ATTENTION: NYSDEC-controlled fire towers are open to visitors. Only one household group should be in the fire tower cab, groups should social distance on the summit while waiting to climb to the cab, sanitize hands before and after being on the fire tower, and wear masks.
Hit the trails
Spring and summer are beautiful times to enjoy the scenic wonders of the Lake Champlain region! From scenic history walks to bigger challenges, the region has a beautiful variety of hikes and walks.
Explore the Champlain Area Trails system
One of the gems of the central Champlain Valley is the scenic Champlain Area Trails or CATS, as it is affectionately known. CATS features 87 trails totaling over 200 miles of easy-to-moderate paths for nature lovers, hikers, bird watchers, cross-country skiers, and snowshoers to explore along the Adirondack Coast. Find the trail map here.
Take to the hills — or the peaks!
The area has some beautiful rolling hills, but for bigger challenges, we love the many area trails and enjoy unforgettable views of Lake Champlain, the High Peaks of the Adirondacks, and the Green and White Mountains across the water. We're partial to heading up Split Rock Wild Forest Trails – a 6.5-mile loop within the 3,700 acre Split Rock Mountain Wild Forest and part of the largest tract of underdeveloped and forested land along the New York State shoreline of Lake Champlain. One of the more difficult trails in the area is Hurricane Mountain, offering a 5.2 mile round trip hike with big rewards – the summit features 360-degree views of Lake Champlain and the High Peaks. Beer-loving hikers will also be able to earn a patch by completing the ADK 6 Pack hiking challenge, which pairs six mountains around the Adirondacks with a nearby brewery!
Slow down
Looking for a shorter, easier adventure? The Lake Champlain Region is full of beautiful walks through downtowns and forests, many under a mile and ideal for all ages looking for a less challenging outing. Be sure to explore our history walks, too! They're a wonderful way to explore the historic towns and areas of the region, including Essex, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, and the La Chute River Walk Trail in Ticonderoga.
For more hiking ideas, take a look at several other area trails below:
Hikes outside of the High Peaks
Hikes outside of the High Peaks, en Francais
Leave No Trace and Love Your ADK
Before heading out, be sure to review the Leave No Trace Principles. The DEC is a great resource for more outdoor recreation related information.
