Rodeos, Ranches, & Rides: Lake George Area Vacation Itinerary

*Featured Photo by Kacey O'Brien

Whether you’re looking to get away from the daily hustle and bustle, craving a classic outdoors vacation, or simply a fan of the frontier lifestyle, the Lake George Area has just what you’re looking for.

With this official Lake George Area itinerary, you can experience a multi-day trip to explore nearby trails and backroads and set out in search of old-fashioned rodeos, scenic horseback rides, and other stops that will make you feel like a true cowboy or cowgirl.

Day 1

Morning/Afternoon – Horseback Riding

Your first stop will take you into the small, cozy town of Lake Luzerne, with a storied history of dude ranches dating back to the early 20th century.

Explore a present-day ranch—as well as scenic Adirondack Forest trails—with a guided tour at Ruggiero’s Public Horseback Riding.

Ruggiero’s is accommodating of all skill levels and abilities, including the kids! During this guided ride, Cowboy Pete will guide you on their signature one-hour ride through five miles of woodlands and waterways. Once you saddle up, you’ll feel like a true Adirondack pioneer.

*Morning trail rides typically occur at 10:30 AM, but there is also a 12:30 PM option, as well as later afternoon and evening rides depending on the day. Please make sure to contact Ruggiero’s at (518) 932-2139 or visit their website for reservations.

Lunch – Long Horn Restaurant and Pub

After horseback riding, it’s time to grab some grub at one of Lake Luzerne’s popular hotspots—The Long Horn Restaurant and Pub.

This charming, family-owned restaurant serves classic pub menu items, as well as specialty sandwiches and other featured items in a quaint, rustic setting.

Afternoon – Free Time

Looking for something to do for a few hours in-between? Consider cruising the backroads on the scenic Dude Ranch Trail, a 40-mile loop through several rustic Adirondack towns, past historic properties, and through picturesque landscapes. Just follow the brown and yellow cowboy hat scenic byway road signs that mark the way!

Or, perhaps check out one of the local artisan markets in nearby Lake Luzerne, such as the Adirondack Folk School and Nettle Meadow’s Hitching Post Tavern.

Handing holding Nettle Meadow's Kunik cheese in front of their sign

Pictured: Kunik Cheese from Nettle Meadow's Hitching Post Tavern Shop; Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien

Evening – BBQ and Rodeo

The rodeo tradition is a staple in Lake Luzerne at the Painted Pony during the months of July and August, bringing family entertainment to generations of excited crowds. In fact, it is the oldest continuous weekly rodeo in the country, dating back to its conception in 1953.

The evening begins with authentic Southern-Style BBQ at the Painted Pony’s pavilion area, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. The delectable smells from the smoke pits provide slow-cooked BBQ chicken and pulled pork, while other classics include baked beans, coleslaw, and more.

Then, at 7:30 PM, the rodeo officially takes center stage. The crowds will erupt in applause and cheers alike as they root for the brave cowboys and cowgirls during several exhilarating competitions, including:

Bull Riding
Barrel Racing
Steer Wrestling
Team Roping
…and much more!

And after the main festivities, 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.

Day 2

Breakfast – The Lone Bull Pancake & Steak House

Journey to the outskirts of Lake George Village, heading towards Diamond Point, for an early and hearty breakfast at the Lone Bull Pancake & Steak House.

For over 50 years, this popular establishment has prided itself on serving traditional American breakfast classics, with menu options to choose from, such as steak and eggs, corned beef hash, pancakes, omelettes, and more.

Morning – Ranch Activities

Located in the town of Stony Creek, about 20 minutes from Lake George, lies 1000 Acres Ranch—an authentic Adirondack dude ranch and resort situated along the Hudson River.

This all-inclusive property contains several cabins and guest rooms, along with a wide arrangement of resort activities for guests to partake in during their stay. Even if you’re not a guest at the ranch, there are still select experiences you’re welcome to join in on with the purchase of a day pass or a reservation.

If you’re up for another horseback adventure, sign up for the resort’s guided trail rides, or check out their High-Ropes Adventure and Zip Lines Course to feel like a true outdoor explorer.

*For other available activities and info, please feel free to contact 1000 Acres Ranch at (518) 696-2444, or by email at info@1000acres.com.

Women horseback riding at 1000 Acres Ranch

Pictured: Horseback Riding - 1000 Acres Ranch

Lunch – Oscar’s Adirondack Smokehouse

Travel from Stony Creek to the Town of Warrensburg for lunch at the iconic Oscar’s Adirondack Smokehouse—a staple in the Lake George Area for over 80 years.

Their selections of high-quality smoked meats and artisan cheeses are highly regarded locally and shipped nationwide through online orders. In fact, over 150 different products are made at their location, including other specialties like jerky, seasonings, and sauces.

When you visit the smokehouse, stop at their deli counter. Try some of their fine meats and cheeses on a sandwich, sub, or even just by themselves.

Afternoon - Railbiking

Immerse yourselves in Adirondack wilderness with one of the most unique and interactive adventures around—railbiking with Revolution Rail.

With multiple locations in the Lake George Area, Revolution Rail invites you on scenic railbiking tours across once-used railway tracks around the area. On these two or four-person pedal bikes, ride alongside scenic overlooks and into locations that will make you appreciate your natural surroundings.

Though there are a total of four different stations in the area, here are the two nearest locations from your lunch stop so you can stay on track with your itinerary.

Thurman Station

Location: 799 NY-418, Warrensburg, NY 12885

Thurman Station Run (2 Hours) – A nine-mile roundtrip following a peaceful stretch of the Hudson River that takes you through the grounds of the 1000 Acres Ranch Resort.

Riparius Station

Location: 460 Riverside Station, Riparius, NY 12862

Hudson River Run (1.5 Hours) – An eight-mile roundtrip that winds through Adirondack forests, and stretches across some of the most scenic points of the Hudson River.

For available trip times and bookings, make sure to visit Revolution Rail’s website, or contact (888) 738-0123 for assistance.

Dinner – Barnsider Smokehouse BBQ

Head back towards Lake George for another well-known spot serving good old-fashioned barbecue—the Barnsider Smokehouse BBQ.

This family-owned establishment serves a plethora of All-American comfort foods such as wings, burgers, and steaks. But, of course, they specialize in BBQ dishes like ribs, brisket, and pulled pork.

The Barnsider also carries dietary options on their menu—if you’re looking for something gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian.

You can enjoy your meal outside, either on the front patio or the back deck. Or, you can also opt to sit in one of the three available dining rooms inside.