Explore the Adirondacks
Experience the centuries-old tradition of exploration and adventure in the Adirondacks of Northern New York.
The Adirondack Region is one of the most diverse destinations on the East Coast, offering unparalleled outdoor recreation throughout its dazzling lakes, wild mountains, and charming towns and villages. Established in 1892 by the State of New York amid concerns for the water and timber resources of the region, the Adirondack Park today covers an area larger in size than Yosemite, Yellowstone, Glacier, Grand Canyon and the Great Smokies National Parks combined, and is the largest park in the lower 48 states.
Encompassing millions of acres of public, constitutionally protected forest preserve, as well as privately owned land, the Adirondack Park is New York's largest playground. Striking a balance between public and private ownership makes the Adirondack Park a unique place to visit. Visitors have ample access to recreation gear through hotel amenities, rental shops, and local guide services. Park residents often enjoy the serene Adirondack experience alongside travelers and share their knowledge of the area.
The Adirondack Region in Northern New York is a protected area spanning over 6 million acres of mountain peaks, sparkling lakes, and wild spaces. Twelve distinct regions come together to create one epic vacation destination. We've traversed the Adirondack Mountains to find the best places to explore on a day trip, long weekend, or week-long vacation.
Wandering adventurers trekking along wooded Adirondack trails might wonder, "Is there an easier way to see the mountain-laden views without scrambling up these towering peaks?" There sure are.
The Adirondacks are filled with a variety of bodies of water comprising over 150,000 acres of open water in lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, brooks, and some other distinct types.
The word ‘Adirondack' originated as a derogatory term given to the Algonquin tribe by neighboring Mohawk, meaning "barkeaters."
The Adirondack Region is located in Northern New York, about 4 hours north of Manhattan and two hours south of Montreal. It is a vast wilderness, but it isn't as remote as some might think. Amtrak train service leaves from Penn Station in NYC and travels directly into the Adirondack Park, stopping at historic and scenic depots along the way.
For Vermont, New York, New Jersey and Canadian residents, it is also a popular one-tank trip destination which offers a balanced blend of outdoor recreation opportunities and attractions, restaurants, shopping, and events.
If you plan on getting to the Adirondacks by car, there are two major highways that border the Adirondack Region - Interstate 81 to the west and Interstate 87 to the east.
Two regional airports offer service to the Adirondacks, and major bus lines make traveling from anywhere convenient, affordable and easy.
There isn't one - at least in the way you might think. There's no ticket, no toll booth you need to go through, or a gated entrance. When you arrive at the park's boundaries - delineated by a blue line on your map - a brown and yellow sign will welcome you to the Adirondack Park. No fee, no ticket - just continue on your way.