ADK Launches Free Naturalist Programs at Cascade Welcome Center, Heart Lake

June 27, 2022

Starting July 2, ADK will resume its popular naturalist-led walks and programs in the Lake Placid area. This includes all-new interpretive walks at Cascade Welcome Center, which will be offered every Saturday at 1pm until mid-August. Walks will meet inside the Center and take approximately one hour. All are free, open to the public, and do not require advanced registration**.

Additionally, ADK will resume its popular summer naturalist series at the Heart Lake Program Center. Guests and visitors are welcome to explore the natural world of the Adirondacks through hands-on activities by attending one or all of the following programs:

Naturalist Guided Walks

Join an ADK Naturalist and learn about the natural history of the Adirondacks. Interpretive walks run at 10 am daily all summer long through mid-August. Meet outside the Adirondak Loj.

The Nature Museum

The Heart Lake Nature Museum makes a great introduction to the natural world of the Adirondack High Peaks, for kids and adults alike. An ADK naturalist is always on hand to answer questions and foster your curiosity. Check out the interactive exhibits, check out the touch table or simply browse through field guides. Museum is open daily from 9am to 5pm.

Mt. Jo Guided Hike

Take a hike up Mt. Jo with an ADK Naturalist and discover some of the secrets of the history, ecology, and geology of Mt. Jo. The hike is one-mile to the top (one way), with a 700-foot elevation gain. Mt. Jo hikes start at 9am outside the Adirondak Loj daily.

Mt. Jo Summit Host

Every day from 10 am to 4 pm, an ADK naturalist will be atop Mt Jo to answer questions, promote responsible recreation, and enhance your experience from one of the best hikes in the Adirondacks.

Wednesday Evening Campfire

Unrequited love, a devastating forest fire and narrow escape: Heart Lake is steeped in the romance and tragedy of days gone by. Relive a tradition started by Henry Van Hoevenberg in 1878 by joining us around the campfire. Shows run from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm every Wednesday at the Adirondak Loj amphitheater.

Friday Night Hike

Dusk and nighttime are a wonderful time to explore the natural world. Don’t fear the dark; join an ADK Naturalist for a night adventure. Night walks held from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm every Friday. Meet outside the Adirondak Loj. 

Saturday Naturalist Talks

ADK offers a one-hour presentation every Saturday night at the Adirondak Loj amphitheater (In the Adirondack Loj if raining).  Topics range from natural and cultural history to adventure travel and live music. Talks start at 8:00 pm.

For more information on daily programming, ADK membership or lodging, please visit the Adirondak Loj, call 518-523-3441 or visit our website at ADK.org.

**Groups of 15 or more will need to call 518-523-3441 ext. 113 in advance to ensure we have adequate staffing.