Why wait? Spring is here! Six Must-Dos in Old Forge
Like the rest of the North Country, Old Forge has wrestled itself free of winter’s snow and ice. We had a great season of skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling, and it seems winter itself had so much fun that it did not want to let go. Old Forge is now brimming with rushing water, popping buds and springtime events and activities. The 20th annual Adirondack Paddlefest is first on the calendar, May 18,19, and 20, presented by Mountainman Outdoor Supply Company. Mountainman owner John Nemjo created Paddlefest as the kick-off event of paddling season, and it now has bragging rights as “the largest on-water canoe, kayak and SUP sale in the country.” Spring weather can be iffy, but Paddlefest has hosted thousands of paddlers in sunshine, showers, heat and even snow. There are free demonstrations and excursions, as well as free parking and shuttles. But the star feature of Paddlefest is the “Try before you buy” paddling. One ticket gets you on or in new gear all weekend. For more information, visit the Mountainman website at http://www.mountainmanoutdoors.com.
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| Photo of Paddlefest taken by Michael Farmer |
Old Forge, the Paddling Capital of the Adirondacks, has plenty more inviting us to celebrate springtime. The knowledgeable and capable guides at local outfitter ARO Adventures are happy to provide exciting whitewater rafting action. ARO, New York’s largest rafting company, has been treating paddlers to whitewater fun for 34 years on the Moose, the Hudson, and the Black rivers. Spring is big water adventure-class action on the Moose River in Old Forge and the world renowned Hudson River Gorge. In late spring the Black River opens and continues throughout the summer with family friendly tours. To view all ARO trip options, visit the ARO website at http://www.aroadventures.com.
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| photo credit: Kurt Gardner |
The Town of Webb mountain bike trails are now unfrozen, and ready for some great pedaling! And some areas have just the right amount of mud from spring runoff. The bike loops designated throughout the Webb Trail System provide double-track backcountry riding between Old Forge, Eagle Bay and Big Moose. Looking for single-track? The Maple Ridge trails lead from the TOBIE Trail in Old Forge (pictured below, left) and connect to the McCauley Mountain trail system, with a flow trail and beginner single track riding. Get a free map at the Visitor Information Center in Old Forge, or download a map from our website at http://www.oldforgeny.com/recreation.html#biking.
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| photo taken by Michael Farmer |
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| photo credit: Kurt Gardner |
Weather doesn’t always do what we want it to do, but don’t let inclement weather keep you from having fun. Old Forge has many shops and restaurants gearing up and ready for visitors. Visit our website to see upcoming local events and get a list of great restaurants, unique Adirondack shops, accommodations, and more! http://www.oldforgeny.com.
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| photo taken by Michael Farmer |
The
Strand Theatre is way more than just a movie theater. With its unique vintage
building and displays of film making equipment and memorabilia, it’s a film
history museum. Come in and enjoy a
variety of movie choices on one of the four screens, often opening at the same
time as premiers in NYC. For a list of
what’s showing, visit http://strandoldforge.com.
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| photo credit: Kurt Gardner |
