Summer Escape in New York State – 4 Days of Outdoor Adventures

Lakes, rivers, streams, waterfalls... The Catskill region of New York is renowned for its waterways, and those waters are teeming with fish. Maybe that’s why this region literally invented fly fishing. The Esopus, Rondout and Willowemoc creeks, as well as the Beaverkill, Rondout and Neversink rivers, offer days upon days of fly fishing in everything from narrow streams to wide rivers.  

But have no doubt, it’s all about the trout. For some of the best trout fishing around, head to the small town of Roscoe, known as “Trout Town USA.” Book a guide or wade the waters on your own and fish to your heart’s content. You can also visit the Catskills Fly Fishing Center and Museum in Livingston Manor to explore the history of the sport. 

After a full day of fishing, enjoy a craft beer at the Roscoe NY Beer Company or do a tour and tasting of fine spirits at the Prohibition Distillery. For dinner, fill your belly at the Roscoe Diner, a vintage restaurant that’s well-known across the state. 

Whitewater rafting and hiking are two quintessential Adirondack activities, so plan for two days in Lake Placid and the surrounding area to enjoy these awesome experiences.

Spend your first day with the Adirondac Rafting Company (no “k” in the name) for an awesome whitewater rafting trip. All gear is provided and no experience is necessary – there’s no excuse to miss this adventure of a lifetime.

Day two, head to High Peaks Cyclery, an extensively equipped outdoors outfitter with every type of gear rental you can imagine. Guided treks are available to get you out into the spectacular nature of the Adirondacks. You only need to bring your sense of adventure. 

If you and your travel group are looking for less strenuous Adirondack fun, explore the historic buildings and scenic campus of the Adirondack Museum and the Wild Center, an indoor/outdoor nature museum featuring the Wild Walk elevated trail through the tree tops.

During your overnight in Lake Placid, explore the town’s shops, restaurants and bars. Activities and events throughout the year might make you want to extend your itinerary in this great lakeside town.  

Are you surprised to learn that there’s shipwreck scuba diving in New York State? This is one adventure story you’ll definitely want to share with your friends. The town of Clayton, located on the shore of the Saint Lawrence River in the Thousand Islands region of upstate New York, is a perfect access point to experience freshwater diving of underwater wrecks, as well as drift and deep diving. 

If you’re not an experienced diver, the marinas in Clayton also offer watercraft rentals including canoes, kayaks and pontoon boats. Or let an expert do the navigating and opt for a relaxing boat tour of the Thousand Islands. You can see and visit island castles – yes, castles! – and other fascinating sites on this storied waterway. 

Fly into New York State via John F. Kennedy International in New York City and Newark International in New Jersey. Use Long Island MacArthur, Stewart International, Albany International, Syracuse Hancock International, Greater Rochester International and Buffalo Niagara International airports for one-hour connections to destinations statewide. Amtrak rail, rental cars or a combination of any of the above will also take you around the state