Women's Weekend Was Best Yet

A new lodging partner, fabulous weather and an incredible group of guests made the 2022 Adirondack Women's Weekend THE best yet.

Photos by Nancie Battaglia.

When we started the Adirondack Women's Weekend in 2021, we thought we had something really special in the works and wow, was the inaugural year a success. The 2022 event, which happened just last weekend, blew last year out of the water by a long shot.

For one, the 30 participants were some of the nicest, encouraging and most fun loving group Bike Adirondacks has experienced. Whether they arrived with a group of friends or came solo, by the time Happy Hour turned into an after dinner sunset on arrival day, it was clear this was an awesome group of riders.

Nothing like dinner and a sunset over Lake Flower in Saranac Lake to kick off a weekend.

"Bike ADK Women’s weekend was an awesome weekend. Exceptional rides with spectacular views of the Adirondacks. The guides were knowledgeable and very friendly. The entire weekend was so well planned and organized and the town of Saranac Lake has so much to offer. You can ride at your own pace and just enjoy. All the women were friendly and supportive, which was important since I came by myself. I will definitely do the Women’s Weekend again and hope to try some of Bike ADK’s other rides." - Julie, Ossining, NY

Making it especially sweet was Saranac Waterfront Lodge, our new lodging partner for not only the Women's Weekend, but also the upcoming Weekender at Paul Smith's College (July 29-31) and Pat Stratton Ride (August 27). As the name indicates and the photo above can attest, the location is magnificent. Friday opened with a blissful Happy Hour, complete with drinks and charcuterie on the patio before settling into a delicious three course meal on a completely different patio overlooking the lake. After which, well, it was time for a quick chat about Saturday's ride around a campfire.

Guests relax around a campfire while BikeADK guides chat about the route for the following day.

"The Womens weekend event was well organized with very supportive riders and guides. Routes were fun and a bit challenging, with amazing views and great rest stops. No detail was overlooked. I was fortunate to meet some amazing women. It was a great experience riding out of my comfort zone." - Marcie, Wall Township, NJ

And speaking of routes, Saturday's kicked off with a tree canopied backroad to Paul Smith's College where a fully stocked rest stopped awaited on the deck of the campus student center, which just do happens to overlook one of the most picturesque ponds in the Adirondacks. Following a group shot, it was off to the world famous Donnelly's Ice Cream (via backroads, of course) for peppermint and chocolate twists before returning to Saranac Lake for a stop at the Farmer's Market.

Riders gather on the deck at Paul Smith's College

Group shot on the deck overlooking St. Regis Pond at Paul Smith's College.

"I knew from the opening dinner this was going to be a great weekend. Food, atmosphere and socializing with other cyclists was very nice. Saturday's pre-ride meeting addressed any concerns. Routes were well marked, complete with staff standing and waving at several intersections. Most roads were smooth, low traffic and breathtakingly scenic. Overall a great riding experience." - Melanie, Bayville, NJ

Of course, no ride day is complete without cool drinks and good stories. Which, after an afternoon of exploring in Saranac Lake, was exactly what we did with cool craft beer from North Hudson's Paradox Brewery - home of the September 24 Handlebarley gravel tour. Oh, and did we mention the bike room?

Sunday started with a quick stop at Play ADK, a local project slated to become the first children's museum in the Adirondacks, and also the benefactor for the women's weekend. Then, it was off to the backroads of Bloomingdale and Vermontville featuring incredible views of the Saranac River and peaks surrounding the river valley.

"I loved the opportunity to ride these gorgeous routes. I felt safe and enjoyed myself immensely!" - Jennifer, Toms River, NJ

A midway rest stop at Hamm's Christmas Tree Farm was made complete with icy cool water, fresh watermelon and stunning views in all directions. Though, it was the watermelon that stole the show.

Riders pose for a selfie with BikeADK super guide Julianne during Sunday's rest stop.

After a shower before late check out and/or a dip in the lake, it was sadly time to call it a weekend. Though, judging from goodbye sentiments (and exit survey comments) most wouldn't have minded staying an extra day or two. Read: this will absolutely be an option next year.

"It was a wonderful weekend of cycling, relaxing, and making new friends in a beautiful setting. Big thank you to the organizers! Can't wait to do it again, or participate in another BikeADK event!" - Marie-Anne, Brookline, MA

All we can say is, 'same' Marie-Anne. Mark your calendars for June 23-25, 2023 (plus a day or two on either end) for the third annual Adirondack Women's Weekend. Registration will open early in the New Year, though planning starts now.