As the third day in a row of single digit temperatures progresses, I wonder if the heat from the simmering pot of beans and ham hock on the stove is enough to take the chill off of the kitchen. I consider lighting a fire in the wood stove, but decide what might be nicer is a cup of golden spring-time sunshine to warm me up.

If you are a regular reader of the Lake Champlain Region blog, you know we have many fine spots to enjoy a cocktail, but here is one you'll love making at home for an authentic Adirondack flavor. Gather your ingredients on your next travels along the Adirondack Coast, and then settle in for a night — or morning — with a true taste of the mountains.

The Adirondack Cocktail is a drink that goes back, back, far back, into our history...

Where you choose to ski depends on your ability. In Tupper Lake, we have many great cross-country ski trails! If you are a beginner you would be wise to select an area with flat terrain. If you have been out and feel comfortable on flat terrain, why not up it a notch with a little challenge? Someplace with some small hills is a great place for you to practice different techniques such as the snowplow and herring bone. And, if you have experienced some small hills and want an even better workout you may want to try longer routes with larger hills.

Did you know, besides dozens of miles of hiking trails, the High Peaks also have designated backcountry ski trails? You’ll find an all-encompassing range of difficulty levels here, so be sure to know your ability level before heading out. Many of the five trails listed below are serious endeavors that should only be attempted by those with the proper skills and gear. Be prepared and be safe!

Yes, it's the perfect place for a family ski trip with three restaurants, slopeside chalets, and it's recent award: #1 family-friendly resort in North America by Liftopia. Still, as a twenty-something skier with no kids and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in my pocket, I discovered Titus was all that and more. Its powder-filled runs, short lift lines, and sweet seclusion, offered a trifecta that's often hard to find.  

The drive to Titus delivers quiet, scenic roads, no matter what direction you're traveling from. Leaving from my Lake Placid home, I found myself filled with growing anticipation for the coming ski day through every bend in the road that produced mountain views and snow laden trees. Those same backroads bring you right to the Titus parking lot, which is nicely located less than a minute's walk to the ticket booth and lifts.