10 Affordable Summer Vacation Spots In the Adirondack Mountains
Spanning an immense 5,000 square miles, the Adirondack Mountains are an idyllic group of mountains in northeastern New York State. These mountains boast hundreds of individual summits, with the tallest, Mount Marcy, reaching a height of 5,343 feet. From the placid waters of Mirror Lake and Cranberry Lake to the peaks of Whiteface Mountain, the region provides almost endless outdoor beauty. To this end, tourists worldwide are beckoned by the alluring environment and amazing activities. Along with its beauty, the Adirondack Mountains are home to many affordable vacation spots for those on a budget. With all the natural sights minus the unnecessary expense, one can enjoy a budget summer retreat surrounded by majestic peaks.
Lake Placid
Start your affordable summer journey in the Adirondacks with a trip to the stunning village of Lake Placid. Home to a quaint population of 2,300, this town boasts vibrant culture coupled with endless natural sights. A short chat with any of the locals, and you’ll learn that the town hosted the Winter Olympics in 1932 and 1980. Head over to the Olympic sites nearby, which showcase the bobsled, skiing, and snowboarding routes from the prestigious events. Or, take a deep dive at the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, which features photographs, videos, and items from the games for a great learning experience. As entry costs range from $ 12 to $15, you won’t have to spend much to learn about the town’s history.
As part of the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid’s true appeal lies in its outdoor surroundings. Whiteface Mountain is one of the most famous spots nearby, featuring a whopping 90 skiing and cycling runs. Spanning a total of 22 miles, rent a bicycle and spend the day cruising through the rocky trails. On the other hand, take in the panoramic views from below at the calming Mirror Lake. The lake is a fun place to go canoeing, kayaking, biking, or swimming against a magnificent mountain backdrop. With these and many other outdoor locations about, there is no end to the budget enjoyment at Lake Placid. Once you’ve had a fun day out, book a room at Rodeway Inn for lovely views and easy accessibility at around $100 per night.
Wilmington
While it may not be as popular as Lake Placid, Wilmington is a dream for any hiking enthusiast. Nestled in the Whiteface region of the Adirondacks, this charming town is engulfed by an enormous network of hiking trails. From steep mountain climbs to serene lakeside strolls, you’ll find all kinds of unique trails to hike. Beginners can opt for the 2.4-mile Cobble Lookout trail, which cuts through thick forests and beautiful lookout points. If you’re a professional, the 9.5 miles Whiteface Mountain Summit Trail is a challenging route that rewards successful hikers with panoramic views from the 4,800 feet high summit.
The best part about these hikes is that they don’t cost anything, so you can focus on having a great time. After enduring a long hike, give your muscles a break at Wilmington Town Beach. The calm lake features a sandy beach, picnic area, boat rentals, and tons of wildlife so that the whole family can have a blast. No matter what you plan on doing, retreat to the Mountain Brook Lodge and relish a luxury stay for around $170 per night.
High Peaks Resort
Drive back toward Lake Placid, and you can't miss the luxurious High Peaks Resort situated along the western banks of Mirror Lake. The stunning resort provides an enchanting experience starting with a welcome beverage as soon as you arrive. Choose from one of the many rooms with prices starting at a reasonable $160 per night if you book early. As soon as you enter your room, you’ll be greeted with opulent decor, a private patio, and a view of the pool. So, you can spend hours in the room without ever getting bored.
That said, take a walk around to explore the array of amenities and activities on offer. If you’re into swimming, hop into one of the four pools to enjoy the crystal-clear water against the backdrop of Lake Placid. Or, book a massage to rejuvenate your senses with professional staff and high-quality equipment. Apart from this, visitors can experience complimentary yoga classes, gym access, and pool watercraft for never-ending fun.
Cranberry Lake
Step into the enchanting Cranberry Lake to experience an inviting atmosphere flush with outdoor sights. Located in the town of Clifton, this serene lake is one of the largest and most well-preserved in the Adirondacks. With an area of nearly 7,000 acres, visitors are drawn by its expansive coastline and glistening waters. Apart from the views, Cranberry Lake boasts activities such as kayaking, canoeing, paddling, boating, and rafting. So, rent your boat of choice and head out into the water to adore the engulfing scenery.
If you want to stay back on the coast, fishing is a popular activity that you can enjoy on a budget. Home to excellent trout, save money on dinner with freshly caught fish! Further out from the lake are lush forests and mountains, where budget-friendly activities such as hiking abound. After spending the day outdoors, the Cranberry Lake Campground provides camping spots with washrooms, picnic areas, RV camping, and tent spaces. Charging $20 per night, set up camp and admire the night sky in this serene natural destination.
Lake Pleasant
Water enthusiasts rejoice in Lake Pleasant, a charming waterside town in the southern Adirondacks. Set against a backdrop of towering peaks and its namesake, Lake Pleasant (the lake), the town provides a retreat from the urban hustle and bustle. Visitors can embrace the picturesque setting and a wide array of recreational pursuits for a fun-filled summer trip. Explore the calm waters by boating, swimming, or fishing to cool off under the hot summer sun. The surrounding areas boast camping spaces, hiking trails, and biking routes for never-ending options to admire the locale. Hikers can embark on the Fawn Lake Trail for 2.9 miles (4.7 km) of solitude amongst lakeside views, thick greenery, and muddy paths.
That said, apart from its prevalent outdoorsy side, Lake Pleasant is also a trove of historical and cultural activities. Settled more than two centuries ago, the town has seen a plethora of events, from the War of 1812 to an influx of tourism. So, a short stroll through town, and you can explore historical sites, speak to the locals, and understand the expansive timeline of Lake Pleasant. For example, legends claim that a flying head came out of Sacandaga Lake to chase away a local Native American Tribe. The best part is there is no expense involved in learning about the past, so you can stick to your budget throughout. With many budget hotels and camping spots abound, Lake Pleasant is a great mix of history and nature on a budget.
Adirondack Lodge Old Forge
If Lake Pleasant isn’t peaceful enough, drive over to the Adirondack Lodge in Old Forge for a secluded reprieve. Located deep within the Adirondack Mountains, this idyllic resort is the perfect place to relax on a budget. Choose between 52 guest rooms with amenities such as wifi, a TV, picturesque views, and lots of space. Starting at $100 per night if you book early, there’s no need to break the bank for this summer destination. Once you’re settled in, the charming establishment boasts a tennis court, swimming pool, and picnic area, so visitors are never bored.
Whether it is a game of tennis, a family picnic, or a stroll through the surrounding woods, one can indulge in a variety of pursuits. However, that’s not all. The resort is in Old Forge, which houses an 18-hole golf course, an expansive hiking system, shopping areas, and a water park for limitless opportunities. With so much to offer, Adirondack Lodge in Old Forge is the place to be for a secluded and happening retreat. Be sure to check for discounts and offers before booking, as they often run great deals.
Westport
The lively town of Westport in Essex County is home to many budget accommodations and fun for all. Overlooking the magnificent Lake Champlain, this town exudes splendid mountainscapes and serene waterside opportunities. That said, budget travelers are often drawn in by the plentiful historical establishments in town. Boasting centuries of intriguing history, the streets are lined with rustic buildings such as the Victorian Lady Bed and Breakfast, the Westport Library, and the Westport train station. For a learning experience, the 1887 Westport Library is an ideal attraction with a soothing ambiance and endless reading material. Or, one can visit the historic 1876 Westport train station, which features the Depot Theatre, a lovely venue hosting plays such as Chesapeake and The Fantasticks. Historical attractions like these are either free or affordable for a great day in the past.
Step back into the present, and Westport’s slice of mother nature’s beauty is ready to greet you. Watersports enthusiasts looking to brave the waves can swim, canoe, or kayak in the soothing waters of Lake Champlain. Home to many parks and sandy beaches, it is a great spot to enjoy the calming aura coupled with great facilities. Close by, there are plenty of campgrounds where visitors can set up camp and enjoy the night coveted by the Adirondack’s grandeur. Parallelly, establishments like the Westport Lakeside Motel provide scenic lodging for less than $90 per night.
Saranac Waterfront Lodge
If Westport’s motels and camping aren’t your vibe, the Saranac Waterfront Lodge is an all-inclusive resort with otherworldly charm. Sandwiched between Lake Flower’s sparkling waters and the Adirondack’s lush forests, this resort is a retreat of luxury on Earth. At less than $200, you can book a superior room featuring hardwood flooring, opulent decor, and an amazing feel. Testament to this, you might want to spend your entire trip in the fluffy embrace of your room’s mattress! When you do leave the room, the resort’s array of outdoor pursuits is perfect for summer fun. Walk down to Lake Flower’s Pontiac Bay, where you can rent out a paddleboat, kayak, or pontoon boat to head out into the waters. Prices start at just $30 per person for an enticing time encircled by water, forests, and colossal mountains. For more opportunities like fishing and swimming, Lake Saranac is a short walk away and has everything you can ask for.
Outside of the watersports, Saranac Waterfront Lodge is also a great starting point for many hikes. The Adirondack 46, for example, is a set of high-elevation trails with astonishing routes and enchanting views that lead to the Adirondack’s mountain summits. Once you’ve tired yourself out, book a table at the Boathouse Saranac Lake Pub, where you can relish a delicious meal and drink accompanied with lakeside views.
Tupper Lake
A short drive away, Tupper Lake is any nature lover’s dream, situated in miles of Adirondack land. Testament to this, the small village of 3,200 receives thousands of tourists throughout the year. Budget-conscious travelers can begin their trip with a unique experience at the Wild Center natural history museum. Spanning 115 acres, this museum showcases exhibits with live animals, a waterfall, canoe journeys, and fish-filled streams. Tickets start at $13 for kids and $23 for adults making it the perfect budget attraction. If you had fun in the museum, Tupper Lake Library is another spot one can visit. With free entry and hundreds of books available, it can provide a laid-back reprieve within the Adirondacks.
That said, apart from the interesting history and culture, Tupper Lake’s true intrigue lies in its mountainous surroundings. Engaging in hiking is a cost-free way to admire beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife. St. Regis Mountains is an optimal route that rewards hikers with encircling summit views after a steep 1,250 feet (380 m) ascent. Hike back down to Raquette Pond, where travelers can be seen swimming, canoeing, or boating in the gleaming waters.
Silver Lake Wilderness Area
Step into an untouched tract of land in the stunning Adirondacks at the Silver Lake Wilderness Area. Astray from human inhabitation, this area is a treasure trove of natural sights and activities anyone can appreciate. Enter the park completely free of cost for a world of enjoyment in the expansive 106,000-acre area. Adorned by 48 bodies of water, visitors can experience a range of waterside moments paddling, canoeing, swimming, or fishing. If you’re lucky, you might catch a brook trout which is great to eat! Dry yourself off, and the area’s lush hardwood and softwood forests provide a world of hiking, backpacking, and wildlife-watching fun.
Keep your eyes open to spot cute animals like the little brown bat, river otter, and wild turkey. On the other hand, adventure enthusiasts can challenge themselves on the wilderness area’s rock climbing routes. For example, the cliffs on Chub Lake Mountain are a popular option with great holds for a steady climb. Once you’re back down, there are a number of campgrounds where you can set up a tent and relish an affordable night’s sleep in mother nature’s caress.
Explore the limitless beauty of the towering Adirondack Mountains on a budget. With mountain routes, crystal-clear lakes, and cute wildlife, the outdoor fun never ends. Moreover, some towns boast unique attractions such as historical sites, theatres, and more so everyone can have a great time. All in all, the Adirondacks are perfect for an affordable summer retreat if you book ahead and know where to look!
