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. Take in panoramic views of the High Peaks at the top of the Jumping Complex. If the weather is right, water ski, wakeboard, wake surf, or tube on Lake Placid with ADK aquatics (call in advance to secure your reservation) or rent rowboats, canoes, paddleboats, sailboats, electric boats, and stand-up paddleboards from Mirror Lake Boat Rentals for adventures on nearby Mirror Lake.

For a family-friendly hike, try Mt. Jo, where even the littlest of hikers will be rewarded with stunning views for just a bit of effort. Families with young kids should expect the 2.6-mile roundtrip walk to take about two and a half hours. Other options for families include hikes at Cobble Hill and Copperas Pond.

Wednesday

Head to Wilmington, home of Whiteface Mountain, and see the beauty of the Adirondacks unfold as you ride the Cloudsplitter Gondola to the top of Little Whiteface. If you're looking for views on foot, hike the Whiteface Mountain Summit Trail. The terrain is challenging but the views are worth the journey—hikers be wary, this trail is not meant for young kids.

Stroll the paths and walkways at High Falls Gorge to view four spectacular waterfalls toward the base of Whiteface Mountain.

Thursday

Experience the mountains from the treetop canopy walk at The Wild Center and Wild Walk. Experience the Wild Walk's elevated walkway above the forest featuring a four-story twig tree house, swinging bridges, a giant nest, and a spider's web made of sturdy rope that allows you to float above the trees. 

Can't get enough of nature? Without leaving the 155-acre Wild Center grounds, you can canoe or paddleboard on the tranquil Raquette River. Or if you want to go for a more serious hike, go offsite to nearby Mt. Arab and climb the fire tower for spectacular mountain views!

Friday

View the Adirondacks from the sky with SunKiss Ballooning, a beloved hot air balloon company that flies at sunrise and sunset. It's a scenic adventure perfect for two people or large groups.

If you're with the kids, hike Prospect Mountain, one of the most accessible Adirondack trails, which offers broad views of Lake George and beginner-level trails that everyone can enjoy. For a greater challenge, the High Peaks region boasts 46 mountain tops above 4,000 feet—making this a backpacker's paradise and one of the greatest wildernesses on the East Coast. Home to Mount Marcy and Gothics, visitors should consult a hiking guidebook or secure services of an Adirondack Guide before heading into the wilderness.

Saturday

Have you ever imagined what it would be like to storm a castle or defend a fortress against 18th-century colonial powers? Purchase your tickets in advance and visit Fort Ticonderoga, where you can experience daily programming like 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 is a blend of colorful landscape and bold flavor.

Sunday

Canoe or kayak the Saranac Lake Chain. Three lakes connected by the Saranac River, this natural linkage creates a 17-mile canoe and kayak route. St. Regis Canoe Outfitters will hook 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.