Six million acres. 3,000 lakes. 2,000 miles of trails. Here's everything a first-timer needs to know.
Most first-time visitors expect entrance gates and ticket booths. The Adirondacks will surprise you — it's unlike any park you've visited before.
Six million acres of public wilderness and private land. Over 130,000 people permanently live within the park boundaries. Towns like Lake Placid, Lake George, Old Forge, and Saranac Lake are full communities inside the park.
It is the largest protected natural area in the contiguous United States — bigger than Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Everglades, and Glacier National Parks combined.
We built this site for people planning their very first Adirondacks trip. Start anywhere below.
What the park is, how to get there, when to go, and what to expect — the complete first-timer orientation.
Read the guide →2,000+ miles of trails. We've picked the best routes for first-timers — stunning views, no mountaineering experience needed.
Browse hikes →3,000 lakes and 30,000 river miles. The best paddling routes — from beginner day trips to multi-day wilderness adventures.
Explore routes →Lakeside cabins, historic inns, campgrounds under the stars — find the right base for your ADK adventure.
Find lodging →Summer swimming, fall foliage, winter skiing, spring rafting — every season has its own magic.
See seasonal guide →Don't leave home without the essentials. Our season-by-season list covers every ADK adventure.
See packing list →Bigger than Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Everglades, and Glacier National Parks combined
Summits above 4,000 ft — bag all 46 and earn the coveted "46er" title
Crystal-clear lakes and ponds — some of the finest paddling and swimming in the Northeast
Rivers and streams connecting lakes throughout the park — a paddler's paradise
Towns and villages with lodging, dining, and genuine Adirondack character
No gate, no fee, no ticket — just drive in and start exploring
Start here. Everything you need to know before your first visit — no fluff, no filler.
This surprises almost every first-timer. The Adirondack Park is a New York State park — unlike any other state park you've visited. Six million acres of both public forest preserve and private land. Over 130,000 people permanently live here. There are no entrance gates and no admission fee. You simply drive in.
It is the largest protected natural area in the contiguous United States — larger than Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Everglades, and Glacier combined.
Lake Placid and the 46 highest mountains. Best for hikers and Olympic history lovers.
Most accessible from NYC. Classic family destination with boating, swimming, and abundant lodging.
Gateway to the Fulton Chain of Lakes — one of the greatest paddling routes in the Northeast.
Charming village, less touristy than Lake Placid, with a beloved winter carnival.
Home to the Adirondack Experience museum. Remote and tranquil.
Historic forts, scenic byways, and views across Lake Champlain to Vermont.
Most visitors drive. A car is also essential for exploring once you arrive — public transportation within the park is very limited.
| From | Drive to Lake George |
|---|---|
| New York City | ~3.5 hours |
| Albany, NY | ~1 hour |
| Boston, MA | ~3.5 hours |
| Montreal, QC | ~2 hours |
| Philadelphia, PA | ~5 hours |
The questions we hear most from people planning their first ADK trip.
2,000+ miles of trails await. These are the ones we recommend starting with — well-marked paths, accessible for all fitness levels.
Each trail below offers a rewarding experience without requiring advanced fitness or technical gear.
| Trail Name | Region | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baker Mountain | Saranac Lake | 2.2 mi RT | 450 ft | Easy | Open summit, great views of the Saranac Lake chain |
| Kane Mountain | Southern ADK | 2.2 mi RT | 600 ft | Easy | Historic fire tower summit, excellent for families |
| Goodnow Mountain | Blue Mountain Lake | 3.8 mi RT | 1,000 ft | Easy | Restored fire tower with 360° panoramic views |
| Prospect Mountain | Lake George | 2.8 mi RT | 1,100 ft | Moderate | Panoramic views of Lake George; also reachable by car |
| Blue Mountain | Blue Mountain Lake | 4.4 mi RT | 1,559 ft | Moderate | Iconic summit with fire tower and views of dozens of lakes |
| St. Regis Mountain | St. Regis Wilderness | 6.4 mi RT | 1,200 ft | Moderate | Restored fire tower overlooking the St. Regis Canoe Area |
| Cascade Mountain | High Peaks | 4.8 mi RT | 1,940 ft | Moderate | Most-climbed High Peak — well-marked trail, rewarding open summit |
| Phelps Mountain | High Peaks | 8.8 mi RT | 2,000 ft | Moderate | Accessible High Peaks summit with superb views of surrounding peaks |
| Tongue Mountain Range | Lake George | 5–15 mi | 1,200–2,400 ft | Moderate | Dramatic ridgeline above Lake George |
| Mount Marcy | High Peaks | 14.8 mi RT | 3,200 ft | Strenuous | Highest peak in New York (5,344 ft) — the ultimate bucket-list hike |
Dozens of restored historic fire towers sit atop summits throughout the park, offering 360-degree views and living history. Volunteer summit stewards staff many of them seasonally — they'll give you an orientation to the park better than any guidebook.
The Adirondacks contain 46 mountains above 4,000 feet. Hikers who summit all 46 earn the title of "46er" — a tradition dating to 1925. Cascade Mountain is the most popular starting point; Mount Marcy is the ultimate prize at 5,344 feet.
Pack out all trash, stay on marked trails, camp 150 feet from water, and leave rocks and plants where you find them. The wilderness depends on respectful visitors — there are no trash cans on most trails.
3,000 lakes and 30,000 miles of rivers. The ADK is one of the finest paddling destinations in North America — here's how to get started.
The Adirondacks are, at their heart, a water landscape. The park contains more lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams per square mile than almost anywhere else in the eastern United States — and nearly all of it is accessible to paddlers at no cost.
You can spend a peaceful morning on a mirror-still mountain pond, paddle a chain of connected lakes, or tackle rushing whitewater on a spring river. Beginners will find endless calm water. Experienced paddlers can find week-long wilderness routes.
Many of the most scenic waterways prohibit motorized boats entirely — which means the water is quiet, wildlife is abundant, and the experience is genuinely wild.
Organized from easiest to most ambitious — every route is doable without whitewater experience.
| Route / Lake | Region | Distance | Type | Level | Why It's Special |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mirror Lake | Lake Placid | 2.7 mi loop | Lake | Beginner | No motorboats allowed — glassy calm, mountain reflections, town access for lunch |
| Indian Lake | Central ADK | 4–8 mi | Lake | Beginner | Open lake with island camping — calm and protected in most conditions |
| Long Lake | Long Lake | 14 mi | Lake | Beginner | Narrow 14-mile lake with sweeping mountain views on both sides |
| Lake Eaton Loop | Long Lake area | 3 mi loop | Lake | Beginner | Small quiet lake with public campground — ideal first overnight paddling destination |
| Fulton Chain of Lakes | Old Forge | 18 mi one-way | Lake chain | Intermediate | Eight connected lakes — the iconic ADK canoe route. Short portages. Rentals at the start. |
| Raquette Lake Loop | Blue Mountain Lake | 8–12 mi | Lake | Intermediate | Large open lake with historic Great Camps on its shores — watch for afternoon wind |
| Lake George Islands | Lake George | Up to 32 mi | Lake | Intermediate | 170+ islands — many with free primitive camping. 32 miles of stunning scenery. |
| St. Regis Canoe Area | Paul Smiths | Multi-day | Canoe route | Intermediate | 58 interconnected ponds — non-motorized only. One of the most remote paddling areas in the Northeast. |
| Saranac Lakes Chain | Saranac Lake | Multi-day | Lake chain | Intermediate | Upper, Middle, Lower Saranac connected by rivers and carries — the classic multi-day ADK route |
| Northern Forest Canoe Trail | ADK to Maine | 740 mi total | Long route | Advanced / Multi-week | 740-mile trail from Old Forge, NY to Fort Kent, ME — the ADK section alone spans multiple days |
A closer look at the routes first-time ADK paddlers ask about most.
Starting in Old Forge, eight connected lakes form the most accessible multi-day paddling route in the ADK. Lakes are connected by short portages. Rental outfitters are right at the launch in Old Forge — rent a kayak or canoe and head out the same day you arrive.
The most beginner-friendly paddle in the High Peaks region. Motorized boats are prohibited, keeping it calm year-round. Rent kayaks on the waterfront, paddle the perimeter (2.7 miles), stop for a snack in town, and enjoy Whiteface Mountain views from the water.
If you want pure wilderness, this is it. Motorized boats are completely banned on 58 ponds connected through old-growth forest. Wildlife is exceptional — loons, herons, otters, and beavers are common. Best experienced as a 2–4 day camping trip.
Kayak from Lake George Village and camp on a private island for the night. The lake has 170+ islands with free primitive campsites accessible only by boat. The lake is 32 miles long — plan early morning paddling and hug the shoreline when afternoon winds pick up.
Fourteen miles long, narrow, with sweeping mountain views on both sides. One of the most scenic and underrated paddles in the ADK. Paddle as far as you like and turn around — or arrange a car shuttle and do the full length one-way.
Upper, Middle, and Lower Saranac Lakes connected by rivers and short carries — a classic 3–5 day multi-lake paddling loop with campsites throughout. Saranac Lake village is a great basecamp with gear shops and restaurants.
You don't need to bring your own kayak or canoe. Rental outfitters operate throughout the park, almost always located right on the water with easy launch access.
For first-timers who want the full experience without the navigation stress, a guided kayak or canoe trip is the best option. Guides provide all equipment, handle logistics, and share local knowledge you can't get from a map.
The Adirondacks' waters are beautiful and generally forgiving — but they deserve respect. Follow these guidelines every time you paddle.
Peak paddling season. Water is warm enough for swimming after a capsize. Lakes are busy — seek quieter ponds mid-week. Book guided trips early. Watch for afternoon thunderstorms.
Arguably the best paddling season — foliage reflected in still water is spectacular. Fewer crowds, no bugs. Water temperatures drop; dress for cold-water immersion.
Most lakes are frozen. Paddling is not recommended. Some rivers remain open for experienced cold-water kayakers only — full cold-water immersion gear required.
Rivers are high and fast — perfect for whitewater. Lakes open by late April. Cold water requires wetsuits. Wildlife is spectacular: loons return, ospreys nest, eagles are active.
Start with a morning on Mirror Lake, graduate to the Fulton Chain, and work your way to the St. Regis wilderness. Each paddle is better than the last.
From lakeside luxury to free backcountry lean-tos — every type of traveler will find their perfect ADK home base.
The Adirondacks offer every type of lodging — from five-star lakeside resorts to completely free backcountry lean-to shelters.
Full-service hotels in Lake Placid, Lake George, and Saranac Lake. Amenities like restaurants, pools, and lake access at the higher end.
Exceptional DEC-managed public campgrounds. Reserve at reservations.nysparks.com — summer sites fill months ahead.
Private lakeside cabins with docks, rowboats, and full kitchens. Airbnb and VRBO have hundreds of ADK listings — lake access commands a premium.
Charming historic inns with full homemade breakfasts. Innkeepers are invaluable local knowledge resources.
Hundreds of free three-sided lean-to shelters in the backcountry. First-come, first-served — no reservations. Must share if others arrive needing shelter.
Upscale tents, yurts, and tipis with real beds. Perfect for first-timers who want the outdoor feel without roughing it.
Olympic history, High Peaks access, excellent dining. Best for hikers, skiers, and those who want a classic mountain-town feel.
Most accessible from NYC. Great families destination with water parks, cruises, and lodging at every price point.
Gateway to the Fulton Chain — one of the greatest canoe routes in the Northeast. Quieter and more rustic.
Authentic ADK community. Less touristy than Lake Placid, with great access to lakes, mountains, and arts.
Remote and tranquil. Home to the Adirondack Experience museum. Perfect for wilderness solitude seekers.
Quiet village on a beautiful lake. Central park location — great base for exploring multiple regions in one trip.
From whitewater rapids to Olympic bobsled rides — the ADK is never boring. Here's what not to miss.
2,000+ miles of trails for all levels
Kayak & canoe 3,000 lakes
Class IV–V rapids in spring
Whiteface — greatest eastern vertical
Pristine lake swimming all summer
World-class trout and bass
Loons, eagles, moose, bears
Milky Way visible to the naked eye
Rated among the best regional museums in the US. Blue Mountain Lake, 120 acres, 20+ buildings. Row a guideboat, climb a fire tower, explore Great Camp history. Plan at least 4 hours. Open May–October.
Site of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics. Ride the bobsled, tour the ski jump complex, skate the Olympic Oval, and visit the Olympic Museum. Open year-round.
A beautifully restored 18th-century fort at the Lake Champlain narrows with commanding views and compelling Revolutionary War history. Great for history buffs and families.
Full-scale theme park near Lake George with roller coasters and water slides
Spectacular sandstone gorge with tours, tubing, and zip line adventures
Romantic six-story island castle on the St. Lawrence — accessible by ferry
Historic theme park near Whiteface Mountain, beloved by children since 1949
Loons, eagles, herons, deer, beavers, moose, and black bears
Minimal light pollution — the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye on clear nights
Each season in the ADK is dramatically different — and each one is magnificent. Here's what to expect all year round.
Peak season — long days, warm lakes, every outdoor activity at full capacity. July and August are busiest; book well ahead. Average daytime temperatures run from the low 60s to the mid-80s°F.
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August — start hikes early and be off exposed ridges by early afternoon.
🌡️ Temps: 60–85°F
📅 Peak: July–August
🎯 Best for: Families, hikers, paddlers
⚠️ Book months ahead
Many experienced visitors say fall is their favorite season — spectacular foliage, crisp air, no bugs, fewer crowds, and calm water for paddling. Peak foliage runs late September through mid-October.
🌡️ Temps: 30–60°F
🍂 Peak Foliage: Late Sept–mid Oct
🎯 Best for: Leaf peepers, hikers, photographers
💡 Fewer crowds than summer
Magical — snow-covered peaks, frozen waterfalls, and a quieter version of the park. Lake Placid comes alive with Olympic sports and world-class skiing at Whiteface Mountain.
🌡️ Temps: 0–35°F
❄️ Snow Season: Dec–March
🎿 Skiing: Whiteface Mountain
🍪 Winter Carnival: February
The most underrated season. Snowmelt creates peak whitewater, waterfalls rage at full volume, and the forest comes back to life. Also called "mud season" — lower elevation trails can be very wet.
🌡️ Temps: 30–60°F
🌊 Rafting Season: April–May
🌿 Best for: Rafters, birders, anglers
💡 Least crowded — great lodging value
A well-packed bag makes for a much better trip. Here's the complete first-timer's checklist, organized by activity and season.
These items belong in your bag regardless of season or planned activities.
A first-timer's guide to one of the most spectacular wilderness regions in North America — built for people like us.
The Adirondack Park is the largest protected natural area in the contiguous United States — bigger than Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Everglades, and Glacier combined. And for many people in the Northeast, it's practically in their backyard.
Yet so many first-time visitors arrive completely unprepared — or feel too overwhelmed to even plan a trip. Where do you even start when the park is 6 million acres, has 46 peaks above 4,000 feet, 3,000 lakes, and 2,000 miles of trails?
Intro Adirondacks exists to be your starting point. We're not trying to be the most comprehensive ADK website. We're the orientation. The guide for someone who has never been and doesn't know where to begin.
Every piece of content is written for one type of reader: the person who has never been to the Adirondacks and wants to know where to start. We never assume prior knowledge or overwhelm you with options.
Trail conditions, camping reservations, fishing licenses. dec.ny.gov
Land use maps, permit info, regulatory guidance. apa.ny.gov
Trail maps, hiking guides, visitor center locations. adk.org
Events calendar, business listings, travel inspiration. visitadirondacks.com