The Fern Lodge

A very small intimate luxury lodge overlooking Friends Lake with 5 guest rooms; all with king-size beds, fireplaces, jacuzzis, steam showers, and lake-view private porches. Sumptuous beds, indulgent baths and unforgettable breakfasts join in an atmosphere of rustic elegance and lakeside living. The lodge is the ultimate romantic getaway or honeymoon location. We do many elopements and host very small weddings as well.

Lodging Style And Amenities
The lodge boasts a mix of log elements, rustic decor, and classic Arts and Crafts (Mission) influence. The Inn features numerous porches and sitting areas with fireplaces and lake views- both inside and outside.

Simply relax in the Great Room with its vaulted log ceilings and expansive stone fireplace. Other common areas at the resort include an outdoor fireplace in a screened-in porch, a fully stocked “honor bar”, a wine cellar, pool table, a state-of-the-art movie theatre, a sauna, fitness equipment, a lakeside firepit, and an “under-the-stars” hot tub.

In addition to the sundeck at the boathouse, find kayaks and canoes for your use on pristine Friends Lake. Enjoy walking or snowshoeing from our front door on the Lodge’s 60 acres. Your stay includes a nightly lake tour (seasonally!) on our electric launch complete with wine and hors d’oeuvres. In cooler times of the year, enjoy the hors d’oeuvres and wine in front of a blazing fire.

Season Open
Open year-round, the lake is magnificent summer through the brilliant autumn foliage. In the winter, enjoy the lake view in its icy splendor- as well as skiing at nearby Gore Mountain. In spring, whitewater rafting on the mighty Hudson is a great option.

Additional Services Available
Great concierge service on what to do and see in the area; the owners and long time area residents, Greg and Sharon Taylor, have the inside information on what to see and do and where to eat in the area!

Rate Range
$395-$525

What Is Distinctive And Authentic To The Character Of The Region
Discover the history of the Adirondacks from the comfort of our Adirondack Inn – it is as diverse as its geography. A battleground through at least 3 wars, the turf of loggers and miners, the vacation destination of Gilded Age magnates and home to two Winter Olympic Games, the depth and breadth of the region’s heritage is matched only by its scenery.

Friends Lake got its name from an Iroquois word “Atateka” which translates to “where friends meet”. Certainly, the Indian friends could have met sharing the fertile fishing and hunting in the area; however, it is thought that the “Meeting place” refers to the fact that there is a mica mine at the end of the lake- the Indians would meet with acquaintances gathering the mica for decorative use. (Unfortunately, the mine is now on private property and not accessible).

In the early 1900’s, small Friends Lake had 6 or more very large hotels and numerous guest houses and is rich in hospitality history. Friends Lake lies close to former railway stops (at The Glen and Riparius/Riverside) and thus the area was very accessible. There was much Inn-to-Inn socializing and competition. Today, The Fern Lodge and The Friends Lake Inn are the only commercial properties on the private lake. Historically, some other Inns of note were The McPhillips House, The Atateka, The Valentine Hotel (later re-opened under the name The Balsam House), The Hill House, and The Lakeview.

Additional Notes
The road biking and hiking options in the area are plentiful! If activity is not your objective, just come and do nothing at all except enjoy a good book in a lounge chair overlooking the lake or in front of a roaring fire! In the winter enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing right here on the property.

Website: https://www.thefernlodge.com/

ADA Accessible
no

Tours Are Offered
no

Site is Child-friendly
no

Site is Pet-friendly
no