There is far more to New York than Times Square and the Statue of Liberty. In fact, the state of New York is full of opportunities for outdoor adventure. This year, escape the city and embrace nature to experience a new side of New York. From chasing waterfalls and exploring ice caves, to hiking, biking and boating, we are bringing you nine must-try outdoor activities across New York, plus where to camp nearby. Invite your friends and pack up the RV; it’s time to add New York to your 2019 bucket list.
Here are nine of the top outdoor adventures in New York.
1. Explore the Adirondack Mountains
Where to Camp: Eagle Point
With plenty of opportunities to ski, ice climb or hunt, the Adirondack Mountains are a great destination to visit any season of the year. When the weather heats up, kayak on Saranac Lake, hike Whiteface Mountain and go fishing along the Black River. For an unforgettable view of the waterfalls, enjoy an easy 30 minute walk to High Falls Gorge. Ausable Chasm is known for its stunning canyon scenery, and river rafting is a popular summertime activity. The Lake Placid area is a top attraction for thrill-seekers, offering mountain biking through picturesque Cascade Mountain.
2. Hike and Camp at Watkins Glen State Park
Where to Camp: Watkins Glen State Park
Known for its natural beauty, the Finger Lakes region is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves to hike. A short, two-mile hike will take you past as many as 19 amazing waterfalls, with picnic areas and campgrounds just off the trail nearby. Two of the best hiking trails are the Gorge and Indian trails, the latter of which features a wide stone path that’s easy and fun to navigate. In addition to the beautiful rock formations, the area also has a 165-foot bridge with unique views of the water below. Seneca Lake awaits at the end of the trails, where you can relax and rest your legs.
3. Get Splashed at Niagara Falls
Where to Camp: Four Mile Creek State Park
One of the most visited natural wonders in the world, Niagara Falls is a must-see attraction, despite the tourist crowds. There are walkways perched above the walls where you can view the four million cubic meters of water flowing into the Atlantic every minute. But adventurous visitors may want to opt for more extreme experiences. Sign up for a boat ride to the bottom of Niagara Falls for a wild vantage point. Or, the Cave of the Winds walk takes you into the mist via a wooden walkway along Niagara River to Hurricane Deck. The thundering sound of the currents below is a thrill you won’t soon forget.
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4. See Letchworth State Park’s Grand Canyon of the East
Where to Camp: Letchworth State Park
With three waterfalls along the stunning Genesee River, this state park is perfect for hiking day trips or overnight camping getaways. The Gorge Trail is known as the Grand Canyon of the East, and although it’s lengthy (7.1 miles one-way), the terrain is relatively easy, flat and accessible for most hikers. The main trail leads to several shorter trails you can explore, making it a full-day hiking adventure. There is a central road through Letchworth State Park, and driving to the scenic lookout points is an option as well. During warm summer months, challenge your group to try kayaking and white water rafting, or see the park from above in a hot air balloon.
5. Chase Waterfalls and Explore Ice Caves at Minnewaska State Park
Where to Camp: Mills-Norrie State Park
Minnewaska State Park Preserve offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. The Verkeerderkill Creek hiking trail is a moderate 8.2-mile loop that traverses wild scenery and leads to an incredible 187-foot waterfall visible from Sam’s Point lookout. Most unique about this New York state park are the Ellenville Fault Ice Caves, the largest open fault ice caves in the United States. The park comes alive in summer months, with lake boating, swimming and stand-up paddle boarding. If you visit in the winter, explore the terrain on a snowmobile.
6. Dare to Go Into the Gorge at Robert H. Treman State Park
Where to Camp: Robert H. Treman State Park
Robert H. Treman State Park is a local favorite in New York, abundant with rugged gorge trails, overflowing waterfalls, natural swimming areas and family-friendly camping sites. Several paved trails will take you down into the Enfield Glen wooded gorge, winding past numerous waterfalls, including the main attraction, the breathtaking 115-foot Lucifer Falls. Make sure to bring your swimsuits in the summer to cool down in the stream-fed pools beneath the falls.
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7. Plan the Perfect Camping Getaway at Cranberry Lake State Park
Where to Camp: Cranberry Lake Campground
Escape the city and venture into the wild at Cranberry Lake Campground, located within the Adirondack Mountains. Raw nature and true peace and quiet can be found at this remote New York campground, where campers will enjoy thousands of acres of unbroken forest terrain surrounding the calm and inviting lake. The secluded campground is spacious, with privacy trees in between sites, and fire pits and picnic tables for gathering with family and friends. When you wake up feeling refreshed, spend the day swimming and kayaking in the lake, or hiking and biking the forest trails.
8. Choose Your Own Adventure in the Catskill Mountains
Where to Camp: Woodland Valley
New York’s Catskill Mountains are easily accessible from the city, making the region a top choice for weekend getaways no matter the season. Although mountain trails are abundant for summer hiking, fall foliage viewing and winter skiing, locals love the Catskills for warm weather water activities, too. The area is rich with rivers, lakes and streams, creating opportunities for white water rafting, swimming and fly fishing. Adrenaline seekers can also get their fix with rock climbing and zip lining tours. When planning your trip to the Catskills, check their calendar for culture festivals and educational events.
9. Bike the Mountain Trails at Lippman Park
Where to Camp: Kenneth L. Wilson
Pack your wheels and head to Lippman Park for endless trails designed for pros and beginners. Known for its well-maintained 14-mile trail system, Lippman Park is a paradise for mountain bikers and hikers alike. The park’s 27 different trails are unique because bikers can easily jump from one trail to another, creating new routes that always feel fun and fresh. There are fast singletrack trails for beginners, and challenging boulder sections for experienced riders.
