Regional Information

History of the Lake George Region

Lake George, located in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. The earliest known inhabitants of the Lake George region were the Paleo-Indians, who lived in the area around 10,000 years ago. Later, the region was home to several tribes of the Iroquois Confederacy, including the Mohawks, Oneidas, Onondagas, Cayugas, and Senecas. These tribes were skilled hunters and farmers, and they relied heavily on the natural resources provided by the lake and its surrounding forests. The region was later inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Mohawk and the Abenaki, who used the lake as a major transportation route for trade and travel. The Abenaki people were known for their skills as hunters, fishermen, and traders, and they played an important role in the early history of the region.

In the 17th century, European explorers began to arrive in the Lake George area, including Samuel de Champlain, who first visited the lake in 1609. Over the next century, French and English traders established trading posts along the lake, and tensions between the European powers and Native American tribes increased. The region was a valuable resource for the British Empire. The British used the trees of the Adirondack region for various purposes, including shipbuilding, construction, and fuel. The Adirondack forests provided the British with a vast supply of tall and straight white pine trees. These trees were in high demand because they were ideal for use as ship masts and spars. The British needed sturdy, tall masts to construct their navy's ships, which played a critical role in their dominance of the seas during this period. In addition to shipbuilding, the British used Adirondack trees for construction purposes. The region's hardwood trees, including maple, beech, and birch, were used for constructing buildings, bridges, and fortifications. The trees' dense and strong wood made them ideal for building structures that could withstand harsh weather conditions. The British also used Adirondack trees as a source of fuel. The region's vast forests provided the British with a steady supply of firewood, which was used for cooking, heating, and other domestic purposes. Overall, the Adirondack trees played a significant role in the British Empire's expansion and military dominance during the 1700s. The region's abundant supply of high-quality trees provided the British with the resources they needed for their navy, construction, and daily living.

Sheep farming was also an important industry in the Adirondack region during the 1700s, particularly for the British who established farms and settlements in the area. The Adirondack region was covered in dense forests, and the British recognized the potential of the land for sheep farming due to the abundance of trees that provided shelter and shade for the animals. The British brought with them a breed of sheep known as the Merino, which was highly valued for its soft and fine wool. They established large sheep farms in the Adirondack region, with many of the farms located near rivers and streams to take advantage of the water supply for irrigation and washing the wool. The dense forests of the Adirondacks provided ample food for the sheep, with the animals grazing on a variety of grasses, shrubs, and tree foliage. The trees also provided shelter from the harsh winter weather and protection from predators such as wolves and coyotes. The British used the wool from their sheep to create a variety of products, including clothing and blankets, which were highly prized for their warmth and durability. The sheep farming industry was an important part of the Adirondack economy, with many families relying on it for their livelihoods. However, the British also faced challenges in the Adirondack region, including harsh weather conditions and conflicts with Native American tribes who viewed the land as their ancestral territory. Despite these challenges, the sheep farming industry continued to grow and prosper in the Adirondacks, leaving a lasting legacy on the region's history and culture.

In 1755, the French and Indian War broke out, and the Lake George region became a major battleground between France and Great Britain over control of North America. The Battle of Lake George, fought in September of that year, was a major victory for the British, and it helped to turn the tide of the war in their favor.

During the American Revolution, Lake George was again the site of important military operations. In 1775, American forces led by Ethan Allen and Benedict Arnold captured the British fort at Ticonderoga, located at the southern end of the lake. This victory provided much-needed artillery for the Continental Army, which was used to drive the British from Boston.

After the war, European settlers began to move into the region in large numbers, and Native American tribes were forced to cede their lands to the new arrivals. The Lake George region is still home to several Native American communities, including the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe and the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians, who continue to preserve their cultural heritage and traditions.

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Lake George became a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from across the country. Many wealthy families built summer homes along the lake, and steamboats were used to transport tourists and goods.

Today, Lake George is a popular vacation spot known for its crystal-clear waters, scenic beauty, and historical significance. Visitors can explore the region's rich history by visiting the many museums and historic sites located along the lake, such as Fort Ticonderoga and the Lake George Historical Association.

Trees

The Adirondack area of upstate New York is home to a diverse range of hardwood trees that are an important part of the Adirondack ecosystem and provide a valuable resource for the local economy. These trees are highly prized for their beauty, strength, and durability, and are used in a wide range of products that are enjoyed by people all over the world.

Hardwood trees are known for their dense, strong wood and are highly valued for their use in furniture, flooring, and other high-quality products. The most common hardwood species in the Adirondacks include maple, birch, beech, oak, ash, and cherry.

Maple trees are abundant in the area and are highly prized for their attractive grain patterns and durability. They are commonly used for flooring, cabinetry, and furniture. Birch trees are also common in the Adirondacks and are known for their distinctive white bark and delicate, fine-grained wood. Birch is a popular choice for making decorative items like baskets, lampshades, and picture frames.

Beech trees are known for their smooth bark and dense, hard wood. They are highly valued for their strength and resistance to wear, making them an ideal choice for flooring and furniture. Oak trees are also common in the area and are highly prized for their durability and strength. Oak is commonly used for furniture, flooring, and other high-end products.

Ash trees are highly valued for their strength, toughness, and elasticity. They are commonly used for making tool handles, sports equipment, and other products that require high strength and durability. Cherry trees are known for their beautiful, reddish-brown wood and are highly valued for their use in fine furniture and cabinetry. Unfortunately, the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) has invaded the forests, likely killing the majority of all ash trees. In the picnic area, there is an ash tree with the tell-tale holes aligned in rows.

Hickory trees are a common sight in the Adirondack area, a vast wilderness region located in upstate New York. These trees are known for their towering heights, with some species reaching up to 100 feet tall, and their striking bark, which is deeply furrowed and gray in color. In the Adirondack region, two species of hickory trees are particularly prevalent: the shagbark hickory and the pignut hickory. The shagbark hickory is easily recognizable by its distinctive bark, which peels away in long, shaggy strips. Its leaves are large and green, turning a golden yellow in the fall. The pignut hickory, on the other hand, has a smoother, grayish-brown bark and smaller leaves that turn a yellow-green color in the autumn. Both species of hickory trees produce edible nuts that are highly prized for their rich, buttery flavor. In fact, the Adirondack region is known for its production of hickory nuts, which are harvested in the fall and used in a variety of recipes, from pies and cakes to savory dishes. Hickory trees are also an important part of the Adirondack ecosystem, providing habitat and food for a wide variety of wildlife, including squirrels, chipmunks, and birds. The wood of hickory trees is also prized for its strength and durability, and is often used for furniture, flooring, and tool handles. Overall, hickory trees are a vital and beloved part of the Adirondack landscape, providing beauty, sustenance, and support to the natural world and the people who call this region home.

Pine trees are a common sight in the Adirondack region of upstate New York. These trees belong to the Pinaceae family and are known for their evergreen needles that provide year-round greenery. The Adirondack area is home to several species of pine trees, including the eastern white pine, red pine, and black spruce. The eastern white pine is the tallest tree species in the Adirondacks, with some reaching heights of over 150 feet. These majestic trees have a straight trunk and can grow up to 3 feet in diameter. The needles of the eastern white pine are long and soft and grow in clusters of five. The tree's cones are also distinctive, measuring up to 8 inches long and featuring a cone scale that is thinner than other pine species. The red pine, also known as the Norway pine, is another common pine tree in the Adirondacks. These trees can grow up to 100 feet tall and have a straight trunk and reddish-brown bark. The needles of the red pine grow in clusters of two and can range in length from 4 to 6 inches.

The black spruce is a smaller pine tree species that grows in the wetlands of the Adirondack region. These trees have a distinctive conical shape and can grow up to 60 feet tall. The needles of the black spruce are short and stiff and grow in a spiral pattern around the branches. The tree's cones are small, measuring only 1 to 2 inches long. Overall, pine trees are an important part of the Adirondack region's ecosystem, providing shelter and food for wildlife and helping to maintain the area's natural beauty.

Birds

The Adirondack Park is one of the largest protected natural areas in the United States, which provides a safe and undisturbed habitat for many bird species. The area is a popular destination for birdwatchers, who come from all over the world to observe the region's diverse birdlife. Whether you're a seasoned birder or just enjoy being surrounded by nature, the Adirondacks offer a wonderful opportunity to connect with the natural world and discover the beauty of these feathered creatures.

Birds in this region can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, lakes, and rivers. Some of the most common birds in the Adirondacks include woodpeckers, nuthatches, chickadees, finches, and thrushes. 

One of the most iconic bird species in the Adirondack area is the common loon, which is known for its distinctive call and striking black and white plumage. Loons can often be seen on the region's many lakes and rivers, where they dive underwater in search of fish. Other notable bird species in the Adirondacks include the bald eagle, osprey, and peregrine falcon, all of which are birds of prey that can be seen soaring high above the region's forests and lakes. The region is also home to a variety of waterfowl, including Canada geese, mallards, and wood ducks, as well as songbirds such as warblers, vireos, and orioles.

Wild turkey is also a popular bird found in the Adirondack area. These large, ground-dwelling birds are often seen foraging in fields and forested areas. They are popular game birds and are hunted during the fall turkey hunting season.

The property at Flat Rock is also home to several species of woodpeckers, including the downy woodpecker, hairy woodpecker, and pileated woodpecker. Woodpeckers are fascinating birds that have adapted to life in wooded areas, where they use their strong beaks to excavate cavities in trees to create nesting sites and search for food. In the Adirondack region, the downy woodpecker is the smallest and most common species, measuring around 6 inches in length. They have black and white feathers, with a distinctive red patch on the back of the head of the male. Downy woodpeckers feed on insects and tree sap, and are often seen climbing up and down tree trunks in search of food. The hairy woodpecker is slightly larger than the downy, measuring around 9 inches in length. They have black and white feathers, with a longer, stronger beak than the downy. Hairy woodpeckers feed on insects and tree sap, and are often seen drumming on trees to communicate with other birds and establish territory. The pileated woodpecker is the largest species of woodpecker in the Adirondacks, measuring up to 18 inches in length. They have striking black and white feathers, with a bright red crest on the top of their head. Pileated woodpeckers feed on insects, fruits, and nuts, and are known for their loud drumming sounds, which can be heard from a great distance. Woodpeckers play an important role in the Adirondack ecosystem, helping to control insect populations and creating nesting sites for other birds and animals. They are a common sight in the region's forests and can often be heard drumming on trees or calling out to each other. Observing these fascinating birds in their natural habitat is a wonderful experience for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike.

Owls are fascinating creatures that also live nearby. The Adirondacks provide an ideal habitat for several species of owls, including the great horned owl, barred owl, northern saw-whet owl, and the eastern screech owl. Great horned owls are the largest and most powerful of the owl species found in the Adirondacks, with a wingspan of up to 5 feet. They have distinctive tufts of feathers on their heads and large, yellow eyes. Barred owls are also a common sight in the Adirondacks, easily recognizable by their brown and white striped plumage and deep hooting call. Northern saw-whet owls are much smaller, reaching only about 8 inches in length, but are no less interesting. They are often heard more than seen, with their distinctive high-pitched tooting call. Finally, the eastern screech owl is a tiny owl, only about 6 inches long, but with a big personality. They come in two color variations, red and gray, and can often be found nesting in tree cavities. Owls are primarily nocturnal and are most active at night. They are skilled hunters, using their incredible vision, sharp talons, and silent flight to catch their prey, which includes rodents, birds, and even larger animals like rabbits and skunks. If you're lucky enough to see an owl in the Adirondack area, it's important to observe them from a distance and avoid disturbing them. Owls play a vital role in the ecosystem and are a unique and important part of the Adirondack's natural beauty.

Hawks in the Adirondacks are often found soaring above the treetops or perched on tree branches, scanning the ground for prey. The region's diverse landscape, which includes forests, lakes, and mountains, provides ample hunting opportunities for these birds of prey. One of the best places to spot hawks in the Adirondacks is the Hawk Watch at the Adirondack Park Visitor Interpretive Center (VIC) in Paul Smiths. The Hawk Watch is a platform overlooking the surrounding forests and mountains, where visitors can observe hawks and other birds of prey during their annual migration. Other popular spots for hawk watching in the Adirondacks include Whiteface Mountain, Mount Jo, and the Ausable Marsh Wildlife Management Area. Visitors to the region can also take guided birdwatching tours or participate in bird banding programs to learn more about hawks and other bird species in the area.

Animals

The Adirondack area in upstate New York is home to a diverse range of animals. One of the most commonly spotted animals in the Adirondacks is the coyote. These medium-sized canines are known for their distinctive yipping howls and are typically active at dawn and dusk. They are adaptable creatures and can thrive in both urban and rural environments.

Another common animal in the Adirondack area is the black bear. These large mammals are generally shy and avoid human contact, but they can be dangerous if provoked. They are omnivores and will eat almost anything, from berries and nuts to small animals and garbage.

Deer are also prevalent in the Adirondacks. White-tailed deer are the most common species, and they are often seen grazing in meadows and along roadsides. During the fall, deer hunting is a popular activity in the area.

Weasels, fisher cats, and foxes are also found in the Adirondack area. These small carnivorous mammals are skilled hunters and are known for their agility and speed. They prey on smaller animals such as rodents and rabbits.

Several species of snakes can also be found in the Adirondacks, including the garter snake, northern water snake, and timber rattlesnake. While some people may fear snakes, they play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling rodent populations.

Raccoons are another common sight in the Adirondack area. These nocturnal creatures are known for their distinctive masked faces and are often found scavenging for food in trash cans and dumpsters. While they may look cute and cuddly, they can be aggressive and carry diseases such as rabies.

The Adirondack region is home to several species of rodents, including the red squirrel, eastern chipmunk, white-footed mouse, deer mouse, and meadow vole. These small mammals play important roles in the ecosystem, serving as prey for larger predators and contributing to nutrient cycling through their burrowing and foraging activities.

The red squirrel is a common sight in the Adirondacks, with its reddish-brown fur and bushy tail. These rodents are known for their vocalizations and territorial behavior, defending their territory and food sources from other squirrels and even birds. Eastern chipmunks, with their distinctive stripes and chubby cheeks, are also frequently seen darting through the underbrush, gathering nuts and seeds to store for the winter.

White-footed mice and deer mice are both common in the Adirondacks, and can be distinguished by their coloring and tail length. White-footed mice have a reddish-brown back and white belly, while deer mice have a gray-brown back and white belly. Both species are active year-round, and are important prey for predators like owls, hawks, and foxes.

Meadow voles, also known as meadow mice, are small, stocky rodents with short tails and dense fur. They are primarily herbivores, feeding on grasses and other vegetation, and are important for maintaining healthy plant communities through their burrowing and grazing activities.

Chipmunks are small, furry rodents that are commonly found in the Adirondack area. These adorable creatures are known for their energetic and curious behavior, as well as their distinctive striped pattern. Chipmunks in the Adirondacks are typically between 5 and 6 inches in length and have a lifespan of around 3 years. Chipmunks are primarily ground-dwelling animals and can often be found scurrying around in search of food. They are omnivores, feeding on a variety of foods such as nuts, seeds, berries, insects, and small invertebrates. They are also known to hoard food in underground burrows for the winter months when food is scarce. One of the most recognizable features of the Adirondack chipmunk is its distinct coloration. They have two light stripes bordered by black stripes that run along their back and sides, with a white stripe down the center of their face. Their coloring serves as camouflage against predators and helps them blend into their surroundings. While chipmunks are often seen as cute and harmless, they can cause problems for homeowners by digging holes in lawns and gardens. They can also be carriers of ticks and fleas, which can transmit diseases to humans and pets.

Overall, the Adirondack area is home to a diverse range of animals, from large predators like bears and coyotes to small, agile creatures like weasels and foxes. Whether you are an avid wildlife watcher or simply enjoy being surrounded by nature, the Adirondacks offer plenty of opportunities to experience the beauty and diversity of the natural world.

Amphibians

The Adirondack region of New York State is home to a diverse range of amphibians, which play an important role in the ecosystem. Amphibians are cold-blooded, vertebrate animals that typically start their lives in the water as larvae, before undergoing metamorphosis and transitioning to a terrestrial lifestyle.

Some of the most common amphibians found in the Adirondack area include the wood frog, spotted salamander, and American toad. The wood frog is known for its ability to survive freezing temperatures, and is often one of the first amphibians to emerge from hibernation in the spring. The spotted salamander is a large, black-and-yellow species that breeds in vernal pools, while the American toad is a small, brown species that is known for its distinctive trilling call.

Other amphibians found in the Adirondacks include the green frog, bullfrog, and gray treefrog. The green frog is a medium-sized species that is often found in ponds and streams, while the bullfrog is a larger species that is known for its deep, booming call. The gray treefrog is a small, arboreal species that is often heard calling at night during the summer months.

Amphibians in the Adirondack region face a number of threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these important animals and their habitats, including the creation of protected areas and the implementation of best management practices to minimize negative impacts on amphibian populations.