Though the recent fluctuation in temperature has not been conducive to cross-country skiing, it has allowed my family to explore some frozen Adirondack lakes and ponds.

Being able to access those frozen waterways during the winter is one of my family’s greatest joys. When the ponds are safe to cross, the ability to reach normally inaccessible shorelines opens up a different avenue for exploration.

The annual Lake George Land Conservancy’s (LGLC) Walk On Water to Dome Island is one such event. Though anyone can make the trek to Dome Island, this organized ski, walk or snowshoe provides a safety comfort level in a group setting. Registration is required and space is limited for the February 15th event with two trip times available, 10 am and 2 pm. The $10 requested donation supports the continued conservation of Dome Island.

Privately owed by The Nature Conservancy and managed by the LGLC, Dome Island is not open to the public. Located about midway between the east and west shores and nine miles from Lake George village, Dome Island is the highest island on Lake George. According to the LGLC, John Apperson (1878-1963) facilitated the preservation of Dome Island in 1939 after concern arose that a developer was considering a hotel on the island. After securing funds from a variety of sources Apperson purchased Dome Island and eventually gifted it in 1956 to The Nature Conservancy.

The one-mile journey provides a different view of Lake George. There will also be time to explore the island and see the plaque dedicating the Dome Island Memorial Sanctuary in memory of John S. Apperson and his Associates.

My family has yet to make it onto Dome Island though we’ve enjoyed crossing parts of Lake George on skis. It is a quiet experience, so different from the summertime rush of powerboats. Part of the pleasure is witnessing the Adirondacks at a slower pace. Be prepared. It can be windy! Last year’s event was cancelled due to weather conditions, so please call the LGLC for more information. Have fun exploring the frozen Adirondacks!

Photo: The 2011 LGLC Dome Island Walk on Water. From a YouTube video by Frank Weaver.