5 Outdoor Places to Visit in New York State - NYCM Insurance Blog

Find an Agent

Home Top Ad

Responsive Ads Here

Jan 13, 2023

5 Outdoor Places to Visit in New York State


Check Out These 5 Spots in New York State for A Change of Scenery! 


Those who have never explored New York State are truly missing out. Between the farmland and city life lay forests, rivers, mountains, and lakes ready for adventures.  You just need to know what you’re looking for.  

 

These New York State destinations are perfect to visit when you're in the mood for a little outdoor adventure! 

 

Lake Placid, NY


Lake Placid, a beautiful village located in the Adirondack Mountains, comes complete with endless outdoor activities  and attractions to explore. If you enjoy hiking, you might consider venturing up Whiteface Mountain, the fifth-highest mountain in New York State. Once reached, the summit will offer a 360-degree view of the Adirondacks and, on a clear day, a glimpse of Vermont as well! Perhaps you’d be interested in visiting the Olympic Ski Jumping Complex which offers a unique experience if you’ve never been on a gondola ride before! The ride takes you to the base of the ski jump where you can explore the exhibit and catwalk. The catwalk extends over the jump itself and is said to have the most incredible views!

 

If water sports are more your style, check out Mirror Lake! In the winter, ice skaters and snowshoers come from all over to explore the village and lake. This area is perfect for long walks and sightseeing in any season!

 

Shawangunk Mountains


The Shawangunk Mountains, or as the locals call them “The ‘Gunks” are a long ridge, just west of New Paltz.  The ‘Gunks’ have more trails, waterfalls, peaks and swimming holes than just about anywhere in Upstate NY.  You might consider looking up Sam’s Point Road as it will lead you to some gorgeous hiking trails. Stony Kill and Verkeerder Kill Falls are another two great trails if you are interested in seeing the Shawangunk Mountains cascading waterfalls. 

 

Hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and swimming are just a few of the many outdoor activities you can choose from during your trip! 

 

Letchworth State Park 


Letchworth State Park is notorious for its tranquil yet stunning mountain and waterfront views. Known to many as the Grand Canyon of the East, Letchworth isn’t your run-of-the-mill state park. With almost 14,350 acres spanning 17 miles through Livingston and Wyoming counties, Letchworth is the perfect place to go when you want to step away from city life. This park is open year-round, drawing in visitors for seasonal activities all through the year. There are even designated trails for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.

 

Autumn brings leaf-peepers in by the hundreds to take in the vibrant forest colors. In the summer months, the trails are packed with hikers and cyclists in search of the Letchworth famous cascading waterfalls, which are scattered throughout the mountainside.

 

Ellicottville


If you love to ski, Ellicottville is the perfect place for you.  Ellicottville is a western New York village, home to the Holiday Valley Ski Resort as well as the Holimont Ski Club. Holiday Valley is a family-oriented vacation spot containing over 50 slopes and 13 lifts. The Holimont Ski Club is a short ten minute drive away and is the largest private ski resort in the U.S!  It is open to the public Monday through Friday if you happen to be in the area!

 

During the summer months, you might be interested in visiting Ellicottville’s Sky-High Adventure Park. This aerial park has an endless array of activities to choose from. Where else can you go to zipline, tree climb, and gem mine? You won’t want to miss out on their Sky Flyer Mountain Coaster, a roller coaster that zips down the mountainside and through the forest greens. You can even control the speed of your cart if you’re one for a more leisurely tour.

 

Tupper Lake


Tupper Lake is an ideal place to visit if you're looking for adventure!

If you enjoy observing wildlife, the Natural Museum of the Adirondacks, otherwise known as “The Wild Center,” is the perfect place to start.  The Wild Center offers guided walking tours up a trail of bridges into the treetops of the Adirondack forest. Exploring the four- story treehouse, the spider's web canopy and the oversized eagle's nest is bound to keep you and your family busy for hours!

 

You might also be interested in visiting the Adirondack Sky Center and Observatory.  Built on the dark side of the hills, just across from the Little Wolf Beach and campgrounds, the observatory is the perfect location for stargazing!

 

New York State is full of amazing places to visit when you need a change in scenery.  For more ideas on ways to stay busy outside even when social distancing, check out the link below!