Leave the fast pace of New York City far behind when you head upstate. The six-million-acre Adirondack Park, filled with mountains, lakes, and rivers, was the first great American wilderness area to be preserved. In summer, nature lovers can escape the heat of the city (Boston, New York City, and Montreal are all a half-day's drive away). They flock here to enjoy canoeing, fishing, boating, horseback riding, hiking, mountain climbing, and swimming -- and that's just in warm weather. When the snow falls, downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice-skating, iceboating, and snowmobiling take over as recreational favorites.
There are pastoral meadows, picturesque villages, around 2,800 lakes and ponds, and dozens of towering peaks to explore. You can go on a casual hike or take a more serious backcountry pack trip. Other attractions include Fort Ticonderoga, showcasing numerous muskets, bayonets, pistols, and swords from the 18th century; ski resorts; century-old country estates; and scenic railroad trips.
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Adirondack Park Information
Address: 1133 St. Rt. 86, Ray Brook, NY
Telephone: 518/891-4050
Hours of Operation: Dawn - Dusk
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To learn more about family vacation destinations, see:
- Family Vacations: Learn about hundreds of family vacations in destinations all over North America.
- New York State Guide: Learn about Mobil Travel Guide-rated hotels and restaurants in New York, as well as other recreational activities.
- Scenic Drives: For those who think that getting there is half the fun, we have compiled more than 100 of the most scenic drives throughout the country.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Laura Sutherland is a widely acknowledged authority on family travel and has published several books on the topic, including Best Family Ski Vacations In North America and Tropical Family Vacations.
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