Last Great Shoreline Preserve

On February 27, 2009 the Lake George Land Conservancy ended nearly two decades of negotiations when it closed on the Gabriel land, known as the Last Great Shoreline project. With this great acquisition LGLC also took a leap into debt in order to finance the purchase. The cost of the land was $4 million with another $300,000 of project expenses – the largest dollar purchase in LGLC history. Thanks to the great generosity of hundreds of supporters, this debt was fully paid off on February 27, 2014!

LGLC’s purchase of the Last Great Shoreline project was a crucial step in the protection of the Lake George watershed. 351 acres and 2,357 feet of shoreline were acquired as a preserve, and 70 acres and 1,613 feet remain in private ownership that is now protected by a deed restriction.

The land contains approximately thirty-five acres of wetlands (reportedly including a rare white cedar swamp) which provide important food and breeding sites for amphibians, birds and mammals. These Sucker Brook wetlands provide a natural filtration system, contributing to the pristine water quality of Lake George. In addition, the legendary Jumping Rock, rising approximately 30 feet above the lake, is situated on the northern shore and will be preserved forever as an LGLC preserve. Distance And Terrain
The trail system is 3 miles of easy to moderate trails with 2 scenic viewposts. The Lake George Land Conservancy has established three trails at the Last Great Shoreline Preserve: the blue trail, Andia-ta-roc-te Trail (red) and the yellow trail. There is also a dock that will accommodate two 25-foot vessels; canoes and kayaks are welcome too! There’s also shoeshoeing, and hunting.

After a short walk from the parking area to the kiosk, the blue trail gradually descends from the kiosk at an elevation of 552 feet approximately 1.20 miles southwest through the preserve to a filtered scenic overlook that provides a west-facing view of Lake George. The blue trail is easy to navigate, with minimal elevation change. From the overlook the trail makes a short but steep descent to the dock.

The Andia-ta-roc-te Trail is demarcated by red markers and is an off-shoot of the blue trail. After heading east a short distance to an opening overlooking Sucker Brook and the Green Mountains to the east, the red trail turns south heading along the upper edge of the Sucker Brook valley. After turning west, it reconnects with the blue trail. It is a relatively easy trail, only 0.35 miles in length.

Andia-ta-roc-te is the Iroquois name for the lake, meaning “where the lake is closed in by mountains.” The name was chosen to honor the native people who lived in this area and to try to keep alive their sense of connection with nature and their stewardship of land and water.

Please note the new yellow triangle connector trail. Starting at the intersection with the blue trail it follows the ridge line, then descends a short, very steep rocky area before following a logging road to the yellow trail at Gull Bay Preserve. Please use caution when descending the steep section!

Highlights And Key Points Along The Route
The Preserve has a seasonal dock which will accommodate 25′ boats.It is open dawn til dusk. The Sucker Brook wetlands include a rare white cedar swamp and serves as important area for wildlife, particularly birds and amphibians.

Identify And Describe The Management Organization
The Lake George Land Conservancy (LGLC) is a not-for-profit land trust that works solely within the Lake George watershed in the southeastern corner of New York’s Adirondack Park.

Additional Notes
Please stay on the marked trails.

Please be courteous of other preserve guests.

No removal of plants or animals without permission. LGLC allows hunting at the Last Great Shoreline by permit only. Please call 518-644-9673 or email Warren Rosenthal for information. Please use caution when hiking during hunting seasons – wear bright colors and hike in groups. Hunters – please be aware of hikers and hunt away from trails.

No camping, littering or fires.

Motorized or non-motorized recreational vehicles are NOT allowed except as arranged with the local snowmobile club.

Leashed dogs are permitted but should not be brought to the Gull Bay Preserve due to its ecological sensitivity.

Please park only in the preserve’s designated area.

Fees
no
ADA Accessible
no
Tours Are Offered
no
Site is Child-friendly
yes
Site is Pet-friendly
yes