Things to do nearAdirondack Mountains
The Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York offer six million acres of protected wilderness, dramatic summits, and glacier-carved lakes.
The Adirondack Mountains form the largest protected area in the contiguous United States, a patchwork of state-owned forest preserve and private land that has been constitutionally shielded as forever wild since 1894. The region encompasses 46 peaks above four thousand feet, hundreds of miles of rivers, and more than three thousand lakes and ponds shaped by successive glaciations.
Hikers drawn to the High Peaks Wilderness find routes ranging from gentle lakeside walks to demanding scrambles up Mount Marcy, the tallest summit in New York. Paddlers can string together multi-day canoe routes through the St. Regis Canoe Area or quieter river corridors, and kayaking outfitters operate throughout the region. Winter brings world-class cross-country skiing and snowshoeing across a landscape that feels almost Scandinavian in its stillness.
The Adirondack Mountains sit within reach of Lake Champlain to the east, adding sailing and shoreline exploration to an already rich roster of outdoor pursuits. The region rewards slow travel and return visits across every season.
7-day forecast
Chance of rainTips for visiting Adirondack Mountains
Visit during the last two weeks of September to catch peak foliage, when the hardwood slopes blaze with color and crowds thin considerably.
Bring layers even in summer, as summit temperatures can drop sharply and afternoon thunderstorms are common above treeline.
Try a dawn paddle on one of the interior ponds for the best chance of spotting moose, loons, and great blue herons undisturbed.
Reserve backcountry lean-tos well in advance for summer and fall weekends, as the most popular routes fill quickly through the state reservation system.
Pick up a Adirondack High Peaks trail map at any regional outfitter before heading into the backcountry, as cell coverage is unreliable throughout the park.
Top tours & experiences near Adirondack Mountains
Sunset Sailing Cruise on Lake Champlain
Sail a classic sloop for sunset views of Burlington and the Adirondacks
Burlington Sunset Sailing Cruise
Sail Lake Champlain at sunset aboard a classic wooden sloop
Sailing Lesson on Lake Champlain Aboard 22' Sloop
Build practical sailing skills toward taking Goldenrod out independently
17-Mile Hudson River Whitewater Rafting
Paddle seasonal Class II–V rapids through the Hudson River Gorge with a riverside lunch