Originality by Design: Upstate New York- The Rustic Adirondack Mountains ~ by Author Jennifer Daniels

Upstate New York- The Rustic Adirondack Mountains ~ by Author Jennifer Daniels

Star Lake

If you are looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of life, try coming to the Adirondack Mountains in Upstate New York. Born and raised at Star Lake, NY there is so much you can do in the surrounding areas.

Summers are always very busy in Upstate, NY. Many Retired and Urban folks come to stay at their cottages during these months. For us that live or grew up on the lake know of the sandbar. This is where everyone goes on their floating docks, kayaks, paddle boards and boats. You name it, that is where the action is. It’s a place to catch up with old friends, fire up the grills, and have a drink.

Another sight to see, is Lake George (where the Great Escape Fun Park is.) The whole family can come and enjoy all of the many rides they have to offer, then to cool off at the Wave Pool or Lazy River. Those are my favorites, but there are lots of dry and wet rides to enjoy.

A must do, is Parasailing! It is amazing. My husband, son and I did

this about six years ago and was one of the most incredible things I have ever done. The view is remarkable, although my son was not a fan. If this isn't your cup of tea, slow down and take in some history, check out Fort William Henry, or go on a guided tour and learn about the French and Indian War.

If you get the opportunity, visit the Thousand Island Region, Bolt Castle or Singer Castle. It’s accessible by one of the tour boats that is offered for a day cruise or you can do an extended tour and enjoy a dinner cruise. Depending on your visit you might find yourself in a themed weekend... for example, Pirates weekend. But it’s not only busy during the day, you can wind down with a double feature at one of the nostalgic Drive-in movie theaters.

Camping is huge here in the Adirondacks and there are campsites everywhere. One campground that my family enjoys is Higley

Flow State Park in Colton, NY. They do many fun things with the kids. As a family, you can take short hikes around the park. Then, to end the evening, enjoy a meal cooked on the fireplace. For dessert toast yourself up a S'mores and look at the night sky. Simplicity at its best!

In the Fall you can enjoy site seeing. The leaves are a rainbow of

colors... Bright orange, red, yellow and green. The smell of the leaves are so crisp and enjoyable to see, however, you know that winter is around the corner.

Lake Placid, where the Winter Olympics took place in 1932 and again in 1980, is in the area. During your visit, stop by the Olympic Center and museum. There are several places to hike in the area. When you need a break, stop at the various shops to pick up souvenirs. In the winter bring your snow shoe gear for the many trails you can explore or bring along your skies and enjoy the slopes of MT. VanHoevenberg.

Saranac Lake host’s a Winter Carnival and the focal point is the amazing Ice Castle constructed from blocks of ice harvested from

the Lake. At night the castle is colorfully lit. Concluding the first day of the festivities is an amazing firework show. Throughout the week there are different activities you can participate in or just take another tour of this iconic Ice Castle.

Among these activities there are many ski resorts that are fun to try

out for a long weekend. The frozen lakes and trails are busy with snowmobiles and ice fishing. Snowmobilers are always a thoughtful group, helping one another with any break downs along the trail or pointing you to the next town, restaurant, or pub.

This is just a small piece of all the fun that can be had here in the Adirondack Mountains. I hope you will come visit.