Though travelers flock to Lake Placid, Keene Valley, or the High Peaks for Adirondack weekends, there’s a lesser-known gem quietly stealing the spotlight — Schroon Lake, New York.
Recently highlighted by WorldAtlas as one of the best Adirondack mountains towns for a weekend trip, this lakeside hamlet combines golden foliage, glassy waters, and classic small-town charm just 4.5 hours from NYC.
Nestled halfway between Lake George and Lake Placid, Schroon Lake has been welcoming visitors for more than 200 years!
Back in the late 1800s, grand hotels and stagecoaches brought crowds to the nine-mile lake, and that spirit of hospitality remains today.
Families swim from the town beach, anglers cast at dawn, and kayakers slip into quiet coves framed by fiery autumn trees.
It’s a quintessential Adirondack escape and we’ve mapped out how you can enjoy it properly in one weekend!
The ultimate fall weekend in Schroon Lake, NY
Here’s everything you need to know about planning a weekend here!
Hike to stunning views
The first thing on your agenda here has to be the gorgeous hiking trails.
Just minutes from town, the 2.4-mile roundtrip Severance Mountain trail offers panoramic lake views framed by blazing fall foliage—a quick sunrise or sunset hike that delivers postcard-perfect shots.
For a bigger adventure, explore the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area, a sprawling 46,000-acre preserve with 70 miles of trails, backcountry ponds, and autumn-soaked forests. It’s one of Upstate NY’s best kept secrets in our opinion.
Cruise the lake & river
Let it be known: the lake itself is the heart of Schroon Lake’s charm.
Rent a kayak or pontoon at the marina, glide beneath towering birch and maple trees, or take a tubing adventure along the Schroon River.
Calm mornings make for mirror-like reflections of the autumn canopy—perfect for photographers and Instagrammers alike.
Scenic drives & hidden trails
Want to stay on land? Cruise Route 9 along the lake and Route 73 through Hoffman Notch Wilderness, which showcase some of the most scenic Adirondack drives — especially when autumn leaves ignite the surrounding hills.
Pull off at overlooks, trailheads, or quiet coves for quick strolls and panoramic photo ops.
Eat, drink & relax
Cozy up after a fall hike at Sticks & Stones Wood Fired Bistro, known for stone fireplaces and wood-fired pizza, or grab comfort food at Flanagan’s Pub & Grill.
Paradox Brewery in the nearby town of North Hudson offers craft beers with one of the best foliage-viewing decks in the region, while the seasonal farmers markets and local cider stands make it easy to sample autumn’s harvest.
Experience local culture & festivals
Schroon Lake keeps arts and tradition alive, that’s for sure!
The Seagle Festival, America’s oldest summer vocal arts program, still brings opera and song to the village green, while the Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival (which has since passed in September) circles the lake amid peak foliage before ending with craft brews from Paradox Brewery.
Seasonal markets feature pumpkins, gourds, maple syrup, and local honey—perfect for a cozy fall haul.
Stay in classic Adirondack lodging
Make the most of out of your visit by resting lakeside at the Lodge at Schroon Lake, offering cozy cabins, fire pits, and sunset views.
For other options, historic inns like Drake’s Inn and local Airbnbs add charm, while the quiet village vibe makes it a peaceful alternative to crowded Lake Placid.
With its nearly nine-mile lake, backcountry trails, vibrant fall foliage, and welcoming small-town atmosphere, Schroon Lake delivers an authentic Adirondack experience without the tourist crush.
Peak foliage is happening literally as we speak, so we advise planning your trip in the coming weekends to get the best experience!
You can read the full list of WorldAtlas’ best Adirondack mountains towns for a weekend trip here.