A Guide to Schroon Lake: Scenic Views & Waterfront Activities

The magic of a Schroon Lake summer is hard to quantify with words, because it lies in the sensations. The feeling of rhythmic waves pulling you slightly as you wade into the water, becoming stronger with every passing motorboat. The sound of a stranger’s radio, too far away to make out lyrics but close enough that it’s melodic bass soothes you like white noise. Tinkling laughter of mischievous kids, testing the limits of the local lifeguard. New parents focused at the edge of the water, and experienced ones reading in the shade. Schroon Lake is the type of place that takes you out of your routine and makes you feel a part of the world again. Whether you’re in the water, up in the mountains, or getting a drink with the locals, you’re sure to feel a sense of renewal. Read on for recommendations from a Schroon Lake regular.

The Lodge at Schroon Lake

If you’re looking for a one-stop shop that offers everything you’d need for a great vacation, you’ve found in at The Lodge. The historic site offers a lakeside retreat from every day life with luxurious amenities, a private beach, on-site dining and more. Make sure you don’t skip these key features.

• Swimming & Boating: The Lodge has a private beach for you to enjoy, wade into the water or relax on it’s soft sand. You’ll also find boat rentals from kayaks to pontoons, and guided boat tours featuring Chris Craft boats.
• Drinks & Dining: Inside the lodge you’ll find the Brown Swan, a farm-to-table dining experience inspired by the spirit of the Adirondacks. It’s menu features locally-sourced ingredients. You can also relax at The Tavern for drinks and pub-style eats, or mingle with other guests at The Bevy bar in the main lodge lobby.
• Outdoor Activities: You’ll find so many fun options outside at the lodge; private mini golf course, pickleball and tennis, paddle boarding, outdoor lawn games, volleyball, and more. You can even catch outdoor movies at night, or make s’mores by the fire.

Scenic Views

While visiting Schroon Lake, all you need to do to take in the scenes of the Adirondacks is look around you. High peaks and mountaintops are around every turn, and line the lake with their beauty. But if you want to experience the views from within the mountains, there are trails meandering up and around the entire view.

• Spectacle Pond Trail: This trail is a mostly flat trail ideal for beginner hikers and fun for kids. It takes you through the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness and around Spectacle Pond. You’ll find water and mountain views, and undoubtedly run into a few wildlife friends along the way.
• Severance Mountain Trail: This route is a bit more difficult, but the best way to spend an afternoon. The view, pictured above, will certainly reward you for all your hard work hiking up. You’ll see down the lake and all the surrounding mountains.

Eat & Drink like a Local

Schroon lake is a small town – it’s population has been steady at around 1,000 people the past few years. So in truth, a lot of your fellow beach goers and restaurant neighbors will be tourists. But there are a few spots the locals swear by!

• The Brown Swan: Offering farm-to-table, locally-sourced American cuisine inspired by the spirit of the Adirondacks.
• Sticks & Stones: Here you’ll find woodfired pizza and hearty sandwiches, perfect to refuel after a day in the sun. Plus a wide selection of wines, local craft beers, and dessert!
• Stone Bridge Ice Cream Stand: Everyone knows an evening ice cream cone is essential to the end of a weekend at the beach. Stop by Stone Bridge for over 40 flavors of soft serve, floats, and daily sundae specials.
• Café Adirondack: This spot has raving reviews of it’s wide variety of options, friendly service, and ability to accommodate to all diets. It’s a must stop!

With this guide in your back pocket you’re sure to have a great stay in Schroon Lake. If you find yourself wondering what it might be like if this slice of peace was your everyday, our agents can help you find your vacation or full time home anywhere in the region.

About the Author

By: Ericka Wadleigh
Exclusive for JulieCoRealty.com