Adirondacks Travel Guide

Discover the hidden natural beauty of Adirondacks in New York with our comprehensive travel guide. It covers the best things to do in Adirondacks, where to stay, what to eat and drink, and how to get around. Read now!


Introduction to Adirondacks

Located in upstate New York, Adirondacks Park is a vast natural area that covers 6 million acres of forests, mountains, lakes, and rivers. It was established in 1892 and is the largest protected area in the contiguous United States. The park is a magical destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Hiking, camping, skiing, and boating are some of the many activities that visitors can enjoy in Adirondacks. This travel guide will cover everything you need to know to plan your unforgettable Adirondacks adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Adirondacks

Adirondacks is a vast area with many attractions and a diverse range of activities. Here are some highlight places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Adirondack Experience, the Museum on Blue Mountain Lake - This museum explores the cultural and natural history of Adirondacks through interactive exhibits and live demonstrations.
  • The Wild Center - This science museum sits within the natural beauty of Adirondacks. It showcases the unique ecology of the region and has a maple syrup farm, live animal exhibits, and nature trails.
  • Fort Ticonderoga - A well-preserved fort from the American Revolutionary War. It has interactive exhibits and live demonstrations depicting life during the war.

Natural Attractions of Adirondacks: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • High Peaks Wilderness Area - This is the ultimate destination for hikers, with over 46 peaks over 4,000 feet high. It offers breathtaking views of Adirondacks’ rugged terrain.
  • Lake Placid - A charming village centered around the beautiful Lake Placid. It hosted the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics and is a hub for winter sports such as skiing, skating, and hockey.
  • Saranac Lake - A peaceful village with a vibrant art scene. It is home to many galleries, shops, and restaurants and is surrounded by beautiful lakes and mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Adirondacks

Adirondacks is a hiker’s paradise, with over 2,000 miles of hiking trails that crisscross the park. Here are some popular hiking and biking routes:

  • Mount Marcy - The highest peak in New York State, it offers challenging terrain with stunning views.
  • Cascade Mountain Trail - A popular hike with a stunning 360-degree view of the Adirondacks and Lake Placid.
  • Lake Champlain Bikeway - A scenic bike route along the lake shore. It is a mostly flat, paved route suitable for families and casual riders.

Best Things to Do in Adirondacks: Activities and Tours

Adirondacks has many exciting activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Some top options are:

  • Adirondack Scenic Railroad - Hop on a vintage train for a scenic ride through the park’s beautiful landscapes.
  • Whitewater Rafting - The Hudson River Gorge is a thrilling destination for rafting. It has class III and IV rapids and spectacular scenery.
  • Fishing - Adirondacks has over 3,000 lakes and ponds and thousands of miles of streams and rivers. It is a world-class destination for fishing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Adirondacks

Adirondacks is a vast area with many attractions, and planning a week-long itinerary can be overwhelming. Here is a sample itinerary that covers some of the highlights:

Day 1: Arrive in Adirondacks, explore Lake Placid Day 2: Hike Mount Marcy Day 3: Adirondack Scenic Railroad, Adirondack Experience Museum Day 4: Whitewater Rafting on the Hudson River Gorge Day 5: Visit Saranac Lake, Shopping and Art Galleries Day 6: Explore High Peaks Wilderness Area Day 7: Depart Adirondacks

Food and Drink Scene of Adirondacks

Adirondacks has a vibrant food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine - A Canadian-inspired dish with fries, gravy, and cheese curds. It is a popular comfort food in Adirondacks.
  • Lake Placid IPA - A local beer crafted by Lake Placid Brewery. It is a delicious, hoppy beer that pairs well with spicy foods.
  • Adirondack Trout Chowder – A hearty chowder made with local trout, potatoes, cream, and celery.

Local Beverages

  • Maple Syrup - Adirondacks is known for its maple syrup production. You can sample it on pancakes or buy a bottle to take home.
  • Apple Cider - Adirondacks has many local orchards that produce fresh apple cider. It is a refreshing beverage that tastes like fall in a glass.
  • Black Fly Vodka - A locally crafted vodka made from Adirondack glacial water. It is smooth and mixes well with fruit juices.

Where to Stay in Adirondacks: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Adirondacks has many accommodations options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some popular choices:

  • Lake Placid Lodge - A luxurious lodge nestled in the Adirondacks, with stunning lake views and excellent dining options.
  • Adirondack Hostel - A budget-friendly option that offers shared and private rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a fully equipped kitchen.
  • Ampersand Bay Resort and Boat Club - A beautiful lakeside resort that offers private cabins with stunning views and outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and swimming.

What to Buy in Adirondacks: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Adirondacks has many unique souvenirs and local products to bring home as a memento of your trip. Here are some popular options:

  • Adirondack Chairs - These wooden chairs are a staple of Adirondacks’ outdoors lifestyle. They are comfortable and durable and make for a great addition to your backyard.
  • Handcrafted Canoe Paddles - Adirondacks is known for its beautiful handmade canoe paddles. They are a functional and decorative souvenir that celebrates the park’s outdoor heritage.
  • Maple Products - Adirondacks produces some of the best maple syrup, maple candy, and maple cream in the country. These are sweet treats that are perfect for gifts or as a treat for yourself.

Local Culture and Customs of Adirondacks

Adirondacks has a rich cultural heritage that celebrates its outdoor lifestyle. Visitors are encouraged to respect the park’s natural beauty and protect the environment. Additionally, Adirondacks has a thriving arts and music scene. Local festivals such as the Adirondack Music Festival and the Adirondack Film Festival celebrate the region’s creative spirit.

Best Time to Visit Adirondacks

Adirondacks is an all-season destination, with each season offering unique attractions and activities. Here is a breakdown of the best time to visit:

  • Summer (June - August) - This is peak season and a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and swimming.
  • Fall (September - November) - Adirondacks is renowned for its stunning fall foliage, which is best seen in late September and early October.
  • Winter (December - February) - A magical time for winter sports such as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.
  • Spring (March - May) - This is when Adirondacks comes alive with flowers and wildlife. It is a great time for birdwatching and fishing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Adirondacks

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Adirondacks:

Do:

  • Respect the environment and leave no trace.
  • Dress appropriately and bring warm clothes, regardless of the season.
  • Follow the hiking trail markers and map to avoid getting lost.
  • Stay on designated roads and trails.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash behind.
  • Ignore posted signs or regulations.
  • Feed or approach wild animals.
  • Start a fire outside designated fire pits.

Safety and Health

Adirondacks is a safe destination for visitors. However, visitors are advised to take precautions and be prepared for emergencies.

Safety in Adirondacks

  • Carry a first-aid kit and a map.
  • Avoid hiking or swimming alone.
  • Be aware of weather conditions and check the forecast before heading out.
  • Carry bear spray and know how to use it.

Health in Adirondacks

  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
  • Wear sunscreen and insect repellant.
  • Pack any necessary medication, including allergy medicine.
  • Be aware of ticks and check for them after being outdoors.

Getting to Adirondacks: Transportation Options and Logistics

Adirondacks is accessible by car, bus, or plane. Here are some transport options:

Airports Near Adirondacks

  • Albany International Airport
  • Burlington International Airport
  • Plattsburgh International Airport

Bus Stations Near Adirondacks

  • Trailways Bus Station, Lake Placid
  • Adirondack Trailways Bus Station, Lake George
  • Greyhound Bus Station, Plattsburgh

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train - The closest Amtrak station is in Westport, NY, which is about 30 miles from Adirondacks.
  • Rent a Car - Adirondacks has many car rental options that are ideal for exploring the park at your leisure.

How to Get Around in Adirondacks

Adirondacks is a vast area that requires a car to explore its many attractions fully. However, visitors can also get around using other modes of transport such as bicycles, kayaks, and even on foot.

Where to Go Next from Adirondacks: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Adirondacks is located close to many other exciting destinations, including:

  • Lake Ontario - This Great Lake is famous for its fishing and beaches.
  • Boston, Massachusetts - A historic city known for its revolutionary past, vibrant art scene, and delicious seafood.
  • Montreal, Quebec - A vibrant and cosmopolitan city known for its European-style architecture, excellent food, and beautiful parks.

Conclusion

Adirondacks is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique outdoor experience. With its stunning mountains, lakes, and forests, it is a destination that every nature lover must see. This travel guide covers everything you need to know to plan your visit to Adirondacks, including the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Adirondacks adventure!

A small mountain lake east of the High Peaks A small mountain lake east of the High Peaks The High Peaks from Giant Mountain The High Peaks from Giant Mountain Waterfall in Keene Valley Waterfall in Keene Valley Montcalm Point on Lake George Montcalm Point on Lake George Adirondack chair Adirondack chair


    Essex (New York)
    Lake George
    North Pole (New York)
    Saranac Lake
    Westport (New York)
    Wilmington (New York)