Photo by Erika Bailey
After purchasing the iconic property on the corner of the Adirondack Loj Road and State Route 73, we are rolling up our sleeves to design a management plan that will include public access in the future. We invite you to enjoy the view from the pull-off until we can offer safe parking and trails. We will post project updates on this page along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Adirondack Land Trust will retain this land as a signature conservation and recreation area that we will care for and manage. We will not be selling it to New York State. We are committed to keeping the 30-acre field open to maintain the vista and potentially restore native grassland habitat, which is among the most imperiled habitat types in the world. We are also excited about the potential to create welcoming public recreation opportunities here, as well.
The land will remain closed to the public until we can provide safe parking and access. The view remains open for all to enjoy.
Our first step is to get to know the property, including the 150 acres of forest beyond the fields. When we have a sense for which areas are most suitable for public access, we will reach out to community members, including groups of people underrepresented in conservation initiatives, to gather input to inform a plan.
Our work is made stronger through constructive dialogue with different groups of people. The Adirondacks’ natural beauty and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities are fundamental to our identity, well-being, and economy. However, physical, cultural, and social obstacles often prevent many people from accessing natural areas and the benefits nature provides. Community outreach will help us identify and remove these barriers to create a space that is safe and welcoming for all.
We believe the terrain is conducive to accessible trails with a wide, durable surface on low-grade inclines. These types of trails welcome people using wheelchairs, strollers, or walking aids, as well as those who prefer a walk in the woods to an alpine scramble. Right now, a visitor to nearby Adirondack Loj can access 277 miles of foot trails in the High Peaks Wilderness. However, there are fewer than five miles of free wheelchair accessible nature trails within an hour’s drive of Lake Placid. Addressing this unmet need will provide significant benefits to surrounding communities.
Not exactly. For now, we are referring to it as That View!
We will first assess the feasibility of a potential parking area off State Route 73 that would provide access to trails without encroaching on the open field. We will consider alternative locations as needed.
This one is in Lake Placid. Glenview is located about 16 miles to the northwest in Harrietstown. Both properties provide fantastic views along major transportation corridors in close proximity to population centers. We are committed to providing inclusive and welcoming trails at both locations, which would create unique recreation opportunities for these communities.
Aside from a stipulation in the 1927 deed that the property not be used for a gas station or a dance pavilion, there have been no formal protections in place. Current Adirondack Park Agency regulation would allow for up to four homes on this property. The McBurney family, from whom the Adirondack Land Trust purchased the parcel, maintained the vista for more than 60 years. This site represents one of 38 scenic vistas identified by the Adirondack Park Agency as integral to the park’s essence and character. Many of these vistas throughout the Adirondacks are best seen from a road shoulder adjacent to private land that does not allow public access.
Private individuals and foundations who love the Adirondacks make all of our work possible, including this purchase. We will be raising additional funds to design trails and manage access. If you’d like to support our work, please make a gift.