Two Takes on The Adirondacks, New York: Nature Escapes and Family Adventures

Including Chazy Lake, Plattsburgh , Lake Placid & more

The Adirondack region of New York, is made up of the Adirondack Park. Spanning over six million acres, Adirondack Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Adventure seekers can tackle the Adirondack High Peaks, including iconic peaks like Mount Marcy, the highest peak in New York State. Immerse yourself in the region’s history and culture at the Adirondack Experience museum, featuring interactive exhibits and outdoor displays.


  1. The Same
    1. Chazy Lake
    2. Plattsburgh
    3. Saranac Lake:
    4. Lake George:
    5. Old Forge:
  2. The DINKs
    1. Lyon Mountain Trail
  3. The Family
    1. Lake Placid
  4. Summary

The Same

Growing up in Upstate New York we spent many long weekends up at the lakes and mountains in this region.

Chazy Lake

Chazy Lake, located near Lake Champlain, offers a serene escape with its picturesque landscapes and charming small-town atmosphere. Visitors can explore the area’s scenic beauty by hiking along trails, fishing in the lake, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.

My Dad has a family camp on a lake tucked away in the northeastern corner of the Adirondack Park, called Chazy Lake. It offered a serene retreat amidst the natural beauty of the region. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, the lake provides a peaceful setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. There is seriously nothing around but that is exactly what makes it great. There are days that go by where we don’t see anyone except in the distance on a boat.

Chazy Lake is ideal for various water activities, including kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and fishing. Explore the calm waters, paddle along the scenic shoreline, or drop a line to catch bass, trout, and perch.

Surrounding Chazy Lake are numerous hiking trails that wind through the pristine wilderness of the Adirondack Mountains.

Plattsburgh

Plattsburgh, located in upstate New York, offers a blend of scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and historical charm. Situated on the western shore of Lake Champlain, Plattsburgh boasts stunning waterfront views and a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and kayaking on the lake, or explore the numerous hiking trails in the surrounding area, such as the Saranac River Trail or the Plattsburgh City Beach. History enthusiasts will appreciate Plattsburgh’s rich heritage, including its role in the War of 1812. The city is home to several historic sites and landmarks, including the Battle of Plattsburgh Interpretive Center, where visitors can learn about the decisive battle that helped shape American history. Downtown Plattsburgh offers a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Explore the Strand Center for the Arts, featuring galleries and performances, or sample local cuisine at one of the many eateries along City Hall Place. For those interested in educational experiences, the nearby State University of New York at Plattsburgh (SUNY Plattsburgh) offers opportunities to explore its campus, including the acclaimed Feinberg Library and the Rockwell Kent Gallery. There is a tiny airport here which I have flown into after moving out of NY.

Saranac Lake:

Just a short drive from Lake Placid, Saranac Lake offers a charming downtown area, scenic lakeside parks, and easy access to outdoor activities. Surrounded by pristine lakes and dense forests, Saranac Lake offers visitors a tranquil retreat with ample opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and fishing in the summer, and skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. The village itself boasts a rich history as a former tuberculosis treatment center, reflected in its collection of historic buildings and the Saranac Laboratory Museum. Today, Saranac Lake continues to attract nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a serene escape amidst stunning natural beauty.

Lake George:

Often called the “Queen of American Lakes,” Lake George is a popular summer destination for its crystal-clear waters, beaches, and attractions like Fort William Henry and the Lake George Steamboat Company. Visitors can enjoy boating, water sports, and relaxing on the shores of this pristine lake. Thrill-seekers can challenge themselves at the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course, while history enthusiasts can explore Fort William Henry Museum to learn about the area’s colonial past. Scenic cruises on the “Minni HaHa” offer stunning views, and hiking trails like Prospect Mountain Trail provide panoramic vistas. The village of Lake George offers shopping, dining, and family-friendly attractions such as mini-golf and amusement parks, ensuring a memorable experience for all.

Old Forge:

Located in the southwestern Adirondacks, Old Forge is a popular destination for outdoor recreation including hiking, camping, and boating on the Fulton Chain of Lakes. Hiking trails like Bald Mountain provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. In winter, Old Forge transforms into a snowmobiling haven, complemented by skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts. Local shops, galleries, and dining establishments provide opportunities to immerse in Adirondack culture and cuisine, making Old Forge a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.

  • Water Safari in Old Forge, NY, holds nostalgic memories for many, especially those who visited as children. Known for its water park attractions, it’s a place where families and friends enjoyed endless fun under the sun. The catchy jingle from commercials, “Old Forge Water Safari, Where the fun never stops,” evokes memories of thrilling water slides, lazy river rides, and the excitement of splashing around in the pools. It remains a cherished destination where generations have created lasting summer memories.

The DINKs

Lyon Mountain Trail

Lace up your hiking boots and explore trails like the nearby Lyon Mountain Trail, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape.

Nestled in the northeastern Adirondacks, Lyon Mountain offers one of the most rewarding hiking experiences in New York. Standing at an elevation of 3,830 feet, it is the highest peak in Clinton County and provides breathtaking views that make the trek worthwhile. The hike is approximately 6.8 miles round trip via the new trail, which is well-marked and maintained. It is moderate to difficult due to the steady incline, rocky terrain and elevation gain of about 1,900 feet.

The trail begins with a gentle ascent through a hardwood forest. You’ll notice the trail is wide and easy to follow, perfect for warming up your legs. As you progress, the trail becomes steeper and rockier. There are switchbacks that help ease the incline, making it manageable even for moderately experienced hikers. You’ll also encounter a series of interesting rock formations and dense forest scenery. The final stretch to the summit can be challenging, with a few steep and rocky sections. However, the trail remains well-marked, and the excitement of nearing the top keeps you motivated. At the summit, you are greeted by an old fire tower. Climbing the tower is highly recommended for panoramic views. From the top, you can see a stunning 360-degree view, including the Adirondack High Peaks, Lake Champlain, and on clear days, the Montreal skyline. The historic fire tower at the summit provides an excellent vantage point for photography and taking in the expansive views. (Climb at your own risk because that thing looks OLD.)

The Family

Lake Placid

Lake Placid, famous for hosting the Winter Olympics in 1932 and 1980, is a hub of outdoor adventure year-round. Explore historic Olympic venues like the Olympic Center, where the “Miracle on Ice” hockey game took place, and the Olympic Jumping Complex. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Whiteface Mountain, ice skating on Mirror Lake, or exploring the Olympic sites. In the summer, the region transforms into a playground for hiking, biking, and water sports, with numerous trails and waterways to explore.

Mirror Lake, nestled in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, is a serene and picturesque destination offering a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.

  • In the summer, you can rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard from one of the local outfitters and explore the tranquil waters of Mirror Lake. Paddling around the lake offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and allows you to connect with nature. Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic path that encircles Mirror Lake. The paved trail is perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling, and offers breathtaking views of the water and surrounding landscape. Cool off on a hot day with a refreshing swim in Mirror Lake. Several designated swimming areas around the lake provide safe and enjoyable experiences for visitors of all ages.
  • In the winter months, when the lake freezes over, Mirror Lake transforms into a magical ice skating rink. Lace up your skates and glide across the smooth surface while surrounded by snow-capped mountains. You can also enjoy a unique dog sled ride across the frozen lake.
  • In the fall, capture the beauty of Mirror Lake and its surroundings at prime leaf peeing time. Whether you’re an amateur or professional photographer, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to capture stunning shots of the lake and its natural scenery.

Summary

The Adirondack Mountain region of New York holds a special place in the hearts of many, including the Twins who spent their vacations there at their family’s camp. From the serene shores of Chazy Lake to the historic charm of Plattsburgh, and from the picturesque Saranac Lake to the bustling attractions of Lake George and Old Forge, this area offers diverse experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The DINKs have ventured along the challenging Lyon Mountain Trail, while the Family enjoys the Olympic history and scenic beauty of Lake Placid. Whether hiking rugged trails, exploring quaint towns, or relaxing by pristine lakes, the Adirondacks provide endless opportunities to create lasting memories amidst breathtaking natural beauty.


  1. The Same
    1. Chazy Lake
    2. Plattsburgh
    3. Saranac Lake:
    4. Lake George:
    5. Old Forge:
  2. The DINKs
    1. Lyon Mountain Trail
  3. The Family
    1. Lake Placid
  4. Summary


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Comments

2 responses to “Two Takes on The Adirondacks, New York: Nature Escapes and Family Adventures”

  1. Aldorado Szymanski Avatar

    Wow, what a comprehensive guide to exploring the Adirondack Mountains! The way you described Chazy Lake makes it sound like a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. I’m curious, are there guided tours available for visitors who may not be familiar with the area?

    Also, I stumbled upon this site called https://world-prices.com/en/usa/prices that talks about prices worldwide. Not sure if the data is spot-on, but it might give some travelers an idea of what to expect in New York. Thanks for sharing all these hidden gems!

    1. michellestrain2005 Avatar

      Unfortunately I do not know of any guided tours of this part of the Adirondacks.

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