10 Things To Do In Saranac Lake: Complete Guide To One Of New York's Most Scenic Regions (2024)

Saranac Lake, tucked away in New York's Adirondack Mountains, is one of the most charming towns in the Adirondacks. It's not just a village, but a cultural hub, brimming with art galleries, theaters, and an annual winter carnival that's been a tradition since the late 19th century. This destination is also home to the Adirondack Scenic Railroad, a historic railway that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness, and the perfect way for visitors to see the beauty of this region.

A testament to this beauty is the numerous mountains and lakes that provide ample opportunities for hiking, boating, and fishing. Despite its mountain location, Saranac Lake is far from a sleepy hamlet; it's a vibrant destination with a lot to offer visitors, whether it's outdoor adventures, a taste of history, or a love for the arts. This place is worth spending a few days experiencing some of the top things to do that we’ve listed below. Explore Saranac Lake and all the things to do in one of New York's most scenic regions.

Things To Do In Saranac Lake

Nature lovers will get lost in the landscapes and tranquility of this part of New York, while lovers of outdoor activities will be kept busy paddling on the lake, fishing at Saranac River, or hiking the miles of trails. Below is a deeper look at some fun things to do when visiting Saranac Lake.

1 Explore The Saranac Chain Of Lakes

Saranac Lake landscape, New York

The Saranac Chain of Lakes is a series of interconnected water bodies in Saranac Lake, New York, a beautiful representation of the Adirondack's aquatic beauty. This attraction ranks among the most beautiful Adirondack lakes, making it worth visiting.

It consists of three major lakes; Lower, Middle, and Upper Saranac Lake, plus some minor lakes, offering visitors an endless expanse of water activities.

Boating and fishing are popular, with the lakes teeming with trout, pike, and bass. The shores are dotted with rustic campsites, offering a perfect spot for a night under the stars.

• Address: Saranac Lake, NY 12983, United States
• Hours: Open 24 hours

2 Take A Train Ride Through The Adirondack Landscape

Adirondack Scenic Railroad train in Adirondacks, NY

Visitors can experience the breathtaking beauty of the Adirondack landscape aboard the Adirondack Scenic Railroad.

Starting from multiple stations in the Adirondack region, including Saranac Lake Station, the train ride offers panoramic views of the stunning mountain ranges, dense forests, and shimmering lakes.

The railroad also provides a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture. The train ride is a unique way to explore the diverse landscape without the exertion of hiking or biking.

• Address: 42 Depot St, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, United States
• Duration: From 1.5-hour rides to 11.5-hour rides
• Cost: From $13

3 Hike Up Mount Baker

Baker Mountain rising above Moody Pond, Saranac Lake, New York

Mount Baker, also known as Baker Mountain, offers a relatively easy hike with rewarding views. The 0.9-mile trail leads to the summit, where one can enjoy panoramic views of Saranac Lake, the High Peaks, and the surrounding Adirondack Mountains.

The trail is well-marked and suitable for all skill levels. The hike up Mount Baker is a must-do activity for nature lovers visiting Saranac Lake.

• Trail Length: 1.8 miles roundtrip
• Difficulty: Moderate

Related: 10 Top-Rated Hikes (According To AllTrails) In The Adirondacks

4 Wander Around Saranac Lake's Downtown

Main Street in the village of Saranac Lake in Adirondack Mountains, New York, USA

The downtown area of Saranac Lake is a charming blend of historical buildings, unique shops, and local eateries. It's the heart of the city, where one can find landmarks like the Saranac Laboratory Museum and the Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial Cottage.

Riverside Park, located downtown, is a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic by the lake. Saranac Lake's downtown offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

• Address: Main St, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, United States
• Hours: Open 24 hours
• Cost: Free to explore

5 Enjoy Fly Fishing In The Saranac River

The raging waters of the Saranac River

The Saranac River, renowned for its abundant trout, is a fly-fishing paradise. It meanders through Saranac Lake, a picturesque town in the Adirondack Mountains. The river's lower section, teeming with brown trout, rainbow trout, and salmon, is particularly popular among anglers.

The upper section, while less crowded, offers a chance to catch brook trout in a serene, forested setting. Equipment can be rented from local outfitters, who also offer guided tours to novices.

• Address: Saranac River, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, United States
• Hours: Always open
• Cost: Free; Equipment rental and guided tours vary by outfitter

Related: These Five Lakes Are The Prettiest Places In The Adirondacks

6 Visit The Adirondack Wildlife Refuge

Lush and serene Adirondack Mountains with fall foliage colors

The Adirondack Wildlife Refuge, located on the outskirts of Saranac Lake, is a haven for rescued wildlife. Visitors can see animals such as wolves, eagles, and bears up close, and learn about their habitats and conservation.

The refuge, set on 50 acres, also features a nature trail that winds through wetlands and forests, offering opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.

• Address: 977 Springfield Rd, Wilmington, NY 12997, United States
• Hours: Thu - Mon: 10 am - 4 pm (closed on Tue & Wed)
• Cost: Donations appreciated

7 Go Paddling In St. Regis Canoe Area

A view of Long Pond in St. Regis Canoe Area

St. Regis Canoe Area, the largest wilderness canoe area in the Northeastern United States, is a paddler's dream. The area encompasses over 18,000 acres, with 50 ponds and lakes connected by a network of streams and portages.

Paddlers can navigate the waterways, surrounded by a lush landscape of spruce and pine forests, and spot wildlife such as beavers and loons. Canoe rental and guided tours are available from local outfitters.

• Address: St. Regis Canoe Area, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, United States
• Hours: 24 hours (daily)
• Cost: Free; Canoe rental and guided tours vary by company

8 Catch A Performance At Pendragon Theatre

Saranac Lake, Lake Placid, New York

The Pendragon Theatre offers a diverse lineup of performances throughout the year, appealing to lovers of the performing arts of all ages. Visitors can enjoy plays, musicals, children's theater, and more, performed by talented local and visiting artists.

The intimate, 70-seat theater, with its warm, wooden interior, ensures every seat offers a great view. Check their website for the current schedule and ticket prices.

• Address: 15 Brandy Brook Ave, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, United States

9 Spend Time Outdoors At Dewey Mountain Recreation Center

A view of Dewey Mountain from Bluff Island, Lower Saranac Lake.

Dewey Mountain Recreation Center, located just outside Saranac Lake, offers a wealth of outdoor activities. Visitors can hike or mountain bike on the center's network of trails, which offer views of the Adirondack High Peaks.

In winter, the trails become a popular spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The center also offers equipment rental and lessons.

• Address: 238 George H Lapan Memorial Hwy, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, United States
• Hours: Mon - Fri: 10 am - 7 pm; Sat & Sun: 10 am - 4:30 pm
• Cost: Day pass: $5; Children (5 and under): Free; Equipment rental and lessons: Vary by activity.

10 Visit The Saranac Laboratory Museum

Exterior view of the Saranac Laboratory Museum

Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history of Saranac Lake at the Saranac Laboratory Museum. This iconic structure, built in 1894, was the first lab built for the research of tuberculosis, a disease that had a significant impact on the community.

Today, the museum showcases the scientific advancements made in the fight against the disease and the unique local history of Saranac Lake.

Visitors can explore exhibits that delve into the lives of the patients, their treatments, and the dedicated doctors who cared for them.

The museum's unique architecture, with its red brick exterior and large arched windows, adds to the overall experience.

• Address: 89 Church St, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, United States
• Hours: Tue - Sat: 10 am - 5 pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
• Cost: Adults: $7; Children under 13: Free

11 Where To Eat In Saranac Lake

Saranac Lake in the Adirondack State Park, New York

Discover where to eat in Saranac Lake with this list of highly-rated favorites.

Breakfast/Lunch

Blue Moon Café ADK

• Address: 55 Main St, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, United States
• Hours: Sun - Tue: 7:30 am - 2 pm; Wed & Thu: 7:30 am - 3 pm; Fri: 7:30 am - 12 am; Sat: 12 am - 3 pm
• Dishes: Sandwiches: J&J, Lower Lox, Upper Lox, Moody Pond; buttermilk pancakes, oats, hash & eggs

Origin Coffee Co. Saranac Lake

• Address: 77 Main St, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, United States
• Hours: Tue - Sat: 7 am - 2 pm; Sun: 8 am - 2 pm (closed on Mon)
• Dishes: Locally made granola, buttermilk biscuit, breakfast sandwich, Panini

Lunch/Dinner

The Belvedere Restaurant

• Address: 102 Bloomingdale Ave, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, United States
• Hours: Mon & Thu - Sat: 10:30 am - 9 pm; Sun: 12 pm - 9 pm (closed on Tue & Wed)
• Dishes: Chicken Parmesan, Veal Piccata, Ratatouille Baked Ziti, meatball sandwich, Italian smoked pork loin

Red Fox Restaurant

• Address: 5034 State Rte 3, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, United States
• Hours: Tue - Thu: 4 pm - 8:45 pm; Fri & Sat: 4 pm - 9 pm; Sun: 4 pm - 8:30 pm (closed on Mon)
• Dishes: Angel Hair Pasta, Breaded Shrimp, Broiled Salmon, N.Y. Strip Steak, Surf and Turf, Shrimp Scampi

Dinner/Drinks

Left Bank Café

• Address: 36 Broadway, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, United States
• Hours: Tue - Sat: 5 pm - 9 pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
• Dishes: Beef Bourguignon Stew, Seafood Tagliatelle, Ratatouille
• Drinks: Rough Rider Bourbon, Three Fingers Canadian, Fuji Whiskey, Misguided Gin, French Martini

Bitters & Bones

• Address: 65 Broadway, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, United States
• Hours: 12 pm - 12 am (daily)
• Dishes: Bitters Burger, Buffalo Burger, Fish N Chips, Curry Tofu, Tacos, Poke Bowl, Ribs
• Drinks: Beer: Bud Light, Labatt Blue, Corona, Blue Moon; co*cktails: Snake Juice, Bouquet of Roses, Pink Mist, Watermelon Basil Cooler

12 Where To Stay In Saranac Lake

Cabins on the coastline of Saranac Lake in upstate New York, one of the most charming small towns in the Adirondacks

Looking for places to stay around Saranac Lake? There's no shortage of accommodations.

Hotels

Hotel Saranac, Curio Collection by Hilton

• Address: 100 Main Street, Saranac Lake, NY 12983
• Price: From $249
• Amenities: Business center, gym, kids’ play area, spa, private parking, restaurant, bar, gift shop

Best Western Saranac Lake

• Address: 487 Lake Flower Avenue, Saranac Lake, NY 12983-2463
• Price: From $258
• Amenities: Restaurant, heated pool, laundry facilities, complimentary breakfast, picnic area, beach access, bike rental

Cabins

Cozy Lakeside Cabin

• Address: Saranac Lake, New York, United States
• Price: From $306
• Amenities: 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, lake access, free parking, pet-friendly, indoor fireplace, full kitchen, BBQ grill

Tail O' Pup Rustic Cabin

• Address: North Elba, New York, United States
• Price: From $128
• Amenities: 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, pet-friendly, BBQ grill, fire pit, Wi-Fi, restaurant

Campgrounds

Saranac Lake Islands Campground

• Address: 4468 State Route 3, Saranac Lake, NY 12983
• Camping Fee: From $22 per night
• Amenities: Outhouses, boat launch, hiking trails

Meadowbrook Campground

• Address: 174 NYS Route 86, Ray Brook, NY 12977
• Camping Fee: From $18 per night
• Amenities: Hot showers, flush toilets, recycling center, trailer dump station

13 Best Time To Visit Saranac Lake

Saranac Lake, Adirondacks, New York State in fall

Saranac Lake experiences a temperate climate, marked by four distinct seasons. The most favorable time to visit is from June to September when the weather is warm and the lake is inviting.

Here's a more detailed look at the conditions in Saranac Lake during the different seasons to help visitors figure out the best time to visit for them.

June to September

These months are the height of tourist season in Saranac Lake, as the weather is typically warm and sunny, with average highs of 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius) and lows of 53 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius).

The lack of rainfall during these months makes it an ideal time to enjoy the area’s outdoor activities, such as boating, fishing, or hiking.

However, visitors should be prepared for large crowds and high prices as Saranac Lake is considered one of New York's most beautiful summer destinations.

October to December

As fall transitions into winter, temperatures begin to drop, with highs of 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius) and lows of 18 degrees Fahrenheit (-8 degrees Celsius).

The changing foliage provides a stunning backdrop, but the chill in the air can be a deterrent for some visitors. As the crowds start to thin out, prices become more affordable.

January to May

The winter and early spring months in Saranac Lake are characterized by cold temperatures and heavy snowfall, with highs of 37 degrees Fahrenheit (3 degrees Celsius) and lows of 15 degrees Fahrenheit (-9 degrees Celsius).

While the cold weather may limit outdoor activities, it opens up opportunities for winter sports like skiing and ice fishing. The crowds are considerably smaller during this period, and the prices are quite reasonable, making it an attractive time for visitors looking for budget-friendly options.

Plus, from April to May, the temperatures start to rise, making it a good time to visit as there are a lot of exciting things to do in the Adirondacks in spring.

14 Getting Around Saranac Lake

Adirondack Scenic Railroad in Saranac Lake, NY

Travelers venturing to Saranac Lake via air are likely to land at the Adirondack Regional Airport, a mere five miles away from the heart of Saranac Lake. Regular flights from Boston and New York make this airport a convenient choice.

For those journeying from abroad, the Albany International Airport serves as the closest international hub, though it is a two-hour drive from Saranac Lake.

Once in the town, visitors have several options for transportation.

Car Rental

The Adirondack Regional Airport hosts several car rental agencies. This is a popular choice for visitors, as it allows the freedom to explore Saranac Lake and the wider Adirondack region at their own pace.

• Prices for car rentals vary by company and season, but they generally start at $35 per day.

Related: These 10 Scenic Adirondacks Road Trips Offer The Best Mountain Views

Bus

The Franklin County Public Transportation operates a bus service known as the Saranac Lake Route. The bus runs from Monday to Friday, with services starting from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

• Fare for a single ride starts at $3, making it an economical choice for visitors.

Bike

Saranac Lake is a bike-friendly town, with numerous trails and bike lanes available for cyclists. The Bike the Barns event, held annually, showcases the town's commitment to cycling.

• Bike rentals are available at various outlets throughout the town, with prices starting at around $20 per day.

Related:

Boat

Given Saranac Lake's location in the heart of the Adirondacks, boats serve as a unique and enjoyable mode of transportation.

Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, and motorboats to explore the beautiful waterways.

• Boat rentals are available at various marinas and start at around $50 per day.

On Foot

Saranac Lake is a pedestrian-friendly town, with most attractions within walking distance.

Walking tours are a popular way to explore the town, and many local businesses offer guided tours that highlight the history and charm of Saranac Lake.

15 Spending The Perfect Day In Saranac Lake

A view of the water through some trees in Saranac Lake

Begin the perfect day in Saranac Lake with a hearty breakfast at Blue Moon Café. Then, explore the Adirondack Carousel, a unique local attraction. Afterward, enjoy a mid-morning paddle at Lower Saranac Lake, followed by a picnic lunch at Riverside Park.

Spend the afternoon hiking at Baker Mountain, taking in the stunning views. Later, visit the Saranac Laboratory Museum to learn about the area's history.

For dinner, consider the Left Bank Café, followed by a peaceful evening stroll along the lake. End the day with a refreshing drink at Bitters & Bones.