Cascade Lakes
Cascade Lakes
One thing about summer in the Adirondacks is the abundance of swimming holes and picnic spots. We have our favorite roadside pullovers that allow us a few moments of relaxation or an afternoon of pleasure. Sometimes just seeing the people rock climbing along the many Adirondack cliffs will be reason enough to stop and get out the binoculars. Of course, there are plenty of guides that are willing to share their love of the sport. For me, I am perfectly satisfied to watch the action from the side of a picnic bench.

Besides humans, another animal to look for among the rock walls are nesting peregrine falcons. There are nesting sites along the Adirondacks that are closed to rock climbers so the chances of seeing falcons in flight are quite high.

peregrine falcons
Peregrine falcons
According to the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) peregrine falcons are an endangered species. Pesticides, especially DDT, caused issues with many birds of prey's breeding success. The pesticides caused the eggshells to thin and when the birds would nest, the eggs would break under the bird's weight. Through protection and the banning of DDT the population has increased but is still tenuous. There are only two sites left that are known to host breeding peregrine falcons, the Adirondack Park and New York City.

Currently the rock climbing routes of Moss Cliff and Labor Day Wall along the Wilmington Notch on Route 86 (between Lake Placid and Wilmington) are closed to rock climbers. On Route 86, there is a wonderful pullover and place to explore the Ausable River as well as search for those small falcons.

Cascade Lake kayaker
Kayaking on Cascade Lake
The Chapel Pond area is also popular place for climbers. The Lower Washbowl Cliff route is available while the Upper Washbowl Cliff is closed because a nest site has been confirmed. Close by the Cascade Lakes are the popular rock routes of Pitchoff Chimney Cliff and Barkeater Cliff. The Cascade Lake Day Use Area on Route 73, between Keene and Lake Placid, has picnic tables, boat launch and is a great place to take a dip. All the while, keep your eyes open for those brave souls roped in and attempting a new rock route or introducing someone else to the sport. I'm going to stick to the indoor rock climbing wall. 

photo of peregrine falcon by Tom Feller.

All other photos © Diane Chase. Diane Chase is the author of the Adirondack Family Activities™ guidebook series, Adirondack Family Time™.