N※N

Long Lake, NY: Adirondack's Quiet Hidden Gem

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. /long-lake-ny-adirondack-s-quiet-hidden-gem.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Saturday, December 20th 2025 at 7:45 GMT by Travel + Leisure

• 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
• 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source

2025-12-20 224 x 224 / 8828 Bytes

2025-12-20 224 x 224 / 14890 Bytes

2025-12-20 187 x 224 / 11901 Bytes

2025-12-20 196 x 224 / 7003 Bytes

Long Lake, New York: A Hidden Adirondack Gem

Nestled on the northern shore of the pristine Long Lake, the small Adirondack hamlet offers a quieter alternative to the more frequented Lake Placid. The Travel + Leisure piece on Long Lake showcases the area as an idyllic, nature‑centric retreat that’s surprisingly rich in boutique accommodations, seasonal activities, and culinary delights. Below is a comprehensive summary of the article’s key take‑aways, organized into the themes that the original guide emphasizes.

1. Where Long Lake Is and Why It Matters

The article opens by setting the scene: Long Lake sits roughly 70 miles east of Albany and 40 miles west of Lake Placid, straddling the heart of the Adirondack Park. The lake itself is a 17‑mile long body of water that is fed by the St. John and the Indian Rivers. The surrounding forest is a patchwork of mixed‑wood stands, birch groves, and the iconic white pine that defines the Adirondack aesthetic.

Travel + Leisure notes that the town’s relatively small population—just a few hundred residents—creates a laid‑back atmosphere that contrasts with the bustling tourist crowds found at other Adirondack hotspots. The piece highlights the town’s strong sense of community, the seasonal “Village Days” festival, and the town’s long‑standing tradition of welcoming travelers.

2. Getting There: Travel Tips and Transportation

While the article stresses that a car is the most convenient way to reach Long Lake, it does give readers alternative options. It lists:

• By Road: The easiest route is via NY 30A, which provides a scenic drive through the park. Travelers heading from New York City or Albany can expect a roughly 2‑hour drive, depending on traffic.
• By Bus: Adirondack Trailways offers a shuttle service that stops in the hamlet. The article suggests checking schedules ahead of time, especially in the winter months when routes may be shortened.
• By Air: For the more adventurous, the article references the nearby Taughannock Falls Airport, a tiny public‑use field that caters to small aircraft. Though it’s a bit of a detour, the author argues the “unique experience” is worth it for aviation enthusiasts.

3. Where to Stay: Boutique Lodging and Historic Hotels

The travel guide devotes a substantial portion to lodging, breaking it into “family‑friendly,” “romantic,” and “budget” categories. Below are the top picks featured in the article:

Each lodging option is accompanied by a short anecdote from a recent guest review, adding a personal touch. The article also emphasizes that the best time to book is in the shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall) to avoid high‑season price hikes while still enjoying moderate weather.

4. Activities for Every Season

One of the article’s core strengths is its detailed breakdown of seasonal activities. Travel + Leisure stresses that Long Lake is an all‑year playground:

• Summer: Kayaking, canoeing, and paddle‑boarding are offered by the Long Lake Boating Company. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at the Indian River (known for trout) or the lake itself, which hosts a yearly fishing tournament. The guide also recommends a guided bike tour of the adjacent forest trails.

• Fall: The “Maple‑Leaf Crawl” – a scenic drive through the surrounding hardwood forest – is highlighted as a must‑see. The piece recommends stopping at the nearby St. John’s Mountain for the best fall foliage photography.

• Winter: Whiteface Mountain is just a 30‑minute drive away, and the article praises it for its world‑class ski resorts. For a more low‑key winter experience, the author suggests ice‑skating on the frozen lake and winter hiking in the High Peaks region. The local “Snowshoeing” groups, organized through the Adirondack Trails Club, are also mentioned.

• Spring: With fewer crowds, visitors can explore the Adirondack Scenic Trail (section 7) that starts near Long Lake. The guide notes that spring blossoms along the riverbanks provide a peaceful backdrop for a leisurely stroll.

The article stresses that each activity is paired with a “must‑visit” nearby restaurant or cafe, ensuring travelers can unwind after a day of outdoor adventure.

5. Dining and Local Eats

The Travel + Leisure piece goes beyond the “top ten restaurants” format, instead weaving culinary highlights into the broader travel narrative. Some of the standout dining experiences mentioned include:

• The Grape Street Bistro – Known for its farm‑to‑table French‑American fare, with a focus on local trout and seasonal produce.
• Lakeside Grill – Offers classic Adirondack dishes, including wild venison, elk burgers, and a selection of local craft beers.
• Maggie's Patisserie – A charming bakery that produces fresh pastries and sandwiches, famous for its “Bacon‑Apple” pie.

The article also underscores the importance of supporting local businesses, noting that many eateries source ingredients from nearby farms or fish their own catches. A quick “Local Produce & Spirits Tour” is recommended, which allows guests to sample the region’s cider, maple syrup, and artisanal cheese.

6. Practical Information and Insider Tips

In the concluding sections, the Travel + Leisure article covers the practical details that can help travelers have a smoother experience:

• Weather: Long Lake can experience sudden temperature swings. The guide advises packing layers, especially if you plan to engage in both day‑time hikes and late‑afternoon walks.
• Cell Service: The area is known for spotty cellular coverage. The article suggests downloading offline maps and carrying a portable charger.
• Park Fees: Visitors should be aware that the Adirondack Park requires a “Green Acres” vehicle permit for all motorized traffic, which can be purchased online or at the Long Lake Visitor Center.
• Safety: A short note about wildlife safety, reminding travelers to keep a respectful distance from bears and be mindful of fire‑risk conditions in the summer.

7. Final Verdict

Travel + Leisure’s long‑form piece ultimately frames Long Lake as a “hidden jewel” that offers travelers a chance to experience the Adirondacks away from the usual tourist crowds. With a mix of historic charm, modern amenities, and an unhurried pace, the article positions Long Lake as a perfect weekend getaway for nature lovers, families, and couples alike.

Whether you’re drawn to a cozy lakeside cottage, the thrill of a mountain ski, or the quiet satisfaction of a riverside hike, Long Lake delivers a curated Adirondack experience that feels both authentic and unforgettable. The guide’s tone is both conversational and informative, providing practical advice alongside vivid descriptions that bring the hamlet to life.

Word Count: 1,023