Micro-Adventuring in the Adirondacks - There’s Always Time to Explore More

Related Content

John Brown...

Whiteface...

Baker Mtn...

Crown Point...

by Michael Martineau

Micro-Adventuring in the Adirondacks - There’s Always Time to Explore More

When you’re heading away for a weekend trip or a much needed extended vacation, you want to maximize your time soaking in everything your destination offers.

Your bags are packed and you’re headed out the door to embark on an adventure in the Adirondacks. Giddiness fills your soul, making it hard to sit still. Forget waiting until the morning to start your adventure, start on your way now! The Adirondacks are full of micro-adventures (or, as I say, Mike-ro adventures – get it?) that you can enjoy once you cross the Blue Line. Think scenic roadsides, or short jaunts on a marked hiking trail. Let me tell you, Adirondack micro-adventures rival some of the top attractions in the region. As you travel through the Adirondacks, no matter what direction you come from, make a few pit stops to check out these locations:

1.

Crown Point State Historic Site

Talk about a welcome to the Adirondacks! Crown Point State Historic Site in the Lake Champlain Region will transport you to what feels like Ireland. Beautiful views of Lake Champlain and old ruins from the Revolutionary War will leave you speechless.

Read More

2.

Natural Stone Bridge & Caves

Just off the Adirondack Northway (I-87), Natural Stone Bridge & Caves gives you your first glimpse of the unique landscape of the Adirondacks. Home to the largest marble cave opening in the east, you’re sure to get amped for exploring when you stop here.

Read More

3.

Waterfall Country

Coming into the region through the Heart of the Adirondacks gives you the opportunity to hop out of your car and into the water. This region is home to a number of incredible waterfalls you can explore, that’s why they’ve come up with the waterfall challenge!

Read More

4.

Adirondack Public Observatory

Sometimes you have to wait to leave for your trip until after work, meaning you won’t arrive at your final destination until after dark. Don’t worry though, you can still make a micro-adventure pit stop at the Adirondack Public Observatory in Tupper Lake. Take a look through their telescopes and try to catch a shooting star, or the Milky Way!

Read More

5.

Baker Mountain

Stretch your legs a little bit. You’ve been driving for hours and you’re losing daylight, but you want to get your heart rate up and body back in motion. Lace up your boots, grab a water bottle, and take the .7 mile journey up to the ledges of Baker Mountain in Saranac Lake. Don’t forget to sign in and out!

Read More

6.

Lyon Mountain Mining Town

Get some urban exploring in on your way! This town used to be one of the largest producers of iron in the country. Seriously – iron that was mined from Lyon Mountain can be found in the core of the cables holding up the Golden Gate Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge, and George Washington Bridge. So what happened here? You’ll just have to visit and see for yourself.

Read More

7.

Whiteface Veteran Memorial Highway

You want to experience the summit of a High Peak but there isn’t enough time to hike one before it gets dark. Don’t fret! Head up the Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway in the Whiteface Region for 360-degree views of the Adirondacks. On a clear day, look for the Green Mountains in Vermont and the Montreal skyline in the distance. Insiders tip: the highway is only open until 4 or 5 p.m. (depending on the season) so give yourself ample time to drive up top and enjoy the view!

Read More

8.

John Brown Farm

Walk on historic ground when you visit John Brown Farm in Lake Placid. This was the home and is the final resting place for the famous abolitionist. In addition to its historic buildings and grounds, the views of the surrounding High Peaks will make you wonder why you don’t live here year round.

Read More