History and Mountain Majesty

The history of the Adirondacks is rich in diversity. A battleground through at least 3 wars, the turf of loggers and miners, the vacation destination of Gilded Age magnates and home to two Winter Olympic Games, the depth and breadth of the region’s heritage is matched only by its scenery.

DAY 1 – Adirondack Experience is a not-to-be-missed attraction with a campus of 23 buildings including a truly rustic hotel, a luxurious private rail car, exhibits on logging, mining and local crafts. It is a “must see”, rain or shine, as it is located in a very picturesque location overlooking Blue Mountain Lake. The cafeteria there is very good and scenic also…Take a tour of the Great Camp Sagamore, a vintage Great Camp and National Historic Landmark built by Alfred Vanderbuilt. Gloria Vanderblt spent childhood summers here as Carole Lombard and other Hollywood stars of the era played tennis and strolled along the lakeshore. Tour scenic Raquette Lake while having lunch on the WW Durant www.raquettelakenavigation.com. Captain Pohl, offers a fascinating commentary on the history of the lake it’s Great Camps and other points of interest. Tour Barton Garnet Mines, home to one of the world’s largest garnet deposits. Dig for Garnets and visit the mineral shop.  Visit the North Creek Railway Depot Museum where Teddy Roosevelt learned he was the 26th President of the United States after the death of President McKinley.

DAY 2 – Lake Placid is home to both the ’32 and ’80 Winter Olympics.  Take a chair lift up Whiteface Mountain or drive up the Whiteface Mountain Memorial Highway to see the view from the fifth highest mountain in the state. See the Olympic Arena and the Olympic Museum. Ride up to the top of the Olympic Ski Jumps for a magnificent view.  Walk and shop through the lovely town of Lake Placid- lots of nice spots for lunch as well!

DAY 3 – During both the French and Indian War and the revolutionary War, the Lake George area, due to its strategic importance, was the scene of momentous warfare. Many landmarks are located in Lake George Village, where you can take a walking tour of the historic sites among which is the Fort William Henry where costumed interpreters make the French and Indian War come alive in a Fort rebuilt from original plans. The French siege of the Fort was popularized by James Fenimore Cooper’s 1826 novel, Last of the Mohicans. Coopers Cave happens to be in Glens Falls. Take a scenic drive up Prospect Mountain Highway for a birds eye view of Lake George and surrounding mountains. Cruise on the “Queen of American Lakes” -Lake George with Shoreline Cruises or the Lake George Steamboat Company.