By Jeremiah Meizis, Instructor

As I pushed through the thick Spruce trees, slowly crawling over their dead brethren, rain cascading down my back, I began to question my decision to take a job as a wilderness instructor in nearby Saranac Lake. Now, after living here for almost six months I would be hard pressed to go anywhere else.

Fall and winter in the Adirondacks are brutal with record setting low temperatures for the continental U.S., icy winds, and hip-deep snow. The spring and early summer are equally

treacherous with ravenous black flies followed by deer flies, and finally, hordes of mosquitoes while deep mud and constant rain work to make you part of the landscape again. So then why would any sane person choose to come to this place and profess to enjoy it?

The Adirondacks, or ‘Dacks, have an immense variety for those who seek the wild places of the outdoors. No hiker can summit the roof of New York, Mt. Marcy, or any of the other forty-six high peaks without being struck by the raw beauty of this mountain range. Paddlers can challenge themselves on the rapids of the Bouquet or Racquette Rivers or find quiet solitude as they traverse the Saranac Lakes. Climbers can find challenging cracks with beautiful views of the High Peaks with the Ausable River rushing below or wait for the thick pillars of dark blue ice to form on the many cascading waterfalls throughout the park. Snowboarders and skiers can cruise the slopes of Whiteface or crawl into the backcountry to the many other natural slides. People can seek out a challenge or simply a view with trips to places that are tailor fit to the skills of all people.

With sleepy towns tucked away deep in the Adirondacks, visitors can relax in comfortable inns or browse the small shops. They can leave behind the stresses of crowds and traffic and breathe in clean mountain air while grabbing a bite to eat with friends.

Adirondack Park presents outdoor challenges, cozy escapes, and stunning scenery to all who welcome its magic. ■