Floating in the Delaware River

It’s hot.  So, if you’re planning to head northwest on a day trip or weekend getaway from NYC to NJ, PA area, consider checking out the water activities on the Delaware River. Click the pic for information dedicated to all the ways you can use the river.  It is full of useful suggestions and the best part is that people’s comments are up to date about where to launch, where the water level is too low, etc.  

Warren County Farmers’ Fair/Balloon Fest/Folk Art Festival 

Aug 1 - 7th

You all were so excited about the balloon festival in Hunterdon County this summer that I thought you may be interested in this Fair as well.  Definitely not as good of a balloon show, obviously, but there are farm animals, elvis impersonators and an abundance of quilters and lacers.  Three festivals all wrapped into one in Phillipsburg, NJ about 90 minutes from NYC.  So, if you missed your chance last time, this is a good excuse to get to the beautiful SW area of Jersey.  

And, I just love this pic they use to advertise it on Facebook.

click pic

Delaware Water Gap in New Jersey and Pennsylvania

If you’re looking to go hiking without traveling too far, just get on Route 80 for about an hour and a half (from NYC)  and you’re at the Delaware Water Gap. Just like that. There are a variety of trails -some steeper, some shorter than others.  It is really convenient and really beautiful.  On a nice day it can be crowded on the trails at the top of the mountains.  You’ll have to wander off a bit to find a quiet, private spot.  My favorite is walking back down the mountain among the tall trees.

Having just been in the summer, I can only imagine how spectacular it is right now.

Click here to Plan out your hike, and here and here

these maps are great

The Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing, NY

The Sagamore Resort, in the Adirondacks in Warren County, has been under new ownership for the last year or so - good news is that now they have a pool, bad news is that now they’re closed in winter.  Quite disappointing as it’s not easy to find a nice place to stay on Lake George.  They will begin winter hibernation on December 6th and reopen again in May.

But, there is plenty to check out in Warren County. You may consider staying instead at the Friends Lake Inn, in Chestertown, about 4 1/2 hours from NYC.  I don’t know it first hand, but have heard wonderful things, most specifically about the food and wine list.  I think dinner there is a must even if you decide to lodge elsewhere.

Another place for dinner is Jimbo’s Club at the Point, in Brant Lake. With an opposite schedule of the Sagamore (which is such a shame), Jimbo’s reopens the first week of December and closes mid April.  Another delicious restaurant with an award winning wine list, Jimbo’s actually serves in the summer as the dining hall of the girls camp, Point O Pines. This is one beautiful dining hall!  Housed in a peaked lodge with an entire side of windows facing onto Brant Lake, this winter restaurant was established to keep money flowing so that the summer camp could stay in business (smart!).  You can also rent out the property for weddings from the end of August through April.  I highly recommend it and I do know first hand as I had my wedding here two years ago. (The camp also has heated hotel like rooms and cabins - it doesn’t hurt to inquire about staying overnight for a winter weekend)

Obviously, Adirondacks in the winter means a lot of snow.  Which means the possibility of snowmobiling.  If you do head up this way, check out Loon Lake Riding Stables for snowmobile rentals.  And, of course, for skiing, Gore Mountain.

And, make sure to go from town to town: Lake George, Bolton Landing, Ticonderoga, if the weather permits you to do some exploring.