The Lake George Area offers unlimited activities within the boundary of our southern Adirondack Mountains. From the tallest treetops to whitecapped waves, you’ll find adventure almost anywhere. We’ve compiled 10 unique experiences you can have right here in our region anytime between the late spring and early fall. This Original Vacation is a trip you’ll share stories from for years to come!
1. Treetop Ropes Courses & Ziplines
Step into a harness and reach new heights in the Lake George Area. Each of our aerial adventure courses has their own unique set of obstacles that present an elevated challenge to test your strength and balance. Each park also includes at least one zipline, because there’s nothing like feeling the wind in your hair.
Pictured: Adirondack Extreme, Photo Courtesy of K. Shaw Media
Adirondack Extreme
Located in Bolton Landing, Adirondack Extreme was the first aerial adventure course to open in the United States, and has continued to set the bar as the largest treetop ropes course in the country. This linear obstacle park becomes progressively more challenging the higher you go, and is customizable for every age and ability.
The Kids Course is designed to exercise their natural instincts of climbing and scrambling with uninterrupted movement over 50 obstacles, like wobbly bridges and swinging logs, plus 9 ziplines – the longest being 125 ft. long! Parents can follow their children from the ground along the walking path that also provides great angles for memorable photos.
Explore 60 obstacles and 14 ziplines on Treetop Adventure Courses 1-4 such as the “Punching Bags” and the “Pogos”. Dial up the intensity with a fifth-course upgrade for an additional 12 obstacles and 1 zipline, including the “Aerial Skatepark” and the “Rock Walls”. Courses 1-5 finish with the fan-favorite giant tandem zipline. Go to extremes on the sixth-course upgrade and conquer the most challenging series of 15 obstacles and 2 ziplines, with names like the “Leap of Faith” and “Gladiator Nets”.
Or, maybe the “Low Rider” Zipline Tour is more your speed. Ease into aerial adventures with these 12 leisurely ziplines and 9 walking bridges from 10 to 30 ft. above the forest floor and babbling Alder Brook. The “Low Rider” Zipline Tours can also be packaged with Treetop Adventure Courses 1 & 2.
West Mountain Aerial Treetop Adventure Park
Take a scenic chairlift ride to the summit where West Mountain’s Aerial Treetop Adventure Park spans 5 acres and offers 6 high ropes courses from beginner to advanced. Overcome obstacles like the flying trapeze, a giant spider web, climbing wall, rolling vine, log wave, floating raft, a moving sidewalk, cloud sled, and of course, adrenaline-pumping ziplines!
What more could you ask for than a delicious picnic lunch that can be added to your adventure. West Mountain’s in-house chef will prepare sandwiches of your choice, beautifully packaged inside a picnic basket for you to enjoy before or after your climb. If you’re group is 21 or older you also have the option of selecting a charcuterie spread paired with wine or beer.
See Air Adventures below for another unique experience offered by this business.
Adirondack Adventure Center
Embark on a 2-hour aerial excursion within a portion of Lake Luzerne’s woodlands at the base of Potash Mountain. Adirondack Adventure Center’s state-of-the-art Treetop & Zipline Adventure features 6 different courses of varying height and difficulty. Their experienced and outgoing guides will help you learn the ropes as you traverse over 62 unique obstacles and elements, including several high-speed ziplines. Not for the faint of heart, one of their main attractions is the 63 ft. tall Quickjump XL freefall.
At Adirondack Adventure, you don’t have to decide if you’d rather be out on the water or deep in the woods. Combo packages let you experience both the treetop adventure and lazy river tubing, or even whitewater rafting, all in the same day.
See Whitewater Rafting below for another unique experience offered by this business.
Adventure Center at Whitewater Challengers
Jump, swing, and climb alongside the mighty Hudson. The Adventure Center at Whitewater Challengers’ Aerial Zipline & Ropes Course is located in the quiet hamlet of North River. Plot your route from platform to platform and over obstacles made of rope, wood, and wire before soaring through the leafy canopy on a zipline. Combine with other activities and on-site lodging for a multi-day unique experience.
See Whitewater Rafting below for another unique experience offered by this business.
Adirondack River Outfitters
Although they offer experiences at two other upstate New York locations, unique to the Adirondack River Outfitters Hudson River base is a hillside aerial adventure course. The adrenaline starts pumping as soon as you strap on a harness. Negotiate obstacles and zipline high above the forest floor. This guided ropes course is a must-do when in the Gore Mountain region – no climbing expertise required!
See Whitewater Rafting below for another unique experience offered by this business.
2. Drive-In Movies
One of the few remaining gems of old-school Americana, the Glen Drive-In Theater is the only drive-in movie theater in the Lake George Area. A family-friendly unique experience where major motion pictures have been shown since 1958. Intermission is the perfect time to head to the Snack Bar for some classic popcorn with movie theater butter, a refreshing fountain beverage, and much more. So, load up the car and head over to Queensbury where you pay one low admission price to watch two blockbusters – because every night is a double feature!
Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien
3. Railbiking
Railbiking is a fun, new way to experience remote locations in the Lake George Area that have been explored by very few. Hop on a railbike with Revolution Rail Co. for a pedal-powered tour through beautiful Adirondack forests along out of service train tracks once used by the Adirondack Company and the Delaware & Hudson Railway locomotives. Rev. Rail has three locations in our region and several ride options to choose from, each involving a few hours of pedaling that is easy for all ages. Plus, you’ll learn about the history of the region from your friendly Rev. Rail guide. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife that has been frequently spotted crossing the tracks – from, deer to fox, beavers, turtles, and more.
North Creek Station runs include the 7-mile North River Run, out-and-back to Boreas River. And, the 8-mile South River Run, out-and-back through wildflower fields and rock outcroppings. You can also book a North or South Rails to River run, which includes railbiking and a lazy river float back to the depot. Also departing from the North Creek Station is the longest railbiking excursion they offer, the 14-mile Ride to Riparius.
Thurman Station runs include the regular 8-mile, out-and-back trip through an Adirondack valley and along the banks of the Hudson River. The Red Dog Run allows extra time for happy hour at the Red Dog Saloon at 1000 Acres Ranch Resort. This location features a Rails to River run as well.
Hadley Station has one 6-mile, out-and-back run that crosses over a spectacular 500 ft. long trestle bridge, 90 ft. above the confluence of the Hudson and Sacandaga Rivers.
4. Island Camping
Camping in the Lake George Area is a pillar activity of the Original Vacation, where the more adventurous spend their days hiking, fishing, or swimming and their nights around a bonfire, telling tales, roasting marshmallows, and sleeping under the stars.
A unique camping experience can be found in the middle of the “Queen of American Lakes” on 44 state-owned islands. Pitch a tent at one of 387 sites located in the Narrow Islands/Mother Bunch Group, Glen Island Group, or on Long Island. Accessible by boat only, each site has a decent amount of privacy and includes a dock, firepit, and picnic table. Island campers can fish and bird watch right from their campsite, or venture from the island and into the bays that function as perfect swimming holes. Easily access your boat and enjoy 32 miles of some of the best water recreation in the northeast.
Whereas primitive camping drops you straight into the rough and isolated aspects of the Original Vacation, island camping introduces you to a tamer wilderness and moments of solitude with only a few miles of water between you and civilization.
5. Air Adventures
There are several ways to soar above the breathtaking landscape of the southern Adirondacks. Conquer your fear of heights and be rewarded with a bird’s eye view of the Lake George Area.
Parasailing
Fly a few hundred feet over the “Queen of American Lakes”. Parasail Nation and Parasail Joe’s in the Lake George Village make this extreme sport safe and fun for all ages. Your parasailing experience includes a speedboat ride that is roughly under an hour and approximately 8 minutes of air time strapped into a harness. No swimming is required – taking a quick dip in the water is optional!
Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien
Hot Air Balloon Rides
Take to the skies in a hot air balloon flight. A handful of companies and professional pilots in the Lake George Area offer private rides that float quietly above our landscape.
SunKiss’ balloons are well-known around the region and frequently seen dotting the horizon. You already love the Lake George Area, so why not admire its beauty and wonder from hundreds of feet in the air. Whether you are planning a romantic airborne experience or a group flight, SunKiss Ballooning has several basket sizes to accommodate. Choose from three different packages, each including a 40 to 60-minute ride at sunrise or sunset and a post-flight champagne toast.
Make your time in the air even more memorable. A Beautiful Balloon specializes in flights for special occasions. Experience the romance of ballooning on a Champagne Flight – popular for proposals and anniversaries. Become immersed in the watercolor skies at sunrise on a Dawn Patrol ride. Book a High Adventure for a bird’s-eye-view from 10,000 feet in the air. Or, go the distance and schedule a Long Jump flight that lasts several hours traversing the air. Additionally, A Beautiful Balloon offers group activities like Group Champagne Flights for larger celebrations up to 22 people, and short Tethered Rides that can “uplift” 40-50 fliers per hour.
You can always count on Ballooning Adventures for a unique aerial experience. Their pilot has decades of experience navigating above our scenic valleys, and you’ll find yourself passing over historic small towns, crystalline waterways, and the gently rolling countryside. Ballooning Adventures only allows up to 4 people per flight in order to provide the most intimate air excursion possible. Morning flights come with a light breakfast and champagne toast. All rides are approximately 1 hour, and special occasion rides are available as well.
Discover the magic of ballooning with Majestic Balloon Flights. Enjoy 360º views from the basket during this once in a lifetime opportunity to travel above the treetops and below the clouds. Majestic Balloon Flight offers a morning ride or an early evening ride – when flying conditions are most favorable. One basket can fit up to 5 passengers per flight, but if there is more in your party they can acquire a second balloon to accommodate the rest, lifting off at the same time and location. Passengers will be treated to serene hour-long flight, complimentary champagne toast, picturesque photo opportunities, and leave with a dinner gift certificate to one of our most popular local restaurants. They also provide tethered flights which are great entertainment if you’re planning a family-friendly event.
Or, attend the Adirondack Balloon Festival in the month of September. Hot air balloonists and avid spectators gather from all around the world to witness this kaleidoscope of colors. During this multi-day celebration, dozens of balloons in a variety of fun shapes and characters come alive at sunrise and sunset to float above our southern Adirondack Mountains. Fun for the whole family, this event also features local vendors, live music, children’s activities and more. And, at this event, pilots typically offer rides for the more adventurous attendees.
Helicopter & Plane Tours
Lift off in a helicopter or small passenger plane to see the Lake George Area from a whole new perspective. You’ve explored our landmarks from the ground, but haven’t seen them in all their glory until you’ve taken a scenic flight with North Country Heliflite or Leaf Air, LLC.
North Country Heliflite can fit 3 passengers in the luxurious cabin of their Robinson R44 Helicopter with bubble windows that allow for unobstructed views when flying over sights like Lake George, Gore Mountain, and more. Headsets worn during the flight permit a quiet ride and easy communication with your pilot, and flight length is customizable from 30 minutes to 2 hours – whether you want to take a quick look around or survey more of the region. Regulations require the aircraft to fly slower over mountains and lakes, therefore providing you with a better look at our area’s most distinguishing features.
Head in the clouds? Daydreaming of flying over our glorious lakes and mountains? Make that dream a reality and take a scenic flight with Leaf Air, LLC. Leaf Air has flights available 7 days a week, year-round, for you and up to 2 of your closest friends or family members. Their experienced commercial pilots provide personal, narrated flights in a safe and reliable Cessna aircraft. Pick from one of the following packages:
The “Date Night Scenic” flight will easily be the best date you’ve ever been on – spending 30 minutes sightseeing over Lake George and following it up with a romantic dinner for two at The Log Jam. Fly the entire 32-mile length of the “Queen of American Lakes” on the “One Hour Lake George Air Tour”. The “Spectacular Single Seat Scenic” is a one-on-one experience with your pilot in a 2022 Foxbat, including a unique opportunity to take the controls. Follow the routes used by the armies of the French & Indian War and the American Revolution from above; the “Magic of History Tour” takes you to where some of the most decisive battles in history were fought. And, “Sunrise or Sunset Air Tours” will have you in the air at the absolute best parts of the day!
Gore Mountain Scenic Sky Rides
Enjoy breathtaking views and stunning photo opportunities from the summit of Gore Mountain, sans the strenuous hike up the 3,600 ft. peak. Hop onto a completely enclosed, 8-passenger gondola and take a Scenic Sky Ride that climbs the face of the mountain.
After unloading, we recommend heading straight to the Fairview Observation Platform for a panoramic vista of the southern Adirondacks and High Peaks. This is also a bucket list activity for many fall leaf peepers who will find an unparalleled range of colorful foliage along this ride.
Explore more of Gore and skip the gondola to descend the mountain on various hiking and mountain biking trails that branch off from the summit.
Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien
West Mountain Scenic Chair Rides
Board a Scenic Chair Ride and be whisked away to the top of West Mountain for sprawling views of the Adirondacks, Hudson River Valley, and Vermont’s Green Mountains. Upon reaching the summit you can rest at one of their many picnic locations, learn the ropes at their Aerial Treetop Adventure Course, or hike back down the mountain on their mixed-use trails. We recommend exploring the “Crow’s Nest” trail with a platform lookout, then hiking back to the Base Lodge via “Slide Show”.
Much like Gore Mountain’s Scenic Sky Rides, these chairlift rides are the perfect activity for leaf peepers to photograph vivid foliage as far as the eye can see.
6. Mining & Caving
Check out two of the region’s natural wonders. Dig into some local history and geology of the Adirondacks, and unearth your own little piece of the Lake George Area.
Garnet Mine Tours
Scoop and sift for gemstones at one of the largest garnet deposits in the world. Your Garnet Mine Tour will begin at the Gore Mountain Gem & Mineral Shop, and from there you will follow a tour guide in your own car to the open pit. Before you begin hunting for treasure, your will learn some facts about the official New York State Gemstone and its extremely rare variety found at Barton Mines. Your guide will also demonstrate how you can find your own garnet – large crystal faces and museum-quality mineral specimens. Back at the Gem & Mineral Shop, you’ll weigh your rocks and trained staff will help you identify your gemstones. Take home your treasures to admire and display as is, or make them into beautiful jewelry!
Photo Credit: Jaynie Ellis
Natural Stone Bridge & Caves
Home of the largest marble cave entrance in the eastern United States! Natural Stone Bridge & Caves is a park full of geological marvels. Walk their self-guided, 20-stop tour featuring Sawmill Site Waterfalls, Artists’ Gorge, Arch Rock, and Peter Pan’s Peephole, among other rock formations. The ¾-mile trail is made of gravel and rustic stone steps, winding and climbing from cave to cave, crossing over the natural stone bridge itself, and taking about 45-60 minutes to complete. Mostly above ground, there are a few opportunities to descend into lighted caves and grottos with raging water or dark pools, such as Noisy Cave.
The more adventurous can sign up for a 3 to 4-hour long spelunking expedition. The “Adventure Tour” consists of crawling through rocky, sandy, and muddy passageways to reach four different caves. And, a cave float as the grand finale. Although there is flexibility to opt out when uncomfortable without forfeiting the entire tour, be aware that these caving techniques are rigorous, strenuous, and not for everybody.
Other activities at Natural Stone Bridge & Caves include the Bouldering Walls, Disc Golf, Dino Dig, and Gemstone Mining. Back at the Rock Shop, minerals and specimens are available to view or purchase including a fluorescent rock display, geodes, healing crystals, fossils, meteorites, and more. Heading out via Stone Bridge Road, stop at the Stone Bridge Ice Cream stand for a sweet treat!
Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien
7. Boat Tours on Lake George
Lake George, fondly regarded as the “Queen of American Lakes”, is the Lake George Area’s crown jewel. This impressive 32-mile long freshwater lake has received numerous accolades throughout the years for being one of the cleanest and clearest bodies of water in the country. That’s why generations of vacationers make it a tradition to get out on the water at least once every year. From private charters to steamboat cruises, there are endless unique experiences to explore all the hidden bays and wide, open water of Lake George.
Private Charters
Don’t own a boat? Don’t worry! There are several companies in the Lake George Area that offer private boat tours with a captain, so you and your friends and family can soak up every moment in the sun.
Take advantage of all the watersport thrills that Lake George has to offer. You have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to recreational boat tours, and Bolton Boat Tours might just be the best choice for you. Book a 2-hour, customizable charter with a local captain. Whip around the waves of Lake George on a tube towed behind the boat. Admire multi-million-dollar homes and secluded lakeside cabins. Keep an eye out for native Adirondack wildlife like bald eagles, heron, loons, and beavers. Their captains have years of experience navigating the water know the calmest bays for fishing and swimming, and can bring you to the most exhilarating spots for cliff jumping as well.
Pictured: Bolton Boat Tours, Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien
Looking for a boat tour that’s not high-energy? We have those too! Most charters are also available for just a scenic cruise, and ADK Excursions is one company that specializes in this. The captain and crew create a one-of-a-kind, luxury experience aboard their 40 ft. vessel – The DICOVERY – that comfortably fits up to 25 passengers. Sightsee from interior or exterior decks that offer ample room to mingle around before docking in a private bay to take a dip in the water or enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres (food & drinks are not provided, but you are more than welcome to bring your own). Set sail on a sunshine or sunset cruise, or customize your own charter. ADK Excursions docks at two convenient locations in Bolton Landing – The Sagamore Resort and Brodie’s Lakeside Marina.
Tiki Tours
Between the crystal-clear water and sweltering summer sun, you’ll feel as if you’re vacationing in a tropical paradise. Even more so when floating in the lake’s southern basin on a Tiki Tour. Hop on a thatched covered barge and float along the shoreline with up to 15 friends and family members. A Tiki Tour can be your ride to a favorite lakefront restaurant, a unique spot to watch the Thursday Night Fireworks, or a fun means to cheers to the lake life – BYOB! Find them at the docks outside the Lake George Beach Club!
Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien
Steamboat Cruises
The classic ships owned by the Lake George Steamboat Company and Lake George Waterfront Cruises are integral to the Original Vacation experience. Over time, these cruise ship companies began to focus their trips on sightseeing, which quickly became one of the region’s top attractions. Standing on the deck of these historic vessels is one of the best ways to behold the full beauty of Lake George.
For over 200 years, passengers have been embarking on cruises with the Lake George Steamboat Company aboard their three iconic ships. The Minne Ha-Ha is one of the last steam paddle wheel ships in American and plays calliope concerts between each of its 1-hour sightseeing tours. The Mohican is the oldest continuously operated tour boat in American, taking passengers for Full Lake Cruises and tours through Lake’s George’s Paradise Bay or Islands of the Narrows. The company’s flagship Lac du Saint Sacrament is the largest cruise ship on the inland waters of New York, offering two-hour sightseeing tours as well as luncheon and dinner cruises.
Set sail with Lake George Waterfront Cruises by means of their two comfortable, luxury vessels. The 3-deck, 115-ft. Adirondac was designed after late 19th century touring ships and features two full service bars, a fine dining space, and an atrium that exposes the second deck to the sun or the stars. The double-deck, 85-ft. Horicon has been crafted almost entirely of mahogany, teak, and yellow pine with a glass ceiling on the second deck for stunning views of the sky, night or day. Discover the majesty of our “Queen” via a Historic Sightseeing Cruise, Lake George Bay Cruise, Happy Hour Cruise, Dinner Cruise, or Sunset Cruise, and even more to choose to from.
Both companies offer a boatload of specialty cruises, and among them are the popular, weekly Thursday Night Fireworks Cruises during the summer season. A ticket aboard one of these ships gets you a front row seat and whole new perspective of the dazzling fireworks display directly over the lake.
8. Whitewater Rafting
Our rivers make their way from higher elevations in the Adirondacks and gain force carving out valleys of the Lake George Area. You can find Class II to Class V rapids in several sections, and an impressive amount of rafting companies that are willing to guide you through these whitecapped waves.
Pictured: Whitewater Challengers
Adirondack Adventure Center
Adirondack Adventure Center’s 2-hour rafting trip is a great introduction to the region’s rapids and a family-friendly activity (ages 5 and up). Get fitted for a lifejacket and hop on the bus for a quick ride to the Sacandaga River’s dam-released Class II and Class III whitewater. Your guide will navigate you through 3.5 miles of rapids that are tame enough to allow control of the raft, but not without putting up an exhilarating challenge.
Sacandaga Outdoor Center
Similar to Adirondack Adventure Center, Sacandaga Outdoor Center’s most popular outing is a guide-controlled, family-friendly rafting trip along the rapids of the Sacandaga River. However, they also offer more extreme excursions for those that are adept swimmers. Not your lazy river float, whitewater tubing is for those who want to battle the currents solo. The athletic, well-coordinated, and adventure-minded should try whitewater kayaking, available in solo and tandem. Just keep in mind that there is a high probability of flipping during these hybrid, guide-assisted (not guide-controlled) activities.
Beaver Brook Outfitters
Not just for the thrills, whitewater rafting is also a unique way to experience the wilderness of the Adirondack Park. Based in North Creek, Beaver Brook Outfitters offers full-day and overnight rafting trips to explore both the water and the woods. They ride the same reliable, dam-released water along the Sacandaga, and also the 17 miles of Class III and Class IV rapids found in the Hudson River Gorge. Get ready for big water, Beaver Brook supplies you with all the gear you need. Overnight trips consist of two days of whitewater adventures in the Hudson River Gorge and a relaxing evening of riverside camping.
Square Eddy Expeditions
Square Eddy Expeditions offers full-day and overnight outings along the Hudson River Gorge. Book a private raft to stick with your trusty crew, or enjoy mixed company and make new friends during a new experience. Square Eddy also likes to add another element of the Original Vacation into their excursions – hiking. Hike-in/raft-out on an expedition to OK Slip Falls. Enjoy a 3-mile hike, a quick lunch, and then 8 miles of whitecapped waves.
Wild Waters Outdoor Center
Wild Waters Outdoor Center offers 5 different whitewater trips between their two locations. Plunge into the rapids of the Sacandaga River for some family-friendly rafting, or the mighty Hudson River for a historic journey. Battle whitewater during the day, and sleep under the stars at night on a 2-day trip into the Hudson River Gorge. Exclusive to Wild Waters Outdoor Center is the Rip to The Glen Raft Trip, which includes 7 miles of rip-roaring Class II and Class III rapids and a chance to get up close and personal with the whitewater. Those daring to hop from the raft will have the chance to swim through a rapid and then practice getting rescued by your guide. For those who want to learn the basics before hitting some serious whitecapped waves, take a Kayak Ducky Tour for instruction from expert Wild Waters’ guides on river dynamics, safety, and paddle strokes. With two bases, one in Lake Luzerne and one in Warrensburg, each close to their drop-in points along the Sacandaga and the Hudson, means your shuttle ride to glorious raging waters is short and sweet.
Whitewater Challengers
Offering trips down three different rivers in the northeastern United States, means that Whitewater Challengers is very familiar with the rapids of the region. In the Lake George Area, they introduce rafters to the Hudson River’s whitewater as it twists and turns through the southern Adirondack Mountains. Set aside a day of your vacation just for this whitewater expedition. A little shorter than the typical 17 miles that other companies offer, this 15-mile trip still hits all the Class III and Class IV rapids during some action-packed hours on the river. Dam-released whitewater from Lake Abanakee adds some extra excitement to the Hudson. Whitewater Challengers notes that their rafting trips in the spring are more intense with wilder waves, while summer and fall is tamer yet exhilarating nonetheless.
Adirondack Adventures
Who better to lead you into remote wilderness along stretches of raging rapids? The guides at Adirondack Adventures have spent their lives chasing whitewater and paddling around the world. Take a 3 to 4-hour trip or extend your adventure with overnight camping in the Hudson River Gorge. For 2 ½ days battle whitecapped waves and sleep under the stars. Hit over 22 Class III rapids or higher with a group while learning local history and geography. Or, take on some Class II whitewater solo. Self-guided tours are for both the beginner and advanced paddler, with short instruction included before departure on the shuttle. Located on the riverbank, your trip ends at their base, meaning a change of dry clothes is at hand after stepping out of the raft. One of the top whitewater destinations in the country, this unique experience that can be had with Adirondack Adventures is sure to be a highlight of the season.
North Creek Rafting Company
Choose your own adventure! North Creek Rafting Company has been taking eager explorers on Hudson River whitewater rafting trips since 2007. Pick from one of three different day trips based on the class of rapids you want to hit. For those who just want to dip their toes in the region’s whitewater, the Middle Hudson Day Trip is 5 miles of Class I whitewater, while the Lower Hudson Day Trip is 6 miles of Class II to III whitewater. Alternatively, they also offer outings for the more extreme enthusiast like the Hudson Gorge Day Trip, consisting of 17 miles of Class III to IV whitewater and 2, 3, or 4-day overnight rafting trips. Reconnect with nature along a stretch of the Hudson River known as Cedar Ledges Rapid.
Adirondack River Outfitters
Venture into the wilderness with Adirondack River Outfitters. Beginning on the Indian River, you will battle 17-miles of rapids heading downstream through the Hudson River Gorge – the longest stretch of New York whitewater known as the “Grand Daddy”. Stay awhile and enjoy your packed picnic lunch at the base following your excursion. Why book a trip with Adirondack River Outfitters? Their guides are master storytellers with endless whitewater tales and have been helping adventurous families make new memories for over 40 years!
9. Horseback Riding
Take the reins in the Lake George Area during an authentic western experience. Since the mid-1930s, dude ranches in the southern Adirondacks have lured vacationers searching for a rustic getaway and horseback riding has become a part of the Original Vacation. To this day, you can explore wooded trails with a family-owned stable or local ranch. First-time riders and experienced equestrians alike are all welcome to saddle up!
Pictured: Mountain View Rocking B Ranch, Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien
Mountain View Rocking B Ranch
Family-owned and operated for over 75 years, Mountain View Rocking B Ranch welcomes horseback riders from late spring through early fall to their stable and private trails along the base of Beech Mountain. Mountain View offers guided trail rides of varying lengths that loop through a shaded forest, such as their hand-led junior rides (walk-in only) and popular one-hour trail rides (reservation required), and specialty rides as follows:
Wake up with the Good Mornin’ Breakfast Ride and saunter through the woods at daybreak, coming across a bridge over a mountain stream where you will enjoy a fresh breakfast spread. More experienced riders will most definitely enjoy their two-hour Mountain Ride or Sunset Dinner Ride, and climb Beech Mountain on horseback to breathtaking views as far as the eye can see. On the Sunset Dinner Ride, you’ll be treated to a full-course meal prepared right at the summit.
Although these specialty outings are not available after Labor Day, their relaxed, guided trail rides continue into the fall and offer a unique leaf peeping opportunity for all ages, regardless of skill level, to take in the vibrant colors of our southern Adirondack foliage on horseback.
Circle B Ranch
For over 50 years, Circle B Ranch has been providing guests with the western adventure they’ve always imagined – and added an authentic Adirondack touch.
Choose from two scenic trail ride options. Approximately 1 hour long and appropriately named, “The Beaver Dam Trail” winds through the valley until reaching an active beaver dam. On this ride, admire the surrounding mountains, marshland, and bogs that is home to countless other wildlife as well. Or, explore different terrain and elevations on horseback with the two-hour “Circle B Mountain & Valley Trail”. In the first hour, riders will ascend a mountain for panoramic vistas of the ranch, and in the second hour they will descend to cross two bridges and babbling Potter Brook. Additional fun are the 30-minute carriage rides circling along the shores of peaceful and private Friends Lake.
Unlike other stables in the area, Circle B Ranch remains open through the winter to offer horse-drawn sleigh rides. Dash through snowy fields in classic sleighs pulled by Belgian or Percheron draft horses. With 3 different types of sleds they can accommodate intimate groups starting at 2 people up to larger groups of 12. Cozy up on padded velvet or leather seats and pile on the blankets for this 45-minute ride. Afterwards, you will be treated to refreshments and a make-your-own s’mores bar while warming up around an outdoor fire pit. A unique experience to remember – right out of a Hallmark movie!
Saddle Up Stables
Since 1945, generations of visitors have made horseback riding with Saddle Up Stables a vacation tradition. Boasting a large team of beautiful, healthy, and well-groomed horses that are treated like family, riders are matched with a steed based on size and ability. Seasoned guides will accompany you on a trail ride winding through the ancient Adirondack forest at a leisurely pace. Many would agree, the highlight of a ride with Saddle Up is their scenic overlook of the “Queen of American Lakes”.
Hand-led pony and horseback rides are also available, walk-ins welcome, for children and novice riders of any age. In an area rich with horse history – this is one of the most iconic spots to get in the saddle!
Ruggiero’s Public Horseback Riding
In the hamlet of Lake Vanare, once a premier location for dude ranches, Ruggiero’s Public Horseback Riding offers hour-long trail rides into the same wilderness traversed by cowboys in the hay days. And, young children can experience the wonder of horseback riding on gentle and friendly miniature horses.
When you’re done with your ride, dust off your boots and mosey on over to the Painted Pony Championship Rodeo to catch some bull riding, barrel racing, and southern style BBQ. This family-owned landmark keeps the western tradition alive and well in the Lake George Area.
1000 Acres Ranch Resort
Genuine dude ranch experiences can still be found throughout the Adirondack Park, and one the finest is at 1000 Acres Ranch Resort. An all-inclusive riverfront ranch resort along the banks of the Hudson that prides themselves in upholding the property’s authentic reputation and decades of history. Horseback riding is an amenity included in an overnight stay, but also an activity open to the public. Under the guidance of experienced and friendly wranglers, you’ll be introduced to the herd and head out for an exhilarating trail ride reminiscent of the Wild West. Whether you favor walking, trotting, or cantering, 1000 Acres has rides for all skill sets. You also have the option for a river crossing ride – an opportunity that no other dude ranch or stable in the northeast has to offer.
Roaring Brook Ranch Resort
Minutes from the Lake George Village, Roaring Brook Ranch Resort is a 35-acre retreat full of rustic charm and rich legacy. You don’t have to be an overnight guest to experience the magic of horseback riding on their scenic trails. Roaring Brook’s stable houses a dozen majestic horses that are cared for by experienced staff. For roughly 1 hour, you will be able to find serenity while venturing deep in the woods with a trusty guide and steed. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike can all appreciate this unique perspective of nature that Roaring Brook Ranch Resort provides.
10. Glassblowing
Try glassblowing! Book a class with a professional glass artist at the Adirondack Glassblowing Studio in North Creek. The furnaces are hot and instructors are ready to guide you through a unique experience with glass from beginning-to-end.
How does it work? You’ll start by picking a project from the package you’ve paid for. The Tahawus Package includes either a large pumpkin, cactus, or large bowl/vase. Whereas, the Hudson Package includes either a paperweight, heart, or mini glass pumpkin. Then, you’ll begin to experiment by selecting colors, and explore the process of using light and heat to make a one-of-a-kind piece. Instructors are there to both ensure your safety and walk you through every step from blowing the bubble to using the jacks and adding the finishing touches.
Your project will be ready for you to pick up the next day, or it can be shipped directly to your home. Pick out a spot to proudly display your custom, hand-blown glass sculpture as a conversation piece from your unforgettable trip to the Lake George Area.
Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien