Saranac Lake and Lake Placid combine to provide fun and exciting outdoor experiences for the intrepid adventure seeker and, also, the soft outdoor adventure enthusiast. Hiking, boating, fishing, and camping are to be expected in Upstate New York. Some unexpected outdoor adventure ideas include lake tobogganing, ice climbing, Olympic skiing, an abolitionist’s farm, and a festive winter carnival.

Note: Some information in this piece was obtained during a sponsored press trip, but all recommendations are my own.

1. Hiking 

Saranac Lake, New York

The 1-mile Riverwalk that runs along the Saranac River is an easy, paved path on the edge of downtown Saranac Lake. The busy path is filled with walkers enjoying the outdoors with their friends, family, and fur babies. It is the perfect spot to stroll along the riverbank.

Scattered around downtown Saranac Lake is the Bug Crawl. Seven larger-than-life bug sculptures dot the area for your artistic enjoyment. If you are traveling with little ones, going on a bug hunt is a fun way to keep them active and engaged.

Pro Tip: According to AllTrails, there are 14 hiking trails in the Saranac Lake area. From the easy-rated 17.3-mile Upper Saranac Paddle Route to the harder 7.9-mile Jackrabbit Trail to Haystack Mountain, there are hiking trails for everyone who wants to get outside and explore the beautiful Adirondack scenery.

2. Boating

Saranac Lake, New York

With so many lakes to choose from, you can launch your boat and explore a new area every day. Whether you are on a peaceful kayaking excursion or a pontoon party boat, you will find your best boating getaway on Saranac Lake. The Franklin County Boat Launch list reveals over 20 launch sites across the county.

Pro Tip: Lower Saranac Lake and Middle Saranac Lake are accessed through a series of locks. You can explore the lakes with the complete boating and fishing map at Green Goat Maps.

3. Fishing

Saranac Lake, New York

In the Saranac Lakes region, you could haul in northern pike, walleye, perch, rainbow trout, and bass (large and small mouth). Whether you are a catch-and-release angler or a hunter-gatherer working on your next meal, the fishing in Saranac Lake is just waiting for you to explore.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have a boat or need a guide, NY Fisherman has an extensive list of Adirondack fishing guides to get you out on the water to explore all the great…