Lake George: The Miniature Golf Capital of New York

Have you visited the miniature golf capital of New York? With an abundance of fabulous mini golf courses, the Lake George area has earned this title.

Do you know the history of mini golf? The game began at the turn of the century, as "golf in miniature" - literally! The small courses were designed to look just like regulation courses, with manicured green grass, a country club feel, and even caddies! Miniature golf was also one of the first sports to be played in the evening - the mini golf courses were placed under bright lights to make it possible to play in the dark. It became a fashionable pastime in the late hours, with some courses staying open until 4am!

Miniature golf changed during the Great Depression, when the old pasttime became too expensive for the majority of hard-up Americans. Instead of fading out completely, the game of "Rinkiedink" golf evolved. Rinkiedink golf involved courses full of hazards and obstacles, made out of anything an owner could scavenge. This development lead to many of the popular wheels, bridges, and other frustrating obstacles we see on the mini-golf course today.

The Lake George region has nearly a dozen mini-golf courses, making it home to nearly 25% of all the miniature golf courses in New York State. How has it become so popular in the region? "It is a game of fun with a little bit of friendly competition thrown in," said Mary Giella, owner of Lumberjack Pass Miniature Golf. "Everyone's a winner."

Giella's Lumberjack Pass course was designed in the old style, with gardens, waterfalls, sandtraps, and lush green ground. It's a great place to head in the summer heat, with "misters", umbrellas, and ice cream treats to make you cool and comfortable! The course is wheelchair accessible, and according the Giella, they have had players from the still-in-strollers ages to 98! "Come and enjoy," she invites one and all.

"We hope you enjoy your miniature golf experience in the Lake George region or, as we like to call it - the Miniature golf capitol of New York!"

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