just go to your left up a St. Williams church and an associated non-profit season. Wear ankle-length boots. owned by Bill and Eris Thompson. in the winter. small hill to Rte 28, turn right up a short hill Past a B&B, and on St Hubert’s Island is a beautiful Rock Lake (.75 mi.) XC, Easy and flat. Dress in layers of loose fitting Open 7 days a week, a complete general convenient store to the marked crossing of Rte 28. Episcopal church. Your basic course across Raquette Canoe &Rock Kayak Lake is a popular fishing and Mile 2.1 –The end of the narrow channel is at Indian Use caution there can be a good amount of traffic is North until you turn easterly at Bluff Point. This clothes. store. (518) 648-5222 canoeing stop in the warmer months. Point. As First Lake opens up you’ll see a line of on Rte 28. It’s a short walk down the 6th lake road can be a very windy spot. After you reach Bluff Point Bug Season: Baseball hat, long 2. The Adirondack One Stop white obstruction markers ,to your right. You can to the put-in. you are in Outlet Bay and there are several campsites sleeve shirt, nylon pants. RouteNorthville – Placid Trail (130 mi.) XC, Located on Route 30 going towards safely paddle to the right of these markers, which on the north shore. It’s about four miles from Bluff This popular trail includes a section from Winter: Wool, polyfleece th Sabael, locally owned by Sandy and Bob. will keep you away from the majority of powerboats. Mile 12.8 - 6 Lake is less than a mile long. Like Point to the portage to Forked Lake. polypropylene. NO COTTON!!! Indian Lake, th th Durant Campsite to Stephen Pond (3mi.) A charming convenience store with full About .6 miles ahead is the marked channel leading 4 Lake, 7 Lake is large enough to be quite Blue Mountain Lake nd and to Tirrell Pond (3.5 mi.). The trail deli. Open 7 days a week. (518) 648-6364 to 2 Lake. On your left is a point of land and on windy Use caution. All the campsites are on the Mile 29.5 - The carry to Forked Lake is ½ mile. Be prepared. your right is (Treasure Island.) This island is NYS left or North side of the lake and this is the best Forked Lake is mostly privately owned but there are continues on to Cedar River Road. &

owned. No camping is allowed but it has an outhouse course to take until you see the entrance to 8th no houses in sight and it is a lovely lake. Notice on Sunscreen 3. Stewart’s on the far end of the island Lake Campgrounds slightly to your right. The your right the cedar tree branches that are all browsed Cascade & Stephens Pond (4.2 mi.) Insect repellent Located on Main Street in Indian Lake Sabael Areas

carry through the campground is about a mile by deer to the exact same height Keep to the right XC, You will cross Rock Pond outlet on a Map Open 7 days a week. A convenience store Mile 2.7 – Entering 3rd Lake your course is right down long but is flat and on a paved road, and until you come to the Forked Lake boat launch and 200 ft boardwalk and follow the route of Compass with full service deli. What you will find inside: the middle of the lake. About ½ way across the lake Restrooms along the way. campground. Caution; just before you reach the a historic road on your way to these Flashlight (with extra batteries) (518) 648-5992 A map and brief description of you’ll pick up the red/green channel markers ahead. campground is a series of rock piles and some beautiful ponds. Whistle local hiking, XC skiing, and High to your left you’ll see Bald Mt. Fire Tower Mile 16.8 – On 8th Lake all the campsites are on the shallow rocky water. Speak to the caretaker about Waterproof matches 4. Spring’s General Store snowshoeing trails. situated on a large escarpment. At the end of 3rd you’ll left hand North West shore. At the end of the lake tent sites. Grassy (.5mi.) & Wilson Pond (2.7 mi) First aid kit (with ace bandages, Located on Main Street in Indian Lake enter a narrow, fairly shallow channel. Should you is the 1.3 mile carry to Brown’s Tract Inlet. This XC, Easy and fairly flat. Trailhead is What you will need to be and moleskin for blisters) across from Stewart’s. Locally owned and prepared and safe in the meet a large boat like the Tour Boat Clearwater carry is the highest point in the entire Canoe Rt. Mile 33.5 – Forked Lake to Raquette River. This 1.5 opposite Eagle Lake. Jackknife operated by Dick Spring. A general store Excursion be sure and give way. They need all of the To Kent Maine, 1825 ft, however the vertical on mile portage is on a road and mostly downhill. You wilderness. Space blanket for your outdoor needs. (518) 648-6105 channel. the carry is only a few feet. The forest has large are portaging past some Class II-III rapids on the Blue Mountain (2 mi.) Moderately High energy food Where you can purchase For more information visit hemlock, beech birch, many ferns, and is Raquette. The trail down to the river is on your left steep, this popular trail offers awesome 5. Pine’s Country Store these supplies locally. rd th Waterproof tarp (along with 30ft of Mile 4.0 – Just as you leave the 3 /4 Lake channel generally a very pretty and well-shaded carry. and is well marked. At the put in spot is a lean-to. views with a fire tower on top. Located at the corner of Route 28 & 30, in you’ll see a small sign on your right, which directs There is an outhouse before the put-in, a very Inlet Information Office nylon cord can be used to erect an The next mile is flat and a pretty stretch of the river. Indian Lake and locally owned by the Pine Sponsored by ACTION, Inc. InletNY.com you to the sign-in location for Alger Island (Big narrow, slippery dock. Be careful. The Brown’s Castle Rock (.5 mi.) This sometimes emergency shelter) family. This store has “A little bit of Island) which is dead ahead of you. If you are staying Tract Inlet stream has a number of beaver dams Mile 36.3 – Buttermilk Falls. A short, .1 mile, portage PO Boxsteep 266 trail provides impressive views on Garbage bag (CARRY IN - CARRY or the you must check-in at a Ranger Station on the you must get past. Often there is a sluiceway in on your right. This is a great photo spot. After the OUT!!) everything.” (518) 648-5580 Blue Mountain Lake and its many mainland. Your course is to pass Alger Island close on the middle of the dam and if the water is high portage you paddle about ½ mile and portage about Inlet, NY 13360 islands. Water (2 quarts per person, don’t 6. Blue Mountain Lake General Store Inlet Information Offce your right and keep right until you near the channel enough you can push your way over the dam. If mile around the last set of rapids. At the put-in are 1-866-GOINLET drink from lakes and rivers) Located at the corner of Route 28 & 30 in to 5th Lake. You see a diversity of Adirondack “camps’ not, you must get out of the boat, stand on the dam two lean-to’s. Upper Sargent Pond (4.7 mi) XC, Flat Blue Mtn. Lake. Open 7 days a week. A Arrowhead Park on this leg of the trip. There are big nouveau homes, and pull your boat over. The bottom is very long trail that leads to Sargent Ponds (315)-357-5501 Be safe. convenience store with full service deli. 160 Route 28 clear-cut, with lawns down to the water, dish muddy and if you fall in you can get caught in Mile 40 – Long Lake. After the put-in it is about 1/2 Loop Let someone know where you are. antennas on the waterfront and four jet skis tied to mud up to your waist. miles to the head of the lake and a little more than 5 [email protected] (518) 352-7318 downtown the dock, also some spectacularly beautiful miles to the Route 30 Bridge. Just after the bridge is Always fill in the trail register. Active Citizens To Improve Our Neighborhood of Tirrell Pond (2.9 mi.) XC, This Indian Lake, Blue Mountain Lake & Sabael traditionally built camps set back from the lake. As Mile 22.7 – As you paddle under the bridge the Long Lake Town Beach, then the seaplane base 7. Blue Mountain Outfitters Inlet Tourism: inletny.compleasant woodsy trail takes you to the you near the end of the lake you’ll spot the red/green entering Raquette Lake there may be a beaver and the NYS boat launch is about ¾ miles ahead. At Proper sanitation methods. Located on Main Street in Blue Mtn. Lake. popular sandy beach on the northern For further information, contact us at channel markers off to your left. Immediately as you dam. Check it out before you try to go over it. The Long Lake you’ll find a Post office, general store, Bury human waste under 4 inches This is a store that pleases many outdoor (315) 357-5501 Government: townofinlet.orgshore of this mountain ridged pond. P.O. Box 698, Indian Lake, NY 12842 enter the channel you’ll see a boardwalk on your left. water here can be quite swift. As you enter the outfitters, ice cream parlors, restaurants and places to of soil and at least 150 feet away enthusiasts. (518) 352-7306 toll free 866-GoInlet This is the entrance to the Arrowhead Park and the lake the village is around to your left. There is a stay. Events: iloveinlet.com from the trail or closest water 06/01/2007 hamlet of Inlet. The park has picnic tables and general store here where you can restock. source.

8 9 Central Adirondack Outdoor Guide Map

Pigeon Lake Wilderness

Sargent Ponds Wild Forest Blue Ridge Wilderness

Great Camp Sagamore

Moose River Plains Wild Forest About this Map...

This is the second generation of the frst-ever map to encompass both the Indian Lake and Inlet areas at this scale. Future generations will incorporate a higher level of detail using these standard recreation symbols: tpr3@[s5qx/(!& 7[h4N>?_`}6nm2 The Outdoor Guide Map will be a valuable recreation reference guide for the Central Adirondack region and the communities of Inlet, Raquette Lake, Blue West Canada Lake Wilderness Siamese Ponds Mountain Lake, Indian Lake and Sabael. At the center of this region is another one-of-a-kind: Wilderness the Moose River Recreation Area. A rugged expanse of scenic beauty with numerous recreation opportunities Legend and Notes including free camping. Yes, free camping! Locally known as ‘The Plains’ the Moose River n - Information Offce Recreation Area is accessed via the seasonal-use road that runs between the Limekiln and Cedar River gates. ! - DEC Campground Visit the Indian Lake Chamber of Commerce and (- Tent Site • & - Lean-To Inlet Information Offce for detailed maps and info on: IMPORTANT NOTE: [ - Boat Launch Attractions Entertainment Dining This map provides only a basic overview of the region. Events & Activities Lodging Shopping \ - Car-Top Boat Launch Recreation Camping Services Do Not Use This Map for Backcountry Navigation! Indian Lake: 518-648-5112, 800-328-LAKE, www.Indian-Lake.com Obtain detailed maps and information at local shops and info offces. • Limekiln Lake - Cedar River Road Inlet: 315-357-5501, 866-Go-Inlet, www.InletNY.com Map design by Dave Scranton © Adirondack IMAGES - ADKPictures.com is a limited-use seasonal highway. Raquette Lake: 518-624-3077, www.MyLongLake.com Base map provided by ADKTrailMap.com, a division of Mohawk Valley GIS. 10 11 Black Fly Challenge Sponsor Spotlight BFC Brings Back Mountain Bike Rodeo & Races Epic Outdoor Adventures by Donna Pohl Some of you old-timers may remember the Mountain Bike Rodeo and Races that were part of the old Adirondack Mountain Bike Festival Brian and Susan Hill epitomize the Black Fly Challenge is grateful that in the 1990s. owner-operated small businesses that are the Hills chose to be Title Sponsor of this Well, this great family fun event is back! On Sunday June 14, 2015, the backbone of the American economy. epic mountain bike race celebrating its Inlet’s Fern Park hosts the Second Annual BFC Mountain Bike Rodeo They are entrepreneurs willing to risk 20th year. Being Title Sponsor is quite & Races. all for a dream. The dream was to own a fnancial commitment. They donated a their own bike shop and they achieved Salsa Mukluk 3 Fat Bike (customized by The races include a Kids Race, Circuit Race and Hill Climb. Rodeo it! Epic Outdoor Adventures, Central Brian) which would sell for over $2,000 events feature a Barrel Race, Slow Race, Log Pull, Balance Race and New York’s #1 source for bikes, standup in a bike shop, to be raffed off on race Longest Wheelie. Miscellaneous fun will include the old Huffy Toss. paddleboards and premium service, will day, June 13. They donated hundreds of First Annual BFC SCHEDULE of EVENTS Mtb Rodeo & Races celebrate its ffth year of business this dollars worth of prize merchandise, in Registration begins 9:30 a.m. ~ Events begin 10:00a.m. Fern Park, June 14, 2014 year with six year-round employees addition to actual cash. photos by Adele Burnett: consisting of both full-time and part-time Why would Brian and Susan feel their Races • Kids Race; staff. substantial investment as BFC Title Kids Race: 10:00a.m. • Circuit Race: 12:00p.m. • Hill Climb: • Barrel Race; What’s the secret to their success? Sponsor is a good use of their money? • Slow Race; 1:30p.m. • Balance Race; Passion! Brian has been passionate about Susan said a number of factors infuenced above: Brian and Susan Hill, in front of their store, Awards immediately to follow each race • Log Pull. cycling since he was a kid growing their decision. Black Fly Challenge is Epic Outdoor Adventures, in Fayetteville, NY. up in Syracuse. He taught himself the the #1 event their customers talked about Rodeo Events basics of bike mechanics and worked as and encouraged them to support. Susan right: Blackbacked Woodpecker in Winter. Barrel Race: 10:30 • Slow Race: 11:00 • Log Pull: 11:30a.m. a bike mechanic for various local bike noted that the sense of adventure at BFC photo by Gary Lee, Inlet, NY Balance Race: 12:30p.m. • Longest Wheelie: 1:00p.m shops. In high school he met Susan, not captures the essence of Epic’s business Awards immediately to follow fnal Rodeo event particularly an outdoor enthusiast, nor a philosophy. Adirondack Birding Festival rd3 Please Note: cyclist. Susan, preparing to embark on They were also impressed with the Observe the Boreal Birds of the Adirondacks • June 12 - 14, 2015 • Race Entry Fees: Kids Race $5; Hill Climb $10; Circuit Race $10 the path as a music major, was part of appreciation expressed by the cycling • Race Prizes: 1st, 2nd & 3rd prizes for Hill Climb & Circuit Race the arts world. But her passion for Brian community for sponsoring BFC 2014. The Adirondack Birding Festival is a 3-day event that features birding • All kids get a prize for Kids Race. made her receptive to being introduced Race participants and BFC producers hikes, walks, safaris, outings and seminars. All feld trips are free and • Rodeo Entry Fees: $5/each event or $20 for all 5 events to his world of outdoor recreation and made a point of thanking them as well. registration is required for each outdoor event. • Points awarded for each event toward overall rodeo prizes: she, in turn, introduced him to the arts. Many cyclists made a special trip to The festival reaches into the vast Adirondack Wild of Hamilton County, 1st – 5 points; 2nd – 4 points; 3rd – 3 points Love makes amazing things happen! Fayetteville to say ‘hey’ and ‘thanks’. and includes the surrounding forests of Long Lake, Indian Lake, Speculator, • Rodeo Prizes: 1st place prize for individual events Susan began cycling and yes, there were Susan and Brian were overwhelmed Raquette, Blue Mountain Lake, Piseco, Morehouse, Lake Pleasant and Inlet. 1st, 2nd & 3rd prizes awarded for overall rodeo dates to the symphony too! with the sincerity of the gratitude and Affordable lodging is available, offering you and your birding partners a • Helmets are mandatory. Of course hard work, a good business respect. It made perfect sense to support comfortable evening retreat to refuel and refresh as the festivities advance. • Participants under 18 must have a waiver signed by a parent or plan, and capital are part of their an event beloved by their customer base Hamilton County is over one million acres of the Adirondack State Park. guardian. success too. But it’s loving what they and acknowledged with respect and With over 60% being classifed as either Wilderness or Wild Forest, it is Download the Entry & Waiver forms at: do, listening to their customers, and admiration by the cycling community. one of the best locations to watch boreal birds. Now in its 11th year, the BlackFlyChallenge.com/mountain-bike-rodeo supporting numerous community events We salute Epic Outdoor Adventures Birding Festival brings together bird watchers from all over the United that account for their tremendous support for their support as Black Fly Challenge States to explore and discover the amazing birds of the Adirondacks. Visit within the cycling community. Title Sponsor. AdirondackExperience.com/ for more information. Race & Rodeo Event Descriptions

How the Black Fly Challenge Was Born Kids Race: Kids 18 & under do several laps on a short, relatively fat In honor of the 20th Anniversary BFC and its founders. course so the spectators can cheer a lot. Race length varies from less Somewhere in the mid-1990s, Mike Drake and John Nemjo were tossing Non-stop rain, a fooded race course and more than a dozen competitors treated than a mile for younger kids to up to two miles for older teens. around ideas to draw visitors to the area during the traditional “shoulder seasons” for hypothermia (in the middle of June) by Indian Lake EMS - the ‘98 Black Fly Age: 7 & under - 4 laps; 8-11 - 6 laps; 12-15 - 8 laps; 16-18 - 10 laps. that are sandwiched around the short Adirondack summer tourist season. was not only wild it was, at 45 miles, the longest ever. The third running of the Circuit Race: A relatively short course on easy trails for older teens and Mid-summer days in July and August fnd many Adirondack towns brimming Black Fly Challenge transformed the race into legend. adults. Competitors race around the course several times so spectators with activity. And while the weather is just as nice in June and September, there In 2009, the Team Ommegang blog declared that the Black Fly is “one of those can cheer a lot. Total race length may be up to 5 miles. were often fewer visitors then, which isn’t a good thing for a town for a tourism- races that you talk about all season. Summer, Winter, Fall, Spring, the BFC gets based economy. brought up on more Ommegang rides than any other.” And it’s a safe bet that Hill Climb: Competitors race up a steep gravel road to a pre-determined Nemjo had recently opened his frst Mountainman store in Inlet and was a much of that talk is about adventures and misadventures out in “the Plains” a.k.a., fnish point. This is a time trial start. regular customer at Drake’s Inn. Over the course of many evenings, and probably the Moose River Plains. Rodeo Events: many more beers, John along with bartender Joe Grimmer and owner Mike The Moose River Plains, another unique Black Fly feature, were central to the Drake, would bounce ideas off one-another. idea of creating the race according to John. He calls it “the best mountain bike Slow Race: How slowly can you ride between two points without At some point it was agreed that mountain bike races were a good thing for resource in New York State” and he credits Mike with doing “an awful lot of stopping or putting a foot down while staying in your lane? Slowest Inlet and the Black Fly Challenge was born. Then the real debate began. “Some work those frst few years.” Without the Moose River Plains the Black Fly just person wins. Run in heats, 2 racers at a time. people thought we were nuts,” Mike says in recalling the reaction some people wouldn’t be the same. It truly is an irreplaceable resource and makes for a one- Barrel Race: The fastest to race through a series of barrels (or pylons) had to the name of the new race. of-a-kind race. wins. Run as time trial or in heats, if room enough. Black fies are despised. Why promote something with the most cursed creature The Moose River Plains and the Black Fly Challenge connect not only Inlet in the Adirondacks? But remembering that he had once heard of an old Black Fly and Indian Lake but also thousands of visitors who travel to this special place and Log Pull: A block of wood is attached to the bike with a rope and the Festival, John thought the name Black Fly Challenge actually turned a negative for this special race. Born at Drake’s Inn, raised in the Plains and creating new fastest rider over a short course wins. Run in heats (2 racers at a time). into a positive and declared “One day, it (the race) will be known!” Adirondack adventures every year - that’s the Black Fly Challenge. At twenty Balance Race: Competitors ride on sections of timber that narrow from Well it didn’t take long. The Black Fly had just over 60 competitors its frst year years, it’s aging well. 8” to 2” wide. Points are given for riding the length of the timbers. (1996) but nearly quadrupled to 238 racers by it’s third year, a race that will long Drake’s Inn is located on Rt 28, 1.5 miles north of downtown Inlet Note: Timbers are on the ground, not elevated. be remembered as the wildest Black Fly ever. Update: Within three years of starting the BFC both Mike and John had moved on. After starting in Indian Lake the frst two years, 1998 was the frst time the race Dave Scranton assumed race production duties and was soon joined by Pedals and Petals Longest Wheelie: Just like the title says – longest wheelie wins. started in Inlet and marked the beginning of unique Black Fly tradition - the race owner Ted Christodaro and Inlet Tourism Director Adele Burnett. changing direction every year. The three Inlet residents continue to produce the Black Fly under the umbrella of its To get the racers from Cedar River Road to the fnish line at Byron Park, Mike parent organization, the Adirondack Mountain Bike Association (AMBA), a committee worked many hours with the Indian Lake Parks Department to transform a soggy of the Inlet Area Business Association. snowmobile trail into bike-able path. It was no easy task. In 2012, recognizing the potential for growth, AMBA hired Adirondack Special Events They even went to such lengths as installing foating bridges over a few wet (ASE) to assist with event production and marketing and the race is now produced by spots. If the weather held it would work. But then the rains came. It was pouring AMBA and ASE. at the start of the race and it never stopped. The trail turned into a steam, and not a shallow one at that. “I remember going up the trail from the golf course and my four-wheeler just sunk,” Mike recalled. He then told how a six-wheeler sent in to pull out the four wheeler also got stuck. Citing racers safety he had no choice, “I had to close the course.” Racers that were sent down the road to Byron Park had no idea how lucky they were. At the fnish line, several racers who took the long route said the water went from ankle deep to knee deep and even past hip deep. Few, if any, questioned Mike’s logic in closing that part of the course. And in fact, it appeared that only one race category was affected by the split-ending of the race. 12 13 Follow French Louie through the Moose River Plains trqxs The Great Adirondack Join Pedals & Petals e old ceek ows on te sn sines te ids sin and te est ools o s ae aead o o. Moose Festival The peak of ‘French Louie’ Seymour was a 19th-century around the lake. for the Adirondack woodsman, guide and hermit with a legend 7. Balsam & Stink Lake 3.7-4.9 Miles (7.4 & 9.8 Round The 6th Annual Great Adirondack Moose creativity. large enough that he is mentioned in nearly every book Trip) Travel to the “Big T” in the Moose River Recreation Festival will be held Saturday and Sunday, Annual Trek Charity Ride ever written about the South-Central Adirondacks - and Area, then bear right over the Moose River and onto the September 26 & 27, 2015. The Moose Festival is p Columbus Day Weekend p you can hike in his footsteps. Otter Brook Bridge. After crossing, bear right again and designed to offer a purely Adirondack experience travel down to the Little Indian Lake the trailhead and this Pick up a map & brochure at the Inlet Info Offce or for everyone. You won’t want to miss this To beneft breast cancer prevention and research parking will lead you to a pair of lakes seldom visited since community-wide event, which will feature a host download the pdf at InletNY.com. Louie left them. (You must ford the Indian River on this of Adirondack style and moose-themed family Pedals & Petals bike shop will join together with Trek dealers across trail. Use caution, this river can be dangerous.) These trails were inspired by Harvey L. Dunham’s fun activities. the United States and Canada to raise awareness for Breast Cancer research, timeless book Adirondack French Louie. 8. Sly Pond 7.1 Miles (14.2 Round Trip) This is a long treatment, and prevention by hosting causal, family-friendly bike rides on 1. Third Lake Creek Trail to Limekiln Lake 5.8 Miles hike that during berry season, blueberries and raspberries The Festival will include several wilderness- October 10, Columbus Day Weekend 2015. (11.6 Round Trip) On the South Shore Road you will fnd could prove fruitful. The trail stretches out along the long guided hikes, an exceptional scenic driving tour The Annual Trek Breast Cancer Awareness Ride will offer two ride options low plains that surround the Moose River. a very large parking area with a sign for the Third Lake of the Moose River Plains, fy-fshing casting down South Shore Rd. with ride support, ride leaders and a rider reception zone5.com Creek Trail. The trail is very well marked and brings you 9. Little Lost Pond 7.6 Miles (15.2 Round Trip) This is a demonstrations and contest, Moose Calling hosted by Pedals and Petals. All riders will receive a gift bag and can win prizes. all the way to the nature trail at the back of the Limekiln hike along the Otter Brook Basin on an old Jeep road. The Contest, Moose Chili Samples, Indian Lake All registration fees are donated to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Lake Campground. mountain to the right is Kitty Cobble. Ahead Little Moose, Museum Open House, Moose Caption Contest, EAST COAST OFFICE WEST COAST OFFICE The mission is to achieve prevention and a cure for breast cancer while increasing 25 Monroe Street 311 S First Street Manbury and Round Mountains lay behind Lost Pond 2. Fawn Lake .9 Miles (1.8 Round Trip) Enter the Moose Blue Mountain Lake Historic Cruise, Crafters and public awareness about good breast health. 91% of every dollar is donated to the Suite 300 Suite 204 when you gaze across its shores. RESPONSIVE MARKETING Albany, NY 12210 San Jose, CA 95113 River Recreation Area and park at Mile Marker 1. You will Vendors under the Big Moose Tent, Old Fashion Breast Cancer Research Foundation for research and awareness programs. & COMMUNICATIONS 518-242-7000 408-365-4450 see a large, open pull-off on the right hand side. An old 10. Big West Lake 8.1 Miles (16.2 Round Trip) A trip into Turkey Shoot, North Country Sidewalk Sales, Jeep log road will take you to the lake in a very short walk. Big West Lake and to the freplace left behind by Louie Fall Foliage White Water Rafting and a Tour de When: October 10, 2015 The lake is full of life and very quiet. If you take the trail is a benchmark in the hikes of anyone “Adirondack”. It Moose mountain bike guided tour. Where: Pedals & Petals, downtown Inlet downstream to Limekiln Lake, be sure to hop the rocks was here that Louie entertained the “sports” and grew Registration: In advance at Eventbrite.com then at Pedals & Petals on the weekend of back up stream to Fawn Lake. potatoes that were watched over by his collection of Garter An Adirondack Art Moose Hunt, Moosterpiece the event - October 10, 2015, Columbus Day Weekend snakes. Routes: 11-mile loop or 25-mile loop, down South Shore Road, starting and fnishing 3. Whites Pond 2.1 Miles (4.2 Round Trip) Enter the Games and Count the moose “scat” contest are among the activities planned for children. Also, at Pedals & Petals. Moose River Recreation Area and travel 5 miles to the Red West Canada Lakes Volunteers Needed: Interested in helping out on the day of the Ride? River. Take a right on the Rock Dam Road. The Whites capture the Festival spirit and take home Bruce French Louie made these lakes famous as he trapped, Contact Pedals & Petals 315-357-3281 or [email protected] Pond Trail is on your right. A thick and little used path, but fshed and hunted there from 1855 to 1915. the Moose and Smokey Bear souvenir photos. worth the hike. Distances are from Falls Pond trailhead. The Great Adirondack Moose Festival (continued from page 2) 4. Bear Pond 3.0 Miles (6.0 Round Trip) From the 5 Mile Cycle Adirondacks A. Falls Pond 2.1 Miles (4.2 Round Trip) A fantastic lake promises to offer everyone a purely Adirondack Marker in the Moose River Recreation Area, just after to swim in. In the evening you might feel the spirit of experience. For more info visit indian-lake.com There are multiple registration options – with 3-day, 4-day and 7-day routes, crossing the Red River Bridge, you will see a large sand pit Louie pass you on the trail as he makes his way out to the there’s a perfect ft for everyone’s schedule. The “Big Four” option covers days to your left. This road will take you to the trail- head, but it Adirondack Guide by Mitch Lee sugar bush in the Otter Valley. 1-4 of the week-long route, averaging about 75 miles per day. The “Easy Three” is recommended to park here and hike in. (West Canada Lakes, continued...) B. Wolf Lake 3.3 Miles (6.6 Round Trip) Named by Louie option encompasses the last three days of the week, and can be as short as 45-50 5. Mitchell Ponds 3.7 Miles (7.4 Round Trip) Start at Mile Boats came over by scoot ’n drag cart from Big West Lake himself after seeing many in the area. He and Charles miles a day, or as long as 65. Marker 5.8 in the Moose River Recreation Area. This is a on a narrow pathway. Henderson had been photographed here. The event also offers a unique program called Travel Companions, where great place for the whole family, with easy rolling terrain. E. Mud Lake to Little Lost Pond Loop by way of Cedar a non-cyclist can accompany a rider for the week, choosing daily adventures This trail is an old roadbed that ends at Mitchell Pond then C. Deep Lake 3.4 Miles (6.8 Round Trip) This lake is fed Lakes - 34 Miles Round Trip. These lakes were a favorite loops back out to the Benedict Creek at Mile Marker 8. by a cold spring. You can imagine men like Roc Conklin place for the Barber’s guides; Nat Shepard and John Hines. including paddling, hiking, museums and more, rejoining his or her partner in rowing sports- men along the shore. Lean-to’s can be found along the way. the next camp. There are also spots open for event volunteers for the week. 6. Beaver Lake 2.1 Miles (4.2 Round Trip) This is the site Registration is open, and you can fnd comprehensive information, including D. Brook Trout Lake 5.9 Miles (11.8 Round Trip) This is F. South Lake 9 Miles (18 Round Trip) A long thin lake of the old Wilcox Hotel and Saw Mill. Both are long gone, photos, videos, route descriptions and more, at www.cycleadirondacks.com. but this is still an easy walk on a wide road with open glens a great lake to canoe in and explore the shoreline. with a terrifc sunset at the eastern shore. Don’t Miss This Fantastic Sagamore BFC Weekend Special! Great Camp Sagamore’s Second Annual BFC Weekend Special is a great package for BFC visitors that includes two nights lodging and breakfast, a Friday dinner cruise, Saturday post-race band, beer & bbq and a guided Sagamore tour on Sunday. Check it out: Boat: Start the weekend with a dinner cruise aboard the W.W. Durant. Chef Jim Pohl will prepare a special pre-race dinner for BFC competitors and their guests designed to provide riders with just the right mix of lean protein, fats and carbs to give you a leg up on your competitors at the next day’s Black Fly Challenge. Bed: After dinner, head to Camp Sagamore for a peaceful night’s sleep in one of our National Historic Landmark lodges. Nestled on the shore of a small wilderness lake, Sagamore is an ideal location to rest and relax, a place to escape the distractions and noise of anything apart from loons, owls and coyotes. Breakfast: Begin your race-day morning with a healthy breakfast designed to provide you with the energy you’ll need during the BFC itself. Breakfast options will include cereals, oatmeal, bagels, muffns, jams and jellies and fresh fruit, along with juice, milk and coffee. We’ll start breakfast a little early to give racers enough time to eat without having to rush to Indian Lake for the start of the race. Bike Race: After breakfast, Sagamore will shuttle riders and their bikes to Indian Lake, where the 2015 BFC begins. Sagamore is conveniently located between Indian Lake (28 miles) and Inlet (14 miles), so non-riders can hang around camp for a later breakfast and then take a short hike or paddle before heading out. Band, Beer & BBQ: Once the race festivities are over, return to Sagamore to celebrate your successful completion of the Black Fly Challenge. Back in camp, we’ll have a good, old-fashioned, outdoor BBQ, complete with complimentary beer provided by the Adirondack Brewery in Lake George. While you eat and drink, be merry, listening to the music of Day Ja Voo, a Central NY band specializing in classic 60s and 70s covers. Bed & Brunch: On Sunday morning, after another restful night at Sagamore, learn about the history of this important piece of Adirondack culture through our annual Community Day tour. Then, enjoy a scrumptious brunch back in the Sagamore Dining Hall before you check out. As part of their BFC sponsorship, Sagamore is pleased to offer BFC participants and their guests the entire weekend package for a discounted rate. The regular rate is $279 per person for the entire weekend or $249 with your race registration ID number. To register visit www.GreatCampSagamore.org 14 15 Black Fly Challenge Sponsor Spotlight Cool Things Pedals & Petals ~ Home of the Black Fly Challenge To Do by Dave Scranton & Anne Fletcher Bike Magazine once called Pedals & Petals “the Bicycle Institute and become a certifed mechanic, In 2014, Pedals & Petals was named one of on strangest, sweetest smelling bike shop in existence. an experience that fueled the desire to expand his America’s Best Bike Shops by the National Bicycle BFC Weekend Shiny hardtails and rows of inner tubes vie for business. Dealers Association - one of only 300 bike shops space with vanilla-scented candles, ceramic moose In 1994, he bought the former Red & White in the country to earn that distinction - and was The Central Adirondack Region fgurines and bunches of roses.” grocery store in downtown Inlet and went to work also voted First Runner Up in the Best Bike Shop offers a lot more than just a bike It’s a description that might seem odd but in creating a bike and fower shop. As Pedals & category in Adirondack Life magazine’s Best of race on Black Fly Weekend. Look the Adirondacks multiple income streams are Petals grew, gifts, skates, snowshoes and apparel the Adirondacks feature. at what else you can do! Spend necessary to survive and this curious combination were added to the bikes and fowers and in 2007, In addition to running his businesses, Ted has the weekend doing fun stuff has helped Pedals & Petals not only survive but Ted took over the McCauley Mountain Ski Shop in been a BFC race organizer for many years so it Friday, Saturday and Sunday. thrive. As with most success stories, it had humble Old Forge where he rents and sells ski equipment was only natural that Pedals & Petals became the beginnings. and accessories and operates the ski school. home of the Black Fly Challenge. What? Ferd’s Bog Walk - Part It was 1992 when Ted Christodaro opened a small In March 2011 Ted was certifed as a Bike Every year as the race approaches the store of the Hamilton County Birding bike shop in his garage, the Adirondack Bicycle Fitting Technician, “Proper bike ftting considers becomes BFC Central, not only for race production Festival Connection. “I always wanted to be in an outdoor- biomechanics and fexibility to give the rider more and volunteers but for hundreds of racers that stop When? Friday, 7:00 am Where? Meet at Raquette Lake oriented business. I noticed how many bikes came comfort and a better overall riding experience.” in for last minute tune-ups, gear and for Friday pre- Common School Parking Lot to rolling into town on the backs of cars and thought, “Service builds the business and keeps people race registration. This year, Pedals & Petals is the carpool to trailhead “Somebody has to fx all those fat tires. There was coming back” he says. And with Inlet being a Presenting Sponsor for the 20th Anniversary Black www.adirondackbirds.com a need to be flled.” tourist destination, they come from near and far: Fly Challenge. It seems only appropriate that the So Ted traveled to Colorado to attend the Barnett “People bring us bikes from all over the state.” home of the BFC is one of its major sponsors. What? Walk Raquette Lake Rail Bed - Part of the Hamilton County Birding Festival When? Friday, 10:00 am Where? Meet at the trailhead for For maps, info and four seasons of fun events and activities Shallow Pond near Browns Tract visit the Indian Lake Chamber of Commerce at their offce Upper Pond on Uncas Road, Inlet near the corner of routes 28 & 30, and online at www.Indian-Lake.com. www.adirondackbirds.com

What? WW Durant Dinner Cruise Part of Black Fly Challenge & Hamilton County Birding Festival When? Friday, boarding at 6:00 leaves the dock at 6:30 pm Where? Raquette Lake Navigation www.raquettelakenavigation.com

What? Driving Safari - Part of Hamilton County Birding Festival When? Sunday, 7:00 am Where? Meet at the gate to the MRRA on Limekiln Road, Inlet www.adirondackbirds.com

What? Pancake Breakfast - Benefts the Cousins That Care When? Sunday, 8:00-10:00 am Where? The Ole Barn, Limekiln Road, Inlet www.cousinsthatcare.com

What? BFC Mountain Bike Rodeo When? Sunday, registration starts 9:30am, events start 10am Where? Fern Park, Inlet www.blackfychallenge.com

What? The Adirondack Museum is OPEN! When? 10-5 pm daily. Self- guided Where? Blue Mountain Lake www.adirondackmuseum.org

What? Hamilton County Birding Festival When? Friday-Sunday Where? Events throughout the area, including Inlet & Indian Lake www.adirondackbirds.com

What?: Tour historic Great Camp Sagamore Where? Sagamore Road, Raquette Lake When? Guided tour on Saturday and Sunday at 1:30pm. A 27-building National Historic Landmark that was the wilderness estate of the Alfred Vanderbilt family from 1901-1954. www.greatcampsagamore.org adirondacklife.com Indian-Lake.com InletNY.com

16 17 Epic Outdoor Adventures Take a ‘Dam Fine Drive’ Indian Lake is a famous whitewater rafting destination Black Fly Challenge but it also offers some of the best hiking in the Adirondacks. presented by Pedals and Petals Not up for a hike? Take a Dam Fine Drive! The Indian Lake produced by Chamber of Commerce will give you directions for hiking, driving or both at their offce or online. ] Waterways and dams you’ll see on a Dam Fine Drive: Adirondack Lake dam • Chain Lakes dam • Bullhead Pond fsh dam • Cedar River Flow dam • Sprague Pond fsh dam • Indian Lake dam • Kings Flow dam www.Indian-Lake.com

Support Recreational Trails in the West-Central Adirondack Region including trails used for the Epic Black Fly Challenge Join CAMBA Facebook.com/CAMBAtrailsadk

Thanks Karam Produce! The fnish line fruit & water station was a popular stop last year thanks to a generous donation by Karam Produce of Utica, NY and volunteers from Indian Lake Chamber of Commerce.

Central Adirondack Mountain Bike Association

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18 19 The Black Fly Challenge changes direction each year between the towns of Inlet and Indian Lake, NY. Two-thirds of the race traverses the rugged and scenic Moose River Plains Wild Forest on gravel grinder roads with steep elevation changes. Top racers fnish the 40-mile (+/-) course in about two hours while the rest of the feld may take up to fve hours.

www.BlackFlyChallenge.com

epicoutdooradventures.com

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