Fall

Experience Autumn in Indian Lake

As the heat of summer fades, autumn gradually takes over the landscape. Sunny days and cool nights are the hallmark of September into early October, transforming the landscape from summer green to autumn hues. Autumn is the season for two of our signature events: Adirondack Mountains Antiques show held on the 3rd week of September and Great Adirondack Moose Festival held on the 4th weekend of September.

Moose Festival

Moose Festival Program

Presented by the Town of Indian Lake Chamber of Commerce

September 22, 23, 24, 2023

“For an extraordinary outdoors adventure, the 13th Annual Great Adirondack Moose Festival offers activities for nature, hiking, fly casting and rafting enthusiasts of all ages. Discover the majesty of the moose and celebrate its return to the Adirondacks!”

13th Annual Great Adirondack Moose Festival

Friday, September 22, 2023

4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. – Fall Feast Pig Roast and BBQ

In addition to the delicious pig roast and BBQ, burgers, hotdogs and chicken are also available. Included on the menu will be a variety of salads and corn on the cob. Live entertainment will include music by Mark Arsenault - acoustic guitar and vocals. Mountain View Adventures Cafe, 6624 NY Route 30, Indian Lake.

7: 00 p.m. – Bob Stump Band

The Bob Stump Band brings an Americana/bluegrass spirit to the Arts Center this Fall. Their instrumental talent and harmonious vocals are sure to please any audience looking for a feel-good night of folk music. Sponsored by the Joe & Rita Coney Memorial Fund. More information and tickets at adirondackarts.org. Adirondack Lakes Center for the Arts, 3446 State Route, Blue Mountain Lake.

7:00 p.m. – Movie - Barbie

Marketed as a movie for people who love the doll and also for people who hate the doll. Barbie could just be the most accessible release of the summer. But is the adaption of the iconic toy actually any good? The first reviews call it a smart and hilarious delight its definitely worth a look, no matter who you are or what you feel about the doll. Staring Margot Robbie in the title role and a scene-stealing Ryan Gosling as Ken, Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach’s cotton candy-hued Certified Fresh spectacle is apparently for all people who love a fun time at the movie. Indian Lake Theater, Route 28, Indian Lake.

13th Annual Great Adirondack Moose Festival

Saturday, September 23, 2023

All Day – Moose River Plains Self-Guided Driving Tour (allow 3-5 hours)

Get a Moose River Plains Self Driving Tour Map at the Chamber of Commerce and take an exceptional scenic 24-mile dirt road drive through some of the most pristine woodlands in the Adirondacks. The Map will also highlight various points of interest as you drive along the Plains. The Moose River Plains is the largest block of remote lands in the Adirondacks that is readily accessible by motor vehicles. Please review the map for very important DEC Safety guidelines. The drive begins at Cedar River Road and Route 28, Indian Lake.

Please review the following Guided Hike information:

Suitable sneakers, hiking boots or walking shoes are recommended and no open-toed shoes allowed. Hikers should bring drinking water, snacks and cameras. Hikers will meet 9:00 am in the former grocery store parking lot, intersection of routes 28 and 30, to complete registration forms and to receive hiking briefings. To limit group size, pre-registration is recommended at (518) 648-5112.

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 Noon – John Pond/Clear Pond Loop Guided Hike

A new connecting trail allows hikers to visit two beautiful wilderness ponds, on a 1.5 mile hike. The scenery is spectacular and the slopes are gentle. The hike will include taking two short side trails off the main loop. One trail includes a visit to the “Little Canada” 1897 grave site and the other to a lean-to on John Pond, which is a nice rest stop halfway along the loop. Following registration and briefing, the group will caravan 10 minutes to the trailhead.

9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. – Rock Lake Guided Hike

This one hour hike is considered easy with a relatively flat 3/4 of a mile short jaunt to Rock Lake. It’s very scenic at the end of the trail with views of Rock Lake and Blue Mountain. Great for beginners or novices who might want to try hiking for the first time. Bring the whole family and/or your furry friend. The trail head begins on Rte 28/30 between Indian Lake and Blue Mountain Lake.

9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. – Moose Festival Shirt Sales

Tee shirts will be for sale in the Big Moose Tent. Indian Lake Central School and at the Chamber of Commerce Office, Route 28, Indian Lake.

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 Noon – Turkey Trap Shoot - Indian Lake & Blue Mountain Lake Fish and Game Association

The Turkey Trap Shoot will include cash gift cards to winners. Chain Lakes Road, Route 28, Indian Lake

9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. – North Country Sidewalk Sales

Shop at Town of Indian Lake merchants and organizations along Routes 28 and 30 and take home your favorite Adirondack treasures. Sidewalk sale locations in Indian Lake: Pine’s Country Store. In Blue Mountain Lake: Adirondack Lakes Center for the Arts and the Corner Store.

9:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. – Count the Moose Scat Contest

“Scat” is located in several convenient locations. Stop by one of them and write down your guess for the number of moose scat in each container. Indian Lake - Gadway Realty, Indian Lake Chamber of Commerce, Indian Lake Theater, Moosterpiece Children’s Games and Activities, Pine’s Country Store, Abanakee Studios, Stewart’s Shops, The One Stop, Mountain View Adventures Café, The Bear Trap. In Blue Mountain Lake: Adirondack Experience - The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake, Adirondack Lakes Center for the Arts, Chef Darrell’s Mountain Diner and The Corner Store.

9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Adirondac Rafting Company

Don’t miss the beautiful North Country fall foliage and maybe spot a Moose. The Adirondac Rafting Company will provide River Guides, gear and lunch on the river with a Festival $85 per person special. The Hudson River Gorge whitewater adventure is a 15 mile, 4 hour run through the remote wilderness with plenty of whitewater action. Rafters will meet at the company Raft Base in Indian Lake at 9:00 a.m. Reservations are required at www.adirondacrafting.com or (518) 523-1635. Route 28, Indian Lake.

10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. – The Big Moose Tent

Browse one-of-a-kind Adirondack themed crafts, custom made crafts, jewelry, fudge and more. Local business owners and community organizations will be available to share information about their businesses and services. Indian Lake Central School, Route 28, Indian Lake.

10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. – Moose Lab 101

Examine a reproduction moose skeleton, make moose tracks in the sand, enjoy moose themed games and discover more about moose. Moose Lab 101 is included with visitor admission and will be located in the Marion River Carry Pavilion.  Adirondack Experience, The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake, 9097 State Route 30, Blue Mountain Lake.

10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. – ADKX Xperience For All Day

This new event will be a celebration of outdoor recreation and introduce the broad opportunities for outdoor enjoyment for those who are unfamiliar or not yet comfortable exploring the region’s woods and waterways on their own. ADKX will be free for all on the day of the event. The day will feature workshops, games, demonstrations and presentations, all in the spirit of providing museum visitors a foundation to safely pursue recreation on their own. Adirondack Experience, The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake, 9097 Route 30, Blue Mountain Lake.

10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. – Monty The Moose

Monty the Moose is a full mount of a mature Alaskan Moose. Monty is six feet eight inches tall from the hump on his back to the bottom of his hooves. His antlers weigh sixty pounds and extend another two feet above his back. It took one hundred and twenty-eight hours to create the Monty the moose mount. Festival participants are invited to stop by to see Monty, this large herbivore, and to take a $5.00 photo with him. Monty’s owner and creator, Kevin McDonald (Reeldeal Taxidermy) will be present to answer visitor’s questions. Lake Adirondack Dam - Byron Park, Route 28, Indian Lake.

10:30 a.m. – Children’s Story Hour and Craft

The Town of Indian Lake Library will host stories for families with children under 10 and a Moose Craft Make and Take craft at the Indian Lake Community Farmers Market. Indian Lake Central School, Route 28, Indian Lake.

10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. – MOOSTERPIECE Children’s Games and Activities- Please Note the Moosterpiece Event is Cancelled.

11:00 a.m. - Noon – “Current Adirondack Moose Research” Department of Environmental Conservation - Big Game Biologist, James Stickles

This power point presentation will provide an up to date review of the biology, natural history, common diseases that affect moose populations, and an overview of ongoing research and population monitoring efforts. Indian Lake Theater, Route 28, Indian Lake.

11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. – The Wonders of Chainsaw Carving - Jay Scott

Wood carving and chainsaw carving are favorite pastimes and practices of many Adirondackers. Jay Scott was inspired to begin carving after observing Woodsman Field Days. Using various tools, including chainsaws, Scott will demonstrate how to create special effects and markings on his wood creations. Whether carving ornamental sculptures or utilitarian pieces of furniture, on lookers will be amazed at Scott’s works of art. Stop by and check out Scott’s carved interlocking wood chains and Adirondack animals. Gadway Realty, 6322 NYS Route 30, Indian Lake.

12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. – Festival Helicopter Flights

Fly over Indian Lake and check out the beautiful North Country fall foliage and see the Great Adirondack Moose Festival from above. One might even spot a moose. Five minute flights are $45 per person and cash only. Indian Lake Central School Athletic Field, Route 28, Indian Lake.

1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. – Town of Indian Lake Museum Open House

Stop by the Open House, chat with Town Historian, Wayne Blanchard, and learn about the folks who settled Indian Lake through exhibits, antique dolls and family portraits. Also interesting is the story about Emma Meade, great granddaughter of Chief Sabael Benedict, who was one of the early area settlers. Route 28, Indian Lake.

1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. – Cider Sampling

This is an adult only activity. Participants must be 21 years of age. Proof of ID is required. Taste cider and cider products from NY state. All apples are grown in NY, fermented and distilled in an orchard. Samplings will take place outside the liquor store. Sponsored by the Indian Lake Restaurant, Tavern and Liquor Store. Routes 28 and 30, Indian Lake.

1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. – Moose Calling Contest - Ed Kanze, Naturalist and Outdoor Guide

In the midst of the Festival, this event will not so quietly march in and take its place. It’s a moose-calling contest, to be held in the Adirondack Mountains and one of only a few staged around the country. Sign up, watch, listen and learn as contestants show off their unique moose calling skills. Contest participants should pre-register in one of the two categories - Children (up to 18) and Adult (19+). Please call: (518) 648-5636 or (518) 648-5112. Indian Lake Theater, Route 28, Indian Lake.

Indian Lake Theater – Hornbeck Boat Raffle

The raffle drawing will be held during the Moose Calling Contest. The contest winner will receive a 10 foot Hornbeck classic Kevlar canoe. Tickets will be available at the Theater, $5 for a single ticket, $20 for a book of five. Indian Lake Theater, Route 28, Indian Lake.

3:00 p.m. – The Dancing Witches Tour 2023

The Dancing Witches Tour 2023 Gem Radio presents an interpretation of the Wolfshager Hexenbrut as a Joyful Celebration of Life as we gather together to dance around the cauldron in the spirit of the season. Sponsored by the Indian Lake Restaurant, Tavern & Liquor Store. Town of Indian Lake Welcome Center, 6132 NYS Route 28. For more information, development@indianlakeadk.com or (518) 648-5828.

3:30 p.m. – Count the Moose Scat Contest Winner Announcements

Contest winners will be announced in the Big Moose Tent. This year’s contest grand prize is a 3D plywood cut out of Bruce the Moose. Indian Lake Central School, Route 28, Indian Lake.

5:30 p.m. – Painting With Brushstrokes

Painting supplies, a light meal and beverages will be provided during this session with Briana. Space will be limited, so register in advance at (518) 648-5120. Mountain View Adventures Cafe, 6624 NY Route 30, Indian Lake.

7:00 p.m. – Movie - Barbie

7:30 p.m. – Adirondack Lakes Center for the Arts - Concert

The concert will be held in the Center and will feature North Sea Gas - Scotland’s most popular folk band. The concert is sponsored by the Tom Fagan Fund. 3446 State Route 28, Blue Mountain Lake.

13th Annual Great Adirondack Moose Festival

Sunday, September 24, 2023

All Day – Moose River Plains Self-guided Driving Tour (allow 3-5 hours)

9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. – Moose Festival Shirt Sales

Tee shirts will be for sale in the Big Moose Tent. Indian Lake Central School and the Chamber of Commerce, Route 28, Indian Lake. Also shirt are available online. Please go the Indian Lake Chamber of Commerce Facebook page and look for the link to our online store. https://www.facebook.com/IndianLake.NY.Chamber Make to like our Facebook page to follow all the upcoming events.

9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. – North Country Sidewalk Sales

Shop at Town of Indian Lake merchants and organizations along Routes 28 and 30 and take home your favorite Adirondack treasures. Side walk sale locations in Indian Lake: Pine’s Country Store, in Blue Mountain Lake: Adirondack Lakes Center for the Arts and the Corner Store.

10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. – Moose Lab 101

Examine a reproduction moose skeleton, make moose tracks in the sand, enjoy moose themed games, and discover more about moose. Moose Lab 101 is included with visitor admission and will be located in the Marion River Carry Pavilion.  Adirondack Experience, The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake, 9097 State Route 30, Blue Mountain Lake.

10:00am - 4:00pm – ADKX FallFest

Celebrate fall with traditional pastimes like apple pressing, autumnal crafts, and fiber arts at the Adirondack Experience. Demonstrations and music all day! This family-friendly day is packed with activities, games, and much, much more. FallFest is included with visitor admission, and free for year-round Adirondack Park residents. Adirondack Experience, The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake, 9097 State Route 30, Blue Mountain Lake.

11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. – The Big Moose Tent

12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. – Sunday Champagne Brunch Cruise

Take in the colorful palette of fall foliage on the WW Durant while cruising on Raquette Lake during a Sunday Champagne Brunch Cruise. Cold buffet items will include smoked salmon and cinnamon fried cakes. Hot buffet items will include an egg dish of the day, chef-smoked bacon or sausage, Belgian waffles, flavored butters, NYS maple syrup, Seafood Newburg with rice, potatoes, veggie and dessert. Reservations are required: $60 per person ages 12 years and older; $30 children under age 12. Price includes a 2 hour cruise, brunch menu, unlimited complimentary champagne, tax & service charge. Guest may also choose to enjoy a $20 open bar. 10% off if guests know what male and female moose are called! For more information, please visit www.raquettelakenavigationcom or call (315) 354-5532.

1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. – Town of Indian Lake Museum Open House

Stop by the Open House, chat with Wayne Blanchard, Town Historian, and learn about the folks who settled Indian Lake through exhibits, antique dolls and family portraits. Also interesting is the story about Emma Meade, great granddaughter of Chief Sabael Benedict who was one of the early area settlers. Route 28, Indian Lake.

2:00 p.m. – Movie - Barbie

THANKS FOR YOUR HELP!!!

The Town of Indian Lake Chamber of Commerce would like to especially thank the following sponsors for their  dedication and commitment to the 13th Annual Great Adirondack Moose Festival (GAMF).

BULL MOOSE SPONSORS

Adirondack Experience, The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake

Come visit us in the heart of the Adirondacks for a truly unique experience. With more than 20 buildings nestled across 120 acres overlooking Blue Mountain Lake, our open-air campus offers everyone something to do. Step into the rich history of this region as you browse the museum, row an authentic guide boat, break up a log jam, climb a classic ADK fire tower or enjoy a family-friendly hike to Minnow Pond. New for this season is the opening of the exhibition Artist & Inspiration in the Wild! We have a full season of programs and events planned for 2023 so, visit our calendar of events for more information!  www.THEADKX.org or call (518) 352-7311.

Gadway Realty

Second generation, locally owned and operated business. We offer professional guidance before, during and after property sales while maintaining integrity in all that we do and promoting the Adirondack region which we love. Our team will go to great lengths to ensure your real estate experience is a rewarding one. For more information, give us a call at (518) 648-0888 or stop by our office at 6318 State Route 30 to see Aaron, Amanda and Jeff.

Hudson Headwaters Health Network

Hudson Headwaters is a nonprofit network of primary care health centers serving patients of all ages from Saratoga County, and through the Adirondacks to the Canadian border, an area of about 7,400 square miles. The Network also operates two urgent care centers in Glens Falls and Warrensburg. Hudson Headwaters’ comprehensive services include primary care, urgent care, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, behavioral health, dentistry and other specialties, along with laboratory and imaging services. Learn more at hhhn.org.

Hutchins Construction, Inc.

Owner Brad Hutchins is a local builder who is dedicated to the Indian Lake community and well known for his quality workmanship. He specializes in all building types from stick built for camps, cottages, permanent residences renovations and deck construction. Contact Hutchins Construction at (518) 222-2612.

Indian Lake Central School District*

Indian Lake Central School, has an enrollment of approximately 150 students in grades Pre-K-12. While the school may be small in population compared to some other schools, it is rich in academic excellence and expectations. Many graduating classes at Indian Lake have had a 100% placement to college or to a branch of the military. The school also prides itself on providing an education rich in Adirondack history. Students from many surrounding communities, including Indian Lake, Blue Mountain Lake, Sabael, and Raquette Lake comprise the student population.

Indian Lake Restaurant, Tavern and Liquor Store*

Located at the intersection of Route 28 & 30 in Indian Lake, NY. Previously known as The Oak Barrel. A full service restaurant and tavern offering an extensive selection of traditional and specialty cuisines, as well as seafood, steaks, and burgers. If you are daring, try the Transfer Station or Elvis Burger! Daily specials, homemade bread, desserts, and more. Open year round. Tavern and Liquor store open daily. Reservations recommended on weekends. Call (518) 648-5115.

Indian Lake Theater*

Built in 1938, Indian Lake Theater is a non-profit facility that presents films, live performances, and community events year-round. Fall, winter, and spring schedule Thursday through Saturday.  For more information visit www.indianlaketheater.org.

Pine’s Country Store

Pine’s Country Store “a little bit of everything”, and they aren’t kidding! You name it, Pine’s has it! Including a full line of rental equipment and much more. Stop in and check out the Moose gifts and gear. True Value Hardware. Visit www.pinescs.com or call (518) 648-5212, Route 28, Indian Lake.

Al Pouch*– Graphic Design & Photography

Al has solutions for all your graphic needs! Offering 30+ years of professional, high quality graphic design. Specializing in logo development, photography, posters, maps, rack cards and more. Call Al Pouch at (518) 648-0782.

Town of Indian Lake*

Indian Lake is a town of approximately 1,400 people located in the Central Adirondacks. The town – consisting of the hamlets of Indian Lake, Blue Mountain Lake, and Sabael – is a four-season tourist destination with numerous mountains, lakes, and rivers for a variety of outdoor recreation activities and a hub for the arts and culture.

BIG DADDY MOOSE SPONSORS

Allen Van Hoff -

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson at

Howard Hanna Real Estate Services

From the Adirondacks to the Capital District, helping buyers, sellers and investors with their real estate goals. Contact Allen and let his team help you with all your real estate needs at www.allenvanhoff.com, call or text (518) 441-2640 and email: allenvanhoff@howardhanna.com.

Barton Mines

Barton Mines Company, LLC Barton Mines is a family owned business that has produced the world’s highest quality garnet abrasives for over five generations. Founded in 1878 to mine and mill garnet for the sandpaper industry, Barton Garnet quickly became the world standard for sandpaper applications. Over the years, Barton has continued to develop new products, markets and applications.

Chef Darrell’s Mountain Diner

True to diner tradition, breakfast is available all day, offering delicious omelets, pancakes, Eggs Benedict and French toast. Chef Darrell Spencer is known for contemporary comfort food like pot roast, turkey, meatloaf, buttermilk fried chicken and glazed salmon. For this special weekend, try our Chocolate Moose Cake! Sandwich options include the two-fisted Reuben, NY strip sandwich with mushrooms and onions, Philly cheese wrap and burgers. Takeout is available. The diner is open 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. In addition to classic diner seating, there is a large deck with umbrella tables. Visit us at https://www.bluemtdiner.com for the full menus or check us out on Facebook and Yelp under Chef Darrell’s Mountain Diner. 8814 NYS Rt. 30, Blue Mountain Lake, (518) 352-9044.

Indian Lake and Blue Mountain Lake Fish and Game Association

Indian Lake and Blue Mountain Lake Fish and Game Association This organization is dedicated to the promotion of better fishing, hunting and shooting sportsmanship, as well as the conservation of the Adirondack’s natural resources. They support youth and community based activities which encompass these goals. Instruction in the proper handling of firearms and the support of legislation pertaining to the use or ownership of firearms are also important to the Association.

Revolution Rail

Revolution Rail offers more than just a railbike ride - they provide a unique educational experience for their guests and a committed partner for the businesses and communities in which they are located. Today, Revolution Rail Company runs a fleet of railbikes in seven different locations (and growing) and has taken over 100,000 happy rail bikers from all over the world out on the rails to experience nature in a brand new way! You can book a ride at www. revrail.com.

Steet Toyota

Located on Route 30A in Johnstown, Steet Toyota has something for everyone. We carry a full line of Toyota cars, trucks and SUV’s - from hybrids to 4 Wheel Drives. We also have a great selection of used cars - all makes and models. Our award-winning Service and Parts Department is second to none. You will like our friendly staff and beautiful facility. You can visit us online at  www.SteetToyotaJohnstown.com or call (518) 762-7222.

Stewart’s Shops

Stewart’s Shops provides a convenient way to buy milk, bread, dairy products, soda, beer, snacks, food to go, ice cream, groceries, and gas - over 3,000 different items all with a friendly smile. Visit www.stewartsshops.com or call (518) 648-5992.

Timberlock

Timberlock is a rustic resort that enables its guests to connect to the magnificent lakeside setting and focus on time with family and friends, without the distractions of today’s fast paced life. It is one of the oldest summer family resorts in the Adirondacks, surrounded in all directions by miles of New York State Forest Preserve. info@timberlock. com, (518) 648-5494, P.O. Box 1052, Indian Lake, NY 12842.

MOMMA MOOSE SPONSORS

Abanakee Studios, Black Fly Challenge, Community Bank,

Carpenter & Associates Insuring Agency, LLC, J & R Eldridge, Helmer’s Fuel & Trucking,

Mountain View Adventures Cafe, Great Camp Sagamore

Hiking

There is nothing as spectacular as the vibrant oranges, reds, and yellow mountains. Many visitors consider "leaf peaking" or "leaf peeping" as an annual pilgramage. Indian Lake is the perfect destination to take in the colors by car, by boat or on foot. Autumn might be the best time to do our 4-3-2-1 Hiking Challenge!

fall foliage

Hunting

The hills and woods in Indian Lake abound with game. There are abundant turkeys, grouse, quail and other small game. An experienced woodsman knowledgeable about the habits of the game will find them. There are numerous deer and black bear in our woods. You may be rewarded and see a moose during your time in the woods.

Fishing and Hunting licenses are available at the Chamber of Commerce's Visitor Center and Town Hall during their respective business hours.