Wishing to escape your modern woes for the simpler things in life? Then head on down (or up, depending on where you’re coming from) to the Lake George Area for an authentic ‘frontier’ experience.
The spirit of the West is alive in the northeast, with historical dude ranches and resorts, horseback riding trails, and even rodeos. Whether you want to reconnect with nature, unplug and unwind from the abundance of technological devices, or are simply looking for a fun, family retreat, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the beautiful southern Adirondacks.
So, channel your inner cowboy and cowgirl with these Wild West-like opportunities in the Lake George Area.
The Spirit of Dude Ranches Rides Again
Though many presume dude ranches to be long forgotten, they’re still a strong presence, if not making a bit of a resurgence, particularly in the historic town of Lake Luzerne.
Dude ranches flooded the sprawling, wooded hills between Lake Luzerne (and the hamlet of Lake Vanare) in the early 20th century. Developer Earl Woodward transformed 1,400 acres of forest, fields, and streams between the communities of Lake Luzerne and Lake George into a recreational haven known as the Northwoods Dude Ranch. Even the Painted Pony was founded as a dude ranch in 1947, before taking on the now-recognized rodeo identity later in 1953.
However, this frontier tourism lost a bit of its impact in the 70s and 80s, with tourists traveling to more urban landscapes. Much of the Northwoods property became private land and homes in the following decades. Not all of it disappeared, though; some resorts and ranches, like the Mountain View Rocking B Ranch, stood the test of time, while others, like the famed Hitching Post Tavern, saw a complete revitalization.
Built in 1939 as a dining and dancing venue for the surrounding dude ranches, the Hitching Post was a popular hotspot until the 70s and 80s, when it saw periods of inactivity. But then in 2022, the property was transformed into Nettle Meadow’s cheese plant, tasting room, and tavern.
Today, locals and tourists alike can visit Nettle Meadow’s Hitching Post for samples of their award-winning, locally produced cheeses, shop local artisan products, and even grab a meal at the rustic tavern, featuring the original and timeless log cabin design. People even travel on horseback from nearby spots like the Painted Pony.
So, although not all of the rustic charms of the area are as they once were, the Hitching Post, as well as the western experiences discussed below, showcase that the spirit of dude ranches (and cowboy culture) hasn’t disappeared. In fact, it’s still a desired lifestyle for many.
Pictured: Nettle Meadow Hitching Post and Tavern; Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien
Settle In at these Timeless Resorts
Modern-day dude ranches with a timeless feel. Get away from the hustle and bustle of daily living and stay at these all-inclusive resorts, complete with everything you need (and then some).
Ridin Hy’ Ranch Resort
Located in the town of Warrensburg, Ridin’ Hy Ranch Resort has remained wonderfully constant in what it provides – an excellent family vacation destination to disconnect and reset.
Guests here can choose from a variety of accommodations, including old-fashioned log cabins and motel-style rooms, all with a classic Adirondack interior design.
Once you’ve had the chance to settle in, treat yourself to a whirlwind of activities that allow you to fully enjoy the great outdoors. Explore 700 acres of scenic trails on a horseback ride, try your hand at fishing at the nearby Sherman Lake, play a multitude of sports on the recreational courts, and much more.
Meals at the ranch are an unforgettable dining experience. From the breakfast buffet paired with panoramic views, to the exquisite dinners and rustic ambiance. Gather your loved ones, pull up a chair, and dig in!
All this and more is waiting at the Ridin Hy’ Ranch Resort. It’s everything you could want in a spacious and beautiful location.
*Please note that resort activities are open for Resort Guests ONLY.
1000 Acres Ranch
Residing in the quaint town of Stony Creek, 1000 Acres Ranch is a genuine dude ranch experience immersed in a nature resort.
Enjoy the warm, rustic charm of these knotty pine cabins, located alongside the Hudson River. Wake up to picturesque porch views of the river and the Adirondack Mountains, wind down with basic, yet comforting amenities, and be within walking distance to all of the resort’s activities.
Speaking of activities, there’s tons to see and do. Horseback or hike the miles of scenic trails, kayak or fish alongside the river, and enjoy an evening campfire on the sandy waterfront. There’s also the Red Dog Saloon, a traditional western saloon where guests can grab drinks, do some line dancing, or just simply relax after an exciting day.
The complete resort package also includes three meals a day in the expansive dining room, cooked up by a designated chef. Hope you’ve brought an appetite.
1000 Acres Ranch is the ultimate getaway experience that allows you to embrace a secluded, yet wondrous, lifestyle.
Pictured: 1000 Acres Ranch
Bring on the Rodeo
Come one, come all! The rodeo tradition is alive in the town of Lake Luzerne. Entertaining for generations, the Painted Pony Championship Rodeo makes for an exciting evening for the whole family.
As soon as you walk through the gates, begin your night with Southern Style BBQ cooked up in the smoke pits and served by the kind and talented staff.
After dinner, the main attractions begin with the oldest continuous weekly rodeo, starting all the way back in 1953. A variety of events and competitions take place each night, featuring some of the most professional cowboys and cowgirls from across the country. Witness classic feats such as Bull Riding and Saddle Bronc Riding, be amazed at the athletics shown in Steer Wrestling and Tie-Down Roping, and cheer on the competition in Barrel Racing and Breakaway Racing.
Afterwards, head through the swinging doors of the nearby Longhorn Saloon for a drink or two, as well as some good company in this wild western setting.
The Painted Pony has continued to be a must-visit for many year-after-year, and it’s easy to see why. Tough cowboys, beautiful cowgirls, hilarious rodeo clowns, outstanding animals, and so much more await. This championship rodeo will have you on the edge of your seat.
Pictured: Painted Pony Championship Rodeo
Saddle Up
The perfect activity for anyone looking to venture out on the open range (maybe more wooded trails in this case). Horseback riding is a fun and scenic activity for all ages, and a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the great outdoors.
The Lake George Area just so happens to have multiple ranches and stables, loaded with friendly, hard-working equines – as well as guides – ready to get you out into the wide open yonder. Time to saddle up!
Whether you’re a new or advanced rider, you can traverse the beautiful Adirondack trails at 1000 Acres Ranch. Their mix of various breeds – ranging from quarter horses to draft crosses – offers rides based on the rider’s comfort and experience levels. Each ride lasts around 1 hour, and is complimentary for guests at the ranch (non-guest riders can schedule by calling ahead).
Surrounded by over 500 acres of guided trails, you can discover the magic of horseback riding at Circle B Ranch. These scenic tours allow you to experience the majestic Adirondack forests. The Beaver Dam Trail takes 1 hour, while the longer Circle B Mountain and Valley Trail takes 2 hours. Don’t forget their group sleigh rides in the wintertime!
Located on Route 9N (a few miles outside the Lake George Village), Dancing Horses offers private horseback rides on brand new and maintained trails. There are 1 1/2-hour tours, twilight rides, and kids’ camps for the little ones.
Mountain View Rocking B Ranch stands as one of the oldest dude ranches in the area (founded in 1942), and generations of families are still exploring the pine forest trails today! The ranch offers a wide variety of tours and packages, including breakfast and dinner rides, 1- or 2-hour rides, and even junior rides.
Never been on a horse before? No worries! At Ruggiero’s Public Horseback Riding and Cabin Rentals, their calm and friendly horses provide a top-notch experience through 5 miles of various terrain and breathtaking sights. Observe the local wildlife on your ride, as well as the multiple waterways nearby. 1 and 1 1/2-hour rides are offered.
Family-owned and operated in Lake George since 1945, Saddle Up Stables provides leisurely travels through the ancient forests of the Adirondack Mountains. With experienced trail guides accompanying you, discover some vintage landmarks dating back hundreds of years as you make your way to the top of a scenic viewpoint overlooking the Lake George Area.
