This report is required reading for those interested in what it takes to site and develop a new hut-to-hut system in cooperation with state officials and trail communities.
After months of research and community consultations, Leading E.D.G.E. LLC has released its “Conceptual Plan for a Hut-to-Hut Destination-based Trail System for the Five Towns of Long Lake, Newcomb, Indian Lake, Minerva, and North Hudson”. The plan proposes 26 possible routes for consideration by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. It thoroughly explores options for developing a trails and lodging system in the Five Towns region within the Adirondack Park (the largest park east of the Mississippi River). It is based on the work of the Adirondacks Community Based Trails and Lodging System.
This 112 page document provides instructive insight into the considerations and process involved in siting a new hut to hut system, and presents a set of criteria and rating for each of the 26 routes proposed. As I understand it, in the end one or two routes will be selected for implementation as the first part of a larger hut-to-hut system envisioned for the Adirondack Mountains.
The idea of a four-season, hut-to-hut recreation experience linking five communities includes a strong economic development component. The concept is that hikers and skiers will start and end their journeys by spending the night in one of the five communities, and that they will celebrate their trip by enjoying local restaurants and amenities.
The concept is based on utilizing existing lodging whenever possible and building where needed to
“create a spectrum of lodging, from primitive, yet upscale, planform tents and yurts, to existing rental cabins and bed & breakfast accommodations, to eco-lodges, and five star hotels. It will range from low-cost, hostel-type lodging to expensive, amenity-rich, upscale lodging. Some lodgings will be self-service, where visitors prepare their own meals, while other lodgings will be full service and provide meals.”
Among the topics covered are the keys to success in this endeavor, a set of priorities and criteria for locating lodging, and a detailed analysis and description of each of the 26 possibilities. The analysis of each route, which constitutes the bulk of the proposal, includes:
- mapping and description of proposed route,
- cataloging of its natural features and attractions,
- noting its highlights and attributes,
- identifying its implementation challenges
- a set of observations and questions, and
- a summary desirability and feasibility rating.
This is a great piece of planning work that thoughtfully addresses the challenges and opportunities of working with trail communities and within the requirements of land management agencies. Check it out!