Why Go to Adirondacks
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
The Adirondacks are a true escape, with more than 6 million acres of mountains, lakes and forest in northern New York. Set about 290 miles north of New York City, 250 miles from Boston and 110 miles south of Montreal, the region feels a world away from the big cities, with natural beauty and adventure in every season.
In winter, hit the slopes, go snowshoeing, try dogsledding or even ride a bobsled. In summer, bike, fish, hike, paddle a canoe across quiet water or take on whitewater rafting. Year-round, the scenery steals the show, from Lake Placid to Saranac Lake and Tupper Lake. Lake Placid, a two-time Winter Olympics host, is a must for sports fans, with the Olympic Jumping Complex, Olympic Sports Complex and Lake Placid Olympic Museum. History lovers can visit the John Brown Farm State Historic Site, the home and grave of the famous abolitionist.
You'll also find seasonal festivals, boutique shops and cozy pubs and fine dining with an Adirondack twist. Stay at a classic lakeside lodge, a bed-and-breakfast, a rustic cabin or a luxury resort. I'll help you choose the right town and season and plan the adventures that fit your group.
BEST FOR
Hikers, paddlers, campers, families and scenic-drive travelers
BEST MONTHS
June–October; winter for snow activities
EXPLORE
Lake Placid is a mountain-town hub; Saranac Lake offers arts and lake access; Lake George anchors the southeast; the High Peaks region has major trailheads.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Adirondacks
North America › Northeast › USA › New York
Lakes, forest trails and classic mountain towns
Lake & River
Forest
Hiking
Camping
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
This vast upstate New York park region spans many towns: choose a base before planning trails and lakes.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
The village is a useful base, but mountain trailheads may be far apart; plan travel times.
Lake Placid
Explore Lake Placid’s mountain village atmosphere and its Olympic winter-sports heritage amid the High Peaks region.
The loop is enjoyable in most seasons, but paths can be snowy or icy in winter.
Mirror Lake
Stroll the pedestrian-friendly lakeside route around Mirror Lake in the heart of Lake Placid village.
Summit access is seasonal and weather-dependent; check routes and operating details.
Whiteface Mountain
Take in broad mountain views from Whiteface Mountain via available scenic drives, lifts or designated trails.
Expect stairs and wet surfaces; check seasonal opening hours and accessibility.
High Falls Gorge
Follow developed walkways above a dramatic rocky gorge and waterfalls at High Falls Gorge near Wilmington.
Use the village for a relaxed stop between outdoor activities and check seasonal events.
Saranac Lake
Explore Saranac Lake’s walkable village, historic architecture and connections to the surrounding lakes.
A longstanding upscale resort on Mirror Lake, suited to travelers who want lakeside scenery and walkable access to Lake Placid village. Confirm room views and seasonal inclusions.
Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa
Lake Placid / Mirror Lake
Boutique
A lodge-style luxury resort outside the busiest village blocks, appealing to families or couples seeking a resort-centered stay. Arrange transport for Main Street dining and regional trails.
The Whiteface Lodge
Lake Placid / Woodland Resort Area
Family
A secluded lakefront retreat on Lake Placid, well suited to travelers prioritizing Adirondack scenery and a quieter atmosphere. Check dining and room-specific policies.
Lake Placid Lodge
Lake Placid / Lake Placid Shore
Boutique
A central Lake Placid resort close to restaurants and village activities, practical for travelers who favor walking rather than driving to every meal. Verify the selected building and room type.
High Peaks Resort
Lake Placid / Main Street and Mirror Lake
Family
A family-run lakeside resort on Mirror Lake near the village center, convenient for shops and Olympic-region attractions. Check parking, lake activities and room configurations for your season.
Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort
Lake Placid / Mirror Lake Village
Family · Value
A grand historic resort on its own island on Lake George, with family activities and a spa.
The Sagamore Resort
Bolton Landing, Lake George
Family
A former Rockefeller Great Camp turned intimate, all-inclusive luxury lodge.
The Point Resort
Saranac Lake
Boutique · All-Inclusive
A restored 1927 hotel in the village of Saranac Lake, with a lively lobby bar.
Hotel Saranac, Curio Collection by Hilton
Saranac Lake
Boutique · City
A lakefront lodge with boats, a beach and cozy Adirondack style.
Saranac Waterfront Lodge
Saranac Lake
Boutique
A hilltop resort with views over Mirror Lake, a good-value base for families.
Crowne Plaza Lake Placid
Lake Placid
Family · Value
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
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Monthly Weather
Monthly Events
June–October; winter for snow activities. Check the forecast and local opening schedules before committing to outdoor excursions.
Best Times to Visit Adirondacks
WHEN TO GO
06
Lake Boats and Seasonal Roads
Ferries, sightseeing boats and some scenic access roads operate seasonally. Confirm availability before planning multi-stop days.
05
Trailhead Access
Popular High Peaks parking areas may have special regulations or shuttle arrangements. Check current local requirements.
04
Rental Cars
A car is generally necessary to link lakes, villages and trailheads. Roads can be icy and remote in winter.
03
Regional Bus and Rail
A few towns have intercity connections, but extensive wilderness areas lack frequent public transport. Check the final-mile journey.
02
Getting Around Locally
A car is essential for trailheads, lake towns and scenic byways.
01
Arriving by Air
Albany and Burlington are possible regional gateways, depending on your destination.
Albany and Burlington are possible regional gateways, depending on your destination. A car is essential for trailheads, lake towns and scenic byways.
Getting Around Adirondacks