ESSEX COUNTY
Elizabethtown New York
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Adirondack History Museum
ESSEX COUNTY HERITAGE | ELIZABETHTOWN NY
The Adirondack History Museum showcases the rich history of Essex County and the Adirondack region. Located in a 1916 neoclassical-style former school, the museum features eight permanent exhibits, including displays on hiking in the High Peaks, local industry, and transportation. Visitors can explore the museum's extensive collection of over 6,000 artifacts, documents, and artworks representing two centuries of Essex County life. The museum grounds also include a formal colonial garden, a maple sugar house, and an Adirondack-style open-air farmers' market pavilion.
2. Split Rock Falls
WATERFALL & SWIMMING | ELIZABETHTOWN NY
Split Rock Falls is a stunning roadside waterfall on the Boquet River, offering visitors a picturesque natural attraction. The falls feature a series of cascades and plunge pools, creating a beautiful backdrop for photography and a popular spot for swimming during summer months. A short 100-foot walk from the parking area leads to the top of the falls, providing an excellent view of the clear pool below. Visitors can carefully approach the bottom of the falls for a closer look or enjoy a refreshing dip in the swimming hole.
3. Cobble Hill Golf Course
ADIRONDACK GOLFING | ELIZABETHTOWN NY
Cobble Hill Golf Course, established in 1896, is one of America's oldest golf courses, offering a unique golfing experience in the heart of the Adirondacks. This 9-hole, par 35, 3,033-yard course combines challenging play with breathtaking views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Coast. The well-maintained, fully irrigated course features meticulously groomed fairways and greens, catering to golfers of all skill levels. Cobble Hill's charm lies in its ability to provide a demanding yet friendly game while allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the Adirondack region.
4. Blueberry Hill Trails
MULTI-USE TRAIL NETWORK | ELIZABETHTOWN NY
Blueberry Hill Trails offer an extensive network of over 12 miles of trails spread across hundreds of acres of pristine Adirondack forest. This versatile trail system caters to various outdoor enthusiasts, accommodating hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. The trails feature diverse terrain, from gentle slopes to challenging rocky sections, providing options for all skill levels. A highlight of the trail system is a lean-to offering spectacular views of the Giant Mountain Wilderness, making it an ideal spot for a scenic rest or primitive camping experience.
5. Otis Mountain
MOUNTAIN BIKING PARADISE | ELIZABETHTOWN NY
Otis Mountain is a premier destination for mountain biking enthusiasts, offering a network of exhilarating trails with breathtaking Adirondack views. The mountain features a variety of trails suitable for different skill levels, from beginner-friendly paths to challenging downhill routes. The Otis Access Road serves as the main artery, connecting riders to various trail options. With its well-maintained trails and diverse terrain, Otis Mountain provides an exciting outdoor adventure for mountain bikers, hikers, and nature lovers alike, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Adirondack landscape.
6. High Peaks Wilderness Area
ADIRONDACK ADVENTURES | KEENE VALLEY NY
The High Peaks Wilderness Area is a vast expanse of protected land encompassing some of the Adirondacks' most iconic mountains and pristine wilderness. Home to 46 peaks over 4,000 feet, including Mount Marcy, New York's highest point, this area offers unparalleled opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and outdoor exploration. Visitors can traverse challenging trails, witness breathtaking vistas, and experience the raw beauty of Adirondack nature. The region's diverse ecosystems, from alpine meadows to dense forests, provide habitats for various wildlife and opportunities for nature photography and birdwatching.
7. Ausable Chasm
GRAND CANYON OF ADIRONDACKS | KEESEVILLE NY
Ausable Chasm, often called the "Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks," is a stunning natural wonder carved by the Ausable River. This sandstone gorge offers visitors a unique blend of scenic beauty and adventure activities. Visitors can explore the chasm through a network of trails, walkways, and bridges, witnessing the power of water-sculpted rock formations. The attraction offers various experiences, including guided raft tours, rock climbing, and a thrilling adventure trail with cable bridges and edge walks. Ausable Chasm provides an unforgettable journey through millions of years of geological history.
8. Lake Champlain
WATERFRONT RECREATION | PORT HENRY NY
Lake Champlain, one of North America's largest freshwater lakes, offers a wealth of recreational opportunities and stunning natural beauty. The lake's expansive shoreline provides numerous access points for swimming, boating, fishing, and kayaking. Port Henry's waterfront area features a public beach and marina, perfect for enjoying the lake's crystal-clear waters and picturesque views of the Adirondack and Green Mountains. Visitors can also explore the lake's rich history, including its role in the Revolutionary War and the legend of Champ, the lake's elusive sea monster.
9. Crown Point State Historic Site
REVOLUTIONARY WAR FORTRESS | CROWN POINT NY
Crown Point State Historic Site preserves the ruins of two 18th-century forts, offering visitors a glimpse into America's colonial and revolutionary history. The site features the remains of Fort St. Frédéric, built by the French in 1734, and His Majesty's Fort of Crown Point, constructed by the British in 1759. Visitors can explore the ruins, walk along interpretive trails, and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains. The site's museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits detailing the area's strategic importance during the French and Indian War and the American Revolution.
10. Fort Ticonderoga
LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM | TICONDEROGA NY
Fort Ticonderoga is a meticulously restored 18th-century fort and living history museum, offering visitors an immersive journey through American history. The fort played a crucial role in both the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. Today, it features daily programs, demonstrations, and reenactments that bring history to life. Visitors can explore the fort's expansive grounds, including beautiful gardens, scenic hiking trails, and a corn maze. The site also houses extensive collections of military artifacts, art, and manuscripts, providing a comprehensive look at early American military history.