Summary
- Looking for a tranquil lakeside retreat in New York's mountains? You're in luck - the state has 7,600 lakes to choose from, many near charming towns surrounded by mountains.
- Explore New York towns like Skaneateles, Champlain, Tupper Lake, and more for lakes, mountains, wineries, history, and outdoor adventures.
- Whether it's kayaking in Lake Placid, hiking in Champlain, or exploring history in Cooperstown, New York's lakeside mountain towns offer diverse activities.
People looking for a quiet, restorative lake vacation in New York that isn't close to the bustle of the cities won't have to travel far to locate amazing lakeside towns meeting the mountains, no matter where they reside in the magnificent state.
There are many possibilities available for vacationers because New York is home to approximately 7,600 lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. Furthermore, many of these stunning bodies of water are close to quaint little villages and other natural landmarks like a mountain range, adding to the pleasure of a relaxing vacation.
From scenic towns with stunning views of the Finger Lakes surrounded by Upstate New York mountains to beautiful lakeside small towns in the Adirondacks, there is no lack of beautiful places in New York State to visit featuring tranquil lakes and mountainous peaks. Here are several towns in New York with lakes and mountains.
8 Affordable Small Towns In Upstate New York For A Vacation
Vacation in these budget-friendly small towns in Upstate New York to enjoy the more serene and unspoiled side of the Empire State.7 Skaneateles
The hills of Bear Swamp State Forest and Highland Forest meet the Finger Lakes
Skaneateles, nestled in Onondaga County along the scenic Finger Lakes region, is a top choice for New Yorkers seeking a lakeside and mountain retreat. The charming village offers year-round activities for all fitness levels, including boating, swimming, and relaxing by the lake. Its downtown has historic inns, B&Bs, and unique restaurants catering to various tastes.
The area's natural beauty extends to lavender fields and wineries, with fertile soils perfect for grape cultivation. The Charlie Major Nature Trail provides scenic hikes, while Last Shot Distillery offers craft spirits made from locally sourced grains. Skaneateles presents a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, culinary delights, and picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.
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6 Champlain
The Adirondack Mountains meet Lake Champlain
Champlain is a beautiful New York town nestled where the Adirondack Mountains meet Lake Champlain, offering a picturesque setting rich in history, natural beauty, and remarkable living options. Beyond its amazing streets, Champlain serves as an ideal gateway to explore the diverse attractions of the Champlain Valley Region, the expansive Upstate New York Region, and the broader Lake Champlain shoreline.
Visitors can enjoy scenic hikes in the Adirondack Mountains and strolls along the lakeshore, or indulge in water activities like boating and fishing. History enthusiasts can explore historic sites such as Fort Ticonderoga. With its blend of outdoor adventures, cultural heritage, and scenic landscapes, Champlain offers a memorable retreat for travelers seeking tranquility and exploration in the heart of nature.
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Ausable Chasm, Samuel de Champlain History Center, Point au Fer |
5 Tupper Lake
The Adirondack Mountains, Mount Arab, Mount Morris, and Coney Mountain meet Tupper Lake, Little Wolf Beach, and Raquette Pond
In the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York lies the quaint village of Tupper Lake. The area offers various outdoor water sports, such as kayaking on the lake and fishing, along with beaches.
Little Wolf Beach is particularly popular, providing a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. Mount Arab is recommended for hikers, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding nature. Hikers can also tackle the Tupper Lake Triad, a longer climb leading to three neighboring peaks with fantastic mountain and lakeside views.
Vacationers can explore the Wild Center, a natural history museum highlighting the Adirondacks' animals and ecosystem, for history and culture. They can also visit the intriguing Adirondack Experience Museum, which showcases the area's rich cultural legacy with exhibits on Native American history, the lumber industry, and the Adirondack guideboat.
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The Wild Center, Adirondack Sky Center & Observatory, Raquette River Brewing |
