I-87 Sign at the water stop at Exit 30, US 9

Interstate 87: The Adirondack Northway

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Date/Time: 05/12/2008 00:31
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XC - Cross Country Skiing


XC skiing is the best way to travel in the snow. It's also called Nordic after it's Scandinavian origins. I started in the 70's with waxable wood skis, bamboo poles & 3 pin toe bindings. Today's skis & poles are made of fiberglass or graphite, are non-wax and work well, have "D" type step-in bindings and other space age improvements. For back country work, you are better off with the older 3 pin wax varieties. The new stuff is better for track type skiing. But I just got a pair of wax Karhus with heavy duty 3 pins for this winter from the pros at the Mountaineer. But even with no-waxers, it's good to wax the sliding, non-scale parts.

Licensed guides, professionals, are there to escort the neophyte into the trackless, snowbound wilderness areas. With -25F temperatures and 10' of snow possible, think pro if you're a novice! They often throw rental skis in with the deal. There is nothing like being in a snow filled spruce forest, on a bright winter afternoon, with only you and your party; just like a beautiful X-Mas card but real.

Caution: Think hypothermia. Wear wool, it will always be warm. Bring back-up sweater, blanket, socks, hat and mitts. Bring some food like candy bars or canned lunch meats: sugar and fats will keep you warm. Carry lighters and fire starters. Carry cell phone and gps, or at least a compass and a topo map. Don't go it alone. More is safer! Bring binding small parts just in case!

Downhill, Alpine Skiing
A Guide to XC Ski Areas in New York
AlpineZone.com - The Northeast Guide to Mountain Adventure
  518 Area Code

Places to Ski

Exit 29, North Hudson

The town trails in and around old Frontier Town. Pretty easy, but near the Northway. They are also mountain bike trails in warmer weather.

Lake Placid

  • Mount Van Hoevenberg ski trails, Olympic course, about 4 south-east of LP on NY 73.
  • Jack Rabbit Trail from Paul Smiths, via Saranac Lake that sweeps sw around the village to Keene. Get to it off of Whiteface Lodge road.
  • Lake Placid Club. Stay straight when you come to the end of NY 73W in LP village a couple blocks up. Ski the golf course.

Gear

The Mountaineer of Keene Valley

Purveyors of Fine Outdoor and Mountaineering Equipment Since 1975
Webmeister recommended, they're pro!
NY 73, Keene Valley, in the High Peaks
Phone: 518-576-2281

Licensed XC Ski Guides

Anne Twilley's Guide Service
651 Duanesburg Road, NY Route 7
Schenectady, 12306
518-355-8232  email

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Interstate 87: The Adirondack Northway


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