On Distance Running

Last night I ran a 12-miler, my final long run before the Covered Bridges Half Marathon on June 5. It's been nearly a decade since I ran that far, but having run a marathon each year from 1995 to 2001, I found myself in familiar territory. Make no mistake, there’s a world of difference between training for a half marathon and a marathon: the training commitment for a marathon is easily 3 to 4 times what’s required for a half. But at 13.1 miles, the half is long enough to require long training runs, and it’s those long runs that develop physical and mental toughness.

Mountain Coaster and Zip Line planned for West Mountain this summer

West Mountain received approval from the Queensbury Planning Board earlier this week to construct and operate a mountain coaster and zip line. This afternoon I spoke with Mike Barbone, owner and General Manager of West Mountain, about the plans.

Mohonk Preserve: 05/13/2011

Late afternoon sun while climbing in the Gunks

It looked as though our week-long stretch of beautiful weather was going to close out with a rainy weekend, so Beth made quick arrangements for us to meet up with friends in the Gunks on Friday for our first day of climbing this season.

It's May and yes, there's still skiing

Wanna ski this weekend? You can. As of this writing, Jay Peak expects to re-open for Saturday and Sunday, May 7 and 8. Go to their website for more information, including lift ticket and lodging deals. For a first-hand, skis-on-snow account of last weekend's conditions at Jay, check out this trip report from May 1.

Photo credit: Jay Peak Resort, April 30, 2011

Upcoming Lake George Land Conservancy Events

The Lake George Land Conservancy is a land trust dedicated to preserving the natural, scenic and recreational resources of the Lake George region. Among the parcels LGLC has protected is the Cat and Thomas Mountain Preserve near Bolton Landing, one of my favorite local hiking spots. There will be a spring cleanup at Cat Mountain on Saturday, May 28, from 9-11am, and LGLC is looking for volunteers to help out.

Readers might also consider LGLC's Dine for the Lake event this Thursday, May 5 at the Adirondack Pub and Brewery, where 20% of the evening's dinner proceeds will go to LGLC. For more information on either event, contact the LGLC at info@lglc.org.

photo credit: LGLC