8 Most Laid-Back Small Towns in The Adirondack Mountains
The Adirondack Mountains in New York are famous for their "46 High Peaks" and protected wilderness spanning over 6 million acres. Peppered throughout the untouched wilderness are laid-back towns with friendly locals and so much to discover. Relax along the shores of Lake Champlain in Westport, or get that adrenaline pumping at Indian Lake, The Whitewater Capital of New York. Or pack your hiking boots and tackle the Great Range Traverse, one of the most challenging hikes in the country. After a long day of exploring the mountains, spending time in these laid-back towns is a great way to unwind.
Saranac Lake
Saranac Lake is a friendly retreat with a charming downtown area, amazing views, and a hub for year-round outdoor activities. Fun fact: the area was a popular resort destination in the 19th century to treat tuberculosis! Visitors stayed in what was called “cure cabins” to take in as much fresh air as possible. While there are better treatments for TB today, Saranac Lake remains an ideal destination for rest and relaxation. In the winter, stay at the nearby Mount Pisgah ski area to tackle the slopes or swim at Lake Colby or Lower Saranac Lake.
Before heading out for a day of nature exploration, stop off at the Blue Moon Café for a cozy breakfast to fuel your adventures. Stroll down the charming 19th-century streets and pop in shops like The Community Store for trail snacks. Then, spend the day hiking the rustic trails at the Mount Pisgah Recreation Area. With friendly locals and a small-town vibe, Lake Saranac is a great place to escape the noise of the big city.
Westport
One thing is for certain: the people of Westport know how to relax! Fun fact: Westport is the home to everyone’s favorite vacation seat of choice: the Adirondack chair! Traveling the uncrowded street of Westport feels like walking inside a postcard. The picturesque tree-lined streets offer charming locally-owned shops and cafes, like Coco Café
Nestled along the shores of Lake Champlain, Westport is ripe for outdoor adventure and scenic views. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of the Green Mountains of Vermont.
With the lake to the east and the Adirondack Mountains to the west, adventure awaits in every direction. Check out one of the many hiking trails in the area, like the relaxing Art Farm Trail that takes you through forests and wetlands, or the Hoisington Brook Cascade, offering a great view of a waterfall. Whether you want to shop at a delightful country fair or get lost in the wilderness, Westport is an excellent escape.
Tupper Lake
If you need to unplug and unwind, there’s no better spot than Tupper Lake. It boasts the darkest, unsullied skies in the state, perfect for stargazing! If you are really passionate about the stars, head to the Adirondack Sky Center and Observatory. The roll-off roof observatory situated near Little Wolf Beach provides stargazing sessions every Friday night, perfect for the whole family. During the day, take the family to The Wild Center for interactive exhibits and learn more about the ecology of the Adirondacks.
One of the biggest draws to Tupper Lake is the iconic Mount Arab, a 2,533-foot-tall mountain just outside of town. Travel the moderately challenging hike to the top (which takes a little over an hour) to the peak, also referred to as the Arab Mountain Fire Observation Station, offering stunning panoramic views of the mountains. From family-friendly activities to some of the most amazing views in New York, Tupper Lake is truly a hidden gem tucked away in the Adirondack Mountains.
Ticonderoga
Expect the unexpected in Ticonderoga! While steeped in American history, Ticonderoga isn’t your average Adirondack Mountain town. One of the biggest attractions in the area is Fort Ticonderoga, which played a pivotal role in the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. Today, it’s a stunning museum with artifacts from the era and hosts annual Revolutionary War reenactments. Another big draw to the area is Mount Defiance, which serves as a historical site and a place to gain amazing views of the mountains.
Stroll the historic Montcalm Street and stop in quirky shops like Lonergan's Antiques and Sugar & Spice Country Shoppe. But Ticonderoga's most unlikely attraction is the Star Trek Original Series Set Tour. Considered one of the most authentic replications of the original set, visitors can take self-guided tours of the original Starship Enterprise. With a blend of historical and pop-culture features, Ticonderoga is a must-see on your next New York road trip.
Speculator
Welcome to Speculator: The All-Season Vacationland! Considered the ‘Gateway to the Adirondack Mountains’ Speculator is a nature lovers paradise. It’s a tight-knit community that welcomes visitors twelve months out of the year. In the winter, the area comes alive with winter sports enthusiasts looking to hit the slopes at Oak Mountain Ski Center. And in the summer, it transforms into a great spot to hike, or relax on a scenic chairlift ride up the mountain.
Nestled on the north shores of Lake Pleasant, Speculator is a charming summertime retreat. Moffitt Beach State Campground is a wonderful spot to set up camp for the weekend that provides public restrooms, showers, and picnic grounds in a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. And if you want to gain a better vantage point of the mountains, check out Auger Falls. It is a popular spot among the locals, and the views can’t be beat.
Keene Valley
Far removed from the lights of the big city is the hidden gem of Keene Valley. This charming hamlet is locked in time- in all the best ways. However, before exploring the beautiful parks and trails nearby, make sure to swing by the central hub in town. Stock up on treats at Cedar Run Bakery & Market, or just spend the day shopping for plants at East Branch Organic. One of Keene’s most popular attractions is the Keene Farmers Market at Marcy Field, which is open in the summer and fall.
Start your Keene Valley hiking journey at The Garden Trailhead, which connects to the most popular hiking spot in the area: the Great Range Traverse. Be warned: this trail is not for the faint of heart; it’s considered one of the most challenging routes in the Adirondack Mountains (and in the country). It is 26 miles long with an elevation of 9,500 feet and is designed for veteran hikers. But if you are brave enough to take on the challenge, the views are well worth it at the peak.
Indian Lake
Attention adrenaline junkies! If you love the thrill of white water rafting, Indian Lake is a must-experience. Also known as the Whitewater Capital of New York, visitors can travel down the Indian and Hudson Rivers with the help of the Adirondac Rafting Company. And for more challenges on land, Baldface Mountain provides difficult trailheads that offer stunning views of the area.
However, you don’t have to be a daring thrill-seeker to enjoy Indian Lake. Travel the charming street in the center of town and shop for treasure in quaint country stores like Pine's Country Store or Abanakee Studios. The area also offers more family-friendly trailheads in the Siamese Ponds Wilderness Area and the Blue Mountain Wild Forest. Thrill-seekers and those seeking a relaxing mountain retreat will all fall in love with Indian Lake.
Old Forge
Considered the “Adirondack Base Camp,” Old Forge is your launching pad for outdoor adventure. Hitch a ride on the McCauley Mountain Scenic Chairlift for amazing views of the mountains and lakes below. It’s only a 10-minute ride and provides picnic tables for a delightful lunch at the top. For more family fun, the Enchanted Forest / Water Safari offers 32 heated water rides and is open through the summer.
Visitors can also spend the day looking at the sights in town. Walk the cozy streets of Old Forge and stop in specialty stores, or catch a show at the Strand Theater, a quirky art-deco theater. To gain a better perspective of the area, hitch a ride on the Norridgewock Tour Boat that travels down the pristine Stillwater Reservoir. And don’t forget to stop by Souvenir Village to bring something home and remember your amazing trip to Old Forge.
Unwind in New York's Best Kept Secrets
If you need a nature escape but don’t want to lose the luxuries of home, these towns will make you feel right at home. What’s great about these hamlets is each has their unique personalities and charm. Stargaze at the Adirondack Sky Center and Observatory at Tupper Lake, or blend in with the locals at the Keene Farmers Market in Keene Valley. So, pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and reconnect with nature in these delightful towns in the Adirondack Mountains.
