Lake George New York is the focal point of this southeastern Adirondack region.  32 miles long, it is totally surrounded by heavily forested mountains, with several charming communities located along its western shore and nearby. (The eastern side of Lake George and most of its islands are mostly forest preserve lands open to the public for hiking and camping.)  Its beauty has been extolled by visitors since Thomas Jefferson visited it in the early nineteenth century. As early as the seventeenth century, Lake George was part of a vital water route connecting New York City with Montreal. 

For the outdoor-active, numerous Adirondack hiking trails for all levels are well marked.  Paved bicycle trails and mountain bike trails run though some pretty fine scenery.  Small ponds and rivers offer canoeing and rafting opportunities.  In winter, there's Alpine skiing at three areas, plus several New York cross-country ski touring centers.  There's backcountry skiing and snowshoeing trails, plus an extensive groomed snowmobile network.

The entire area has a wealth of historic sites from the French and Indian War and the American Revolution.  The mid to late nineteenth century saw the area develop as a playground for the wealthy, with the railroad delivering the Victorian era's finest via private car and numerous daily trains from New York, Boston and Philadelphia to the steamboats servicing hotels around the lake. A network of well paved scenic byways connecting quaint towns and hamlets make the Lake George region perfect for driving tours. 

Today, visitors to Lake George and surrounding towns will find numerous antique shops (and garage sales), auctions, craft shops, and arts and crafts fairs.   For the history buff, restored eighteenth century forts and historic sites are open to the public and even include an underwater museum of sunken vessels.  Museums, both fine art and local history, give evidence of a past both laborious and bountiful.   Lake cruises offer a relaxing way to enjoy the natural scenery and discover the fine old mansions that once were summer homes to the fabulously wealthy.  Some of these mansions are now inns. An excursion train runs through the Adirondack Mountains along the Hudson River.  There are concerts-in-the-park in the village of Lake George, dinner theatres and summer stock performances.

Special events include a Whitewater Derby, Hot Air Balloon Festival, the Adirondack Marathon, Oktoberfest, a Jazz Weekend, Americade Motorcycle Tour Expo, and even The World's Largest Garage Sale.

Enjoy Adirondack lodging when you explore the Lake George Region!