LOCALadk Magazine

Fall Hiking | LOCALadk I n the Adirondacks many feats of adventure seem to be defined in terms of numbers. The most popular and wellknown feat is to become a 46er; to hike all 46 peaks in the Adirondacks that are higher then 4000 feet. There is also a popular book describing "The Other 54." We also have the "90 miler," a 3-day paddling race from Old Forge to Lake Flower. The Adirondacks serve as the beginning of the 740 mile Northern Forest Canoe Trail paddling route from Old Forge to Fort Kent, Maine. There is the newly created "Saranac Lake 6er," in which participants hike 6 mountains, then ring the iron bell on Berkeley Green in Saranac Lake. At the time of this writing, more than 400 people have completed the challenge. The Ragnar, which is an overnight, team, running relay race from Saratoga Springs to Lake Placid, covers 196.2 miles. The fire tower challenge requires participants to hike to the 23 towers within the park. These are just some of the challenges Adirondackers have created to inspire us to push hard and to meet a goal. The Cranberry 50 is another such adventure, a 50 mile hike around Cranberry Lake that can be accomplished during hiking season as well as in winter on snowshoes. The Cranberry Lake 50 is supported by the Five Ponds Partners, which was developed to promote sustainable economic development in Clifton-Fine which is a town comprised of Cranberry Lake, Newton Falls, Windfall and part of Star Lake. They believe in fostering accessibility to the park's recreational resources by locals and visitors alike, and they work hard to help maintain and promote these state owned easements (rights-of-way). As of October 1, 2013, 506 people were registered as having completed the 50 mile challenge, earning themselves bragging rights and a coveted Cranberry 50 patch. Whether or not you tackle all 50 miles, Cranberry Lake offers great hiking, and even paddling opportunities in season, for people of all levels of physical ability. So grab your gear and head out for a day hike, a two or three day trip, or, as some have done, a truly adventurous 24 hour challenge. Any way you go, Cranberry Lake is a must for anyone who enjoys hiking in the Adirondacks. Cranberry Lake is located on Route 3, west of Tupper Lake. Check out www.cranberrylake50.org for more information and how to obtain a map. Have fun!

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