Experience the Adirondacks in Summer

We do outdoors big. Here in the wild heart of the Adirondacks, vast wild forests, lakes, and ponds, plus quaint towns and hamlets join together to form the perfect getaway spot. “Small towns, big outdoors” is our way of life! Hamilton County is home to unique shops and restaurants, attractions, and epic outdoor adventures, including one of the oldest long-distance trails in the Northeast, the Northville-Placid Trail. Pack up your gear and get outdoors today!

Summer under the stars

If you're looking for the perfect spot for camping, you're in luck! You can find a site that will suit all of your needs. Campgrounds offer amenities such as fireplaces and picnic tables, as well as RV hookups, while backcountry sites offer peace, tranquility, and unparalleled views.

Challenge yourself!

Rippling cascades. Towering hikes. Bragging rights and a patch or sticker! Hamilton County has great challenges, from roadside and backcountry waterfalls to historic fire towers, golf, and more! Spots like Blue Mountain Lake and Indian Lake in summer are ideal basecamps for heading out on a challenge!

For a bigger challenge, head to Piseco in the summer to set out on the 138-mile Northville-Placid Trail!

Get out on the water

Paddling and fishing are scenic, adventurous ways to experience our big outdoors. From ponds and lakes to remote rivers inhabited by elusive trout, Hamilton County has spots and routes perfect for you. For more thrills, whitewater rafting is your ticket to excitement.

Two women stand on a wooden deck at a rustic brewery in early twilight. — Ride hard, play hard at local breweries, restaurants, and more!

A woman sits with her back to the camera; she faces a churning waterfall surrounded by green-leaved trees. — Are you ready for the Waterfall Challenge?

Three vertically-oriented paintings depicting modern Indigenous American art hang on an orange wall. — Explore the ADKX, the Museum on Blue Mountain Lake

The sun sets behind a small island and over a lake tinged pink and orange by the light. — Sunsets, picturesque lakes, and amazing camping abound in Hamilton County.

Cultural attractions

While you're here, immerse yourself historic sites and museums! We're home to a world-renowned museum, a preserved Adirondack Great Camp, and more. Explore on your own or enjoy scenic tour, a local must-do! Raquette Lake in summer is a can't miss, with narrated boat rides and on-the-water dining. Here, you can see the Adirondacks the way birds do! That's right, we have float plane tours, part of what makes summer in Long Lake so special!

Small towns, big fun

Whichever community you find yourself in, you'll find welcoming faces, Adirondack hospitality, and all the amenities that make vacation special. Each community in the Adirondack Experience has its own character and charm. Summer in Inlet might mean days at the park and on the links, while Speculator in summer is all about getting out on the water.