Have you ever found a super cute Airbnb...so cute that you just book it without really researching the location? Well, ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Keene, New York! That's right. This was a totally spontaneous trip planned solely on how adorable (and affordable) the Airbnb was. The idea was to take a simple "getaway" trip, so location wasn't exactly top priority. However, I really lucked out. After booking it and panicking that I didn't actually know where I was going, I discovered Keene is actually in the Adirondack region. This was perfect because I have always heard great things about the Adirondacks, but never took the initiative to take a trip there. Sometimes things happen for a reason!

So at this point you're probably wondering what the heck is this magical Airbnb? Well....here you go! ⬇

Staying in Keene...

Many people choose to stay in Lake Placid during the Summer and Winter months while exploring the Lake George area and the Adirondacks. If you are looking for something a little quieter and less touristy, I highly recommend Keene. It is a cute, quiet little "American hometown" just outside of Lake Placid. The town is very small, but full of character. It's your type of town that has just one of everything; diner, gym, post office, grocery store, hardware shop. Really everything you need! Oh and of course, your little roadside maple syrup stand!

If you enjoy the traditional American breakfast, definitely make a stop at the Noon Mark diner during your time there. They have the fluffiest pancakes and best pie you might ever have in your life...😳

Winter hiking in the Adirondacks...

There are two important things to know if you plan to hike in the Adirondacks during the winter months.

1. It is absolutely beautiful and offers breath-taking views.
2. You must be prepared and so some research ahead of time if you are not accustomed to winter hiking conditions.

Tips for preparation; ⬇

1. Be sure to research and plan your trails ahead of time. Be aware of total mileage and current trail conditions. Pre-download your trail map on AllTrails if you have the pro version. Also, know what your trail specific markers look like before heading out. With the snow, everything looks very similar and it is easy to become disoriented.
2. The trail heads have a sign in/out book in wooden box. Sign it! It will give you peace of mind knowing that someone will know you are out there incase something happens. Some of the trails are very remote and extend into the back-country.
3. Carry extra food and water, wish you should always do. 😉
4. Purchase a physical trail map. Water proof/resistant and tear proof is recommended.
5. BE AWARE that in the Adirondacks, when there is more than eight inches of snow on the ground, snow shoes are required to be carried with you (not necessarily worn). The reasoning for this is that snowshoes allow even weight distribution, and prevent "post-holing". This in turn creates safer trail conditions for everyone, and prevents exhaustion and over exertion amongst hikers. Often times there will be rangers patrolling trails. If they find you without snowshoes, you may receive a fine. If you'd like to read more about this, visit the Adirondacks site here.
6. Consider bringing trekking poles. I find that these are highly personal preference. I've never gotten used to using them, but a lot of people use them for balance and additional bracing up and down hills.
7. At a minimum, micro spikes are highly recommended and encouraged. During my hike, the weather was unusually mild for this time of year (January). Even though the weather was mild, there were several areas of ice, and ice under snow that was not visible. They were a costly investment, but I was extremely thankful that I had them.
8. Waterproof/resistant shoes or boots will make your experience much more pleasant. 😊

summit of Cascade Mountain^

I highly recommend making a stop at The Mountaineer. This is an outdoor specialty shop located in Keene Valley. If you have any questions, hesitations, gear requirements, literally anything....they are the people to go to. They will make sure you are totally set to go with everything you need. This is where I rented my snowshoes and trekking poles. They are also very knowledgeable about current trail conditions, and can offer a lot of valuable advice and recommendations. I was very thankful to have found out about this place!

For a first timer to the Adirondack region, the Cascade and Porter trail is a great introductory route. It is only about 6 miles round-trip, the trail is heavily traveled, and you get to cross off 2 of the 46 Adirondack Peaks in one hike! This was actually my first time ever hiking in snowy conditions. Full transparency, I was a little nervous. I didn't know what to expect, or if I was prepared enough. Shortly after starting my journey on the trail, I was hooked. The pristine conditions of the white snow, the silence, and the serenity of being amongst nature was simply incredible. It was one of the most incredible things I've ever witnessed, and I can't wait to do it again.

I was most thankful for having my micro-spikes at the last section and summit of Cascade Mountain. The last .2 miles or so to the summit of Cascade is a steep, rocky, uneven incline. It was covered in snow and ice, and would have been pretty treacherous in regular boots or sneakers.

part of the last section of trail leading to Cascade Summit^

The view at the top of Cascade was unparalleled. There is something so serene about standing exposed at ~4,000', the wind whipping around you, and having an infinite view of trees and mountains covered with untouched snow.

After experiencing the beauty of the Adirondacks, I know I will be going back. I would love to explore the area in the summer months, and get on more of the trails. I'd also like to go in the Fall to experience the foliage season. That being said, stay tuned for more Adirondacks posts! 😉