LOCALadk Magazine
Issue link: https://localadkmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1513784
LOCALadk 46 Slinking on skis east up through a winding, deep sin- uous vein of snow laden pine and hardwood, dappled early sunlight and a cacophony of sweet winter scents and sight, deeply walled on each side by the tall ap- proach ridges and dense forest, an intimate compan- ion to the mountains around, you breathe and bathe in effort, excitement, and intention. Settling into the journey as it unfolds, you continuously rise with each stride weaving up and around the long approach ascending the Upper Works Trail through the drainage of Calamity Brook. The pace through the forest is a pleasantly strenuous tempo through relatively tight confines, but then the trees open to a sea of white and you are welcomed with the reveal, the gateway of the Flowed Lands. Normally a high country rock strewn expanse of washout, now a brightly lit open bowl of intense brightness, the frozen expanse dominated by your first view of Mount Colden and the routeahead. Now easily traversed and remote, you smoothly glide upon the Opalescent River to Lake Colden on your approach to the monuments of the High Peaks Wilder- ness towering all around you! The Adirondacks High Peaks Ski Through is a classic 12.5 mile ski tour through the High Peaks Wilderness from the Upper Works Lot parking area near Newcomb to ADK Loj in North Elba. It is commonly done with two groups approaching from the opposing sides with a vehicle key exchange upon meeting in the middle, to get both parties home. However, to maximize your time in the wilderness and dramatically heighten your overall experience, an overnight stay at the historic ADK Loj is in order to warm by the fire and nestle into the rustic 1928 lodge setting as so many have before you. The 25-mile "out and back" option is a rewarding ski experience, and the cultural and communal ex- change with other travelers, ski and snowshoers from all across this land that stay at the lodge deepens your connection to the mountains, the craft of winter travel and wilderness lore. And the food is excellent! The route is a rugged ski each way, and the approach from Tahawus to height of land at Avalanche Pass fea- tures roughly 1,200' of elevation gain through mod- erately difficult trails shared with other ski and snow- shoe trekkers. Once out upon frozen Lake Colden, the ADIRONDACK HIGH PEAKS SKI-THROUGH By Jay de Jesus