SAINT REGIS FALLS — The Azure Mountain Friends and the Town of Waverly collaborated to complete a full upgrade of the parking lot at Azure Mountain Trailhead.

Major funding for the project was provided by a $3,600 grant from Parks and Trails New York. Additional funds were provided by the Azure Mountain Friends.  

“One of the most exciting aspects of this project is the cooperative framework,” said Waverly Town Supervisor Ernie Witkowski.  “The NYS Department of Conservation, the NY Parks and Trails Organization, the Friends of Azure Mountain and the Town of Waverly worked cooperatively to complete this project.  Also, the highway department of the Town of Waverly should be recognized for their excellent work.  Without a doubt, this trailhead parking is a much-improved location.”

Tom Ortmeyer, Chair of Azure Mountain Friends, adds “We are very pleased with the outcome of this parking lot upgrade, it was badly needed.  The old lot was badly degraded, and a big rock being was being pushed up by the frost-- someone actually had painted it red to make it visible, but it still was showing a number of scrapes from cars going over it.  It was great to work with Supervisor Witkowski and Highway Superintendent Roger Hartsen on this project.  Roger and his crew did an excellent job on the upgrade. The Town of Waverly has been involved in our Friends group since our formation in 2001, and this project strengthens and grows that partnership.”

The grant also funded the development of educational materials.  These materials were developed by the Adirondack Mountain Club Education Department.  The materials focus is on safe hiking, leave no trace principles, and the history of Azure Mountain and its fire tower.  The materials are designed to background to school groups planning field trips to Azure Mountain, and will improve their hiking experience.

These materials are available by contacting Azure Mountain Friends at hikeazure@gmail.com.