ADK, Saranac Lake Improve Baker Mountain Trail

August 7, 2023 — Saranac Lake, NY — Through support from the Saranac Lake Local Development Corporation (SLLDC), ADK (Adirondack Mountain Club)’s professional trail crew recently improved the popular Baker Mountain trail. Funding for the project came directly from Saranac Lake 6er program completion fees, which are submitted during registration to receive recognition for completing the hiking challenge.

Located in the heart of Saranac Lake, the 1-mile Baker Mountain trail suffers from significant erosion, which can be attributed to a combination of high recreational use and poor trail design. ADK’s professional trail crew performed maintenance that will not only reduce erosion, but also improve hiker safety and the protection of surrounding ecosystems.

“This project was the result of a great partnership between the Village of Saranac Lake, SLLDC, ADK, and DEC. ADK’s trail crew did amazing work that will improve the experience for locals and visitors who want to enjoy Baker Mountain,” said Jeremy Evans, SLLDC Board Member. “We were pleased to help the Village follow through on its commitment to leverage 6er registration fees to fund trail stewardship, maintenance, and improvements on the Saranac Lake 6er peaks.”

The Village of Saranac Lake created the Saranac Lake 6er program in May 2013. In May 2022, the Village committed to steps to address high recreation use and degrading trail conditions, including dedicating revenue from the 6er program to trail stewardship, maintenance, and improvements.

“With the dedicated revenue from the 6er program, we are committed to trail stewardship and continuous maintenance and improvement. In the spirit of adventure and conservation—together, let’s tread lightly and leave a lasting legacy of the Saranac Lake 6er,” said Kelly Brunette, Village of Saranac Lake Trustee.

“Trails are a community benefit that drive tourism, support a healthy lifestyle, and so much more,” said Charlotte Staats, ADK Trails Manager. “We are excited to partner with Saranac Lake and SLLDC to make the trail up Baker Mountain safer and more enjoyable for residents and visitors alike.”