By John Bidell
This time of year is perfect for leaf peeping and getting out on a trail. It also is hunting season, so with much of the public land open to both forms of recreation, always wear some red or pink when moving through multiple use areas.
I enjoy the Lake George area, especially Bolton Landing and the Lake George shore. A number of short hikes are available using Bolton Landing as a starting point.
Amy’s park has 6.5 miles of trails with access to beaver ponds. It has trailheads on both Padanarum road and also Trout falls road in Bolton Landing. Nice easy hike with lots of bridges over the wetlands.
Isabel La Roche preserve is adjacent to Amy’s park and has a moderate 1.5 mile hike to High Nopit with views of Lake George. The trailhead is also located on Padanarum road.
Ok you have knocked off 8 miles of hiking and now the fun starts. Get back in the car and head up Route 9 along the Lake. When you get to Hague, turn west on Route 8 heading towards Chestertown. Lots of good spots for a picnic break and views of the mountains. Brant Lake is about 15 miles up the road, and if the legs have anything left, on the backside of Brant Lake is a trailhead into Paradox wilderness area. We hike in and enjoy views of some of the ponds and the mountains.. easy walking and at times can be popular.
Done with hiking? Time to head to the Panther Mountain House in Chestertown for a Paradox brew and maybe some chicken wings. They also have pork wings, which are my favorite.
Remember, be safe and share the road and the trail.
