Trace the edge of Buttermilk Falls on its half mile Gorge Trail, which affords gorgeous, sweeping views. The park has a few smaller trails, plus a lake and a swimming area. Camping there is easy and encouraged.
Adventurous families with kids over age eight will love the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks.” Ausable Chasm leads two thrilling tours every day, in which hikers wear harnesses and are secured by cables as they traverse bridges, nets, and steep precipices.
Grab the kids, pack a picnic, and head to Kaaterskill Falls, where an easy one-mile hike affords up-close views of New York’s tallest two-tier waterfall and light swimming opportunities along the way up. The falls area can get crowded, but it’s definitely worth checking out.
Dramatic, pristine, and beautiful, Watkins Glen is an absolute must-see in the Finger Lakes region. The Gorge Trail is less than three miles long, but it boasts jaw-dropping views of cliffs and waterfalls that leave a lasting impression. Camping is also available for those who want to explore more.
This state park is ideal for families. Stroller-aged kids and toddlers can take the flat, paved walk around Hessian Lake, while older kids might enjoy the more challenging hike up to Perkins Memorial Tower (which you can also drive to). Down at the bottom, there are plenty of activities to do, including a carousel and a zoo.
]]>Before hitting the trails, fuel up with some caffeine at Café Z. This cozy, sun-filled coffee shop will make you want to linger a while with its tasty espressos and delectable pastry selection.
For ATV enthusiasts in New York State, there’s only one public trail system—the expansive Lewis County ATV Trail System in the Adirondacks. The 500-mile park provides hours of adrenaline rush-inducing, off-road adventures on wheels. Keep in mind, you must purchase a permit before you explore! This is an ATV enthusiast’s paradise.
Tuckered out after a day on the ATV? Dinner at Ridgeview Inn Restaurant & Lounge is just what you need to unwind. With its high ceilings, expansive views, and a comfort-food menu, this Lowville restaurant is a sure crowd-pleaser.
This comfortable bed and breakfast opened in 2002 and has been a welcome spot for ATV and snowmobile riders ever since then. The rooms are quaint and cozy and will make you feel like you’re right at home. And in the morning? A full breakfast is included with your stay.
This expansive deer hunting ranch is “where dreams become reality.” At Lowlands Whitetails, sportsmen get to hunt for buck weighing in at anywhere between 150-250 pounds—sometimes more! They have special tags for your deer carcass, and will also recommend a local meat processor and/or a local taxidermist.
]]>A segment of the Appalachian Trail runs through Fahnestock State Park, making this woodsy, self-guided running trail a great place to lace up your running shoes.
Witness charming scenes of farm buildings and ponds along these dirt paths, which are ideal for trail runners in the Poughkeepsie area. There is the easy Farm Road trail, which is roughly 1.5 miles. The more moderate trails include Collin’s Trail, North Trail, Swain Trail, Wright Trail, and Davies Trail—all of which barely exceed one mile. For more of a challenge try the Drumlin Trail, Helen Johnson Woodworth Memorial Trail, or Quercus Trail.
Check out one of the roughly 46 miles of designated hiking trails at Minnewaska State Park. The trails stretch out around Lake Minnewaska. As you work out, you’ll also take in several gorgeous vistas. Running has never been so beautiful!
You’ll escape into nature when you run up Scarface Mountain, a densely-wooded trail in the Adirondacks. The roughly four-mile running path becomes steep and rocky as you ascend the mountain. This can take several hours to hike, so come prepared!
This portion of the Abbott Loop is a wonderful Ithaca-area trek. Abbott Loop East is 3.5 miles and moderately difficult. Along the way, you’ll soak in beautiful sights of the surrounding wilderness and cross a footbridge over a stream. This hike is considered to be a good running location.
]]>With a location so close to JFK Airport, you might not expect it, but this 9,000-acre refuge is one of the top birdwatching destinations in the East. More than 300 species of birds have been seen there, and walking permits for trails around the center’s two large ponds are free.
Dozens of duck species, geese, and other types of waterfowl occupy this wildlife refuge on the northern tip of Lake Cayuga. The wetlands are also home to six active bald eagle nests.
Over five miles of nature trails allow birding enthusiasts to view species like eastern bluebird, red-winged blackbird, and yellow warbler up close, and in close proximity you’ll find camping and hiking opportunities in Allegany State Park.
From March to May, Derby Hill becomes home to a spectacular number of hawks, eagles, and vultures, as well as scores of birdwatching enthusiasts. The birds migrate over Lake Ontario in spring, and Derby Hill is the point where they often turn east.
In the winter months, thousands of gulls feed on fish in Niagara Falls. Birdwatchers on each side of the majestic falls might spy Iceland gull, back-legged kittiwake, and more, earning it the nickname “Gull Capital of the World.”
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New York State’s only legal public ATV trail system does not disappoint. Lewis County’s four-wheeler trails span 600 miles of wilderness. Permits are required and safety precautions are enforced.
Not quite ready to venture off on your own yet? Head to Whitehall for the renowned Adirondack ATV Tours. Exclusively featuring "top of the line Polaris RZRs," according to their website, you'll be riding in style. Book your tour today and explore tens of thousands of miles of off-roading trails.
Over 60 trails of various levels make Mettowee Off Road Extreme Park an attractive option for ATV riders. The park allows camping and frequently hosts special events.
View this post on InstagramGood way to start the year off #mettowee #springfling #polarishighlifter
When you become a member of this private motorsports club on Long Island, you’ll receive access to 13 acres of dirt bike and ATV tracks designed to improve speed and skills.
This family-friendly ATV park provides 70 miles of clearly marked trails in a lush natural setting. Camping is allowed and rules are enforced.
*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.
]]>This private motocross club is devoted to the sport, frequently hosting races on its 75-acre property. There’s a three-mile motocross track, a peewee track, and a woods course.
Walden has been providing dirt bikers a racing space for over 50 years. The Hudson Valley dirt bike facility hosts motocross races on two tracks at the same time, which many other facilities do not do.
Proudly hosting motocross races, Broome Tioga Sports Center welcomes New York dirt bike riders to spectate, practice riding, or participate in the races themselves. There are three racing tracks, including a national track and a grass track for bigger races.
With a large main racing track, kids’ tracks, wooded trails, and beginner lessons, Area 51 is a destination for riders of all kinds in Western New York. Admission is $25 for visitors and $5 for members.
Ten miles of wooded trails make up this lush dirt biking and ATV-riding park. There are also campsites, RV parking areas, boat rentals, a swimming pool, and tennis and basketball courts.
]]>Spanning the border between Vermont, Quebec, and the Adirondacks, this long, narrow upstate New York lake is both beautiful and bountiful. It’s a popular place to hook salmon, northern pike, trout, and more.
Clear Creek has over 5.5 miles of public fishing available and the creek is known for its bountiful fish populations. Expect to hook brown and rainbow trout here. The largest brown trout sampled here was 18.3 inches and the largest rainbow trout was 11.3 inches.
Lake Ontario is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the entire world. It is around 200 miles-long and stretches all the way from the Niagara River to the St. Lawrence River. Expect to find plenty of chinook, trout, bass, coho salmon, and walleye, among other great fish. This is truly a trophy fishing spot in New York State.
Divided into two sections by the Cannonsville Reservoir, the West Branch of the Delaware River is an optimal destination for snagging bass, rainbow trout, and brown trout. Upstream, the river is stocked with over 14,000 brown trout. Smallmouth bass and rainbow trout are just two types of fish that can be found in the warm waters of the Delaware.
With 106 miles of shoreline and 435 feet of depth, Cayuga Lake is the second largest of the Finger Lakes region. Expect to find a variation of fish here, including both warm and cold water species. Anglers can hook anything from lake trout and Atlantic salmon to channel catfish and lake sturgeon.
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This Adirondacks-region outdoor gear retailer sells anything you need to conquer the High Peaks of the Adirondacks. The store is amply stocked with hiking and backpacking gear, including headlamps, trekking poles, and snowshoes.
Thruway Sporting Goods, located in the historic Thruway Shopping Center, has been serving its community high-quality gear for decades. This Walden, New York, store has everything from Columbia backpacks and Black Diamond trekking poles to Garmin compasses and Adventure Medical Kits.
Popular with Western New Yorkers who love the outdoors, Gear for Adventure has become the go-to local outdoor gear and apparel retailer for the region. Expect to find everything from apparel to equipment for your next trek.
Tents & Trails will prepare you for just about anything. The New York store offers all the hiking essentials like boots, backpacks, and the proper apparel, but it also offers things like first aid kits, hydration packs, and other survival gear, because when you’re an intense hiker, you just never know what kind of situation you could run into.
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Old Goat Gear Exchange’s mission is to “not only educate you about the gear you’ll be using, but the places you’ll be using it.” Old Goat’s selection of products includes used, new, and sample items. You’ll find brands like Marmot and Outdoor Research and hiking equipment like hydration packs and breathable clothing.
With five locations in upstate New York, Mountainman Outdoor Supply Company has become a local favorite. Find all the hiking boots, backpacks, maps, and outdoor clothing you’ll need for your next adventure at Mountainman Outdoor Supply Company. Their selection and service are unparalleled.
Nothing beats this classic Ithaca shop. This family-owned business has been around for over 60 years, providing the public with Smartwool socks, North Face jackets and above all, a personal customer service you won’t find just anywhere.
]]>From Bear Mountain to the Catskills, soak up all of the stunning sights of fall on these gorgeous foliage hikes in New York.
Low on battery on the trails? That could spell disaster. There’s always a chance that you could run into a less than ideal situation on the trails and if you do, you’re going to need your phone or GPS to resolve the situation. Keep your gadgets charged. Here’s how to do it.
In additon to a sturdy pair of boots, make sure you have the proper navigational tools, hydration, and maybe even some extra clothes in case of emergency.
Before you decide to go on any kind of hike, make sure you pick up a pair of sturdy, reliable, and comfortable hiking boots. You want a pair of shoes you can count on when the terrain gets rough.
New York’s awesome hiking retailers are ready to outfit you for any adventure. From Ithaca to NYC, pick up that great pair of hiking boots (along with jackets, trekking poles, backpacks, and more) at these first-rate retailers.
So now you’re interested in a little more of a challenge. We’ve narrowed down a selection of some of the best intermediate hikes available in New York. These will surely provide an invigorating experience.
]]>As New York’s highest peak, this Adirondack mountain trail should be on every hiker’s to-do list. Once you reach the 5,300-foot summit, enjoy panoramic views of all 46 high peaks and the sparkling lakes that dot the region.
In addition to its gorgeous lake, Lake George is home to the challenging-yet-rewarding Buck Mountain. A 5.8-mile loop trail will take you up 2,024 feet, with blueberries along the trail and breathtaking views at the top.
This moderately difficult hiking trail is often the first summit attempted by those trying to conquer all 46 High Peaks of the Adirondacks. Hikers climb (or rock-scramble) 4.8 miles to reach the top of this peak, which offers panoramic views you’ll never forget.
Although this mountain’s summit can be reached by car, the hike from the bottom is an invigorating pursuit. Follow the 3.2-mile trail along the old tramway until you reach the top—sights from there are especially pretty in the fall.
Located in Harriman State Park, the 6.6-mile Pine Meadow Trail is a moderate trek. At the end of the journey, hikers are afforded views of the 77-acre Pine Meadow Lake. This hike will get your heart pumping and treat you to serene scenic views when you’re finished.
]]>Lake George has been an excellent watersports destination for generations. The gorgeous lake is home to marinas like Chic’s Marina that give lessons and rent jet-skis for your enjoyment. Rates go at $80 per half hour and $5 per additional passenger.
It’s hard to imagine a more glorious jet skiing view than New York City. Jetty Jumpers runs several excursions and tours, one of which includes the Coney Island Tour. The tour begins at Gerritsen Creek through Lower New York Bay, moves through Brighton Beach, and heads to Coney Island. Along the way, you’ll see Jamaica Bay, Manhattan Beach, the Coney Island Boardwalk, and more!
Those looking for a thrill out on the waters of Lake Ontario or Irondequoit Bay need look no further than Southpoint Marina & Pool Club, which rents jet skis by the hour. Some rates include $129 for one hour, $169 for 1.5 hours, and $228 for two hours.
The fork of Long Island is the dividing line between the Atlantic Ocean and the Long Island Sound, with Peconic Bay and Gardiners Bay filling the middle. Places like Peconic Water Sports and East End Jet Ski serve the adventurous at heart. Check out these spots for great rental rates!
This calm, narrow Finger Lake is great for boating and jet skiing. Keuka Watersports, located at the southern tip of the lake in Hammondsport, sells and rents jet skis and other motorized and non-motorized watercraft.
]]>This beautiful loop in the Finger Lakes region follows a striking river gorge with steep cliffs and 19 waterfalls along the way. Described as a magical experience, hikers on this 2.5-mile trail are immersed in a world of steep stone, rushing water, and lush greenery.
Just a Metro-North train ride from Manhattan, Breakneck Ridge is considered one of the more challenging hikes in the Hudson Valley. After a few hours of steep rock scrambles, you’ll reach the top, which has a flagpole and dramatic views of the Hudson River and the Hudson Highlands.
With stone staircases and an elevation of 3,352 feet, this challenging Adirondacks hike has some of the best views to be seen in New York State. At the end of the nearly-three-mile hike, adventurers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Adirondack mountains and the Saranac lakes.
A 1.7-mile stone path, the Gorge Trail is ideal for families, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike. After a few steep stair climbs, hikers enjoy prime views of the impressive Buttermilk Falls and Buttermilk Creek.
About an hour’s drive upstate from New York City, Bear Mountain State Park provides climbers with a moderate hike that affords views of the rolling Hudson Highlands, the Bear Mountain Bridge, some serene lakes, and the majestic Hudson River.
]]>This top-rated outdoor store tucked away in a picturesque Adirondack community has everything you could ever need for a camping trip. Blue Line Sports carries tents, sleeping bags, lanterns, stoves, and more, from big brands like Coleman, Granite Gear, Sea to Summit, and more.
The name says it all. Gear for Adventure is prepared to outfit you for any kind of outdoor experience. At this awesome Hamburg store, you’ll find trekking poles for those tough hikes, water treatment gear in case you find yourself without fresh water, binoculars for birdwatching opportunities, and much more!
Since 1908, this New York City sporting goods store has been the authority on sports gear of all kinds, and camping equipment is no exception. The store has a wide variety of equipment to offer, from the basics like tents and sleeping bags to commodities like cookware and furniture.
To deck yourself out in camping gear at a reasonable price, check out “Herb” Phillipson’s of Rome, New York. You’ll find Adventure Medical Kits in case of emergency, Backpacker’s Pantry snacks to fuel up fast, and a variety of tents to keep you all snuggled up at night.
Although the financial district of Manhattan may seem like a unique choice for a camping store, Tent & Trails means business—they promise to “outfit you for the Catskills to Katmandu.” They sell everything you need for a serious camping trip, from hiking boots and tents, to cookware and navigation gear.
Located in the heart of the Hudson Valley, this green barn houses an enormous variety of recreational gear. Their camping selection includes tents, sleeping bags, lighting, cookware, and just about any other category you might be searching for.
Mayhood’s in Norwich, New York, is your go-to spot for all things camping. Here you’ll find shelters, portable heaters, emergency supplies, bug spray, and much more! Shop from brands like Zippo for lighters, Stansport for sleeping bags and pads, and Eureka! for tents.
]]>Lake Placid, a famous Olympic location, gives you the opportunity to feel what it would be like to be in the games. Their bobsledding experience lets you ride with a professional driver and brakeman as you wind your way through Olympic twists and turns, experiencing the track that athletes around the world know and love.
Top of the Park is open until midnight, and their top floor location provides you with spectacular views. They serve signature cocktails, spirits, and wines, and have a craft beer lineup that changes seasonally. Although their bartenders can make you any one of your favorite drinks, their specialties are unique to them. Enjoy cocktails like an Espresso Russian, Orange Blossom Martini, and Top’s Old Fashioned.
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Smoke Signals has gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan options available, making this the perfect spot for the whole crowd. Their menu features homemade starters, like Korean BBQ mini tacos and signature rib nachos; award-winning wings in six different flavors; and (of course) BBQ classics like beef brisket, pulled pork, baby back ribs, and brisket burnt ends.
If you’re an active soul, you’ll want to keep the momentum going after hopping off the trails. There’s no better way to do so than to try out fat tire biking. There are many notable trails in Lake Placid, however a popular winter spot is on the shore of Lake Placid on the Brewster Peninsula Trails. Rentals, guides, and information are all available at High Peaks Cyclery where you can choose from half-day, full-day, or two-day options. Glide through the snowy trails with ease and enjoy the scenes all around you.
The spa at Whiteface Lodge is the perfect spot to relax and unwind if your muscles are feeling tight after a day of activity. Condé Nast Traveler ranked them as one of the Top 100 Spas in North America, and the spa’s blend of rustic beauty and serene ambiance live up to the title. Three luxurious spa packages are available for you to choose from: Rustic Romance, Spa Escape, and Ultimate Luxury.
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Holiday Valley Ski Resort has a snow tubing park with 22 lanes, three of which are group lanes. This activity allows you to enjoy the snow while giving your feet and arms a break—all you have to do is sit down and hang tight. Their brand-new conveyor lift brings you back up the hill, so there’s no need to worry about going down 900-foot lanes (at a 100-foot vertical drop) and having to trek all the way back.
Ellicottville is the flagship location for the Ellicottville Brewing Co. As such, it’s home to their brewery—which means you can head down after a day on the slopes, tour the facility, and knock back a few drinks with some friends. Their tours can accommodate any size group, and you’ll get the chance to see the behind-the-scenes operations. Ellicottville Brewing Co. has a selection of seasonal bottles for you to try, too!
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Balloons is Ellicottville’s only night club. They have a new line-up every week and a calendar on their website, so you can check ahead to see who’s playing when you’ll be in town! Balloons has a selection of food and drink for you to have alongside the show, including options like Buffalo-style wings, Bavarian pretzels, tacos, flatbread pizzas, and poutine (potatoes fried to perfection cloaked in gravy, fresh mozzarella, and cheese curd).
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Ready for some horseback riding through the wintery fields? About 10 miles from Holiday Valley you’ll find this horse ranch in the town of Salamanca. The amazing people at the Crosspatch, Jim and Dolly Little, have been in the horse business for over 40 years and put all of their focus into helping people achieve their horse-riding dreams! They have plenty of options all lead by local guides like the Pub ride, where you’ll ride a trusty stead to the beloved Little Valley spot Hughes Hotel for well-deserved drinks and grub after a day of skiing. Check out their options, call and make a reservation!
One of Holiday Valley Ski Resort’s big attractions that draws in people from all over the country is the Sky Flyer Mountain Coaster. Operating Friday through Sunday in the winter season, you can zig and zag your way down the mountain. With a track over 4,800 feet long, and uphill and downhill portions, your adrenaline-junkie self will be giddy with excitement! After skiing down Holiday Valley’s trails, it’ll be nice to see the gorgeous mountainous views from a different perspective.
]]>Camp with the kids right along the beach in Montauk. Hither Hills State Park has 190 camping spots that fill up fast, plus a nature preserve with a lake, playgrounds, walking trails, and ranger programs to keep the family entertained. Shower facilities are available but grills and cooking options are not.
Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the East,” and with 66 miles of gorge-side trails, Letchworth State Park makes a stunning family getaway. The park has 257 campsites and also cabins for rent, plus a pool for the kids to splash around in.
Families who visit Cooperstown for the National Baseball Hall of Fame should consider a stay at Glimmerglass State Park. Once there, kids can head to the beach, hike nature trails, go geocaching, and more. Campsites include showers, picnic tables, grills, and fire pits.
Whether camping along the Ausable River or closer to the trails of Whiteface Mountain, families will find plenty to do at this Adirondacks campground. Amenities include two swimming pools, mini-golf, playgrounds, and laundry facilities.
With gorges, cliffs, and waterfalls, Watkins Glen is one of the most popular nature destinations in New York. The park’s KOA campground is a children’s paradise, with mini golf, outdoor movies, an indoor pool, laser tag, and a waterslide. It was previously voted as KOA campground of the year, and kids camp free in some sections.
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