Uncover The Western Adirondacks By Car: Roadside Sights & Attractions
The western Adirondacks are home to some of the most remote locations in the park. The good news is, while it is remote, some of the best views can be seen right from the road. Pack up the car, turn up the radio and hit the open road. These two routes are filled with great spots to stop and stretch your legs while immersing yourself in the Adirondack wilderness:
Route 28 Blue Mountain Lake to Old Forge
Along this 35-mile stretch of Route 28, you'll pass by the Fulton Chain of Lakes, multiple forests and wilderness areas, and some great overlooks. Start your drive from the Blue Mountain Lake Public Beach on Route 28.
Raquette Lake
Just before a bridge that crosses over the water, there is a fantastic scenic overlook of Raquette Lake's South Bay. The lake boasts more than 99 miles of shoreline, making it the largest natural lake in the Adirondacks.
Seventh Lake Boat Launch
Soak in the beauty of the Fulton Chain of Lakes at the Seventh Lake Boat Launch. Half of Seventh Lake's shoreline is state-owned, including around the boat launch, making it a peaceful place to relax. You may even spy a seaplane landing on the water.
Lunch at Big Moose Inn Restaurant in Eagle Bay
Sit on the patio at the Big Moose Inn Restaurant while you take in incredible views of Big Moose Lake. If you're lucky, you'll spot a loon floating along. Their menus boast innovative twists on classics whether you're in the mood for a burger or seafood. Ask about their specials of the day for a unique meal.
Bald Mountain Pond
A small parking lot will be on your left along Route 28. Park here, carefully cross the road and make your way down a few hundred feet for the best views of Bald Mountain Pond.
View Arts Center
Learn more about the Adirondacks through artworks of the region at View Arts Center. Their exhibitions include both local and national artists. They are open year-round and their hours change by season. Just across the way is the Red Boathouse at Beaver Brook, a peculiar sight against the traditional greens and blues of nature.
From the View, head into Old Forge to spend some time exploring all it has to offer. Spend a night in town to give yourself plenty of time to check out everything from lake cruises to shops and boutiques. Return to Blue Mountain Lake via Route 28 for a scenic drive back home.
Route 3 Tupper Lake to Cranberry Lake
View of Raquette Pond from Route 30 near the Wild Center.
Start your drive from the heart of Tupper Lake. Home to the Wild Center, Tupper Lake is a great spot to get the Adirondack experience without lacing up your hiking boots. You'll follow along Route 3, passing by bogs, marshes, and lots of bodies of water, before reaching the third largest lake in the Adirondack Park. Make these stops along the way to observe wildlife, have a picnic, and enjoy the great outdoors:
Note, you do need to purchase tickets to the Wild Center ahead of time.
Tupper Lake Municipal Park
The Tupper Lake Municipal Park sits on the shores of Raquette Pond, a man-made lake that is the result of damming upriver. The park has a waterfront walkway perfect for a stroll. Interpretive signs along the walkway share the history of logging in the area, making this a great educational pit stop as well.
Piercefield Flow
This detour from Route 3 is worth going out of your way for. The Piercefield Flow is the result of damming on the Raquette River for a hydroelectric plant. Next to the boat launch is a lovely little picnic area, perfect for getting some fresh air while you watch anglers reel in their latest catches.
Dead Creek
Dead Creek is a marshy off-shoot from the Raquette River. A parking area on Route 3 sits on the creek. Its marshy banks attract local wildlife so be on the lookout for muskrats, kingfishers, and other species.
Continue on Route 3 to Cranberry Lake to witness one of the most pristine lakes in the Adirondacks. It's the third largest lake in the park behind Lake George and Raquette Lake. Take a dip in the lake at the public beach or enjoy people watching from the shores.