Adirondack Park Preserve wilderness guide
Park Preserve · NY

Adirondack Park Preserve

Adirondack Park Preserve is a vast, scenic area offering diverse outdoor activities set against the backdrop of the Adirondack Mountains.

Park Preserve6,000,000+4+ Trails

Designation

Park Preserve

Total Wilderness Area

6,000,000+

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Adirondack Park Preserve

Adirondack Park Preserve is a vast, scenic area offering diverse outdoor activities set against the backdrop of the Adirondack Mountains.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Adirondack Park Preserve, located in northeastern New York, covers over six million acres, making it the largest publicly protected area in the contiguous United States. The park combines public and private lands, boasting over 2,000 miles of trails, numerous lakes, and dense forests. Established in 1892, it is governed by a mix of state-control over public lands and private stewardship. The park is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, which include the High Peaks region featuring 46 mountain summits over 4,000 feet. Rich in biodiversity, it provides habitat to a variety of wildlife such as black bears, loons, and moose. History buffs and nature enthusiasts alike are drawn to the park's combination of natural beauty and historical sites. Visitors can partake in activities such as hiking, paddling, skiing, and camping. Key attractions include Lake Placid, Mt. Marcy (the state's highest peak), and historic Great Camps.

Field Guide · Park Preserve
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Adirondack Park Preserve

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ High Peaks Wilderness with panoramic mountain views✦ The serene waters of Lake Placid✦ Historic Great Camps of the Gilded Age✦ Isolated trails leading to quiet, pristine lakes
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Adirondack Park Preserve

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Adirondack Park Preserve
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Adirondack Park Preserve
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Adirondack Park Preserve
Park Recreation

Climbing

Available in Adirondack Park Preserve
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Adirondack Park Preserve
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Adirondack Park Preserve
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Adirondack Park Preserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee required; permits may be needed for specific campgrounds and trail use.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Adirondack Park Preserve

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Lake Harris Campground

Offers campsites along a picturesque lake with facilities for boating and swimming.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Adirondack Park Preserve

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Newcomb, New York
⌖ 10.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Newcomb, New York

Newcomb, NY is a quiet Adirondack town surrounded by pristine wilderness, perfect for hiking, paddling, and winter sports. It offers access to the High Peaks and peaceful forests where visitors can enjoy true backcountry solitude.

Late Spring through Early Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing and snowshoeing
Explore Town
Lake Placid, New York
⌖ 12.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lake Placid, New York

Lake Placid, NY, a gateway to the Adirondacks, is an adventurer's dream with hiking, skiing, and paddling. Its Olympic legacy and mountain vistas ensure a memorable visit.

Year-round, with peak activities differing by season
Explore Town
Keene Valley, New York
⌖ 14.82 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Keene Valley, New York

Keene Valley is an adventurer's gateway to the Adirondacks, with iconic trails, climbing spots, and serene campsites. Perfect for hikers and nature lovers seeking exploration in the High Peaks region.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Saranac Lake, New York
⌖ 15.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Saranac Lake, New York

A hidden gem nestled in the Adirondacks, Saranac Lake is an adventure lover's haven. Enjoy hiking, boating, skiing, and exploring protected forests in this idyllic outdoor destination.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Keene, New York
⌖ 16.79 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Keene, New York

Keene, NY is a peaceful destination in the heart of the Adirondacks, perfect for hikers, climbers, and winter adventurers. With stunning scenic views and challenging trails, it's an outdoor enthusiast's dream.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
North Hudson, New York
⌖ 20.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

North Hudson, New York

North Hudson offers an untamed Adirondack experience, perfect for hikers, paddlers, and adventurers eager to explore remote wilderness areas and serene lakes.

Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Adirondack Park Preserve

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.