ESSEX COUNTY
Chesterfield New York
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Ausable Chasm
NATURAL WONDER | KEESEVILLE NY
Ausable Chasm is a breathtaking sandstone gorge often called the "Grand Canyon of the East." This natural wonder offers visitors a unique blend of scenic beauty and thrilling adventures. Explore the chasm's depths via walkways, bridges, and staircases, or opt for more adrenaline-pumping activities like rock climbing, rappelling, and tubing. The chasm's stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and lush forests provide a perfect backdrop for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. With guided tours and self-guided options available, Ausable Chasm caters to all ages and adventure levels.
2. Poke-O-Moonshine Mountain
SCENIC HIKING & VIEWS | CHESTERFIELD NY
Poke-O-Moonshine Mountain offers hikers a challenging yet rewarding experience in the heart of the Adirondacks. The mountain's distinctive fire tower, perched atop its 2,180-foot summit, provides panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding peaks. Two trails lead to the top: a steep, 1.2-mile route and a more gradual 2.4-mile path. Along the way, hikers can marvel at diverse flora and fauna, unique geological formations, and remnants of the area's rich history. The mountain's name, derived from the Algonquin language, adds a touch of intrigue to this popular outdoor destination.
3. North Star Underground Railroad Museum
EDUCATION & HERITAGE | CHESTERFIELD NY
The North Star Underground Railroad Museum offers visitors a poignant journey through a crucial chapter of American history. Located in the historic town of Ausable Chasm, this museum brings to life the stories of enslaved people seeking freedom and those who aided them along the Underground Railroad. Through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations, visitors gain insight into the courage and determination of freedom seekers and abolitionists. The museum's location near Lake Champlain highlights the region's significance as a gateway to liberty for many escaping slavery.
4. Adirondack Architectural Heritage
CULTURAL EDUCATION | KEESEVILLE NY
Adirondack Architectural Heritage (AARCH) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the unique architectural legacy of the Adirondack region. Based in Keeseville, AARCH offers educational programs, tours, and resources that highlight the area's rich built environment. From grand camps to humble cottages, visitors can explore the diverse architectural styles that reflect the region's history and culture. AARCH's work not only preserves historic structures but also fosters an appreciation for sustainable building practices and the importance of maintaining community character in the face of development pressures.
5. Wickham Marsh Wildlife Management Area
NATURE OBSERVATION | CHESTERFIELD NY
Wickham Marsh Wildlife Management Area is a haven for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. This diverse ecosystem encompasses wetlands, forests, and fields, providing habitat for a wide array of plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the area via hiking trails and observation platforms, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. The marsh is particularly renowned for its birdwatching potential, with species ranging from waterfowl to raptors frequenting the area. Seasonal changes bring new sights and sounds, making Wickham Marsh a year-round destination for those seeking to connect with nature.
6. Port Kent-Burlington Ferry
SCENIC LAKE TRANSPORTATION | PORT KENT NY
The Port Kent-Burlington Ferry offers a picturesque and convenient way to cross Lake Champlain, connecting New York's Adirondack region with Vermont's largest city. This scenic journey provides breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains, making it an attraction in itself. Passengers can enjoy the fresh air and potential wildlife sightings during the approximately one-hour crossing. The ferry accommodates both foot passengers and vehicles, allowing for easy day trips or extended stays on either side of the lake. Operating seasonally, this historic transportation link adds a unique dimension to any Adirondack adventure.
7. Mace Chasm Farm
AGRICULTURE & EDUCATION | KEESEVILLE NY
Mace Chasm Farm is a sustainable, diversified farm that offers visitors a glimpse into modern agricultural practices rooted in traditional methods. The farm raises a variety of animals, including pigs, chickens, and cattle, using rotational grazing techniques to promote soil health and animal welfare. Visitors can tour the farm, learn about sustainable farming practices, and purchase fresh, locally-produced meats and eggs. Mace Chasm Farm also hosts educational workshops and events, fostering a deeper connection between consumers and their food sources while promoting environmental stewardship.
8. North Country Creamery
ARTISANAL DAIRY | KEESEVILLE NY
North Country Creamery is a small-scale dairy farm and creamery producing high-quality, artisanal dairy products. Visitors can tour the farm, meet the cows, and learn about the cheese-making process from pasture to plate. The on-site farm store offers a variety of cheeses, yogurts, and other dairy products for purchase, allowing guests to taste the fruits of the creamery's labor. North Country Creamery's commitment to sustainable farming practices and animal welfare shines through in the quality of their products, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and those interested in local agriculture.
9. Ausable Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER & LOCAL FLAVORS | KEESEVILLE NY
Ausable Brewing Company is a family-owned microbrewery that captures the spirit of the Adirondacks in every pint. Located on a picturesque farm, the brewery offers a rotating selection of handcrafted beers, from crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs and rich stouts. Visitors can enjoy their brews in the rustic tasting room or outdoor beer garden, often accompanied by live music and food trucks on weekends. The brewery's commitment to using local ingredients and sustainable practices adds depth to the tasting experience, making it a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
10. Adirondack Baer Antiques
VINTAGE COLLECTIBLES | KEESEVILLE NY
Adirondack Baer Antiques is a treasure trove for collectors and history buffs alike. This charming shop specializes in Adirondack-style antiques and collectibles, offering a wide range of items from furniture and decor to vintage outdoor gear and local memorabilia. Browsers can lose themselves among the carefully curated displays, each item telling a story of the region's rich cultural heritage. The knowledgeable staff provides insights into the history and significance of the pieces, making a visit to Adirondack Baer Antiques both an educational and shopping experience.