Exploring the Private Clubs of Lake George: A Glimpse into the Exclusive Side of the Adirondacks
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Lake George is more than just a place for tourists and weekend adventurers. It’s home to a rich tradition of private clubs that have long provided their members with a sanctuary of quiet luxury, breathtaking views, and an array of outdoor activities. From the historic Lake George Club to the renowned Ausable Club, these institutions offer a unique peek into a more refined and exclusive side of life in the Adirondacks. Let’s take a stroll through some of these storied clubs, looking at their history, what they offer, and what it takes to become a member.
The Lake George Club: A Time-Honored Tradition on the Water
Founded in 1908, the Lake George Club has been a centerpiece of elite recreation and social life on the lake for over a century. Located on the west shore of Lake George in Diamond Point, this club was established by a group of prominent summer residents who wanted a dedicated space for yachting and social activities. And, what a spot they chose! The sweeping views of the lake, paired with the club’s elegant yet understated architecture, make this one of the most picturesque locations on the water.
Activities and Amenities
The club’s main focus is its robust boating and sailing program, but it’s also known for its tennis courts, formal dining events, and social gatherings throughout the season. The Lake George Club’s marina provides docking space for members, and sailing regattas are a highlight of the summer calendar.
Membership Requirements
Joining the Lake George Club is not as easy as showing up with a checkbook. Membership is by invitation only, and prospective members must be sponsored by existing members, followed by approval from the board. With a storied history and well-maintained exclusivity, this club continues to thrive as a bastion of upper-class leisure.
The Ausable Club: High Peaks and Higher Standards
Founded in 1887, the Ausable Club (also known as the Adirondack Mountain Reserve) stands in a class all its own. Located in Keene Valley, just a short drive from Lake George, this club isn’t about yachting—it’s all about embracing the wilderness of the High Peaks region. The Ausable Club is perched near the entrance to some of the most famous hiking trails in the Adirondacks, making it the go-to place for hiking and nature-loving enthusiasts.
Activities and Amenities
The Ausable Club offers access to private hiking trails, fishing, and cross-country skiing. The club is also steeped in history, with its iconic lodge, cabins, and cottages providing a rustic yet comfortable experience for members. The club’s golf course is another big draw, especially for those looking to enjoy a round surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.
Membership Requirements
Like the Lake George Club, membership at the Ausable Club is by invitation only. It’s a tight-knit community with a deep appreciation for conservation and the preservation of the Adirondacks. This exclusivity, paired with its proximity to the High Peaks, makes the Ausable Club one of the most sought-after private clubs in the area.
The Sagamore Golf Course: A Golfer’s Paradise
While the Sagamore Resort itself is a luxury hotel and open to the public, the Sagamore Golf Course offers a private experience for those who love to hit the links. The club is perched on Bolton Landing’s scenic hills and is part of the Sagamore Resort. The course, designed by Donald Ross in 1928, offers an 18-hole championship experience with breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Activities and Amenities
The Sagamore Golf Course is a must-visit for golf lovers. It features well-manicured fairways and challenging greens, making it a destination for serious golfers. Beyond golf, members and guests can enjoy fine dining at the resort’s restaurants, spa services, and access to private events.
Membership Requirements
The Sagamore Golf Club offers seasonal memberships, which provide access to the course, golf events, and the resort’s amenities. It’s not as exclusive as the Lake George Club or Ausable Club, but it does attract a more upscale crowd due to its cost and location near the Sagamore Resort.
The Adirondack League Club: Where Tradition and Nature Meet
Nestled deep in Old Forge, the Adirondack League Club (ALC) is one of the most private and historic clubs in the Adirondack Park. Established in 1890, this club spans over 53,000 acres of pristine wilderness, offering members access to one of the largest private nature preserves in the Northeast.
Activities and Amenities
The ALC is a true sportsman’s paradise. Members can enjoy fishing, hunting, hiking, and paddling in a private, serene environment. The club also has rustic lodges and cabins that harken back to the early days of the Adirondacks, offering a back-to-basics experience for members and their families.
Membership Requirements
Membership is extremely limited and by invitation only. Members must have a deep appreciation for conservation and the preservation of the land, as this is central to the club’s mission. Becoming a member of the Adirondack League Club is seen as a commitment to protecting the wilderness while enjoying its many recreational offerings.
The Glens Falls Country Club: Classic Country Club Elegance
Established in 1912, The Glens Falls Country Club is a cornerstone of the region’s social and recreational life. Nestled just south of Lake George, this private club offers a more traditional country club experience with a world-class golf course designed by Donald Ross. The golf course is one of the highlights, featuring rolling hills, challenging greens, and breathtaking views of the Adirondacks.
But the Glens Falls Country Club isn’t just for golf enthusiasts. Members enjoy a range of activities, including tennis, swimming, and fine dining. The clubhouse itself exudes old-world charm, with fireplaces and cozy nooks, making it the perfect spot to relax after a day on the links or courts.
The membership process is selective, as with many private clubs in the Lake George area. Membership typically requires sponsorship from current members, followed by an approval process. The club fosters a tight-knit community, with events ranging from family-friendly gatherings to elegant socials.
For those seeking a blend of sport, leisure, and camaraderie just a short drive from Lake George, the Glens Falls Country Club offers an exclusive retreat where tradition meets modern luxury.
How to Get Involved: Finding Your Perfect Private Club
For those who dream of joining one of these exclusive clubs, it’s not just about money. Most of these clubs require sponsorship from current members, a process that can take time and involves building relationships. It’s all about community, tradition, and love for the Adirondacks—whether you’re on the water at Lake George or hiking the High Peaks near the Ausable Club.
Parting Thoughts
The private clubs of the Lake George and Adirondack region are as diverse as the landscape itself. From sailing and yachting to hiking, golfing, and even conservation-focused wilderness adventures, these clubs offer something for everyone lucky enough to be on the inside. While membership may be out of reach for many, knowing a bit about the rich history and traditions of these places gives us all a greater appreciation for the special corner of the world that is Lake George and the Adirondacks.
Whether you’re dreaming of sailing on Lake George or hiking the trails near Keene Valley, the private clubs around Lake George offer a glimpse into the timeless elegance and adventure that define the region.
