Ready for a journey where mountains rise, lakes sparkle, and small towns feel like pages from a cozy novel? New York’s Route 28 slices through the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, delivering one of the most iconic, accessible, and unforgettable drives in the Northeast.

From the artsy vibe of Old Forge to the serene waters of Raquette Lake, and on to the hiking trails around Blue Mountain Lake, this road trip is packed with real places, real nature, and real charm.

Stops Along Route 28 in the Adirondacks

Old Forge – Gateway to the Western Adirondacks

Old Forge is a perfect starting point, offering a blend of small-town Americana and rugged mountain energy. With its scenic lake, quirky downtown, and outdoor activities year-round, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to linger longer than planned.

Recommended Stay: 1–2 days

Sights

• First Lake Dam (Old Forge Pond): A peaceful spot to watch water flow from First Lake into the Moose River, right near the center of town.
• Adirondack Scenic Railroad (Thendara Station): Hop aboard at a historic rail depot for a nostalgic ride through forests and lakes.
• View Arts Center: A lively arts hub featuring galleries, workshops, and outdoor sculpture gardens showcasing regional talent.
• Enchanted Forest Water Safari: New York’s largest water park, with vintage amusement rides and old-school summer charm.
• Old Forge Hardware: A 100-year-old general store filled with outdoor gear, crafts, and quirky Adirondack souvenirs.

Inlet – Lakeside Charm & Mountain Calm

Just a short drive up Route 28, Inlet is a tiny lakeside town with big personality. Nestled beside Fourth Lake, it’s a peaceful place to kayak, browse shops, or simply enjoy a slower pace with the Adirondacks as your backdrop.

Recommended Stay: Half-day to full day

Sights

• Arrowhead Park: Relax at this waterfront park with beach access, walking trails, and lakefront seating.
• Pedals & Petals: A beloved local store offering bike rentals, flowers, and gifts, perfect for an easy ride around town.
• Fourth Lake Public Beach: Cool off at one of the clearest and most beautiful swimming spots in the Adirondacks.
• Inlet Historical Society Museum: Dive into local history focused on early logging camps and resort life.
• Mary’s White Pine Bakery: Grab a coffee and homemade pastry at this cozy, lakeside bakery in the center of Inlet.

Raquette Lake – A Taste of Gilded Age Wilderness

At Raquette Lake, you’ll step back into a time when the Adirondacks were the wilderness playground for America’s wealthiest families. Today, it’s quiet, stunning, and full of rich history waiting to be discovered.

Recommended Stay: 1 day

Sights

• Great Camp Sagamore: Tour this National Historic Landmark, once a Vanderbilt estate deep in the forest.
• St. William’s on Long Point: Accessible by water taxi, this beautiful, rustic retreat is steeped in Adirondack spiritual history.
• Raquette Lake General Store: A classic Adirondack institution offering handmade fudge, ice cream, and local goods.
• Golden Beach State Campground: Stretch out at this long sandy beach and peaceful picnic area right on the lake.
• Raquette Lake Chapel: A tiny, postcard-perfect lakeside chapel, still active in summer, with open-air Sunday services and a rich history.

Blue Mountain Lake – Heart of the Adirondack Experience

The landscape opens dramatically around Blue Mountain Lake, framed by towering peaks and sparkling water. This is pure Adirondack beauty — wild, deep, and impossibly photogenic.

Recommended Stay: 1 day

Sights

• Adirondack Experience (The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake): Explore indoor and outdoor exhibits on wilderness culture, art, and history.
• Blue Mountain Lake Public Beach: A picturesque spot with soft sand, crystal-clear water, and direct mountain views.
• Blue Mountain Trailhead: Tackle a popular climb leading to one of the best panoramic summit views in the Adirondacks.
• Buttermilk Falls (near Long Lake): A short hike delivers you to rushing waterfalls perfect for cooling off or photography.
• Minnowbrook Conference Center Viewpoint: Although the center is private, public access nearby reveals perfect lakeside photo ops.

Getting There

• By Air: Fly into Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) or Albany International Airport (ALB) — both are about 2–3 hours’ drive from Old Forge.
• By Car: Route 28 is the backbone — rental cars are essential for maximum freedom.
• By Train: Amtrak serves Utica, NY, with car rentals available for the final drive north.
• Driving Notes: Route 28 is well-maintained but winding — perfect for scenic, relaxed drives.
• Parking: Easy and free in all towns and trailheads along the route.

Good to Know

• Seasons: Fall is prime time for foliage (late September to mid-October), while summer brings ideal lake weather.
• Cell Service: Patchy outside towns — download offline maps before heading into remote areas.
• Park Passes: No national park fees here — most lakes and trailheads are free access, unless otherwise posted.
• Weather: Layer up! Even summer mornings can be chilly near the lakes and summits.
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for moose, deer, and bald eagles — drive cautiously at dawn and dusk.

Best Time to Travel

Late September through early October offers jaw-dropping foliage, with hillsides ablaze in red, orange, and gold. June through August is perfect for boating, hiking, and cooling off in pristine lakes. Spring (May–early June) means fewer crowds and cascading waterfalls, while winter transforms the region into a snow-draped wonderland for cross-country skiing and cozy lodge stays.

Pro tip: If you're chasing fall colors, check New York’s official Foliage Report to time your trip just right!

For Foodies

• Screamen Eagle Pizza (Inlet): Laid-back, family-friendly pizzeria and pub with excellent pies and craft beers.
• Tony Harper’s Pizza & Clam Shack (Old Forge): Classic Adirondack casual — grab steamers, burgers, or a slice after a day on the lake.
• Raquette Lake Tap Room: Rustic local favorite known for hearty sandwiches and Adirondack hospitality.
• Ozzie’s Coffee Bar (Old Forge): Start your morning with a perfect espresso and fresh pastries.
• The Cellar Restaurant (Long Lake): Cozy bistro-style dining with local trout, steaks, and homemade desserts.

Driving Route 28 through the Adirondacks isn’t just about getting from one place to another — it’s about falling in love with a landscape that feels untouched, timeless, and bigger than life. Whether you’re kayaking across quiet lakes, hiking to summits, or exploring Great Camps of the Gilded Age, every mile feels like a new adventure.

So roll down the windows, breathe in the pine-scented air, and let New York’s wild heart win you over — one winding road, one sparkling lake, one perfect moment at a time. 🚗🍂🏞️