Adirondack Interpretive Center
Programs and Activities
Adirondack Interpretive Center Events
5922 State Route 28N, Newcomb, NY, United States, New York
aic@esf.edu | 518-582-2000
First Day Hike - Goodnow Mountain
Wednesday | January 1 | 9 am
Join us for the annual First Day Hike at Goodnow Mountain, January 1st at 9:00 am
– departure time 9:30 pm. This 4-mile round-trip hike is considered moderately difficult
in winter but is family and dog friendly - as long as they are on leashes (the dogs,
not the family). It is strongly recommended that you have snowshoes or microspikes
for this adventure, but if you don’t have them, we can provide some with ADVANCED
notice. Preregistration is not required but very appreciated. Please email shample@esf.edu to preregister and/or to request snowshoes or microspikes. Remember, it will be winter,
and it will be cold! Dress appropriately (no cotton!) for the weather! Register or email shample@esf.edu
Winter Wander Walk
Saturday | January through March | 1pm
Join us for a relaxed, guided walk or snowshoe along the scenic Rich Lake Trail, where
we’ll explore the history of the Huntington Wildlife Forest, the Adirondacks, and
the region’s logging heritage. Along the way, we’ll discover whatever nature has in
store for us! This easy 0.7-mile loop takes you through diverse habitats, including
a raised boardwalk through a picturesque cedar swamp, and offers beautiful views of
the Goodnow Fire Tower. Perfect for all skill levels, this trail promises a peaceful
yet enriching experience in the heart of Adirondack nature. Snowshoes or microspikes
available at the AIC.
Glow in the Snow Luminary Walk
Saturday | January 18 | 6 pm-8 pm
This self-guided snowshoe walk on the Rich Lake Trail is perfect for families and
friends alike. Snowshoe among the luminary lanterns placed along the trail and enjoy
the beauty of the forest at night. After your walk, hang around the fire and enjoy
some hot chocolate to warm up. Dress for the weather! Snowshoes are available.
Frosty Feathers: Owls in the Winter Woods
Saturday | February 1 | 6pm
Join us at the Adirondack Interpretive Center for an evening all about owls! Discover
the fascinating adaptations that make these stealthy hunters masters of the night
and cold. Afterward, we’ll embark on a quiet walk along the Rich Lake Trail, listening
for the calls of native owls in their natural habitat. Learn how these elusive creatures
survive and thrive in the harsh Adirondack winters! Pre-register by emailing shample@esf.edu.
Planning Ahead: Winter Seed Prep
Saturday | February 8 | 11 am - 1 pm
Join Master Gardener Volunteer of Essex County Lorraine Miga to pre-plant some summer veggies and flowers. Bring two milk jugs (with tops intact) and plenty of enthusiasm as we kick off an exciting seed-starting season together! Let us know you're coming by registering ahead—this helps us plan for everyone!
You can also email shample@esf.edu
Glow in the Snow Luminary Walk
Saturday | February 15 | 6pm-8pm
This self-guided snowshoe walk on the Rich Lake Trail is perfect for families and
friends alike. Snowshoe among the luminary lanterns placed along the trail and enjoy
the beauty of the forest at night. After your walk, hang around the fire and enjoy
some hot chocolate to warm up. Dress for the weather! Snowshoes are available.
Ready, Set, Trek: Backpacking Basics for New Adventure's
Saturday | May 17 | 10 am -12 pm
Ready to trek the trails? Join our backpacking basics class to learn essential gear, trip planning, safety practices, and much more. Get the skills you need to confidently start your backpacking adventure!
You can also email shample@esf.edu
Bushcraft: Survive and Thrive
Join us for a hands-on, four-part bushcraft workshop series where you'll learn essential wilderness survival skills! Each session focuses on a different element critical to thriving in the outdoors:
Learn fire-starting techniques using natural materials, from friction to flint, including how to start fires in inclement weather
Learn how to filter and purify water for drinking and cooking, while also exploring various methods to cook in the wilderness using minimal gear and natural resources.
Explore shelter-building methods with natural resources to create secure, weatherproof structures that protect from the elements.
Learn essential land navigation skills, including map reading, compass use, and route planning, to confidently explore the outdoors.
Register for one or all four - limit of 15. You can also email shample@esf.edu