Spotlight: The Adirondacks

Monday

Inspired by W.H.H. Murray's novel Adventures in the Wilderness, Adirondack Great Camps were designed to blend into their natural surroundings, offering rustic yet luxurious retreats for the Gilded Age elite. Today, they dot the northern landscape, offering windows into the wealth and charm of Adirondack Rustic. Many of these structures are still privately owned, but a few are open to the public through professional guided tours. Explore extravagant 19th-century luxury lodges and historic landmarks including Great Camp Sagamore (pictured), Raquette Lake, and the Adirondack Experience, The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake. 

Tuesday

Visit the Olympic Museum, an homage to the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, both held in Lake Placid. Enjoy panoramic views of the High Peaks from the top of the Jumping Complex. Seasonal fun is abundant with water skiing, wakeboarding, wake surfing, and tubing on Lake Placid with ADK aquatics, or you can rent canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, hydro bikes, rowboats, sailboats, and electric boats from Mirror Lake Boat Rentals for adventures on nearby Mirror Lake.

For a family-friendly hike, try Mt. Jo, where even the littlest hikers will be rewarded with stunning views for minimal effort. Families with young kids should expect the 2.6-mile loop to take about two and a half hours. Other family-friendly hikes include Indian Pass and Copperas Pond.

Wednesday

Head to Wilmington, home of Whiteface Mountain, and take in the beauty of the Adirondacks as you ride the Cloudsplitter Gondola to the top of Little Whiteface. If you prefer views on foot, hike the Whiteface Mountain Summit Trail. The terrain is challenging, but the views are worth the journey— this trail is not suitable for young kids.

Get up close to four majestic waterfalls via bridges, walkways, and see-through viewing platforms at High Falls Gorge. Revel in the energy of the AuSable River as you walk alongside it. 

Thursday

Immerse yourself in the mountains from a new perspective on the treetop canopy walk at The Wild Center and Wild Walk. Stroll along the elevated walkway, featuring a four-story twig tree house, swinging bridges, a giant nest, and a spider's web made of sturdy rope, allowing you to float above the forest. 

Can't get enough of nature? Without leaving the 155-acre Wild Center grounds, you can canoe or paddleboard on the tranquil Raquette River. For a more challenging adventure, head offsite to nearby Mt. Arab and climb the fire tower for parnoramic mountain views!

Friday

Soar above the Adirondacks in a hot air balloon with SunKiss Ballooning, offering breathtaking flights at sunrise and sunset. Whether it's a romantic escape for two or a group adventure, this thrilling and scenic journey promises unforgettable views.

Take a hike up Prospect Mountain, one of the most accessible Adirondack trails, offering sweeping views of Lake George. For a greater challenge, the High Peaks region boasts 46 summits above 4,000 feet, making it a backpacker's paradise and one of the greatest wilderness areas on the East Coast. Home to New York's highest peak, Mount Marcy, visitors should consult a hiking guidebook or secure services of an Adirondack Guide before heading into the wilderness.

Saturday

Visit Fort Ticonderoga, the site of a famous American victory during the Revolutionary War. Travel back in time and experience daily programming like guided tours, Fife and Drum Corps marching, historic trade demonstrations, daily cannon and musket-firing demonstrations, and various family activities.

Sample the local bounty along the Adirondack Coast Wine Trail, a series of wineries and cideries threading the shores of Lake Champlain. The trail offers a blend of colorful landscape and bold flavors.

Sunday

Canoe or kayak the Saranac Lake Chain, a series of three lakes connected by the Saranac River. This natural linkage creates a 17-mile paddling route. St. Regis Canoe Outfitters will set you up with their best tour guides and sporting gear, including canoes, kayaks, and camping gear for rent. Cruise the water for stunning lake views, and keep an eye out for bald eagles, beavers, and other wildlife. 

Explore the Adirondack Park on horseback with Emerald Springs Adirondack Ranch, which offers guided tours and riding lessons—a perfect introduction to riding for the whole family.