Press for August Lodge Cooperstown hotel
“Inn in the Clouds” article from the “freemans_journal” (Click on the link to read the article).
August Lodge and Spa Cooperstown Hotel Hosts Crew of “Haunted Collectors“ TV Show.
The crew of the Syfy Channel’s “The Haunted Collector” used his August Lodge and Spa as the base camp to set up operations to investigate a house that is allegedly haunted in Cooperstown, NY.
August Lodge Owner Refurbishes Cooperstown Hotel
________________________________________________________________
Steve Stegman of August Lodge: Come to Cooperstown
Steve Stegman of August Lodge explains why Cooperstown is the perfect vacation destination for sports fans.
Sports Fans Will Love Cooperstown: Steve Stegman of August Lodge Explains
Steve Stegman, of August Lodge, has lauded Cooperstown as the best vacation spot for any baseball fan this summer.
With the annual Hall of Fame weekend penciled in for July 25-28, featuring the induction of six former Major League Baseball players, Stegman says that the weekend is an event not to be missed for sports fans everywhere. As the owner of August Lodge, a twenty-five room Adirondack-style luxury lodge near the tiny village of Hartwick Seminary, just minutes from Cooperstown, Steve Stegman has a true local’s perspective on the area.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. In celebration of the diamond jubilee, the Cooperstown museum will play host to a variety of events, including the Parade of Legends and culminating in the Hall of Fame induction on July 27th, at the Clark Sports Center.
This year will see the induction of former managers (among whom Bobby Cox, Joe Torre and Tony La Russa will be inducted) and former players (including Greg Maddux of the Atlanta Braves; Tom Glavine of the Atlanta Braves and New York Mets; and Frank Thomas of the Oakland Athletics, Toronto Blue Jays, and Chicago White Sox).
Steve Stegman, of August Lodge, says that Cooperstown becomes a mecca for the baseball fan, on Hall of Fame Weekend. “Cooperstown features many great things to do for baseball fans of all ages,” he says.
Baseball fans that stay in town through Monday will also be able to take advantage of a roundtable discussion involving the newest Hall of Fame inductees on July 28 at 10:30 a.m.
Other highlights for fans, according to Stegman, are the many appearances of Hall of Famers around town throughout the weekend. Several formal autograph booths, with set appearance schedules, can be found on Main Street in Cooperstown throughout the weekend.
The Otsego county town has many more activities and amenities for those with less of an affinity towards the national game also, says Steve Stegman. “There are few places more beautiful than Cooperstown in summer,” he adds.
The glorious Otsego county summer offers vacationers the chance to explore many of the natural wonders in the locality.
Vacationers rave about the unspoiled beauty of the countryside around Otsego Lake, where you can get a boat tour on the Glimmerglass Queen. The curated trip offers a relaxing view of the history and beauty of James Fenimore Cooper’s fabled Leatherstocking Tales, some of which were based in the area.
For those interested in other boating adventures, the nearby historic Erie Canal, which originally opened up in 1825 and helped New York City eclipse Philadelphia as the largest city and port on the Eastern Seaboard, is a great way to see the grandeur of Otsego County, according to Stegman. Closed to boat traffic in the winter months, vacationers can rent boats or take cruises throughout the summer in nearby Herkimer.
There are many other methods to take in the local scenery however, says Steve Stegman, of August Lodge. The nearby Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad allows visitors to experience many special rain rides throughout the year. Crossing several steel-truss bridges dating from the 1800’s, the scenic railroad is a must for any rail fan. Lucky children can even have the opportunity to ride in the engine with the operators, to see how a huge, vintage diesel engine is run.
For the craft beer aficionado, Cooperstown is host to one of the nations most celebrated innovative craft brewers. Based on a 135-acre former hop farm, Ommegang Brewery is a world-renowned brewer of Belgian-style beers, offering six award-winning beers year round, in addition to limited edition seasonal and special- brews.
The Ommegang Brewery, whose beer draws rave reviews from critics and beer connoisseurs alike, is open all year around, offering tours and tastings seven days a week. In addition, the brewery offers authentic Belgian cuisine at Café Ommegang, as well as an on-site store.
Museum buffs who want to step outside of baseball are also catered to in Cooperstown, which is home to The Fenimore Art Museum and The Farmers’ Museum. The Fenimore Art Museum houses many changing and permanent exhibitions of American Folk Art, North American Indian art and artifacts, Hudson River Schooland 19th-century genre paintings, and American photography.
For its part, The Farmer’s Museum offers visitors the opportunity to recreate rural life in Otsego County from the 19th century, through exhibits and interactive workshops. The museum features more than two dozen authentic, historic buildings on its grounds, including a tavern, a farmstead, a printing office, a pharmacy, a blacksmith’s shop, a doctor’s office, and a general store.
Cooperstown offers a wide array of things to do for visitors of all ages throughout the summer. According to Steve Stegman of August Lodge, the scenery, fine weather— and of course, baseball— make this village an ideal getaway.
Stephen Elliott contributed to this article.
Recommend
Suggest a link
WRITTEN BY
Olawale Daniel
Olawale Daniel
I’m a business psychologist and strategist. Love coding, gaming, reading and writing what matters because that’s what the world is all about. Sharing is caring.
Follow
___________________________________________________________________________________
Wamba July 28, 2014
Steve Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown Advises on Maximizing Tech in Your Business
by Karl McD, July 28, 2014
Using technology to improve your business is a requirement in today’s world, particularly in the hospitality industry, according to Steve Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown, located in New York.
As Stegman explains, a successful hotel, lodge, or weekend getaway should provide its guests with all of the latest technology available to make their stay more comfortable. This can include amenities such as free wireless Internet, easy automated check-in, and a business center that offers the latest advancements in convenience and connectivity.
In an industry that is generally not known for its technological savvy, hotels around the country are working to become more tech savvy. Hilton announced in January that it planned to start offering faster Wi-Fi at hotels that already offer it for free, though the faster option would cost money. The new offering became available first at Hilton’s limited service and extended stay brands, though it will likely expand to other brands as well. The price varies depending on the location, but guests can expect a charge of $3.95 or something close to it.
Chekitan Dev, marketing professor at Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration, explained to USA Today in January, “Giving hotel guests choices is usually a smart brand strategy, assuming the choices are not too many or too bewildering.”
Hilton currently charges for basic Wi-Fi at some brands, which is currently the industry standard. However, HotelManager.net asserts in a recent article that this industry standard could change soon. The site explains that, in a survey carried out by Hotels.com, free Wi-Fi is the most chosen amenity selected by potential travelers when they search for a hotel.
From the survey, hotels.com saw 38 percent of participants choose free Wi-Fi as an option that had to be available in their hotel. While 35 percent stated that they would prefer to see more hotels provide free Wi-Fi, 31 percent wished each hotel would add the amenity within the year.
Steve Stegman contends that free Wi-Fi should be standard in the hospitality industry, because of the rapid advancement of mobile Internet use, especially among younger generations. “In order for hotels and lodges to stay ahead of the curve, free Wi-Fi is a must. Offering this amenity can make guests more satisfied and also attract a younger generation that relies more on mobile Internet use,” he says.
However, technology use in the hotel industry should also go beyond offering free Wi-Fi, according to Stegman.
In a New York Times article entitled “The Millenials Check In”, writer Janet Morrissey agrees, noting that many hotel owners and operators are working to remodel their existing hotels or introduce new ones that offer free hotelwide Wi-Fi connections, in-room power consoles to plug in electronic devices, and charging stations in public areas. Another expert cited in Morrissey’s article adds that hotels that ignore these younger travelers will be at a severe competitive disadvantage. Travel spending by younger travelers rose 20 percent in 2010, according to American Express Business Insights. This makes the group the fastest-growing age segment, though they still lag behind the baby boomer generation in overall spending.
While some hotels are offering free Wi-Fi to attract younger generations, others like the Plaza Hotel in New York have gone one step further by furnishing every room with an iPad. Guests can use the device to control lighting, order room service, pay their hotel bill, read the morning paper, and adjust the air-conditioning.
HotelManager.net adds that, 23 percent of the Hotels.com survey participants mentioned their most favorite in-room amenity was the use of an iPad, which they used for things like learning information about the area, guest services, and personal use. They also noted the presence of sophisticated coffee machines, iPod dock, video game and fitness facilities in the room, but this technology was not as important.
Along with technology in the room, hoteliers are also catering to younger generations by offering service, marketing, and customer support through social media. Morrissey writes that when young travelers have an issue at a hotel, they are more likely to take to social media to complain then bring the issue up with a hotel manager, as their predecessors normally do. In early 2010, Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide responded to the trend by hiring a team of 20 people who monitor and respond to online complaints and comments.
Steve Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown explains that there are several ways that the hospitality industry can use technology to its advantage to attract more business – especially among the millennial generation – and remain competitive. Stegman’s business is one of the first hotels in the state of New York to offer free Wi-Fi in all the rooms, and he believes this should become the industry standard.
As Steve Stegman and other hospitality and tourism professionals contend, taking advantage of modern technology will become critical to the industry’s continued success in the coming years.
Melissa Stusinski contributed to this article.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Steve Stegman Questions Whether the Hospitality Industry is Losing its Luster
by Karl McD, July 28, 2014
Business owner Steve Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown believes that the hospitality industry is slowly declining. The results of the 2012 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Survey from JD Power and Associates reflects Stegman’s beliefs.
According to the survey, guest satisfaction fell to 757 points out of 1,000 in 2012, down 11 points from 2011. The 2012 survey also found that satisfaction with checking in and out, food and drink options, and hotel service were at lows not seen since 2006. Satisfaction increased somewhat by the 2013 survey, which found that guest satisfaction had increased to 777 points out of 1,000.
In light of these results, experts such as Stegman feel that hotels and those in the hospitality industry have a ways to go if they want to regain customer approval in a major way.
Getting Up to Date
Although Stegman describes himself as a “traditionally minded hotel proprietor,” he understands the importance that technology plays in providing guests with a stellar experience.
No one wants to be without Internet access nowadays, even if they are staying in a rural hotel. While the August Lodge in Cooperstown, New York was one of the first hotels in the state to offer free Wi-Fi access to guests in all the rooms, some hotels still haven’t gotten the message.
The 2013 JD Power study found that Internet access, or lack thereof, remained a big issue for guests. In fact, 31 percent of guests who had a problem with their Internet access during their hotel stay either had connection problems or speed issues. According to Steve Stegman, that’s just unacceptable. “There’s no reason not to offer guests reliable, high speed Internet in this day and age,” he says. “Maintaining a steady connection doesn’t take much time and effort. If a hotel says it has free Wi-Fi, an essential component of hospitality is making sure that the Internet works at all times, in every room.”
Stegman believes that charging guests for Internet access reflects a decline in the hospitality industry, and survey results back him up. The 2012 JD Power study found that many people felt that a hotel was taking advantage of guests when it charged extra for Wi-Fi. Hotels that lumped the charge for Internet into a “resort fee” earned the most resentment from their guests.
Personal Interaction
Technology is working against the hotel industry in other ways, says Stegman. A decline in person-to-person interaction between hotel guests and hotel employees can also have a negative impact on a guest’s overall satisfaction, according to the 2013 JD Power survey.
The survey found that guests who had interactions with at least four different types of hotel employee over the course of their stay gave the highest satisfaction ratings: 856 out of 1,000. Guests who only interacted with the check-in staff gave the lowest satisfaction ratings: 724 out of 1,000.
Stegman notes that there are a number of ways in which hospitality companies can increase interaction between staff and guests. He stresses the importance of having staff members greet guests cheerfully, even if the staff member isn’t providing service to that guest at the moment.
Creating an environment that seems welcoming and friendly is paramount to the guest’s experience. Guests want to feel relaxed and welcome, and a friendly “Good morning” or “Hello” as a staff member passes them in the hallway can do just that. Going that extra mile and taking the time to learn guests’ names is also an important part of increasing their satisfaction.
Giving Guests What They Want
The role of a hotel proprietor and his staff is to make sure that guests have what they want throughout their stay. For most hotels, that means providing free Internet access. In this day and age, it also means making sure that there’s excellent cell phone service throughout the property.
As Stegman further explains, it’s the “little things” that make an individual’s experience special, and they ultimately make a big difference when it comes to giving guests what they want. For example, most guests have come to expect certain features in their rooms, such as a coffee maker, iron, and cable television. There’s no reason why a hotel should be without these features.
One way hoteliers can make sure they are meeting guests’ needs and expectations is to ask guests for feedback at the end of their stay or after the guest has gone home. It’s not enough to provide a guest with an excellent stay the first time. Hotels need to make sure they are giving guests what they want, whether that guest is a first-time visitor or has stayed there 50 or more times.
Hotels can also go above and beyond the expectations of guests by being ready to recommend things to do in the area. A hotel can make itself stand apart from the crowd if the staff is able to answer guests’ questions about things to do, or if the hotel takes the extra step and provides guests with that information when they check in.
In the hotel industry, the customer remains king. For hospitality not to lose its luster, Steve Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown believes every hotel owner should always bear this in mind.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Steven Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown on Planning Special Events
Steven Stegman of August Lodge assists event planners with the daunting task of setting up a large function at a hotel.
Planning an Event With Steven Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown
Planning an event like a business meeting can be an intimidating task; Steven Stegman of August Lodge indicates that finding a location can be the most tedious portion of the entire ordeal. However, that is not to say that it is impossible. Once the hotel is booked, the rest of the process is simple. Event planners who are experiencing some difficulty with this task should look at the following tips for finding a hotel to host a function.
– Most hotels have a “high” and “low” season when it comes to finding the best rates. Depending on these dates, prices can differ vastly, for instance the winter rates at August Lodge are a whopping 66% less than the summer rates. Ideally, event planners should aim to meet around the holidays since this is when hotels have their best deals. Conversely, during city parades or festivals, hotels can be extremely expensive, so it is wise to avoid dates of major events.
– There is a certain pattern with hotel deals that follows the days of the week. Many hotels will charge more for weekend stays than on weekdays. Corporate parks can offer the fairest rates for people who are planning an event during the weekends. For people planning weekday gatherings, they should look at resorts, since these types of hotels rely on weekend business to make the most money.
– When booking a hotel, the planner should check to see if they would be hosting a banquet event as well. By letting the hotel know of a potential banquet, they can get a hall ready and prepared for the event. Also, some hotels will give additional discounts for groups that stay at their lodgings and eat their food.
– It never hurts to negotiate with a hotel for a deal. Many hotels will work with planners who will book blocks of people or utilize their catering services. These large packages can bring in lots of money so they will not want to lose out on a sale. Therefore, they may make a deal to take off part of the overall cost in exchange for a larger amount of services.
– The hotel planner should set up a schedule of the entire event and forward this itinerary to all of the guests. If there are nights off where there is no function going on, planners should look at hotels that are in close proximity to attractions and restaurants.
Now that the hotel has been booked, the next step is to plan the actual event and to let guests know about the upcoming function. Below are some tips for recruiting guests to attend an event:
– Always plan ahead. Planners should let their guests know in advance about their event. They will want to send out “Save the Date” emails to make sure that they are notified of the function. It is wise to use a format that allows people to respond so that the planner can confirm who will come.
– Planners should create a buzz to attract people. If it is a formal business function, some people may not want to attend since they will equate it with work. However, the smart planners can make an event sound appealing by offering incentives for people to come. They can offer prizes, gift baskets, guest speakers, and much more.
– Besides entertainment, planners should make their event convenient. Steven Stegman of August Lodge indicates that one of the leading causes of people turning down invitations to a formal event is because of inconvenience. Planners should provide a map to all of the guests and should make the event take place at a convenient time of the year.
– It is vital to plan for walk-ins. There are bound to be more guests than the ones who RSVP’d so planners should accommodate extra visitors. Nothing can make guests more flustered than an event not having enough food, drinks, seats, or hotel rooms. Understocking for a formal event should be avoided at all costs, especially for an event that is featuring potential clients for a business.
Steven Stegman says, “Preparing an event for your employees is one thing, but organizing a large-scale function for clients is a whole different ballgame. You have to make an excellent presentation to people whose business you want. That means you will need to step up your efforts in the planning stage. Everything has to go perfectly. Clients will see how you handle business in how you handle this event.”
There are several factors to an event that can impress clients:
– Planners should set up the event to appeal to their target clientele by offering unique services. For example, a suit manufacturer can offer suit-fittings, upscale beverages, shoe-shinings, and other features at a formal event so that clients can get a glimpse at the company and its services.
– Event planners should provide outstanding services and excellent accommodations for customers. As mentioned earlier, a minor inconvenience like insufficient seating can cause a guest to have low expectations of a host. Steven Stegman of August Lodge encourages event planners to do all in their power to make guests as comfortable as possible during their attendance of a large-scale function.
ABOUT:
Steven Stegman operates the August Lodge, a hotel in Cooperstown, New York, which features 25 suites, a massage spa, a hot tub, a volleyball court, and over 200 acres of land to explore. This location is ideal for families who are in town to participate in the baseball tournaments at Cooperstown Dreams Park. Steven Stegman of August Lodge indicates that his hotel is the perfect spot for weddings, formal events, and many other social situations that require the accommodation of a large amount of guests.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Steven Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown Recommends Outdoor Activities
Steven Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown encourages people to take part in the following outdoor activities as part of their bucket lists.
Completing Your Bucket List by Steve Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown
The world is large and full of wonder, but most people are too busy sitting around and not taking advantage of what life has to offer; Steven Stegman of August Lodge, however, explains that there are numerous outdoor activities that are worth exploring at some point in everyone’s life. It is never too late to start knocking out activities on one’s bucket list.
It may seem difficult, but there are hundreds of outdoor activities to participate in around the world that are worth the effort. Not only are people building up their mental and physical strength by taking part in these activities, but they are also compiling an impressive bucket list full of memorable experiences. Below are some necessary outdoor activities that should make their way onto people’s bucket list.
Play rugby
One of the most physically demanding sports in the world, rugby pits large players against each other in a no-holds bar match similar to football, only much more intense. The game requires people to sweat, strategize, collaborate, and dominate. Even though people who take part in this sport will find themselves aching at the end of the day, rugby is still considered a favorite pastime that everyone should try out at some point in their lives.
Take a road trip
Many Americans have not ventured outside of their hometown except when going to a nearby amusement park or beach. A great idea for people who want to see the beauty of nature is to take a road trip from one coast to the other. It can be exhausting and expensive, but explorers find that the thousands of miles of continuous driving can be cleansing and relieving of sorts. Bucket-list-completers can take it one step further and can stop in each mainland state to take a photo.
Scuba dive
Being able to breathe underwater and explore the depths of the ocean is a fantastic moment that all outdoor enthusiasts should sample at some point in the future. Scuba diving certification is inexpensive and opens up a world of possibilities for divers. They can see the beauty of the world from a different perspective by traveling into the world’s oceans.
Visit an exotic animal
Visiting a zoo is a great experience, but people who want to boost their bucket list should try to see animals in the wild if possible. There are safaris in some of the most remote sections on the planet where rare animals can be found in their natural habitat. Bucket-list enthusiasts should pick a particular animal and then make it their mission to see it in person.
Steven Stegman of August Lodge states, “Completing a bucket list is more than just taking part in a bunch of activities. It is about exploring new environments and communities around the world. Some people do not realize what beauty there is in the world and should really start traveling more as part of their bucket list. It can be costly, but the experience is worth it.”
Steven Stegman recommends that people visit the following locations at some point in their lives.
National Baseball Hall of Fame – Cooperstown,NY
The Hall of Fame chronicles America’s pastime from its beginning in this charming small country village to modern day major league events. This delightful Victorian town is also the home of James Fenimore Cooper, author of the Last of the Mohicans, the Cooper Museum, the Farmers Museum, pristine Otsego Lake, the Leatherstocking Golf Course (one of America’s top 10) and, the Otsego Golf course (one of America’s 10 oldest).
Zhangye Danxia – Gansu, China
The Zhangye Danxia landform in China is a collection of rainbow-splashed mountains that gained their pigmentation from red sandstone and mineral deposits that have accumulated over the past 24 million years.
Swing at the “End of the World” – Banos, Ecuador
On the edge of the country of Ecuador lies a tree house overlooking a steep valley and an active volcano in the distance. Travelers can swing without a harness if they are feeling courageous enough and can enjoy an outstanding view of the South American countryside.
The Great Blue Hole – Belize
Right off the coast of Belize is a submersed sinkhole in the ocean depths. It is considered one of the top scuba diving sites in the entire world and is reportedly 407 feet deep.
Tulip fields – the Netherlands
A common misconception is that Keukenhof is the Garden of Europe and boasts the largest tulip fields in the region. In fact, the main fields are located just outside of the garden and are privately owned.
Hang Son Doong – Quang Binh Province, Vietnam
The Hang Son Doong cave in Vietnam is the largest of its kind in the entire world. It was created between two to five million years ago and is so large that a half-mile of buildings over 40 stories tall could fit inside of it.
Mendenhall Ice Caves – Alaska, United States
The Mendenhall Ice Caves of Juneau expand a long distance underneath the Mendenhall Glacier. The features actually melt while travelers walk through them, but they are ultimately safe for the risk-taking adventurer. Steven Stegman of August Lodge mentions that hundreds of people travel to the coldest reaches of the United States to get a glimpse of this national landform.
ABOUT:
Steven Stegman is the proprietor of the August Lodge, a hotel in Cooperstown, New York, that caters to families who are on vacation, wedding parties, formal gatherings, and much more. The lodge has 25 suites within a two-story timber frame building that is situated atop a flower-covered meadow. Steven Stegman of August Lodge indicates that this resort is full of fun amenities such as volleyball courts, heated in-ground pools, hot tubs, a kid’s playground, hiking trails, and a massage spa.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Steve Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown Weighs In on Snowmobile Safety
Steve Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown shares his top safety tips for snowmobilers.
Snowmobile Safety Tips From Steve Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown
Inspired by International Snowmobile Safety Week, which took place this January, Steve Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown says that the main Otsego County snowmobile trails pass right through August Lodge land, and safety should be a top priority, not just for one week, but all year round. By sticking to the rules and playing it safe, snowmobiling is one of the most exciting, fun, and thrilling ways to experience winter. America’s snow-lined countryside, especially in areas like Upstate New York, is ideal for getting out and experiencing a real winter wonderland.
Stegman says that over the past decade, snowmobiling has been quickly rising in popularity, and it is no secret why. In New York alone, there are more than 10,000 miles of trails, and absolutely incredible scenery to take in. Trails wind through woodlands, around lakes, and through the countryside. Many routes even connect towns and feature rider-friendly eateries. As the activity grows in popularity, more and more people are hitting the trails. That means that riders should take special care to maintain etiquette and safety rules so the trails can stay safe and exciting for everyone on them.
International Snowmobile Safety Week was created to promote safety education and enforcement for snowmobilers. Stegman urges beginners and seasoned riders alike to brush up on their safety every year before going out on the trails. Kevin Henry, the senior product manager at Foremost, reports that unsafe instances are generally caused by a “lack of safety knowledge.” He says that “snowmobiling is a great winter activity and [we want] your adventures to be both fun and safe.” Experienced riders understand how fulfilling and thrilling the activity is, and want to make the trails as worry-free as possible for every rider out there.
As winter continues to bring snow to the countryside, Steve Stegman of August Lodge says that there will be more opportunities for snowmobiling, more snowmobilers out and about, and more activities on the trails. To help ensure the most fun, Stegman shares some of his best tips for making the most of every snowmobiling trip.
Keep the machine in good shape. An owner’s manual and the dealer from whom the machine was purchased are both good resources in keeping every snowmobile in good condition. Consult both resources to make sure the machine is working well.
Dress for the conditions. When out on the trails, wear lots of layers. That allows riders to either add more layers or reduce them, depending on the weather conditions. It is especially important to have a windproof outer layer, as well as gloves and mittens, and boots and a helmet. Stegman says to also ensure that the helmet is safety certified, as well as being the right size and in good condition. A visor can also help to keep vision clear and guard against the wind while winding through the trails.
Go in a group. Whenever possible, avoid snowmobiling alone. The most obvious reason being, it is just more fun with family and friends! However, in terms of safety, it is always better to go in a group. People can watch out for each other, or seek out help if necessary.
Write out a trail plan. When hitting the trail, think like a pilot or a boater. Keep a plan or log of what trails will be taken that day. If a rider does not come home when they are expected to, friends or family will know exactly where to look.
Turn properly. Riders should always let others on the trails know where they are headed next. Keep these basic hand signals in mind:
-Left turn: Extend the left arm straight out
-Right turn: Extend the left arm out, raise the forearm and keep the elbow at a 90-degree angle.
-Stop: Raise the left arm straight up into the air.
-Slow down: Extend the left arm and angle it down toward the ground.
Avoid water. Never cross over a river or lake on a snowmobile. The ice reduces traction and the ability to stop or turn. Furthermore, depending on conditions, the ice may not be able to hold the weight of the machine.
Stay to the right. Many trails are two-way, which means there could be oncoming traffic. Stay on the right side of the trail, especially when going around corners or going up hills. Furthermore, always obey trail signs, and approach cross roadways with caution.
Adopt a zero tolerance policy. While a mountain getaway might mean warming up with a drink for some travelers, Steve Stegman of August Lodge says to never drink alcohol before going snowmobiling. It can negatively impact a rider’s reaction time, vision, coordination, and balance.
Slow down. Maintain maximum control by keeping a steady, slower speed. Allow for lots of reaction time when choosing a speed, and drive defensively, especially after the sun starts to set.
Pack a safety kit. Before heading out, make sure to pack a safety kit, equipped with a compass, map, flashlight, waterproof matches, and a knife. Also consider packing an extra set of warm socks and gloves or mittens, in case the first pair gets wet.
Check the weather report. One of the most important steps in making sure each ride is fun and enjoyable is to check the weather before heading out. Listen to the forecast before hitting the trail, and remember that snowmobiling after dark and through the mountains means taking extra care.
By following these tips, and even taking a safety course, riders can make sure that their trips are exciting and memorable. As an avid fan of snowmobiling and other winter sports, Steve Stegman of August Lodge wants everyone to have the absolute most fun while enjoying the winter weather.
ABOUT:
Stegman has created an ideal country experience for visitors wanting to enjoy a winter wonderland in Upstate New York. Surrounded by woodlands, but close to exciting attractions, his lodge makes the perfect seasonal getaway for families, singles, and couples alike. Steve Stegman of August Lodge is dedicated to offering guests an outstanding and exciting experience to make memories that will last a lifetime.
_______________________________________________________________________________
SEO Title: Family Spring Break Trips With Steve Stegman Of August Lodge Cooperstown
Meta-Description: Spring break travel can be fun for the whole family, says Steve Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown. This list provides six exciting choices.
Six Great Spring Break Destinations For Families With Steve Stegman Of August Lodge Cooperstown
Steve Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown, a luxury family getaway in upstate New York, knows that it can be difficult to plan a spring break trip that will please your entire family. Rest assured that there are many options that are sure to give you the relaxing family time that you are craving without breaking the bank. No matter where you are in the country, you can find gorgeous and affordable vacation spots that will keep a whole family happy.
With spring just around the corner, now is the perfect time to finalize your spring break travel plans. This list offers six wide-ranging and family-friendly choices that are sure to satisfy any family.
Relax, rejuvenate and reconnect with your family at the stunning August Lodge in Cooperstown, New York. Spring break hotel rates are an incredible 66% off of summer rates. Set in the mountains atop the gorgeous Susquehanna Valley, August Lodge offers a casual, country atmosphere in a spectacular, natural setting. Kids can explore the great outdoors, while you relax pool-side enjoying the breathtaking vistas. Independently-owned and operated by Steve Stegman of August Lodge, the cozy, the rustic décor of the all-suite lodge makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a simpler time. Slow down and reconnect with nature. Ride horses through the crisp, mountain air. Collect wildflowers in August Lodge’s glorious meadows. Baseball-lovers will be thrilled with the nearby Cooperstown Dreams Park, just one mile away, and National Baseball Hall of Fame, five miles distance. Despite its rustic setting, August Lodge also offers high-end spa services, including massages and facials. August Lodge is an ideal spring break destination.
If you’re desperate for warmth and the comforting feel of sand between your toes, consider a stay at the historic Driftwood Resort in Vero Beach on Florida’s Treasure Coast. Enjoy private, boardwalk access to Vero’s pristine beaches. Take a family kayaking lesson or just unwind to the sound of the surf. Vero Beach offers a family-oriented atmosphere with a fraction of the crowds of Miami or Fort Lauderdale. Visit the Environmental Learning Center where kids can learn hands-on about local sea life. Consider renting one of the Driftwood’s family-friendly villas right on the Atlantic.
Let loose your inner cowboy at Rancho de los Caballeros in Wickenburg, Arizona. This family-owned and operated dude ranch set in the majestic Sonoran desert offers endless activities that will delight the whole family. Ride horses through the desert. Explore the unique setting on a guided ATV tour or even soaring through the sky in a hot-air balloon. Rancho de los Caballeros provides a casual, relaxing atmosphere, complete with nightly campfires, but also the full amenities of a resort, including reflexology and massage services.
If you can’t put off that communion with nature for one more day, but it’s still be too chilly to camp over spring break in your neck of the woods, then head to Hunting Island State Park in South Carolina. Set on South Carolina’s rugged coastline, the spring weather is ideal for outdoor camping. Step out of your tent and stretch your legs on the short walk to the park’s 5 mile expanse of beach where you can watch one of the most stunning sunrises of your life. Hunting Island State Park also boasts a saltwater lagoon and a glorious maritime forest, with miles of winding paths for biking and walking. Kids love visiting the aquariums and animal exhibits in the Nature Center and climbing the 175 feet to the top of the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse.
Exploring a new city is always an exciting option for spring break travel and Seattle offers endless options for family fun. Stay at the Pan Pacific Hotel Seattle where you can enjoy gorgeous views of the Space Needle and Lake Union from floor-to-ceiling windows. A shuttle will take your family into downtown Seattle where you can visit Pike Place Market and enjoy a latte from the “original” Starbucks. Stroll down the Downtown waterfront and then return back to the hotel for an elegant meal at the adjacent restaurant.
Sneak some history lessons into your spring vacation when you visit the Williamsburg Inn in Virginia’s Colonial Williamsburg. Get into the spirit of American independence as you stroll through the Revolutionary City. Kids love the live performances and interacting with the performers in period dress. The Williamsburg Inn offers luxury accommodations in a central location, as well as additional perks, including discounted admission to attractions, unlimited use of shuttle buses and preferred reservations for nearby restaurants.
Planning spring break travel doesn’t have to leave you exasperated and overwhelmed. Just ask Steve Stegman of August Lodge Cooperstown. Once you have a particular destination or activity in mind, proprietors like Steve are more than happy to assist in all aspects of vacation planning.
Whether you choose to visit Steve Stegman of August Lodge or one of the other options, rest easy knowing that you are well on your way to a pleasant and entertaining week of carefree, family fun.
______________________________________________________________________________________