About the Gooley Club

About the Gooley Club: Preserving Tradition in the Heart of the Adirondacks

Welcome to the heart of the Adirondacks, where the Gooley Club stands as a testament to the rich heritage of hunting and fishing that has thrived in this pristine wilderness since 1948. Spanning thousands of acres, the Gooley Club is a storied hunting and fishing haven within the vast expanse of the Adirondack Park.

Wild Beauty and Rich Tradition

Nestled within the Adirondack Forest Preserve, a meticulously regulated 2.6 million-acre haven owned by the state since its creation in 1885, the Gooley Club finds its home. The topography, marked by the region's most mountainous landscapes, includes iconic landmarks like Mt. Marcy and 42 of the renowned "High Peaks" exceeding 4,000 feet in elevation. Essex County, where the club originated, boasts miles of rivers, including the headwaters of the Hudson, Ausable, Boquet, and Saranac rivers.

 

A Tapestry of Towns and Wilderness

Surrounded by the charming settlements of Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Ticonderoga, along with numerous hamlets like Keeseville, Wilmington, and Newcomb, the Gooley Club embraces the wild character that defines the Adirondacks. This untamed beauty has been the backdrop for a thriving tourism industry since the 1860s, beckoning adventurers and nature enthusiasts to explore its secrets.

 

Birth of a Legacy

The Gooley Club's historical roots trace back to a time when hunting laws shaped the culture of the Adirondacks. In the post-World War II era, a surge in recreational hunting prompted the establishment of the Gooley Club in 1948. What began as an informal lease of the Outer Gooley Club, an approximately 1,176-acre parcel, soon expanded to include the Inner Gooley Club, a vast 14,005-acre expanse, making the Gooley Club an influential presence in the region.

 

Preserving Nature's Bounty

As a steward of the land, the Gooley Club has actively contributed to conservation efforts. Members not only abide by state conservation laws but also play a vital role in monitoring and maintaining the ecological balance of the Adirondack Forest Preserve. The club's commitment to responsible hunting and fishing ensures the continued abundance of wildlife in this untouched wilderness.

Club Life and Camaraderie

For over seven decades, the Gooley Club has been a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, bringing together like-minded individuals with a passion for nature. Memberships have been passed down through generations, creating a community where the love for hunting, fishing, and the great outdoors is a shared legacy.

 

Evolution and Legacy

Over the years, the Gooley Club has evolved to include a diverse range of recreational pursuits, from canoeing and kayaking to photography and mountain biking. As the club continues to welcome new members, it stays true to its roots, offering a blend of tradition and modern amenities, ensuring that the spirit of the Adirondacks lives on.

Join us in celebrating the enduring spirit of the Adirondacks, where the Gooley Club's legacy continues to thrive, echoing through the mountains and waters that have been its home for over seven remarkable decades.