The Ausable River is a major waterway in the Adirondacks with many communities calling its banks home. Year round, there are many events happening on or near the river. These must-do Ausable River events are perfect for water lovers, nature enthusiasts, families and outdoor adventurers alike. Read our handy ADKPP guide below to get the scoop on Ausable River events.
5 Must-Do Ausable River Events
1. Earth Month Ausable River Cleanup
The Ausable River Association hosts a river cleanup on Earth Day every year. Volunteers remove roadway garbage and debris that have migrated from roadsides to the river channel, shores and surrounding areas. One of the most important Ausable River events, the clean up ensures the preservation of the river and habitat for the animals that call it home. After the clean up, there is a lunch and raffle to celebrate the communities coming together in the shared interest of caring for the river.
2. Ausable River Two Fly Challenge
The Ausable River Two Fly Challenge is a celebration of fishing, sportsmanship, preservation of the Ausable River and the natural beauty of the Adirondacks. This event takes place over a weekend in May, and is popular with locals and tourists alike. The first night offers a gathering to enjoy beer, a band, bonfires and local food trucks at the Wilmington Town Beach. Anglers have an opportunity to catch up and try local flavors.
The challenge begins the next morning. This best of Ausable River events caters to anglers and is followed by a reception to tell tales of the day and learn some new techniques. The final day is Saturday and the last chance to hook a prized trout. The last day of the challenge concludes with a banquet that has raffles and prizes.
3. Wilmington Beach Summer Concert Series – Thursdays
One of the more regular and popular Ausable River events takes place on summer Thursdays. Come on down to enjoy music at the Wilmington Beach every Thursday starting in July and running through August. Locals and visitors come together each week to enjoy free music and enjoy Lake Everest and the gorgeous Adirondack summer weather.
The well appointed park at Wilmington beach offers the perfect place bring a picnic or grill up a dinner while enjoying the music. The beach also has trails and play area to continue the fun before or after the music. Check local websites for a schedule and list of performers.
4. Ride For The River
The Ride For The River is one of the biggest Ausable River events, both a celebration and a fundraiser. This ride offers two routes, one 30 miles long and the other 45 miles long. Hosted in beautiful July summer weather, both ride routes provide breathtaking views of the region.
The fundraiser supports the Ausable Freshwater Center whose mission is to protect clean water, healthy streams, biodiverse habitats and the overall beauty of the Ausable River. Not able to be in town for the event? You can participate virtually. This event also hosts a 20-mile “tailgater” group ride the day before. Join this shorter ride to make a weekend out of the event or if you will only be in town the day before the event.
5. Music At The River Park in Ausable Forks – Wednesdays
If you are not available on summer Thursdays to catch the free live music at the Wilmington beach, take a short trip to Ausable Forks on Wednesdays to catch music at the River Park. These series runs during the same time frame as the Wilmington Beach Summer Concert Series through July and August. The music starts at 6 pm and ends around 8 pm. This series also offers food from the hometown favorite food truck, The Dogfather, making it ideal to grab dinner and a show.
While this is just a short list of Ausable River events, keep an eye on the various town websites (Whiteface Region & Lake Placid) to see new events as they come up. If you are coming into town or hosting guests for any of these events, check out our vacation rental listings. At Adirondack Premier Properties, our experienced agents are ready to assist you with your all of your rental and real estate needs. Contact us today at 518-523-3333!