LOCALadk Magazine
Issue link: https://localadkmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1029965
40 Fall 2018 LOCALadk Magazine LOCALadk Just inside the Adirondack Park's southern border, out- door enthusiasts will find plenty to do in the Caroga Lake re- gion. The area boasts three major lakes, many smaller water- ways, and an abundance of trails. After a hard day's fun, take in the music scene and grab a bite and a drink at one of the local eateries. Looking to beat overcrowded trails? This town offers the appeal of the Adirondacks, on a modest—but not to be missed—scale; plus a good dose of solitude. Hiking in the area features generally shorter, moderate hikes leading to hidden bodies of water. One of the best loved trails is a one-mile hike to Nine Corner Lake, easily ac- cessed at a pull-off just above Pine Lake on NY 29A . The trail follows a stream and traverses several wooden bridges on a mostly gentle, but sometimes rocky, incline. Pack a picnic lunch for this family-friendly trail leading to a cr ystalline lake perfect for swimming. Or, bring a tent and stay at one of the primitive campsites. At the top, the trail splits— continue straight to the back side of the lake on a lesser used trail with a few tent sites, or turn right for lake access. Across a rock dam lies more camp- sites and a rock climbing site. There is a high concentration of boulders for climbing in the Southern Adirondacks, and Nine Corner Lake has a prolific boulder field. This is a popu- lar weekend destination so plan a weekday hike to avoid the crowds. The best view in the area can be gleaned from the Kane Mountain Fire Tower. Also suitable for families, this is a short hike with two routes, at either 0.6 or 1.2 miles. Part of the fire tower challenge, the 60' metal tower offers sweeping 360 -degree views of the surrounding lakes. A parking lot is available off of Green Lake Road on NY 29A in Canada Lake. Because this is a fairly easy hike with a spectacular payoff at the top, the lot can fill up quickly; so plan to arrive early as parking on the road is discouraged. The fire tower lot shares a trailhead with two other trails— Stewart Lake (1.3 miles) and Indian Lake (2 miles) —both with remote forested lake views. All three hikes can fit into a single day. Visit the Canada Lake Store and Marine, just across the highway and to the right, for lunch, boat rentals, groceries, local products, and Adirondack gifts. Enjoy a de-