About Schroon Lake and the Adirondack Park
Guests at Lóma on the Lake want to explore the rich Adirondack Park history and facts that make this region so unique. From its ‘Forever Wild’ origins to the depths of Schroon Lake, understanding the land is part of the magic of staying at Lóma on the Lake. To understand the magic of Schroon Lake, it helps to know the story of the land itself. The Adirondack Park isn’t just a park in the traditional sense; it is a massive, six-million-acre patchwork of public and private land that is larger than Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Glacier, and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks combined.
Here we share how this rugged wilderness became the sanctuary it is today.
The Name and the First Peoples
The region’s history begins with the Mohawk and Algonquin peoples, who used these mountains as seasonal hunting and fishing grounds for centuries. Many historians believe that the name “Adirondack” is a Mohawk word meaning “bark eaters”. While tribes may have originally used it as a derogatory term for neighboring tribes during lean winters, it has since become a proud symbol of the hardy spirit required to thrive in this landscape.
The Mystery of Schroon Lake
Even the name of our lake has a romantic mystery behind it. Local lore suggests that 18th-century French soldiers named it “Scarron” in honor of the beautiful Madame Scarron, the secret second wife of King Louis XIV. Others point to the Wyandot word Skarronon-waron, meaning “the place of the big rocks”—a fitting description for the dramatic Pharaoh Mountain range that looms over the water.
The “Forever Wild” Promise
In the mid-1800s, the Adirondacks became a bustling hub for iron mining and timber. However, as the forests began to disappear, New York took a stand that was revolutionary for its time. In 1892, the Adirondack Park was officially created, and in 1894, oficials amended the state constitution with the “Forever Wild” clause.
This law mandates that state-owned lands within the park “shall be forever kept as wild forest lands.” Thus, surrounding Lóma on the Lake are and countless acres of wilderness and vibrant forests instead of development.
The Gilded Age and “Great Camps”
By the late 19th century, the Adirondacks became the premier summer escape for New York’s elite. Families like the Vanderbilts and Rockefellers built “Great Camps”—sprawling log estates designed to blend seamlessly into the woods. This established the “Adirondack Style” that we still celebrate today: natural wood textures, stone fireplaces, and an emphasis on bringing the outdoors in.
Schroon Lake was a central part of this era. Before cars were common, guests reached the lake by a long journey involving a train, a stagecoach, and finally a steamboat ride up the nine-mile length of the lake to reach their grand hotels or private camps.
Hollywood and Local Legends
Schroon Lake even had its moment in the spotlight! The legendary Scaroon Manor (now a beautiful state campground) was the primary filming location for the 1958 Hollywood film Marjorie Morningstar, starring Gene Kelly and Natalie Wood.
Today, that history lives on at the Adirondack General Store. Founded in 1855, it remains one of the oldest general stores in the region. Walking across its weathered hardwood floors is like stepping back 170 years to a time when life moved a little slower and the main event of the day was the sunset over the water.
Essential Schroon Lake and Adirondack Park History and Facts
How big is Schroon Lake?
Schroon Lake covers approximately 4,107 acres of surface area. It is a significant Adirondack water body, sitting at an elevation of about 807 feet and reaching a maximum depth of 152 feet, with an average depth of around 56 feet.
How long is Schroon Lake?
The lake is roughly 9 miles long and stretches over a mile wide at its broadest point. For those looking to explore the entire perimeter, the shoreline extends for approximately 23.7 miles.
Is Schroon Lake good for swimming?
Yes, Schroon Lake is famous for having some of the cleanest and clearest water in the Adirondacks. The Schroon Lake Town Beach is widely considered one of the best in the region, featuring a large sandy area, lifeguards, and a location just a short walk from the village center.
What kind of fish are in Schroon Lake?
Anglers frequent the lake for its diverse fish population. It is a premier spot for Lake Trout and Landlocked Salmon, but you will also find Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Yellow Perch.
Can you use motorboats on Schroon Lake?
Yes, motorboats are permitted. There are several public boat launches, including the Schroon Lake Village Launch and the Eagle Point Campground launch. It is a popular destination for water skiing, tubing, and pontoon boating due to its 9-mile length.
How long is the Adirondack Marathon?
The Adirondack Marathon is a full 26.2-mile race that famously loops almost entirely around Schroon Lake. Known as one of the most beautiful (and challenging) courses in the country, it finishes in the heart of downtown Schroon Lake every September.
What are the best hiking trails near Schroon Lake?
The lake is the gateway to the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area. Popular nearby hikes include:
- Mount Severance: A family-friendly 2.4-mile round trip with a spectacular payoff view of Schroon Lake.
- Pharaoh Mountain: A more challenging hike for those seeking a panoramic view of the Adirondack High Peaks.
- Crane Mountain: Located a short drive away, offering rugged terrain and a beautiful pond near the summit.
Was a movie filmed at Schroon Lake?
Yes! The 1958 classic film Marjorie Morningstar, starring Natalie Wood and Gene Kelly, was filmed on location at Schroon Lake, capturing the “golden age” of Adirondack resort culture.
Where can I learn more?
Did you enjoy reading these Adirondack Park history and facts but want to learn more? Visit https://parks.ny.gov/visit/regions/adirondacks.
Ready to experience the beauty of the Adirondacks for yourself? Check availability at Lóma on the Lake now!