The Adirondack mountains are an iconic part of New York State. They offer a lot to any visitor, from beautiful views to historic sites and many outdoor activities. There is no question that there is plenty to do in the Adirondacks! In this blog post, we will explore 10 things you should do when visiting these mountains. We hope it helps you plan your next vacation!
1. Hike One of the Numerous Trails Around Lake Placid
There is plenty of hiking to do in this area; choose from specific routes like Cascade Falls Trailhead, Upper Works Trailhead, Montezuma Castle Rock Shelter, Iron Mountain Road (Rt 73), or Catskill Interpretive Center for Wildlife Education and Ecology where there are opportunities to view wildlife species such as deer, chipmunks and wild turkey.
2. Visit a Historic Site
There are a variety of different sites that may interest you. You can visit the Old Forge School Museum, which is the oldest school in New York State and where Ulysses S Grant once taught; Lake Placid Olympic Ski Jump Tower Site Memorial Park, which has one of only two ski jumps left from World War II; or the Adirondack Museum – Nature’s Art Village for some interesting exhibits on nature and local history.
3. Paddle/Fish at Ausable Chasm
Relax with friends as you paddle down this scenic river, fishing along the way! Make sure to stop off near Echo Bridge when paddling downstream so you can take it all in while looking up towards Mount Pisgah.
4. Hike to the top of Mount Marcy
It may not be easy, but it is definitely worth it. You will enjoy some amazing views from up there and you might even spot a few wildlife species along the way!
5. Soak in Natural Hot Springs at Saratoga Spa State Park
This park offers plenty for visitors to do, including historic sites like The Big Indian or Fort Ticonderoga and interactive exhibits such as Edison’s Lab or waterfalls. But what about soaking? Take advantage of this opportunity by heading over to one of their four outdoor pools with naturally heated mineral waters that are free on weekends (otherwise $12 per person).
6. Visit Watkins Glen State Park
Located just an hour south of Lake Placid, this park offers a variety of hikes and activities for visitors. You can head to the historic Watkins Glen Village or hike one of their 11 trails!
7. Check out Lake Champlain
The lake is located nearby in Vermont but it’s worth checking out while you’re here since it has such beautiful views.
8. Visit Stowe Mountain Resort
If you are looking for that ski resort experience without traveling too far away from your Adirondack vacation then check out Stowe. It’s only 45 minutes north of Lake Placid and there are lots of things to do on-site like hiking, biking, shopping or just exploring nature with their scenic gondola ride up Mt Mansfield (the highest peak in Southern Vermont).
9. Visit a winery
The Adirondacks have many vineyards and you can visit while visiting the region. You will find at least four in Saratoga, New York with more located between Lake Placid and Tupper Lake (to name just two).
10. Check out some of the local museums
Museums are a great way to learn about history or culture without having to go too far from home! There are plenty of options here, including Old Fort Niagara Museum & Historic Site for those who want something near water; Cornell University Lab School Museum – Home of Eleanor Roosevelt’s Children where you can explore her life as well as that of her children on campus which was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright; or even Village Cheese Co in Lake Placid for those who want to learn more about cheese.
Don’t forget… Enjoy the local food!
One of our favorite parts about this region is all the delicious, fresh produce! You can enjoy it by exploring some restaurants like Village Cheese Co or stopping off at a farmer’s market where you will find lots of yummy (and healthy!) options like apples and honey.
Accommodations in the Adirondacks are a little different than what you might be used to, but many cottages and cabins offer benefits that hotels cannot match. You can find a lot of great options right here on Go2ADK!
Have something else to share? Feel free to leave us your comments below!