Hike, Paddle and Camp in the Adirondacks

Hiking the Adirondack high peaks is a rite of passage for anyone who calls themselves an outdoorsman

ADIRONDACK REGION, NY - With more than 2,000 miles of hiking trails and nature paths, many of which are universally accessible, the Adirondack Region offers great hiking in the high and low peaks. From the highest point in New York State (Mount Marcy) to a quiet stroll through Henry's Woods in Lake Placid - the summer hiking season offers an experience to fit any interest or adventure.

Ever wonder why trails in the Adirondacks are in such good condition, no matter what obstacles nature may present? Find out what it takes to maintain thousands of miles of hiking trails and volunteer with the Adirondack Mountain Club's ADK Volunteer Trails Program. ADK.org lists 2011's volunteer trails program schedule.

One of the most interesting and perhaps least known features of the Adirondack Region is the 133-mile continuous wilderness footpath, the Northville - Placid Trail. The trail connects the Adirondack foothills in the south with the High Peaks region to the north. Lakes, ponds and streams are met at every turn as the trail passes along valleys, ridges and mountaintops. The trail runs in a north-south direction and the degree of ascent is not difficult for a hiker in moderately good condition. An average hiker with backcountry experience should plan on about 8-11 days to make the trip, though the trail could be traveled in sections by hikers on overnight trips.

Campsites aren't hard to come by in the Adirondacks. Many campgrounds provide full amenities, lean-tos and cabins. For a rustic experience, canoe camping along the Saranac Lake Chains or Cranberry Lake is easier than you might think. Outfitters throughout the Adirondacks lead expeditions and rent camping gear.

The Adirondack Region offers incredible paddling and kayaking opportunities. Multi-day trips provide a great opportunity to see a lot of the Adirondack Region's six million acres. Paddle through boreal forests, along towering cliffs and soaring mountains to quite valleys and picturesque farmland.

Whether you are camping, hiking, paddling or doing all three, the Adirondack Region offers plenty of scope for outdoor adventure. And it's close by.

Connect with the Adirondacks on Facebook.com/VisitAdirondacks and Twitter.com/VisitAdks.