Anyone who has spent time in the Adirondack wilderness knows what a welcome sight a lean-to is at the end of a long day. For hundreds of years, these simple, 3-sided structures have provided overnight shelter, rest stops, lunch spots, solitude, and serendipitous social encounters for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. For Dave and I, the lean-tos scattered throughout the High Peaks and along the Northville-Placid trail have provided welcome spots for meals, mid-day pep talks, afternoon siestas, overnight stays – and shelter to many fond memories of our outdoor adventures.

Lean2Rescue – a group of hard-working hikers, climbers, hunters, skiers, paddlers, and all-around good people – have restored, rehabilitated and rescued more than 30 of these Adirondack icons since 2004. Started by Paul DeLucia of Baldwinsville, NY, the all volunteer group works closely with the DEC to identify and complete suitable projects – from roof repairs to entirely new structures. Most of the work is carried out using non-motorized tools and vehicles, and the bulk of the building material is carried into the woods via canoe, portage carts, and human pack mules. And perhaps most impressive of all, Lean2Rescue operates year-round, not even breaking for the harsh Adirondack winters.

Currently, Lean2Rescue is building a new lean-to for the Bear Lake area. Images are courtesy of wilderness photographer and Lean2Rescue volunteer Gary F. Dean.

Once completed, the Bear Lake lean-to will be disassembled, deilvered to the trailhead, and carried 1.7 miles to its final home, where hikers and other passers-by will welcome the sight of it for years to come.

To learn more about Lean2Rescue or to alert them to new lean-to restoration needs in the Adirondack park, visit www.lean2rescue.org.