A Favorite Family Hike

Another post for www.adirondackmama.com

Schroon Lake is a nice little 20 minute ride from our house and Mount Severance is just north of the town.  My husband has hiked Severance before and was confident it would be a good hike to do with kids.  It was a beautiful fall day, a great time to do something together as a family and he said the views at the top were amazing.  

According to schroonlakeregion.com, the hike is a 2.4 mile moderate climb to an elevation of 1693'.  It is not difficult to find the trail head and there is a large parking lot off the road. 

My husband, myself and our friend Kayli headed out with my son (5), my daughter (2 1/2), and her daughter Liese (4).  With three small ones, I did not know how we would do but I was willing to try.  We started out with smiles and plenty of energy.

One of my kids favorite parts of the hike is actually at the beginning.  The parking lot is on the east side of the Northway and the mountain is on the west side.  You walk through two tunnels that go under the Northway.  There is just something fun about starting off the hike going through a tunnel.

My son had prepared a map of how he thought the route would go, so we decided to let him lead the way.  The trail was well worn and so we didn't have to worry about taking a wrong turn.

 The hike is definitely not flat.  It is still a mountain.  Sometimes those with small legs needed a little rest or a helping hand.  It took longer than if we were doing it alone but their excitement was contagious.

The day was partly sunny and the temperature was just right.  We took our time and enjoyed the climb. When we arrived at the top, we sat down to rest and enjoy the view.

There was a small trail to our left that took us to another part of the mountaintop and we discovered another incredible vista.

This was our first time with the kids and it will not be our last.  For those who live in the area it is a hidden jewel.  But, it was such a great family adventure I needed to pass it along.

After a hike like that, you may want to stop for something to eat.  The town of Schroon Lake has some great places for families.  Our favorite diner style eatery in Schroon Lake is Pitkins.  They even have my favorite - sweet potato fries with melba sauce.  

If you are in need of a good cup of coffee stop at Higher Grounds where their list of specialty drinks is extensive.  If you are in a mood for delicious crepes, try Morning Star Bistro.  I recommend the strawberry and Nutella combination.  

If pizza sounds like a good idea, stop at De'Cesares Pizzeria.  If you are looking for a local grown, quality meal check out Witherbee's Carriage House.  They are a little pricer but so worth it.  

Don't forget, Stewarts is a great place to fill up and pick up some good ice cream but there is also Severance General Store right near the trailhead if you need some gas or a quick snack and drink.

Schroon Lake is has a few shops to check out as well and a park right along the lake.  You and your family can definitely make a whole day trip filled with adventure and great memories.

Here are directions to get to the trailhead:

Mt. Severance trailhead: Directly across from the Alder Meadow Road intersection where it meets I-87, on State Route 9 approximately one half mile south of the intersection of Route 74. Parking. The trail passes through tunnels under the Northway.