hiking

Roscoe Mountain Club – Roscoe, NY

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Our family packed up and headed to the beautiful Catskill Mountains for a cozy winter getaway at Roscoe Mountain Club. Jason and I are no strangers to Roscoe, New York—we love relaxing, hiking, fishing, and enjoying peaceful meals in this charming town. This time, we brought the kids to experience it with us, making for an unforgettable family adventure. We stayed in the Frankel House, one of the charming lodging options on the property, and it was the perfect home base for our adventure.

Where We Stayed

Roscoe Mountain Club offers a variety of lodging options to suit any traveler. The Inn boasts 24 newly renovated rooms with one or two beds, perfect for families or couples seeking a cozy and comfortable stay. For larger groups, Burt’s Lodge and the spacious townhomes provide a private, roomy retreat. We absolutely loved the rustic charm of the Frankel House, which blends timeless character with modern amenities for a truly relaxing atmosphere. With four bedrooms, three full bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining room, a large living room, a loft area, and a foosball table, the Frankel House had everything we needed. The stunning deck was the perfect spot to take in the breathtaking mountain views.

Fun at The Barn & Ice Skating Firsts

One of our favorite places to hang out was The Barn, a cozy guest lounge filled with games, and comfy seating. The kids loved watching movies while playing foosball, ping pong, darts, Connect 4, and a ring toss game. It was such a fun spot to unwind after a day of activities! The Barn is not only a cozy guest lounge but also a lively venue that hosts live entertainment during events, festivals, and special occasions, making it the perfect spot to enjoy music and community gatherings.

Speaking of activities, Emilia had her first-ever ice skating experience at the on-site rink, and it was such a proud parent moment! Watching her wobble at first, determined to keep going, and then gain confidence on the ice with the help of a skating trainer was incredible. Nicholas cheered her on from the sidelines, and the whole family had a blast. The firepits and Adirondack chairs, perfectly placed near the rink, offered a cozy retreat to relax and warm up while soaking in the vibrant winter atmosphere.

Delicious Eats at 1907

The on-site restaurant, 1907, blew us away with its food. The buffalo wings were crispy and packed with flavor, and the French toast was absolutely decadent—both were big hits with our family. It’s fantastic to have an on-site restaurant that serves family-friendly food, making mealtime convenient, stress-free, and enjoyable for everyone! They also serve beers from Roscoe Beer Co., which are some of our favorites. A cold, locally brewed beer after a day in the snow? Yes, please!

A Little Bit of Everything

One thoughtful touch we really appreciated was the lobby shop, which had merchandise and essentials like OTC medications—because let’s be real, sometimes you forget the little things when traveling with kids! We also received some super cool shirts to remember our experience at Roscoe Mountain Club.

I also tried snowshoeing for the first time, and wow—what an experience! It was an amazing workout and a peaceful way to take in the snowy mountain scenery. Definitely something I’d love to do again.

Roscoe Mountain Club has an on-site fitness facility that offers everything you need to stay active, including a rower, elliptical, free weights, a Theraball, and medicine balls. Whether you’re getting in a full workout or just stretching after a day of adventure, you’ll have everything you need to feel your best!

Can’t Wait to Return in Warmer Months

While we had an amazing time experiencing Roscoe Mountain Club in the winter, we’re already dreaming about returning when the weather warms up. With scenic hiking trails, a beautiful golf course (I might even try a lesson since I’ve never golfed before!), and a lake perfect for fishing, it’s clear that our whole family will love it. Plus, the pickleball courts add even more fun for everyone to enjoy!

Family-Friendly Fun at Roscoe Beer Co.

We also made a stop at Roscoe Beer Co., and it’s quickly become one of our favorite family-friendly spots. The games and a trout-filled fish tank entertained the kids, while Jason and I relaxed with some cold beers. The service is consistently fantastic, and it’s a must-visit when you’re in the area. We love the delicious family-friendly food like pretzels, burgers, and fries, and Emilia couldn’t get enough of the homemade root beer—we even brought some home! Jason and I always leave with a few 4-packs, a perfect way to relive the trip when we return home.

Plan Your Own Trip!

Our weekend at Roscoe Mountain Club was filled with laughter, adventure, and amazing memories. If you’re looking for a getaway that offers great lodging, delicious food, and activities for all seasons, we highly recommend checking it out. You can book your stay at roscoemountainclub.com. We can’t wait to go back!

Half Marathon Hydration with Hydrant

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Hindsight is always 20/20. My mom and I tackled our first half marathon a month ago. We didn’t train very much, and we certainly underestimated the hilly course. To make matters even more challenging, it was raining the entire duration of the 13.1 grueling miles. We learned to embrace the suck and really had to use mental strength to make it across the finish line. At mile twelve, Mom and I started to experience leg cramps. I was hydrating with coconut water and Gatorade, but if I stopped moving, even for one second, my legs would scream, “Sit down. You’re done.” I wish I had something to sustain me…

When John Sherwin, the founder of Hydrant, sent me samples of his new hydration mix product, I thought, “I really could have used this during the half marathon.” I went to his website to learn more.

Hydrant Hydration Mix

 

Hydrant is a simple, scientifically designed formula that has 3 times more electrolytes than sports drinks on the current market.  Available as small powder stick packs in Lemon Lime flavor (my favorite!), they are easy to store in a backpack or duffle bag. Outdoor enthusiasts or endurance athletes just need to add it to water and can hydrate anytime, anywhere.

Ingredients

Sugar (11 grams), Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Potassium Citrate, Salt, Magnesium Citrate, Zinc Gluconate., Lemon Juice Powder, Lime Juice Powder, Natural Lemon Flavor.

Highlights of Hydrant:

  • Includes a combination of balanced electrolytes, a bit of sugar and light natural lemon-lime flavor
  • Vegan
  • Kosher
  • Gluten Free
  • Dairy Free
  • NON-GMO
  • No artificial colors or flavors

  • 50 calories per stick

  • Claims to improve cognition, lift spirits, and reduce headaches.
  • Manufactured in the USA

Directions

Add one pack in 500 mL (16.9 ounces) of water.

Experience

My husband and I are very active people. We love hiking (we accomplished two of the 46 High Peaks earlier this year) and taking our dogs for long walks and runs. I go to weekly hot yoga and body pump classes. I also just took my first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class. I really enjoy exercise and strive to be a fit, healthy person.

This week I decided to try Hydrant after my 5-mile run. I came home, emptied the packet into a glass, added water, and stirred. Perfection.

 

Hydrant Hydration Mix

Hydrating with Hydrant after my 5-Mile Run

 

I love the flavor of lemon-lime; Hydrant does not disappoint. It’s cold, tart, and easily drinkable. Within 5 minutes, I feel like my life is restored! I am still sweating profusely from the class, but I feel re-energized and I am ready to go home, shower, and tackle the upcoming workday.

I would purchase Hydrant for my husband and I engage in prolonged, intense exercise. It was easy to mix together, the packets can be taken anywhere, and the lemon-lime flavor was delicious. Hydrant is the perfect during and post workout hydration beverage.

Purchase Hydrant on their website and visit them on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Hydrant Hydration Mix

Disclosure: I received samples of Hydrant complimentary for review purposes; all opinions within are my own. If you would like your product reviewed on Realm of Vibes, please e-mail realmofvibesdg@gmail.com or visit my Contact page for more information.

 

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Take a Hike (with These 6 Items)

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This blog post contains Amazon affiliate links. If you click on the links and make a purchase, I will earn a small commission which helps sustain Realm of Vibes. Thanks for your support.

“And into the forest I go, to lose my mind, and find my soul.” – Unknown

I started hiking about seven years ago. When I met my husband, he took me to several state parks in New Jersey. My husband grew up in the country, so he had all the gear required for an easy to moderate hike. For example, he had hiking shoes while I wore regular sneakers. He had hiking pants where I wore leggings. He wore a backpack that carried necessities like food and water, and I carried a hand bag with my cell phone and wallet. (Little did I know there was no service in the middle of the woods and that there were no purchases to be made).

After blisters and bitching, he took me shopping for some hiking gear. The gear I have collected in the past seven years has gotten me through shorter, easy hikes as well as long, strenuous hikes like Cascade and Porter Mountain, two of the 46 High Peaks. I hope the gear helps you as much as it has helped me…

Hiking Boots

I have two pairs of hiking boots.

  1. Merrell Women’s Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

These boots are not lightweight, but waterproof, and give me my ankles the stability they need to get through a strenuous, super rocky hike. I wear these for a more difficult, moderate hike.

2. Oboz Women’s Sawtooth Low Bdry Hiking Shoe

I have a new found respect for Oboz. My husband left my Merrell’s home by accident on our latest Lake Placid trip, so I had to purchase a new pair of hiking boots to do Cascade and Porter mountains. Oboz are lightweight, breathable, and waterproof.

Hiking Socks

No more blisters or sweaty, nasty feet! I wear Smartwool Women’s Hiking Light Crew Socks. These are a game changer!

Hiking Pants

I purchased the Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail Stretch Convertible Pant which is super casual, comfortable and converts into shorts. These trail pants are also stain and sun resistant. I feel that they resist sweat much better than leggings and move more comfortably and easier than jeans.

Hiking Backpack

My husband and I wanted a unisex backpack as we usually alternate the pack throughout the hike. We selected the Gonex Polar Trekking Daypack. It has a 40L capacity, comes with a waterproof cover, and easily holds everything we need for a day hike. The straps are easy to adjust and it fits both my husbands tall, muscular build and my shorter stature without issue. 

Water Bottle

I bring plenty of water when I hike. The most important thing is that the vessel in which the water is held keeps the water cold. For that reason, I use the Contigo Autoseal Chill Stainless Steel Water Bottle.

Food

Often times, when my husband and I reach the summit, we enjoy a few snacks. We sit and take in the scenery and acknowledge what we accomplished on our way to the top. (We also snap a few pictures!) I enjoy a few different snacks including Chocolate Chip Clif Bars, and Chomps 100% Grass Fed Beef Jerky Sticks. These give us enough energy to get back down the mountain.

Final Thoughts

I hope that next time you go on a hiking adventure, you remember to bring some of these items with you.

If you hike, what is your favorite item to wear or bring? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Namaste.

Take a Hike

 

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Part 2: Lake Placid, NY – Things to Do

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If you haven’t already, take a look at Part 1: Lake Placid, NY – Where to Stay & Eat.

This blog post features some of our adventures during our 4 night, 5 days stay in Lake Placid, NY.

Adirondack Wildlife Refuge

We love animals, so being able to see wolves, foxes, bald eagles, owls, and coyotes up close was really cool. We snapped a lot of pictures! The Adirondack Wildlife Refuge operates on donations, so make sure you leave a few dollars to keep this non-profit organization running smoothly.

Lake Placid Olympic Ski Jumping Complex

I always watch the Olympics. We got at the complex at the perfect time; the Olympians were practicing ski jumping into the pool. We watched them in awe. Then we took an elevator ride to the top of the ski jump. It gave us great views of the complex and high peaks.

Olympic Platform

Olympic Platform in the Ski Jump Complex

Ski Jump, Lake Placid NY

Ski Jump Complex, Lake Placid, NY

Hiking Cascade and Porter Mountain

If you are not in decent physical shape and don’t have the appropriate gear, please don’t attempt the high peaks! This was grueling. It took us six hours to do both Cascade and Porter mountains. The conditions were terrible; muddy and high water everywhere. Jason and I are in decent physical shape and we struggled! If you can do it, I would recommend it. The summits are beautiful and we enjoyed a breathtaking view. There are plenty of easier, shorter hikes if this is too challenging. I would recommend getting outside and on a trail!

Cascade Mountain

Cascade Mountain

Fly Fishing

Jason visited the local fly shop, The Hungry Trout, and had the best day in his fishing career. He fly fished the Ausable River and caught (and released) over 20 brown trout. This is a fisherman’s dream!

Balanced Bodywork and Massage

I treated myself to a 90-minute massage and cupping treatment with Tim. It was one of the best massages I have ever received. I made sure to bring my AromaTouch essential oil, which made me feel super relaxed and calm. When I go back to Lake Placid, I will be getting another treatment at Balanced Bodywork and Massage.

Balanced Bodywork

Inside Balanced Bodywork and Massage

Shopping in Lake Placid

After my massage, I spent the rest of the day shopping in downtown Lake Placid. I purchased local olive oils, salts, dish towels, local brews, and other novelties. Each shop is unique!

Final Thoughts

This is a great trip for families, couples, and singles. There is truly something for everyone in any season. If you like the great outdoors, relaxing, adventure, and enjoy the Olympics, you would really enjoy visiting Lake Placid, NY. We will be re-visiting Lake Placid in the near future.

Have you been to the Adirondack region? What was your favorite thing to do?

Namaste.

Lake Placid, NY - What to Do

 

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Part 1: Lake Placid, NY – Where to Stay & Eat

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Lake Placid, New York has always fascinated me. My friends have told me stories about skiing, hiking, the Olympic sites, and the quaint downtown. My husband and I purchased a Groupon Getaway to the Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort in Lake Placid, New York for January 2017. I injured my back, and the hotel allowed us to reschedule our 4 night, 5 days stay for May 2017. We were thrilled. We stayed on the fifth floor Marcy Specialty room, which had a jetted tub, fireplace, and private balcony.

Lake Placid, NY

Lake Placid, NY

Here’s why I would strongly recommend staying at the Golden Arrow:

  • Beach access, right on Mirror Lake
    • Canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, docks, plenty of water toys
  • Indoor pool with two hot tubs, a wet sauna, and a dry sauna
  • Fitness Center with locker room and dry sauna
    • Insider tip: use the sauna in the fitness center instead of the indoor pool area
  • Generations Restaurant
    • Happy hour all day when you show your room key
      • $5 house wine, $3 well drinks, $4 select draft beers
    • Free breakfast included with your stay
      • This was delicious!
  • Alpine Mall Shopping attached to hotel
    • Restaurants, shopping, and liquor/wine store
  • Location of hotel
    • Right in the center of Lake Placid, convenient to shops and restaurants

There are two issues with Golden Arrow: parking for a full size truck (even though they have a lot across the street, the parking is terrible during peak season) and the layout of the hotel (could only access the fifth floor from certain elevators & the elevator signage is confusing and varied in each elevator).

Lake Placid, NY Balcony View

View from the Balcony

We would absolutely stay at the Golden Arrow again. This was an incredible resort and we not only enjoyed our room but took full advantage of the amenities.

Where to Eat

Smoke Signals

If you love BBQ, put this on your list. Smoke Signals has indoor and outdoor seating and a fabulous menu that will make your mouth water. We had not one complaint about eating at Smoke Signals. The food was really delicious after a long drive up to Lake Placid.

What we ordered: 

  • Perpetual Pig BBQ Wings
  • Jason: Brisket and Macaroni & Cheese
  • Danielle: 1/2 rack of ribs and Macaroni & Cheese
  • Two local draft beers

Ribs, Brisket, and Macaroni & Cheese
Eat Here, Drink Beer
First Page of the Menu

Big Mountain Deli & Creperie

After a long day seeing the sites, we stopped here for delicious sandwiches.

What we ordered:

  • Jason: Table Top with chicken and a bag of Kettle Chips
  • Danielle: Algonquin sandwich with a side of potato salad

Big Mountain Deli and Creperie has 46 sandwiches to represent the 46 High Peaks. They also have soups, salads, and crepes. The sandwiches are very filling, great after a hike!

Big Mountain Deli & Creperie

Lisa G’s

Lisa G’s was another fantastic restaurant that had indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor seating overlooked a scenic waterfall. Everything on the menu is homemade and the drink I ordered, Salty Rikki, was strong.

What we ordered:

  • Jason: Chicken Parmesan
  • Danielle: Crispy Goat Cheese Salad with Chicken
  • Drink: Salty Rikki

Salty Rikki

Honorable mentions:

  • Generations Restaurant (adjacent to our hotel)
    • We ate breakfast here every day as it was included in our stay. The blueberry pancakes were incredible, as well as the special egg concoctions. The Sunny Cove ($2 upcharge) was my favorite. We never had a bad breakfast here!
  • Emma’s Lake Placid Creamery
    • Dairy makes me sick to my stomach but I couldn’t help myself. I got a small maple ice cream. Jason had a scoop each of cookies and cream and double fudge ice cream. Incredible.
  • The Lake Plaid Pub & Brewery
    • Besides the long wait, this had three floors of fun and a store to purchase pint glasses and other keepsakes. Jason enjoyed the Ubu Ale while I imbibed the Golden Ale. The food was hot and delicious. I ordered the Josh’s Fire Fish for dinner while Jason enjoyed the Schulzy Burger.

Final Thoughts

Have you visited Lake Placid? Where did you stay? What was your favorite restaurant?

If you haven’t, what restaurant would you want to try?

Stay tuned for Lake Placid, NY Part 2: What to Do!

Lake Placid, NY Where to Stay and Where to Eat

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