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The 2014 Lake George Hike-A-Thon included more than 400 hikers, including those pictured here at Cook Mountain in Ticonderoga. They spelled out “LG”, as captured by photographer Carl Heilman, II, who will photograph the 2015 Hike-A-Thon as well. Photo © Carl Heilman, II/Wild Visions, Inc.
More than 330 people have already registered to participate or volunteer for the Lake George Land Conservancy’s (LGLC) third annual Lake George Hike-A-Thon, and four of the 12 optional hiking locations are at capacity. The public can still for the free event, set for Sunday, July 5, 2015, until June 26 at lakegeorgehikeathon.org.
The Lake George Hike-A-Thon is a one-day event held each July 5th, created to showcase LGLC’s parks and preserves around Lake George as free public resources, and to promote a healthy, active lifestyle and appreciation for the outdoors.
Hikes take place simultaneously all around Lake George, culminating with aerial photography of each group by Carl Heilman, II, who will be flying in a helicopter piloted by Bruce Mowery of North Country Heliflite.
“The excitement for the Hike-A-Thon is contagious,” said LGLC Communications and Outreach Manager Sarah Hoffman. “Each year the event has picked up more momentum in the communities around Lake George and in area businesses that choose to show support through sponsorships. We are also seeing participants returning each year, making the Hike-A-Thon part of their holiday tradition.”
There are three new sites for 2015, and one additional hike at a past site, for a total of 12 different options. All of the new sites—Anthony’s Nose in Putnam, Terzian Woodlot in Hague, and the Pinnacle in Bolton Landing—are full.
“The response so far has been fantastic,” said Hoffman, “especially for the new properties that were added this year. Curiosity plays a big part, but people also want to come out in support of a property that they’ve helped to save, like the Pinnacle in Bolton.”
Bolton Town Supervisor Ron Conover will be present at the start of the Pinnacle hike, to help greet hikers and welcome them to the event. LGLC recently completed its fundraising campaign to purchase the Pinnacle and expects to close in early June. At the time of closing LGLC will place a conservation easement on the land and then sell it to the Town of Bolton to remain a public resource.
“I’m honored to help with the Pinnacle’s inaugural year in the Hike-A-Thon,” said Conover. “It’s been wonderful being able to work with LGLC and seeing the great community support for protecting the Pinnacle. I look forward to meeting the hikers and thanking those who have helped to make the purchase possible.”
Event t-shirts are available for purchase at time of registration. In addition, participants who choose to make a donation in support of LGLC’s stewardship activities may also receive a limited edition Hike-A-Thon hat for each $25 they give.
Other Opportunities
LGLC is still seeking Hike-A-Thon volunteers to help at several sites. A large crew of volunteers is needed to help lead hikes and keep things running smoothly on the ground. For those who want to be part of the event but are unable to hike, joining the Ground Crew is a great way to get involved. Further information is available at lakegeorgehikeathon.org/volunteer.
LGLC is also still accepting event sponsors, which provide essential support needed to keep the Hike-A-Thon free for participants. Information on how to become a sponsor, and what benefits are provided, are at lakegeorgehikeathon.org/become-a-sponsor, or interested businesses may contact Sarah Hoffman at 518-644-9673 or email shoffman@lglc.org.
Current sponsors include Carl Heilman, II/Wild Visions, Inc., North Country Heliflite, Lake George Kayak Company, Patagonia, Stewart’s Shops, LoomOnTheLake, and Stored Technology Solutions. The Lake George Mirror is the event’s media sponsor.
For more information about the Hike-A-Thon visit lakegeorgehikeathon.org, or contact Communications and Outreach Manager Sarah Hoffman at 518-644-9673, or email shoffman@lglc.org. Fans may also follow the Hike-A-Thon on Facebook: facebook.com/LakeGeorgeHikeAThon.