Breathtaking is one way to describe what Saranac Lake offers. The beautiful water and a spectacular view with a silhouette of the Adirondacks make it the ultimate destination for nature lovers.
As a tourist heritage spot, the town has plenty to explore. It was a popular health spot in the 1870s and a hub for scientific research. If planning to visit Saranac Lake, here are ten thrilling activities to enjoy.
10 Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is among the best ways to enjoy nature and the outstanding views of Saranac Lake. Popular mountain biking trails in Saranac are on the Bloomingdale Bog, Mt. Pisgah, and Dewey Mountains.
The Bloomingdale is easy to navigate, thanks to its wide paths and level ground. Dewey Mountain and Mt. Pisgah are more challenging, each with at least five miles to the peak. The two trails have gradually elevating paths that are ideal for hikes. At the peak of Mt. Pisgah, bikers enjoy breathtaking views of the Whiteface Mountain and River Saranac.
9 Hiking
Outdoor lovers can count on the Saranac Lake 6ers for thrilling hikes. Their varying vegetation, striking geographical features, and beautiful wildlife make the hiking trails memorable. The Saranac Lake 6ers consist of Mckenzie, Ampersand, Scarface, Haystack, St. Regis, and Baker Mountain from the highest to the lowest elevation. Visitors can enjoy hiking with children and dogs on the varying trails. Hiking the 6ers promises views of Lake Flower, Lake Placid, and majestic views of the Adirondack Mountains.
8 Kayaking
Guests can rent kayaks from companies like St. Regis Canoe Outfitters, Adirondack Lakes & Trail Outfitters, Mac’s Canoe Livery & Outfitters, and others.
Visitors who rent kayaks in Saranac Lake also get a map to guide them on their adventure. Depending on what their highlights are, they get recommendations for the best kayaking routes. The best kayak routes have stopovers for picnics, a swim in the relaxing waters, or breathtaking views.
7 Beer Tasting
A trip to Saranac Lake isn’t complete without trying American beers. These include the Adirondack Lager, Utica Club, Billy Beer, and Max Beer. Each beer brew has a special origin that visitors will find interesting during their visit. Breweries like the Blue Line and Hex and Hop, among others, have so much to offer.
A guided brewery tour allows guests to sample brews as they shop for souvenirs.
6 Enjoy The Adirondack Carousel
This is an ideal fun spot for families. Board games, crafts, and a wide range of activities cater to children and adults. The Adirondack Carousel is built from inspiration from the environment and culture of Saranac Lake. The carvings and paintings at the recreational center are made by local artisans.
The carousel is a non-profit establishment running mainly on the collaborative efforts of different well-wishers. It is open daily between 10 am and 5 pm.
5 Ice Fishing
Winter vacations are fun in Saranac Lake, thanks to ice fishing expeditions. Families can try their luck catching salmon, pike, blue gill, crappie, lake trout, and other species. A local licensed guide comes in handy to advise when it’s safe to go fishing on the frozen lakes. Visitors also get tips for their first fish-angling experience.
Tourists should have the ideal shoes and protective wear for an ultimate experience. Local guides also assist in the acquisition of other essentials, such as live bait. Popular ice fishing spots comprise the Black Pond in Paul Smith’s College VIC, Lake Colby, and Saranac Lake.
4 Snowshoeing
Trails to go snowshoeing include the Jackrabbit trail to Mckenzie Pond and Baker Mountain within the McKenzie Wilderness Area. The VIC Centre in Paul Smith is another popular spot. Most snowshoeing trail companies have rental gear and a map to assist visitors. Depending on the trail’s roughness, it takes guests at least one and a half hours to go round.
3 Skiing
The Mt. Pisgah Recreation Center offers guests over 13 acres to go skiing. With an elevation of 329 feet, it is ideal for experienced visitors. Around the region, there are gentle slopes that are beginner-friendly. Dewey Mountains, Lake Placid Nordic Center, and Cascade Cross Country Ski Center offer unforgettable skiing adventures.
2 Explore Historical and Conservation Centers
Saranac Lake is home to The Saranac Laboratory Museum. The museum is instrumental in American medical history. Guests learn about treatment methods developed in the 1890s. This museum played a paramount role in the discovery and management of Tuberculosis.
The Adirondack Loon Center is a notable conservation center. Guests learn about the loons and best practices to increase their population. The Robert Louis Stevenson Cottage is another spot worth visiting for book lovers.
1 Riverwalking
Riverwalking is the ultimate treat for nature lovers. There is a one-mile brick-paved path along Saranac River where visitors can walk in the unaltered natural environment as the birds chirp and the clear water flows in its course. From the Dorsey Street parking lot, visitors can access unique shops where they can buy jewelry, clothing, and art.