The Adirondack region in Upstate New York is one of the most beautiful and sought-after regions to live in the state. That being said, there are a lot of misconceptions about life in the Adirondacks, whether you live downstate or in another part of the country.
Below, we’ve broken down some of the most common questions we hear from people interested in buying property in the Adirondacks. From geography to nightlife, weather, and cute critters, check out our Adirondack FAQs below to get a snapshot of what it’s like to wake up to the majestic Adirondack mountains every day.
Where are the Adirondacks?
The Adirondack Mountains are located in northeastern New York State, approximately from the St. Lawrence River valley to the Mohawk River valley. The Adirondack Park constitutes a circular range of about 160 miles in diameter. The Adirondacks include towns and villages like Plattsburgh, Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, Lake George, Glens Falls, Lake Luzerne, and Warrensburg. The Adirondacks are 225 miles from New York City, 122 miles from Albany, and 190 miles from Syracuse.
What’s the climate of the Adirondacks like?
The Adirondacks are one of the remaining places in the United States where there are four distinct seasons. Summers are warm but enjoyable with average temperatures in the 70s-80s range. Winters are cold (not for the faint of heart) but great for those who enjoy winter sports, with average temperatures in the 20s-30s range. Fall and Spring are very comfortable seasons with temperatures in the 50s-70s range. Precipitation is heavy in the Adirondack region. The area is known for its rain in Spring and Summer months and snow in the Winter months.
Get more information on our Seasons Guide: Summer, Fall, Winter, Spring
Can you hunt in the Adirondacks?
Yes. In fact, because of the wide variety of species living here, the Adirondacks have some of the best hunting spots in New York State. As avid hunters ourselves, we love the joy of hunting in the Adirondacks, but you must make sure you’re following New York State law to help conserve Adirondack wildlife for future generations to enjoy. Hunting seasons are dictated by species. Check out our Hunting information page.
What’s the best time of year in the Adirondacks?
That depends on who you ask! Skiers, snowboarders, and snowshoers will probably say the winter as the snowy mountains of the Adirondacks make it a hotbed for winter sports. But the lakesports, hikes, and swimming make the Adirondacks just as lovely during the summer months. Plus, you can’t beat the autumn leaves of the Adirondacks which are prime for leaf peepers. No matter the time of year, you’ll find something in the Adirondacks to enjoy.
What wildlife is in the Adirondacks?
Due to the variety of landscapes and ecological conditions, the Adirondack Mountains are filled with an array of wildlife including moose, white-tailed deer, loons, bald eagles, owls, coyotes, beavers, birds, bats, fishers, beavers, rabbits, foxes, raccoons, black bears, turtles, fish, and butterflies just to name a few.
Are the Adirondacks all wilderness? Where do locals shop and eat out in the Adirondacks?
Don’t get us wrong, the Adirondacks is a paradise for those who love being secluded in nature and being outdoors. But it’s also much more! The Adirondack Mountains are surrounded by small towns packed with restaurants, shops, and other local businesses giving you plenty of civilization and local culture to escape to when you’re feeling a little stir-crazy. Lake Placid and Lake George are two of these towns. Whether it’s shopping, eating out, or attending local fairs and events, there’s more to the Adirondacks than just wilderness.
Can you purchase property in the Adirondacks? Can you build on it?
You sure can! If you’re interested in buying land in the Adirondacks to build your own hunting cabin or Adirondacks homestead, you’ve come to the right place. Many people incorrectly assume there are regulations in place that prohibit building a cabin, or at the least, make it very difficult, when in truth that is not the case! Adirondack Mt Land is proud to sell private, affordable, buildable land located right here in the Adirondack Mountains!
Purchasing Your Own Piece of the Adirondacks
Interested in making the leap to purchase your own piece of the Adirondacks? Check out available property listings or contact us with further questions about what it’s like to live in the Adirondack Mountains.