The Adirondacks have long been a haven for travelers seeking tranquility, fresh mountain air and the raw beauty of nature. In fact, the very concept of “vacation” was coined in this region! During the Gilded Age wealthy families “vacated” the heat of East Coast cities to retreat to the cool serenity of the Adirondacks.
My recent fall trip to the Adirondacks—a region deeply rooted in the history of the American vacation—offered the perfect blend of history, outdoor adventure, crisp fall air and breathtaking autumn landscapes.
Day 1: Discovering Blue Mountain Lake and Adirondack History
After a beautiful train ride from New York City to Albany-Rensselaer Amtrak Station and a scenic 2.5-hour drive, we arrived at Adirondack Experience, the Museum on Blue Mountain Lake. The journey itself was stunning, as the winding roads took us through foliage-covered mountainsides. This museum is unlike any other, spread across 22 buildings, each telling the story of how the Adirondacks became a cherished retreat.
The museum offers both indoor and outdoor exhibits, making it ideal for a sunny day. As we wandered the grounds, we learned about the region’s rich history, from its role as a sportsman’s paradise to its iconic status as the birthplace of the American vacation. Before exploring, I highly recommend checking out the views from the café, where the beauty of Blue Mountain Lake is on full display.
Travel Tip: Take your time exploring the museum’s sprawling grounds—there’s so much to see, and the incredible views do nothing but add to the experience. It’s especially beautiful in the fall when the trees are ablaze with color. Don’t forget to take a seat in the giant chair right outside the front entrance of the museum! It’s fit for a queen or king…
Immersed in History at Great Camp Sagamore
After a few hours of exploring, we made our way to Great Camp Sagamore in Raquette Lake, where we were warmly welcomed by Executive Director Emily Martz. Once a retreat for the Vanderbilt family, this National Historic Landmark offers a glimpse into the luxurious yet rustic lifestyle of the Gilded Age elite.
Arriving at Sagamore felt like stepping back in time. We spent the afternoon strolling through the picturesque grounds, enjoying the amenities, and marveling at the stunning lake views. I even learned how to shoot a crossbow! Afterward, we tried our hand at the camp’s historic open-air bowling alley. The most exciting part? I bowled a strike with Alfred Vanderbilt’s old-fashioned bowling balll!
Dinner at 6:00 p.m. was a lovely family-style meal, offering hearty, locally sourced dishes that reflected the Adirondacks’ rustic charm. The evening air had a crispness that made every moment feel more vivid, surrounded by the warm glow of history and nature. We finished the night with a cozy fire in one of the camp’s cabins and stared up at the stars before heading off to bed.
Day 2: A Tranquil Morning Paddle and Sightseeing on Raquette Lake
Waking up at Great Camp Sagamore was magical. We greeted the morning with a peaceful paddle at 7:00 a.m., taking in the mirror-like waters of Sagamore Lake. With the vibrant fall colors reflected in the water, it was a picture-perfect start to the day.
After a hearty breakfast at 8:00 a.m., including some of the BEST pancakes we’d ever had, we set out on a property tour to delve deeper into the camp’s history. Sagamore’s rustic beauty, combined with its storied past, made this an unforgettable experience. For anyone who enjoys the outdoors but wants a touch of history, this is an absolute must.
By late morning, we made our way to Raquette Lake Navigation Co. for a sightseeing cruise aboard the W.W. Durant. Host Donna Pohl greeted us with smoked salmon, fresh fruits, bread and champagne, which we enjoyed on the open upper deck. The views of Raquette Lake, framed by mountainsides ablaze with autumn colors, were spectacular. The tour is narrated by the late Dean Pohl, a touching and meaningful tribute to the vessel’s patriarch.
Afterward, we began our journey back, stopping briefly at Hoss’s Country Corner in Long Lake. This quirky little store, with a live tree growing inside, is worth a visit. We also grabbed a final cup of coffee at the cozy Schoolhouse Grounds Coffee Shop in Blue Mountain Lake before hitting the road.
As the sun set on our drive, the Adirondacks left a lasting impression—the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. If you’re planning a fall trip, you can’t go wrong with this itinerary!
Travel Tip: Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the slower pace of life up here. The Adirondacks invite you to take it all in, one breathtaking view at a time.
A Region Full of History and Natural Beauty
Hamilton County is the perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic Adirondack experience. The region is known for its vast wilderness, being the least populated county in the eastern U.S. with only about three people per square mile. Yet, this isolation is part of its charm—Hamilton County offers unspoiled landscapes, from majestic mountains to pristine lakes, making it ideal for outdoors lovers.
One million acres of undisturbed wilderness in the Adirondacks ensure that each visitor feels a world away from everyday life. Whether you’re drawn to water-based activities, hiking, or simply soaking in the peace of the wilderness, Hamilton County has something for everyone. The area is rich with history too—Adirondack architecture, pioneered by W.W. Durant, stands as a testament to the region’s past as a luxury retreat for the country’s wealthiest families.
If you’re interested in history, you’ll find plenty to explore, from the grand Great Camps like Sagamore to quaint small towns with eccentric events and vibrant downtowns. And if you simply want to escape into nature, Hamilton County offers some of the most pristine wilderness, with endless opportunities for hiking, paddling, and camping.
As the Weekend Comes to a Close
As our Adirondack getaway came to an end, we were filled with a deep sense of calm and gratitude for the experiences we’d had. From paddling peaceful lakes and exploring historic camps to cruising Raquette Lake with a glass of champagne in hand, this trip delivered everything we wanted from a fall escape.
Hamilton County is truly “Big on Outdoors, Small on Crowds.” Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just someone seeking tranquility in one of America’s most beautiful regions, the Adirondacks in the fall will not disappoint.
Experience the tranquility of America’s original vacation destination with the help of Amtrak. Take Amtrak to Ticonderoga Station, which is approximately 1.5 hour drive from Hamilton County. Alternatively, you can also take Amtrak to the Albany-Rensselaer station and pick up an Enterprise Rent-a-Car right at the Albany-Rensselaer Station. Use the special NYTRAIN discount. Click here to reserve your car or call the Albany-Rensselaer office today at 518-427-3893. Hamilton County is approximately a 2.5 hour drive from the train station. Don’t forget to use the See New York and Save 15% discount.
