Top 10 Things to Do in Long Lake, NY
Summer is short, Long Lake long. This fun and slightly nonsensical slogan can often be seen on t-shirts worn around town by locals and tourists alike, and it perfectly encapsulates the vibe of this adorable town: beautiful nature combined with hours of fun.
Here are the top ten things to do in the town and hamlet of Long Lake, NY, located in the heart of the Adirondack State Park.
- Long Lake Town Beach
The Long Lake town beach is truly one of the best beaches in the Adirondacks. Located centrally along Route 30, it’s impossible to miss. Always lively with beach goers and surrounded by picturesque views, this family-friendly spot will be a good time for sure. One of the most popular events on the beach is Music by the Lake, a series of summer concerts taking place most Fridays in July and August from 6-8 pm.
The beach is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm with lifeguards on site.
2. Seaplane Tours
Get a bird’s eye view of the stunning Adirondack scenery – and what a view it is! Run by Helms Aero Service, these 20-minute pontoon plane rides are a unique activity for the whole family. Board right from the Long Lake Town Beach and enjoy a ride narrated by knowledgeable pilots in this amazing flyover above the breathtaking wilderness.
Call 518.624.393 to book.
3. Buttermilk Falls
This very short 0.1 mile trail will lead you to a true Long Lake gem. Buttermilk Falls is a beautiful spot, offering a perfect background for a family photo, a picnic, and access to Raquette River and a canoe carry hiking trail. Dip your feet in the cool water but don’t fall – the rocks can be slippery!
More information about Buttermilk Falls.
4. Paddle Boarding and Canoeing
Rent a paddle board or a canoe and enjoy for a few hours or a full day on the lake. How many of the 14 miles of Long Lake can you paddle board along? Leave the noise of the town behind and explore the tranquil waters of the lake, float through the lily pads, and simply unplug.
Reboot/Reset SUP and Canoe rentals are located at the Motel Long Lake and Cottages. Bonus: Take an Instagram-worthy photo with their skoolie bus!
5. Boat Tours
If rowing is not for you, book a tour with Long Lake Boat Tours and still get to see the unforgettable surrounding scenery, just leave the driving to someone else. This narrated 2-hour boat ride takes you along old historic camps with Captain Marty who is full of interesting facts (and jokes!).
If you prefer to rent a boat and go at your own pace, Motel Long Lake and Cottages offers pontoon boat rentals.
6. Mt. Sabattis Recreation Area
Mt. Sabattis is more than an access point to amazing hiking trails and mountain biking. It also boasts tennis courts (good for pickleball too!), skateboarding ramps, a weekly Farmer’s Market (every Thursday from 10 am to 2 pm), the Long Lake Craft Fair (first Sunday in August), and other events. Kids art classes, movies, and trivia nights are also offered throughout the year. Climb the hill for the most gorgeous view of Long Lake.
Check the local calendar.
7. Hiking
Discover the sense of adventure while exploring the Adirondack wilderness from the ground – from the short family-friendly hike to Buttermilk Falls to the more challenging Owl’s Head trail. Choose a hike for your skill level and, remember, your cell phone won’t work in most of the park.
Visit MyLongLake.com for a great listing of all hiking trails.
8. Hoss’s Country Corner and The Park
This little corner of Long Lake competes with the beach for the busiest part of town. Little ones can enjoy swings, free mini golf, and a seasonal bouncy house. Walk across the street to shop for beautiful Adirondacks souvenirs at Hoss’s Country Corner. Look for signs advertising daily events, from live music to cornhole throwing competitions, and more.
9. Great Lodging
From affordable cottages and motel rooms, to the hotel right in the center of the town, Long Lake vacation rentals offer something for everyone. Whether you choose to stay near the beach or in a more remote location, driving to town is easy and parking is free with plenty of space.
10. Good Food
Who wants to cook while on vacation? Fortunately, Long Lake’s dining scene offers an array of American dishes and comfort foods for any kind of taste buds, from casual pizza and ice cream to sophisticated steak.
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