But with all Old Forge has to offer, you won't want to go elsewhere.
Give us a try, we're away from it all, right next to everything.
SKIING -- McCauley Mountain
of Old forge has long been known as having the stuff it takes to produce
world class athletes. That's why that kind of news doesn't come as a surprise.
McCauley's slopes have helped develop many of The United States top skiers,
several U.S. team members, two Olympic skiers and a former World Professional
champion.
McCauley Mountain Ski Area in Old Forge has always been
synonymous with exceptional Alpine Skiing. But there's much more than meets
the eye at McCauley. Layed out around the grounds at McCauley are over
25 kilometers of great X-country trails, 5 kilometers of which are new
small loops that are perfect for short tours that don't leave you backtracking
to get to the chalet.
Recently, McCauley staff, with the help of the Polar Bear
Ski Club have worked hard to widen over 13K of trails to accommodate a
state-of-the-art groomer.
In addition, McCauley has recently added a telmark trail. Ride the lift
up and enjoy the country skiing.
Recently, McCauley Mountain's X-country trail system played
host to the Eastern X-country High School Championships. Top highschoolers
from across the east competed at McCauley for top X-country honors.
With all that said, Alpine Skiing still remains the star
at McCauley. As one of the first Eastern ski resorts, McCauley still retains
its friendly home-town atmosphere. Known as the most challenging little
mountain in Central New York, McCauley's fourteen trails, 5 lifts, 633
foot vertical, 2200 foot double chair, 67 acres of skiing and skiing appropriate
for novice through expert skiers, makes McCauley worthy of that title
HIKING -- If you're
trying to get away from it all, then maybe a hike into this great wilderness
is just what you're looking for. There's nothing more fulfilling or more
enjoyable than discovering the great beauty this region has to offer. From
babbling brooks, hidden ponds and lakes, breathtaking scenic views off
mountaintops, hiking gives you the chance to enjoy nature as you never
have. And all while enjoying the company of friends and family.
The Fulton Chain -- It's
the lakes that run through the center of Old Forge and on up to Inlet and
beyond that really make this a truly unique vacation destination.
The Moose River -- Canoeing the North Branch of the Moose River
is like stepping back to a simpler time. The meandering flow carries you
through unspoiled wilderness, past large stands of forest and natural sand
bars perfect for an afternoon picnic. Simply put; you will experience more
natural beauty in one afternoon in a canoe than most people see in a lifetime.
The First Annual Mountain Bike Challenge, sponsored by the C.A.A. and
NORBA, was a huge success. Drawing entrants form all over the northeast
and Canada, the Town of Webb and the C.A.A. were host to the area's first
mountain bike event.
Held on the Town of Webb's snowmobile trails system, the event was mapped
out over the wilderness trails that are commonly used as snowmobile trails
in the winter. Hal Muthig, Executive Director of the C.A.A. exclaimed
"this event surpassed our expectations. 150 racers in a first-time
event in the northeast is unheard of."
NORBA officials on hand said the turnout was "... best he had seen for
a first-time event in the northeast.
According to Muthig, "next year's ('98) will be even better. We are
already planning to expand the event and are also in contact with other
race areas to make this race a part of an eight race series, with a rotating
championship each year.
During post-race interviews, the racers were very pleased with the trail
system overall. Some of their suggestions will be incorporated into
next years event.
Suggested Trails:
Old Forge Mountain bike Trail System.
Black Bear Mountain
Razorback Pond
Safford Pond
Bubb Lake/Moss Lake Lake Loop
Nelson Lake/Remsen Falls
These are just a few of the trails available to mountain bikers. More
information can be obtained by filling out our request form found at the
bottom of most pages.
Also, remember to sign in at all registration boxes, tell someone where
you're going and when you'll be back, carry map and compass, stay in control
of you bike, wear a helmet and plan your trip ahead.
Return To Mt. Biking Page.
Fall Foliage Fall in Old Forge means some
of the most brilliant colors you will ever see.
Fall Foliage Chair lift rides - See the beautiful
fall foliage from atop McCauley Mt. in Old Forge.
Return to Attractions Page.
For over 20 years, people have flocked to the Old Forge area for the
snowmobile season. With an extensive trail system consisting of over 500
miles of trails, miles of railroad track open to snowmobiling and the frozen
Fulton Chain of Lakes, this area is geographically the perfect destination
for any snowmobiling enthusiasts.
And unlike areas to the West and in Canada, even on the most remote
trails, you are never far away from service, parts, fuel, food and accommodations.
The trail system itself will take you through some of most beautiful
terrain in this nation. Through forest, by and over scenic lakes and to
mountain top vistas. The trails are easily accessible at numerous points,
wide, open, groomed and maintained by the Village of Old Forge.
Ride the trail system through and around Old Forge. Take a ride out
to Stillwater and Beaver River, Big Moose and Eagle Bay. In fact, with
trail interconnection and cooperation between adjoining regions, it is
possible to snowmobile from Boonville (south of Old Forge) straight through
to Lake Placid (north of Old Forge).
Around this trail system has sprung a multitude of snowmobile-friendly
businesses that cater to the snowmobile enthusiasts. All four of the snowmobile
manufacturers have dealers close by. There are numerous restaurants, &
hotels and shops that cater to snowmobilers and local government works
hard to make sure your stay here is enjoyable, from making roads accessible
to snowmobiles, trail grooming and planning special events for snowmobilers.
The Snowcross Challenge ; a snowmobile race held at McCauley Mt, Snodeo
Weekend, a snowmobiling festival involving all snowmobile manufacturers
and after-market producers, and the Manufacturers' Shootout; a high-speed
drag race where winners earn bragging rights for the new '98 model year.
Because McCauley Mountain is located in the Foothills
of the Adirondacks, it is perfectly situated to take advantage of terrain
that is well suited for X-country skiing, as opposed the the High Peaks.
McCauley has rolling hills which are not too steep going up or coming down,
with pleasant terrain changes and challenges. Their trails are wide and
groomed for skating as well as classic.
No skis? No problem. Ski rentals are available at Sporting
Propositions on Main Street and lessons or tours are available through
the McCauley Mountain Ski School.
So whether it's a trip to the Olympics or just a day
of Alpine or X-country skiing, McCauley Mountain has it all.
For more information about McCauley Mountain and great
X-country and downhill skiing, call 315-369-6983.
There are hundreds of trails in the Old Forge region, each one unique
in its own way -- and each one well worth the trip. Although it would be
impossible to list them all, we have highlighted some of the hikes we like
and sources of additional assistance to help make your trip an enjoyable
one.
Bald Mt. Trail: North on Rt. 28 4.5 miles past Tourist Information
Center in Old Forge. Turn left on Rondaxe Rd. Go one tenth mile to parking
area on left. It is a one mile hike, 30-40 minutes with a few steep sections
offering excellent view of Fulton Chain of Lakes.
Fly Pond & Carry Pond: Directly across Rondaxe Rd. from
Bald Mt. Parking area. Eight-tenths of mile hike. 30 minutes, Level. Leads
past Fly Pond, Carry Mountain Pond, old bed of Raquette Lake Railway, Scenic
Mountain, Mountain Pond.
Bubb Lake & Sis Lake: Offers hiking, camping, swimming and
fishing. 2.3 miles, 1 hour. 7.6 miles north of Tourist Information
Center in Old Forge on north side of Rt. 28. Beginner to intermediate.
Some early ascent, then mostly level. Leads by two beautiful scenic lakes.
Moss Lake: Take Big Moose Road in Eagle Bay 2.1 miles, trailhead
on left. Hiking, canoeing, camping, swimming & fishing. 2.5 mile loop,
1 hour. Relatively level.
Cascade Lake: Hiking, canoeing, waterfall, camping, swimming, fishing.
4.6 mile round trip, 2.5 hours. Easy grades. Take Big Moose Rd. from Eagle
Bay nine tenths of mile. Parking area on right. Scenic trail, nice waterfall
on north end of trail.
These are just a few of the many trails found locally. By no means
a complete list. We highly recommend buying one of the many hiking books
available for the West Central Adirondacks. The book can be purchased
through the Old Forge Hardware's book section. They ship anywhere. Their
number is 1-315-369-6100. The book details information concerning each
trail and will prove an invaluable tool in making your trip fun, safe and
enjoyable for all. And always remember to bring map and compass, tell someone
where you're going and when you are due back And sign in at all register
boxes found at trailheads.
Enjoy! And have fun discovering the great beauty of Old Forge.
The Fulton Chain of Lakes is actually a river system originally dammed
at Old Forge in about 1798. Below the dam, the river known as the Middle
Branch of the Moose River branches and they flow together past the Town
of Lyons Falls to the Black River following the contours of the land northwest
to Carthage, on to Watertown and to Black River Bay on Lake Ontario.
The present dam at Old Forge holds back 6.8 billion gallons of water
that is managed by the Black River Regulating District. In the late 1800's,
the State Water Power commissioner, in an arrangement which continues,
cut a deal with Fulton chain cottage owners and recreational users to not
lower the water during the summer season.
The lower Fulton Chain begins in Old Forge, travels the one mile channel
to First Lake then to Second and Third, through a channel to Fourth Lake
which stretches seven miles to the Towns of Eagle Bay and Inlet. The chain
continues on from Fifth Lake up through Eighth with portages between Sixth
and Seventh and between Seventh and Eighth Lakes.
The "Chain" is a vast water system following the contour of mountain
ranges along either side through beautiful scenic vistas. There is no more
peaceful place on earth as the sun breaks the horizon over the lakes, a
light mist hovering on the surface, fish rings breaking the water and the
solitude being broken only by the call of a Loon. It is truly a spectacular
water system.
Whether it's fishing for Trout, Salmon or Bass; taking a dip in cool
clean water; boating or water skiing, the "chain" has something for everyone.
Since 1979, Tickner's Adirondack Canoe Outfitters has been providing
wilderness experiences on the Moose River and surrounding Adirondack waters.
Over the years, they have grown to become the largest rental canoe shop
in the Adirondacks. Their store is uniquely situated on the banks of the
Moose River and they offer 4 and 6 hour trips on the North and Middle Branch
of the Moose River.
In addition, they also offer canoe & Rail rides where you canoe
down the Middle Branch of the Moose River where you meet the Adirondack
Scenic Railway. You and your canoe catch the train for a scenic ride back
to town.
The Tickners also offer canoe & camping trips from 1 - 7 nights
at such places as Nelson Lake, Stillwater Reservoir, the North & Middle
Branch, Lake Lila, the Bog River Flow and the Adirondack Canoe Route with
full shuttle service throughout the Adirondacks.
-- Enjoy some of the finest riding in the east. Beautiful trails,
beautiful country by lakes, ponds and streams. It just can't be beat. For
info, contact the information center at 1-315-369-6983.
Trail #35. 4.5 Miles. Access is on Uncas Road. Fairly flat terrain.
Near Black Bear Mt., trail narrows and is more difficult. At base of Mt.,
steep to ride but short hike to summit. Excellent view of 7th lake.
Trail #14. 1.9 miles. Access at Razorback Pond/Silver Lake Trailhead
on the West side of the Twitchell Lake Road next to Twitchell Lake. Short
one-way trip past Silver Lake and ending at Razorback Pond. Note:
Trail crosses some private land.
Trail #17. 4.5 miles Northern access is the Safford Pond Trailhead
on Big Moose Road; Southern trailhead is on Rondaxe North Shore Road. Trip
follows snowmobile trail which connects Big Moose Lake and Lake Rondaxe.
(A 16.5 mile loop is possible using County Route 93, Rt. 28, and the Big
Moose Road.)
Trail #28 & # 29. Loop, 6 miles Trail begins 1 mile north of Big
Moose Road. Easy flat terrain. (Popular with hikers.)
Trail #78. 4.5 miles Trailhead is at Nicks Lake State Campsite Southwest
of Old Forge or from a snowmobile Trailhead on Bisby Road. (One-way distance
to Remsen Falls is 3.5 miles; total loop distance is 11.5 miles.) This
trip utilizes two snowmobile trails to Nelson Lake and Remsen Falls. The
connecting loop is a foot trail.
With its many species of foliage, Old Forge has been blessed with a
variety of fall colors spanning the entire color spectrum.
And remember, while it's still green in Albany, Syracuse, Rochester
and points south, the foliage is just beginning to turn in Old Forge. So
plan ahead.
Plan a week or just an overnight trip to see Mother Nature turn the
corner from summer to fall. Weather you hike to one of the many mountain
peaks, ride the chair lift to the top of McCauley Mountain or just cruise
the roadways, you will be left with breathtaking photographs and some very
vivid memories of Mother Nature painting one of her most beautiful canvasses;
the Adirondack Mountains.
As fall approaches, call the Tourist Information Center in Old Forge
for the status of the 'turning of the green. They can be reached at (315)
369-6983.
Ride the chairlift to the summit to see one of the most
stunning views in the Northeast. Fiery reds, brilliant yellows and glowing
oranges can be seen stretched out for miles. With the Fulton Chain of Lakes
in the foreground and the High Peaks of the Adirondacks off in the distance,
McCauley offers one of the best views of the fall foliage in the Adirondacks.
McCauley Mt., located three minutes from Old Forge, operates
the scenic chair lift rides through the summer and fall.
Sit down, relax and enjoy a peaceful ride through Old
Forges' best scenic vista.
For information, call the Visitors Information center
at (315) 369-6983.
Return to Activities Page. Copyright (c) 2008 Upstate Specialties