There is more to New York than bright lights and big cities. While the Big Apple is the state’s primary claim to fame, there is an equally impressive, and much larger, space upstate that also attracts millions of visitors each year. The Adirondack Mountains span 5,000 square miles, a region larger than Vermont. The expansive area abounds with recreational activities and attractions, making it a favorite tourist destination, which shouldn’t come as a surprise considering it’s the birthplace of the American vacation. Here are two reasons why the Adirondacks should top your trip list.
Hiking
Outdoor enthusiasts around the world flock to the Adirondack Mountains to hike its 2,000 miles of scenic trails. Many are perfect for spending an afternoon with the family, while others offer strenuous climbs for serious hikers.
There are 11 trails that lead to impressive views of cascading waterfalls, as well as paths to the park’s 46 peaks. It’s a badge of honor among hikers to climb each of the high peaks, with completion earning one membership into the vaunted Adirondack 46ers. If you’d like to tackle the task of reaching each peak, consider having an extended stay at a summer vacation resort Blue Mountain Lake NY to give yourself plenty of time.
Winter Sports
The Adirondacks are a winter wonderland for sportsmen. The region offers a dozen ski resorts, as well as the Eastern United States’ greatest vertical drop at Whiteface Mountain. There’s ample opportunities to experience tubing, snowboarding and snowshoeing, while nearby Lake Placid also allows visitors to get an Olympic-sized rush at the Bobsled and Luge Complex. Lake Placid was home to the 1980 Winter Olympics, so be sure to visit Herb Brooks Arena to see the site of the Miracle on Ice, considered among the greatest moments in sports history.
If you’re looking for a beautiful vacation destination, the Adirondack Mountains should be high on your list. Whether you visit in summer or winter, you’ll find no shortage of activities to enjoy.