North Country Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in North Country, New York. Find out what to eat and buy, how to get around, and important safety and health information.


Introduction to North Country

Located in Upstate New York, North Country is a region filled with remarkable attractions, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. This vast region stretches from the Eastern Lake Ontario shoreline in the north to the Adirondack Mountains in the south, and from the Canadian border in the east to Lake Champlain in the west. If you’re looking for an off-beat destination to unwind and explore, North Country is the perfect place for you.

List of Places to Visit in North Country

With a diverse range of attractions, North Country has something for everyone. Here are the top places to visit in the region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Frederic Remington Art Museum showcases the works of Frederic Remington, an acclaimed artist known for his Western-themed paintings and sculptures.
  • Boldt Castle, located on the beautiful Heart Island, is an impressive six-story Rhineland-style castle built in the early 20th century.
  • Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site is a 70-acre property that played a pivotal role in the War of 1812.
  • Lake Placid Olympic Sites includes a number of venues that hosted the winter games of 1932 and 1980, such as the speed skating oval and ski jump complex.
  • Fort Ticonderoga is a well-preserved fort dating back to the Revolutionary War era.

Natural Attractions of North Country: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Adirondack Park is a sprawling wilderness reserve that offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities including hiking, camping, fishing, and boating.
  • Alexandria Bay is a picturesque village located on the banks of the St. Lawrence River that offers breathtaking views of the Thousand Islands.
  • Chimney Bluffs State Park features towering sand dunes and towering cliffs formed by powerful storms.
  • Thousand Islands National Park is a unique destination where you can explore over 20 islands by boat, hiking, or kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Country

Home to the Adirondack Mountains, North Country is a hiker and biker’s paradise. Some of the well-known trails include:

  • Mount Jo, a moderate hike that offers stunning views of the High Peaks region.
  • Algonquin Peak, the second-highest mountain in the Adirondacks, offering a challenging yet rewarding hike.
  • Black River Trail, a scenic biking trail that spans over 100 miles through stunning landscapes and charming villages.

Best Things to Do in North Country: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, North Country offers a range of activities and tours, including:

  • White water rafting on the Hudson River or Black River.
  • Safari tours to spot some of the local wildlife, such as moose and black bears.
  • Wine tasting at the Thousand Islands Winery or Coyote Moon Vineyards.
  • Boat tours to explore the Thousand Islands and St. Lawrence River.

Week-Long Itinerary for North Country

If you’re planning to spend a week in North Country, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Boldt Castle and explore Alexandria Bay
2 Hike Mount Jo and visit the Lake Placid Olympic Sites
3 Go boating and fishing in the St. Lawrence River
4 Take a wine tour and enjoy a tasting
5 Go white water rafting on the Black River
6 Explore the Adirondack Park by hiking or camping
7 Relax and unwind in Chimney Bluffs State Park or at a local spa

Food and Drink Scene of North Country

North Country is known for its locally sourced food and drink. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish fry, a classic dish made with fresh fish, usually served with coleslaw and fries.
  • Corned beef sandwich, a hearty sandwich made with juicy corned beef and fresh bread.
  • Poutine, a Canadian-inspired dish made with fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
  • Apple cider donuts, a sweet, cinnamon-y treat made with freshly pressed apple cider.

Local Beverages

  • Craft beer, with brews from local breweries such as Lake Placid Pub & Brewery and St. Lawrence Brewing Company.
  • Wine, with a variety of award-winning wines from wineries such as Coyote Moon Vineyards and Thousand Islands Winery.
  • Cider, made with locally grown apples from cideries such as Blackbird Cider Works and Eve’s Cidery.

Where to Stay in North Country: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

North Country offers a variety of accommodation options, from rustic camping sites to luxurious hotels. Here are some options:

  • Hotel Saranac, a historic hotel with a prime location in Lake Placid.
  • Garnet Hill Lodge, a cozy lodge nestled in the mountains with access to skiing and hiking trails.
  • Lake George RV Park, a sprawling camping site with numerous amenities.
  • Airbnb, with a variety of options ranging from private rooms to entire homes.

What to Buy in North Country: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring a piece of North Country home with you, here are some souvenirs and local products to consider:

  • Maple syrup, made with the region’s famous local syrup.
  • Craft beer, with a variety of unique brews from local breweries.
  • Handcrafted pottery, made by local artisans.
  • Adirondack chairs, inspired by the unique design of local furniture makers.

Local Culture and Customs of North Country

North Country is known for its friendly, welcoming residents. When visiting, it’s important to be respectful of the local customs and values. For instance, it’s common to remove shoes when entering someone’s home, and handshakes are a common greeting.

Best Time to Visit North Country

North Country is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique opportunities for exploration and adventure. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, visiting in the shoulder season (May-June or September-October) is recommended.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Country

When visiting North Country, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Do explore the local hiking trails and natural attractions.
  • Do try the locally sourced food and drink.
  • Do respect the local customs and values.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the local environment.
  • Don’t be loud or disruptive late at night.
  • Don’t assume that all locals are familiar with tourist attractions or destinations.

Safety and Health

North Country is generally a safe destination, but it’s important to take precautions when enjoying the great outdoors. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in North Country

  • Always carry a map and compass if you’re hiking or camping in remote areas.
  • Be aware of the possibility of wildlife encounters, such as bears or poisonous snakes.
  • Wear sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing for the activity you’re engaging in.

Health in North Country

  • Protect yourself against tick bites, which are common in wooded areas.
  • Be aware of the possibility of waterborne illnesses if you’re swimming or boating.

Getting to North Country: Transportation Options and Logistics

North Country is easily accessible by car, train, or plane. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near North Country

  • Watertown International Airport (ART)
  • Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG)
  • Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR)

Bus Stations Near North Country

  • Trailways operates bus routes to several North Country destinations.
  • Greyhound offers bus service to several cities in the region.

Other Options

  • Renting a car is a good option for exploring North Country on your own.
  • Amtrak offers train service to destinations in the region.

How to Get Around in North Country

While renting a car is the most convenient option for getting around, North Country also has several public transportation options such as taxis, bus services, and ride-sharing services.

Where to Go Next from North Country: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to extend your trip, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Montreal, Quebec, a vibrant cultural hub with a French flair, just a few hours’ drive away.
  • Thousand Islands, a stunning archipelago located on the US-Canada border.
  • Syracuse, New York, a bustling city with plenty of cultural attractions and shopping.

Conclusion

North Country is an outdoors lover’s dream, offering beautiful scenery, historic sites, and exciting outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, or just relax and enjoy the scenery, North Country will not disappoint. With its friendly locals, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, North Country should definitely be on your travel bucket list.



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