7 Underappreciated Towns To Visit In The Adirondack Mountains

The Adirondacks in New York state is home to one of the most impressive swaths of land in North America. Vacationers who have set foot in this underrated expanse of natural beauty come back to it many other times. For perspective, the Adirondacks is among the few true wilderness areas left east of the Mississippi. Whether one is dreaming of a rustic cabin by a shimmering lake — or somewhere high up on the neck of a rugged mountain, this region checks the box. That said, skip the big names and explore seven underappreciated towns to visit in the Adirondacks Mountains.

Chestertown

Chestertown is so tiny you can easily pass it in a blink. The town’s size, however, is deceptive, as first-time visitors often soon find out. Friends Lake Inn, a nature lover’s paradise with peaceful views of the lake, offers a nice change of pace from the usual chains— and can be an excellent place to spend the night. Alternatively, Riverside Pines has rustic cabins a few steps from the beach and the lake. Outdoor lovers will have a blast exploring spots such as the trail-laden Stewart Mountain and Chester Creek. If hunger pangs begin to set in, one should dash to The Bullhouse, famous for delicious tableside guacamole, salmon, and other Mexican-leaning offerings.

Keene Valley

While many pass Keene Valley without second thoughts, especially when heading to Lake Placid, Keene Valley packs a punch. A nature lover will be spoilt for choice here and torn between hiking many of the historic Adirondack Trails that begin or meander through the town — and fishing in the Ausable River, New York’s second-steepest. The iconic Ausuble Inn, a quaint and rustic space that serves home-style food, is often the place to be when craving something to bite.

If spending the night, you will want to work with Snow Goose Bed and Breakfast, known for sweet hosts and sweet food. The Jay Covered Bridge, one of a few left in the state, is just 14 miles down the road. Do not forget to pick a one-of-a-kind souvenir. For this, browse through the collection of Adirondack Quilts & Gifts, most of which are inspired by the Adirondack Mountains.

Speculator

Although a small town of just about 500 residents, Speculator has plenty to offer first-time visitors all through the year, hence the moniker: “All-Season Vacationland.” This town is close to Lake Pleasant, a nice place to dip your toes in the water and soak in delicious views. Outdoor lovers have The Kunjamuk Hike and Cave, where the Great Outdoors come alive through a scenic out-and-back trail and a fascinating underground marvel.

Both seasoned and novice skiers, snowboarders, and mountain bikers will want to spend some time at Oak Mountain, one of the oldest running ski resorts in the Adirondacks. Alternatively, the Perkins Clearing Conservation Easement offers a world of outdoor adventure opportunities, including hiking, paddling (at both the Sacandaga and Kunjamuk Rivers), and biking. Feeling hungry? Pop inside Logan’s Bar and Grill for some finger-licking quesadillas and excellent lobsters.

Schroon Lake

Schroon Lake is Northwest of Lake George and has a lake that offers about 9 miles of heart-melting waterfront views. Schroon Lake Town Beach provides a sliver of sand below rolling green hills and can be a nice place to swim, paddle, or walk barefoot. Avid hikers have the nearby Severance Mt. Trailhead, whose wide and well-marked trails are sidetracked with nice little places to just stop and enjoy the forest and some pretty little creeks. Trail Break at Schroon Lake serves delicious prime ribs and a range of other homemade eats. If nothing will work except a good pizza, DeCesare's Pizzeria typically exceeds expectations and must not be missed.

Old Forge

Whether seeking serenity or adventure, Old Forge, billed as “Adirondack Base Camp,” will come in handy. Enchanted Forest Water Safari, which typically opens in June, is New York's largest water theme park and has been a feature of the town for close to 70 years. It features more than 50 rides and attractions, including more than 30 heated outdoor water rides. One can also get wet at Old Forge Lake — while enjoying a range of outdoor activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing.

There is also the chance to hit up the trails of Bald Mountain and Moss Lake, where lovely views and playful air make every minute count. Great Pines Resort blends rustic charm and modern amenities and will be a fantastic place to rest after a fun-packed day.

Wells

A cute, dainty town of about 600 residents, Wells is an outdoor lover’s paradise for the fact it is in the heart of Adirondack Park, the largest publicly protected area in the contiguous United States. The park — one of the first Forever Wild Forest Preserves in the United States — spans about 6 million acres. It is also the largest National Historic Landmark in the country. The Sacandaga River meanders right through the town, imbuing it with a lovely, rustic allure that first-time visitors will find endearing.

This town provides access to Augur Falls, a series of rapids on the Sacandaga River that can be accessed through some short, picturesque trails. One can swim at Lake Algonquin, admire awesome pieces of art at the 8-acre Sacandaga River Sculpture Park, or head north to East Jimmy Creek Falls, a short walk from Route 8.

Elizabethtown

Elizabethtown is an addictive realm of serenity that offers an unspoiled Adirondack landscape and numerous outdoor venues. One can paddle an afternoon away on the Boquet River, where the town sits — or drop a line for brown and rainbow trouts. This is the steepest river in the Empire State, descending over 2,700 feet in just 47 miles. Split Rock Falls, just south of town, features stunning waterfalls and deep pools. Also, the interesting artifacts at the Adirondack History Museum represent two centuries of Essex County life; something a history lover will not want to miss. Hikers will get a blast at the nearby Blueberry Trail System, a network of multi-use trails spread over 900 acres of raw beauty. If you want a neat old home (shared with three friendly cats), spend the night at the Woodruff House Bed and Breakfast.

Shimmering lakes framed by the austere grandeur of rolling hills and noble mountains — and quaint, charming towns that can make one easily forget about the rat race in downtown Manhattan or other cities across the nation — are stuff any vacationer will want to experience. Plus, although not mentioned often, all that fresh Adirondack air tends to create a hearty appetite. Fortunately, Food lovers will have a blast exploring a broad range of delicious eats, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. Skip the crowds, however, and opt for the region’s underappreciated towns such as Chestertown, Keene Valley, and Speculator.