A Guide to Visiting the Adirondack Mountain Region

The scenic Adirondack Mountains are located in northern New York state. This beautiful region includes the 6 million acre Adirondack Park, which hosts a number of recreational activities for the entire family. Activities range from hiking to water sport to historical exploration. There are numerous possibilities for a trip to the Adirondack Mountains.

The Adirondack Mountains provide a wide range of outdoor activities. According to the Adirondack Park website, the park hosts the nation's largest hiking system. 2,000 miles of hiking trails run through the park, and the wide variety of trails should accommodate any hiker seeking a certain level of ease or difficulty. The park also has about 3,000 lakes and ponds and 1,500 miles of river available for canoeing, kayaking, and other water-related activities. If your family contains a history buff, the park also contains forts from the French and Indian War time period that are available for exploration. As far as outdoor adventures go, the park has covered every angle. The park also offers several seasonal winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, dog sledding, and snowmobiling.

Lodging in the Adirondack Mountains has several options. For individuals desiring a bit of pampering while still enjoying the great outdoors, the Adirondack Park region features several resorts, hotels, motels, and inns. Some of the resorts, such as the Big Moose Inn, are restored older buildings that have country charm with a healthy dose of hospitality. For travelers desiring seclusion with a secure roof, several companies in the park offer a variety of cabins and cottages. Finally, for the more daring vacation-goer, the park contains several campgrounds with varying features. The Adirondack Park website contains a map that displays the campgrounds and the amenities available.

This particular region of the state offer water parks, hot air balloon rides, golf courses, spas, theaters, lake cruises, a scenic railroad, family farms, and other somewhat modern attractions. In this particular case, staying in the mountains does not necessarily mean abandoning civilization. The wide variety of activities promises fun for the whole family.

The Adirondack Mountain region might be beautiful during the winter time, but foul weather can make any trip quite dangerous. Try to plan a vacation to the area during a more "predictable" weather period. Cell phone coverage in the area is limited, so help might not be readily available if the weather turns deadly. No matter the season, carry more than one layer of clothing on any outdoor excursion and always bring plenty of water and other appropriate safety equipment. If possible, never travel alone and always let someone else know where you are going and when you intend to return.

The beautiful Adirondack Mountain region of New York state has dazzled visitors for years. The Adirondack park provides many level of activities for family or solitary enjoyment. The natural beauty and the classy touch of civilization make this a top vacation spot.