See hardwood forests of maple, beech, and birch that explode with color, mountain views, and spectacular views of glistening Lower Saranac Lake.
This 2-1/2 hour drive through the thickly forested, 6 million-acre state parkland of the Adirondack Mountains, with 42 peaks rising more than 4,000 feet, will literally take your breath away. Start your drive at the intersection of Route 8 and 30 in the village of Speculator, a popular fishing, hunting, and skiing center. This portion of the road will take you up the base of the mountain through hardwood forests of beech, maple, and birch that explode with color in the fall. Follow Route 30 north to Lewey Lake and the Lewey Lake Campgrounds, the first major stopping place.
Indian Lake welcomes you just down the road and over a stream, which forms part of the Hudson River’s headwaters. Scenes of the distant peaks of the northern Adirondacks open up just down the path, and a scenic turnoff takes in the 3,353-foot Bullhead Mountain and neighboring peaks in the area. Continue on Route 30, across the Cedar River, to the 3,759-foot summit of Blue Mountain and to the small resort town of Blue Mountain Lake. A 2.2-mile path leads you to a fire tower at the top of the summit. Stop off at the Adirondack Museum at the base of the trailhead, which highlights antique guideboats,mementos of early resort life, furniture, and a private railroad car.
Descend back down the mountain all the way through the forests to Long Lake. Turn left at the town of Long Lake to stay on Route 30 and continue on for a 20-mile forest drive. Cross an arm of Tupper Lake, follow Route 30/3, and look ahead for a panorama of the 4,867-foot Whiteface Mountain, one of the highest peaks in the Adirondacks. Bear right on Route 3 and stay along Tupper Lake to the town of Saranac Lake and spectacular views of gleaming Lower Saranac Lake. The trip ends at the intersection of Route 3 and Route 86.
Starting Point:
Speculator, NY
Distance of Drive:
92 miles
Must Eat:
McKenzie’s
148 Lake Flower Avenue, Saranac Lake, NY 12983
Phone: 518-891-2574
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
Best Time of Year for Drive:
Late spring to early fall
Points of Interest on Drive:
Whiteface Mountain
Lewey Lake Campgrounds
Adirondack Mountains
Cedar River
Bullhead Mountain
Adirondack Museum
Blue Mountain Lake
Lower Saranac Lake
Tagged with: best time:spring and fall • forest • lakes • New York • scenic spots
Filed under: Best Road Trips