Essex County, New York
Adirondack Park
State park (forever wild) and national historic landmark
Adirondack Park covers about six million acres across twelve counties, mixing public forest preserve and private land. It contains the High Peaks, Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, Old Forge and hundreds of lakes and trails.
Why Visit
It is the largest protected area in the contiguous United States, with canoe routes, mountain trails, ski areas and small Adirondack towns.
Amenities & Facilities
- Thousands of miles of trails
- Public campsites
- Boat launches
- Ski areas
Things to Do
- Hike a High Peak
- Canoe a lake chain
- Camp at a state campsite
- Drive the scenic byways
Best For
Anyone building a multi-day outdoor trip.
Parking & Visiting
Parking is limited at many Adirondack trailheads and reservations or shuttles may be required. Confirm current access rules with the New York State DEC before visiting.
Nearby Communities
- Lake Placid
- Saranac Lake
- Old Forge
- Keene Valley
Related Attractions
- High Peaks Wilderness
- Lake Placid
- Lake George
- Saranac Lake
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Adirondack Park all public land?
No. About half is public forest preserve and the rest is private land, so check access and signage before entering.
Seasonal Note
Trail conditions, beach staffing, boat rentals and road access change with the season. Confirm current hours and closures with the managing agency before you travel, especially in winter and early spring.
