Plan Your First Visit to the Adirondacks
Within a day's drive of the U.S. Northeast, Ontario and Quebec, the Adirondack Mountains are like no other place on earth.
Over six million acres, 3,000 lakes and ponds, 2,000 scenic trails AND 30,000 miles of rivers and streams all add up to one simple reason why you should visit the Adirondack Park. It’s spectacular.
Wind along forested paths. Seek out cascading waterfalls. Plant your feet on summits with 360-degree views that extend as far as the eye can see. Camp under the stars. Unwind on pristine lakes. The Adirondacks provide the best place to visit in New York State.
Looking for things to do on your trip? Plan Your ADK Vacation. Download our free guides for comprehensive travel information on hiking, fishing, paddling and scenic drives.
Top Scenic Hikes
Outdoor Recreation
Fishing
Whitewater Rafting
Events & Festivals
Camping
Ski + Snowboard
Hiking Challenges
Paddling
Glamping
Fall Foliage
Boat Tours
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Can I hunt in the Adirondacks
Absolutely. The Adirondacks has some of the finest hunting for bear, deer and small game in the country. The New York State DEC requires all small game hunters over the age of 12 to carry a license, and all big game hunters over the age of 16 to carry a license. All trappers must be licensed regardless of age. All first-time hunters must complete a 10-hour hunter safety course. For more information, check the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's website's 2022 hunting licenses page.
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Where can I get a NYS fishing license?
No matter what kind of fishing you do, you must have an Official New York State Fishing license (<--click to get one online) if you are 16 and older. Most sporting goods stores throughout the Adirondacks sell fishing licenses. You will need your driver's license number or some form of identification when purchasing a fishing license.
New York State offers free fishing licenses to active members of the U.S. Armed Forces, resident patients at U.S. Veterans Administration hospitals, members of the Shinnecock or Poospatuck tribes and the Six Nations living on a New York State Reservation.
For more information, check the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's website or their Fishing Regulations page.
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Is there a fee to enter the Adirondack Park?
This question is more common than you might think and the answer is no. There's no fee to enter the park. However, there are fees at public and private New York campgrounds within the park.
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Where's the entrance to the Adirondacks?
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.