The beautiful setting of Wilmington, bisected by the West Branch of the AuSable River, and overlooked by Whiteface Mountain, draws rave reviews from travel writers. Fly fishermen throng into the area for the trophy fishing on the AuSable River, while its waterfalls, swimming holes, and campsites draw tourists to attractions. Wilmington has benefited from the Whiteface Mountain Ski Center, operated by the State. The mountain has been the site of many national and international competitions, including the alpine ski events of the 1980 Winter Olympics. Whiteface Mountain not only contributes a ski center, its looming presence, and hiking trails, it also creates unique weather patterns. Unlike most of the Adirondack High Peaks, Whiteface stands in virtual isolation, topped by a lonely cloud and a castle. The Atmospheric Sciences Research Center has established a weather research center on the top of the mountain. The old Marble Mountain Base Lodge serves as headquarters. An eight mile Toll Road opened in 1935. The first shovelful of dirt was turned by Franklin Delano Roosevelt in 1929. This length of road presents the driver with panoramic views stretching from the St. Lawrence River to Vermont. The road was dedicated in 1935 by Roosevelt to the World War I dead from New York State. In 1985 a ceremony was held rededicating the road to “all veterans who served in defense of our country.” There is an elevator and a footpath at the top to the castle. From the summit, it seems one can see the whole Adirondack Park and beyond. The mountain top now also includes a memorial to the World War II troops of the 10th Mountain army division, a skiing troop, in which a number of Adirondack residents served.
Adirondack Wildlife Refuge and Rehabilitation Center, 997 Springfield Road. Drop in and tour the rehabilitation and education center to visit the birds and other critters (there is an remarkable variety of hawks, falcons, owls--including the Great Horned Owls--and more). The refuge mascots are Cree, a wolf-hybrid, and Zeebie, a wolf pup. The daily walk around the refuge property with the wolves is an extraordinary experience for visitors! (Also on Facebook)
Ausable River Two Fly Shop, Route 86, (518) 946-FISH (946-3474). Owned and operated by Tom Conway. Tom has over 27 years fly fishing experience fishing, building rods, & tying flies.
Adirondack Holiday Home, The Hall Family manages 14 private rental cabins, camps and cottages in and around Wilmington. Ausable riverfront properities available.
