A challenging 5.4-mile round trip hike that rewards with one of the most dramatic summit views in the Adirondacks. The bald rock summit gives a full 360-degree panorama of lakes and mountains including the High Peaks, Saranac Lake, and dozens of surrounding ponds. The final stretch involves steep rock scrambles that adventurous older kids will love. This is not a beginner hike but for families with experienced young hikers it is one of the best day trips in the region.
One of the largest and most popular campgrounds in the Adirondacks with 355 sites spread along the shores of Fish Creek Pond and connecting waterways. The campground is a paddlers paradise with direct water access to a chain of ponds and lakes. The beach is sandy with a lifeguard and the water is warm by midsummer. Sites range from waterfront spots perfect for launching a canoe to wooded tent sites set back in the pines. The campground store and recreation programs make multi-day stays easy for families. Book months in advance for summer.
A network of small interconnected ponds accessible by short portages that is perfect for family paddling adventures. The ponds are motor-free and surrounded by pristine Adirondack forest. Kids love the sense of discovery paddling from one pond to the next through narrow channels and short carries. The water is calm and clear and wildlife sightings including loons, herons, and beavers are common. Several lean-tos and campsites along the ponds make overnight trips possible for adventurous families.
Paddle to a private island campsite on one of the Saranac Lakes for an unforgettable family camping trip. The DEC maintains 87 primitive island campsites across Lower, Middle, and Upper Saranac Lakes, each with a fire ring, privy, and picnic table. Kids feel like explorers paddling to their own island and spending the night surrounded by water and wilderness. The Lower Saranac launch is the easiest access point. Loon calls at sunset and stars with zero light pollution make this a magical experience.