Lake George

The "Queen of American Lakes" at the foot of the Adirondacks: cruise the lake by steamboat, visit Fort William Henry, and see fall foliage reflected in the water.

Lake George lies on the southeastern edge of the Adirondack Mountains in northeastern New York State. About 52 km long and 1–5 km wide, it has crystal-clear water dotted with more than 170 islands and is known as the "Queen of American Lakes." It's about an hour's drive from Albany and roughly 3.5 hours from New York City. Lake George Village at the southern tip is the main base: Canada Street has a lively resort feel, and the waterfront has the steamboat docks, Million Dollar Beach and the reconstructed Fort William Henry; behind the village, the Prospect Mountain Highway lets you drive up for a view over the whole lake; about 8 km south are Six Flags Great Escape and The Hyde Collection in Glens Falls. Heading north along the west shore leads to upscale Bolton Landing and the historic Sagamore resort, while the east shore offers hiking in the Adirondack Forest Preserve, including Black Mountain and Shelving Rock Falls. Just beyond the lake's northern end are Fort Ticonderoga, Mount Defiance and the Crown Point ruins, making a good day trip for history; in winter, head to Gore Mountain in North Creek for skiing. Jun–Aug is peak season, when cruises, beaches and island camping (book ahead through the New York State campground reservation system) are most popular and weekend hotel rates are high; late September to mid-October is best for fall foliage, with fewer crowds and beautiful scenery; in winter most attractions close, but there's ice fishing and a Winter Carnival. Driving is the main way to get around, with I-87 running through the area; Amtrak trains reach Saratoga Springs or Westport, where you can transfer. Plan on 2–4 days. Expect summer weekend traffic and paid parking in the village, and protect against ticks and blackflies (May–Jun) when hiking.

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