Spring

A new leaf

The days are getting warmer, the trees are budding, the sun is shining a little more each day: it's springtime! Sure, summer, fall, and winter are amazing, but spring brings new life into the communities. Wild lands with wildflowers galore, flowing waterfalls, the adrenaline rush of whitewater rafting, and migrating birds define spring in Hamilton County. And, best of all, there's still plenty of fun in every corner of the county.

a woman stands on top of a mountain overlooking a lake in the woods.

Waterfall challenge

Try something new this spring, with your very own waterfall challenge in Hamilton County. Waterfalls are a sight to see year-round, but they really shine in spring with freshly melted snow filling our waters, increasing the rush of waterfalls all around the region! We’ve curated a list of all of the must-see waterfalls in the area, perfect for hiking, picnicking, or simply exploring the new lush growth of the Adirondacks! 

two people look at a tall waterfall.

Whitewater rafting

Crank up the intensity during your stay with whitewater rafting! The headwaters of the Hudson River is full of jagged twists and turns, perfect for a rafting trip full of rapids, bumps, and drops that you can navigate through as you make your way down the river. Spring is prime-time for a rafting trip! Once the snow and ice melt, the runoff trickles into the rivers of the Adirondacks, giving rafters a roaring adrenaline rush, surrounded by the most spectacular mountains and views of the region. 

a group of people white water raft together.

Birding

For a more tranquil approach to spring fun, embark on your own birding excursion in Hamilton County. The Adirondacks are uniquely home to boreal bird species. “Boreal” birds can only be found in more northern climates or Canada! Spring is an exciting time to be a birder in the Adirondacks; our region lies in one of the main passageways for birds from the north and south to migrate back to their own breeding grounds, meaning plenty of new species to spot during these transitional months!

three people look out across a bog for birds.

Low elevation hikes

Hiking is the perfect way to celebrate spring, but don’t forget! Spring can present some challenging forecasts, snow can last longer in the bigger mountains, and with melt, some dangerous conditions can form with ice and mud. This can also mean snow on a majority of the trail. Not to worry though, low elevation hikes offer a chance to finally see some sprouting flora as you make your way to their peaks! Trails like Owl’s Head Mountain offer similar temperatures throughout the climb, and a taste of truly spring hiking.

two people hike together through thick tree roots.

Love Your ADK

The magic of the Adirondacks is the result of previous generations taking a long view and protecting the mountains, lakes, and rivers within the Blue Line. That tradition continues today as we support and encourage everyone to practice Leave No Trace ethics, which help protect the lands and waters of the Adirondacks. 

You can pledge to Love Your ADK to continue the legacy of good stewardship in every season!