Adirondacks

Adirondacks Travel Guide

The Adirondack Mountains is a mountain range in northeastern New York. It is a vast, natural playground and a cherished region for many outdoor enthusiasts. Here's a guide to help you make the most of your visit.

Overview

• Size: Over 6 million acres, with 2.6 million acres belonging to the state forest preserve.

• Features: 46 major peaks, hundreds of lakes, thousands of miles of rivers and streams, and a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Adirondacks largely depends on your interests and what activities you plan on partaking in. Here's a breakdown of the seasons:

Fall (Late September to October)

• Pros: This is arguably the most picturesque time to visit the Adirondacks. The fall foliage is in full display, painting the mountains in vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow.

• Activities: Scenic drives, hiking, photography, apple picking.

• Things to Consider: It can get crowded, especially during peak foliage weeks. Booking accommodations in advance is recommended.

Winter (December to February)

• Pros: If you enjoy winter sports, this is the time to visit. The Adirondacks become a winter wonderland with snow-covered peaks and frozen lakes.

• Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and winter festivals.

• Things to Consider: It can be very cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. Be prepared with proper winter gear.

Spring (April to June)

• Pros: Spring sees the thawing of the region with blooming wildflowers and milder temperatures. It's less crowded compared to fall and summer.

• Activities: Hiking, bird-watching, fishing.

• Things to Consider: Snow can linger on higher elevations, and some trails might be muddy. It's also black fly season, so bring insect repellent.

Summer (July to early September)

• Pros: Warm weather and longer days mean you can spend more time outdoors. The lakes and rivers are perfect for water activities.

• Activities: Hiking, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, camping.

• Things to Consider: This is the peak tourist season, so popular spots can get crowded. It's advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance.

Getting to Adirondacks

Reaching the Adirondacks is relatively straightforward, thanks to its accessibility from several key locations in the Northeast. Here's a breakdown of the various ways you can get there:

• By Car:

  • The Adirondacks are most commonly accessed by car, given the expansive nature of the region and the ease of mobility it offers once there.

  • Major Highways: Interstate 87 (often referred to as the Adirondack Northway) runs north-south and is the primary artery into the Adirondacks. From the west, you can approach using NY-3 or NY-28.

• By Air:

  • Albany International Airport (ALB): Located about 2-3 hours from most points in the Adirondacks, Albany's airport is the closest major airport. It offers numerous daily flights to major cities across the US.

  • Adirondack Regional Airport (SLK): Located in Saranac Lake, it's smaller but brings you right into the heart of the Adirondacks.

  • Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG): Another option on the northern side of the Adirondacks, especially for those coming from or connecting through Montreal.

• By Train:

  • Amtrak: The Adirondack service runs between New York City and Montreal, stopping in places like Westport and Plattsburgh along the way. Shuttle services often connect train stops to key destinations within the Adirondacks, such as the Westport to Lake Placid shuttle.

• By Bus:

  • Greyhound and Trailways NY have routes that serve various towns within the Adirondacks. This option is often less popular due to the reduced flexibility it offers compared to having a personal vehicle in the region.

• Public and Private Shuttles:

  • Several shuttle services operate within the Adirondacks, especially catering to hikers. These can be a valuable resource if you're looking to traverse trails that start and end at different points.

Note: If you're not bringing your own car, it's highly recommended to rent one upon arrival. The Adirondacks span a vast area, and having a car allows you to explore at your own pace and access many of the region's remote treasures.

Top Attractions

The Adirondacks offer a vast array of attractions, from natural wonders to historical sites. Here are some of the top attractions:

1. Lake Placid: Not only famous for hosting the Winter Olympics twice, but this village is also a hub for various activities, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and kayaking in the summer.

2. High Peaks Wilderness: Home to the 46 High Peaks, this area offers some of the most challenging and rewarding hikes in the Adirondacks. Mount Marcy, the tallest peak in New York, is a popular choice for many.

3. Saranac Lake: Apart from the beautiful lake itself, the village is known for its Winter Carnival and ice palace construction.

4. The Wild Center in Tupper Lake: An interactive natural history museum with exhibits both inside and out, including the Wild Walk—a series of walkways and platforms that take you above the forest.

5. Fort Ticonderoga: A historical fort situated on Lake Champlain, it offers re-enactments, artillery demonstrations, and beautiful gardens.

6. Adirondack Experience (formerly Adirondack Museum) in Blue Mountain Lake: This museum offers immersive exhibits on the history, culture, and nature of the Adirondack region.

7. Ausable Chasm: Often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks," this natural wonder offers walking trails, rafting, and stunning rock formations.

8. Lake George: A popular vacation destination known for its clear waters, boat tours, and the surrounding village filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions.

9. Whiteface Mountain: Besides being one of the High Peaks, it's a popular skiing destination in winter. In other seasons, you can drive up the Veterans Memorial Highway to nearly the summit for panoramic views.

10. Raquette Lake: One of the largest lakes in the Adirondacks, it offers beautiful scenery and the historic Great Camp Sagamore.

11. Paul Smith's College VIC (Visitor Interpretive Center): Provides educational programs and has an extensive trail system for hiking in summer and skiing/snowshoeing in winter.

12. Bog River Falls: A picturesque waterfall that's easily accessible and offers beautiful views, especially during fall foliage.

While these are some of the top attractions, the Adirondacks are vast and filled with hidden gems, scenic byways, and countless trails and waterways waiting to be explored.

Top Activities to do in the Adirondacks

The Adirondacks, with its vast wilderness, waterways, and mountainous terrains, offer a plethora of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers of all stripes. Here are the top activities to indulge in when visiting the region:

1. Hiking: With over 2,000 miles of trails, the Adirondacks offer options for all skill levels, from easy walks to challenging backcountry hikes. Conquering the 46 High Peaks is a popular challenge for avid hikers.

2. Boating, Kayaking, and Canoeing: The numerous lakes, like Lake Placid, Lake George, and the Saranac Lake Chain, along with countless rivers, offer ample opportunities for water-based activities.

3. Camping: From established campgrounds with amenities to backcountry camping sites by serene lakes, there are options to suit all types of campers.

4. Mountain Biking: Numerous trails and old logging roads are perfect for both beginners and experienced riders.

5. Fishing: The region's lakes and streams are teeming with fish, making it a haven for anglers. Popular catches include trout, bass, and pike.

6. Skiing and Snowboarding: Come winter, mountains like Whiteface and Gore transform into premier ski destinations.

7. Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: The snow-covered landscapes of the Adirondacks are perfect for exploring with snowshoes or cross-country skis.

8. Rock Climbing: The Adirondacks have several climbing spots, with the cliffs around Keene Valley being particularly popular.

9. Swimming: Many of the lakes and ponds have designated swimming areas, offering a refreshing way to enjoy the clear mountain waters.

10. Wildlife Watching: From birds to larger mammals like moose and black bear, the Adirondacks are a great place for wildlife enthusiasts.

11. Leaf Peeping: In the fall, the foliage in the Adirondacks is spectacular, attracting many visitors who come to "leaf peep" and enjoy the vibrant colors.

12. Rafting and Tubing: The region's rivers, especially the Hudson and Ausable, offer thrilling whitewater rafting experiences.

13. Horseback Riding: Explore the beauty of the Adirondacks on horseback, with several stables offering guided trail rides.

14. Snowmobiling: In the winter months, the Adirondacks' trails become a playground for snowmobilers.

15. Stargazing: Away from city lights, the Adirondacks offer clear skies perfect for stargazing, especially in more remote areas.

Regardless of the season, the Adirondacks provide an array of activities ensuring that every visitor can find something that matches their interest and adventure level.

Where to Stay

The Adirondacks span a vast area, so the best places to stay largely depend on the activities you plan on pursuing. Here's a breakdown of some of the best areas to stay, including campgrounds:

• Lake Placid:

  • Overview: Known for its Olympic history and vibrant village atmosphere.

  • Accommodations: A range of hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals.

  • Campgrounds: Meadowbrook Campground is close by and offers a mix of tent and RV sites.

• Saranac Lake:

  • Overview: A quieter alternative to Lake Placid but still with a charming village setting.

  • Accommodations: Boutique hotels, cabins, and lodges.

  • Campgrounds: Saranac Lake Islands Campground provides boat-access-only sites spread across several islands.

• Lake George:

  • Overview: A popular family destination with a bustling summer scene.

  • Accommodations: Numerous hotels, motels, and vacation homes.

  • Campgrounds: Lake George Battleground and Hearthstone Point Campground are two prominent options close to the lake.

• Old Forge:

  • Overview: Gateway to the western Adirondacks and a hub for snowmobiling in the winter.

  • Accommodations: Motels, inns, and cottages.

  • Campgrounds: Nick’s Lake Campground is a family-friendly option with hiking trails and a lake for paddling.

• Tupper Lake:

  • Overview: Less touristy, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.

  • Accommodations: Motels, lodges, and vacation rentals.

  • Campgrounds: Little Wolf Campground is town-operated and sits on the shores of Little Wolf Lake.

• Keene Valley:

  • Overview: A hiker's paradise, close to many of the High Peaks.

  • Accommodations: Bed and breakfasts, inns, and lodges.

  • Campgrounds: There are numerous state campgrounds and backcountry camping areas for those looking to be closer to the trails.

• Schroon Lake:

  • Overview: A serene lakeside town, ideal for relaxation and water activities.

  • Accommodations: Motels, bed and breakfasts, and cabins.

  • Campgrounds: Schroon Manor Campground & Cottages offers lake views and a variety of amenities.

• Ausable Chasm:

  • Overview: Stay near the "Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks."

  • Accommodations: Cabins and lodges.

  • Campgrounds: Ausable Chasm Campground offers sites with proximity to the chasm and adventure activities.

• Inlet:

  • Overview: Nestled among several lakes, offering abundant water activities.

  • Accommodations: Hotels, inns, and vacation rentals.

  • Campgrounds: Eighth Lake Campground and Limekiln Lake Campground are both in proximity.

• Raquette Lake:

  • Overview: Experience a quieter side of the Adirondacks.

  • Accommodations: Small inns and vacation rentals.

  • Campgrounds: Golden Beach Campground and Brown Tract Pond Campground provide serene settings and water access.

  
  

While these are some of the best-known areas, many hidden gems in the Adirondacks provide unique experiences. Depending on the kind of vacation you're seeking — whether it's a rugged backcountry experience, a family lake vacation, or a mountaintop retreat — there's a spot in the Adirondacks that's perfect for you.

Tips

• Weather: The mountainous terrain can lead to unpredictable weather. Always check the forecast and pack accordingly.

• Wildlife: Always store food securely and maintain a safe distance from wild animals. Remember, feeding wildlife is harmful and illegal.

• Leave No Trace: Preserve the beauty of the Adirondacks by packing out what you bring in and respecting the environment.

• Seasonal Variations: Each season offers a different experience. Fall brings spectacular foliage, winter is perfect for snow sports, spring offers wildflower blooms, and summer is great for hiking and water activities.

The Adirondacks are a natural wonderland, offering endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Whether you're an avid hiker, a history buff, or just looking to unwind by a serene lake, this region has something for everyone.