Hundreds of outdoor enthusiasts participate in LGLC Hike-a-Thon 2023

Wednesday, July 5, more than 700 people hiked and paddled through Lake George Land Conservancy parks and preserves for the Conservancy’s 11^th Annual Hike-a-Thon. Hike-a-Thon 2023 offered participants 22 options, including guided hikes ranging in skill level from easy to challenging and a paddle in Northwest Bay Brook. Participants also had the option of a self-guided hike of their choosing.

The free event is part of the Land Conservancy’s public outreach program to promote an appreciation for the lands that protect Lake George. Registered participants received official Hike-a-thon t-shirts and a stuff bag filled with Hike-a-thon swag. A helicopter, piloted by Bruce Mowery, flew Adirondack photographer Carl Heilman, II, to each site to take aerial group photos.

In conjunction with the Hike-a-Thon, Love is on Lake George Cruises organized a Wooden Boat Cruise-a-Thon along the East Shore of Lake George starting at Dunham’s Bay and cruising north to Elizabeth Island, a 9-mile route.

The Land Conservancy held its traditional After Party at the Bolton Landing Community Center with live music performed by the High Peaks Bluegrass Band. The party included food and drinks, children’s activities. Representatives from state and local government agencies and local non-profits were on hand with information and giveaways.

hike-a-thon 2023 children select prizes — *At the After Party, children were awarded prizes for completing a scavenger hunt and other activities while hiking.*

The Lake George Examiner sent a crew, which included a six-month-old and a three-year-old, on the Amy’s Park hike. The group also included a toddler, some in the 60-plus age group and a golden retriever. The quarter-mile hike is rated easy and brings hikers to the lily-filled Upper Pond in Amy’s Park. The 3-year-old easily conquered the trail, however, while the yellow trail is an easy hike, it is not stroller-friendly and the baby was carried.

Amy’s Park is a 500-acre parcel of woodlands and marshes with its main parking lot and trailheads on Padanarum Road in Bolton Landing. The Conservancy purchased the land in 2012 ensuring preservation of the important wildlife habitats found within. The property includes the headwaters for Indian Brook, which empties into Northwest Bay on Lake George.