Visiting Upstate New York and the Adirondacks

The Adirondack Mountains dominate upstate New York, along with the Thousand Islands and Seaway region on the shores of Lake Ontario. Hiking and biking the trails of the Adirondacks are popular in spring and summer. An outdoor enthusiast? Canoeing, kayaking and fishing on the St Lawrence River, Lake Ontario and smaller lakes and ponds is perfect. Trout fishing season opened April 1st. The 1,000 Islands region near Watertown is ideal fishing location. The St Lawrence's big waters, the Salmon River and inland Jefferson County lakes are stocked and ready for anglers. Saranac Lake, heart of the Adirondacks, and Lake Placid nearby, are surrounded by idyllic mountains, alpine lakes and pristine wilderness for travelers to the area.

The Greater Watertown Farm and Craft Market opens the 2010 season May 26th. The largest farmers market in northern New York, featuring fresh farm products including baked goods, fresh eggs, honey and maple products. Local arts, crafts and jewelry are featured along with weekly entertainment. Held through the summer each Wednesday, in downtown Watertown, come support local growers and shop direct from the farm on your visit to North County.

The Best Western Carriage House Inn in downtown Watertown is ideal for travelers visiting the 1,000 lakes region, or rafting on the Black River. Enjoy a relaxing weekend away or a longer vacation and make Best Western your home away from home. Bring the dog too, the Best Western Carriage House in is pet-friendly. Canton's Best Western University Inn just 60 miles away is convenient for travelers sightseeing around northern New York. Near the foothills of the Adirondacks, making a good gateway stop on your way to the mountains.

Adirondack Park encompasses 85% of the eastern US' wilderness land, where an outdoor adventure awaits everyone that visits. New in 2010; the Sunchaser Challenge, will be held at Saranac Lake on May 22nd. The challenge is one of four held across the US supporting endangered species. Participants of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate in teams or solo. Participants must rescue endangered species from checkpoints along the course by running, biking, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. This is not a race, the goal is for participants and fans to have fun. Stages for collecting endangered species have an allotted time and several checkpoints, making the challenge tactical and interesting. The Best Western Mountain Lake Inn in Saranac Lake and the Best Western Adirondack Inn in Lake Placid are conveniently located for travel in the Adirondacks.

Avid runners, it's the time of year for the Lake Placid Marathon and Half Marathon, which is ranked one of the top Best Destination races in the US. The race is held Saturday June 12th, 2010. This early season race will test your winter workout regime. The course is set in Lake Placid's quaint Olympic village and the beautiful Adirondack Mountains. An ideal setting to run, or cheer on your favorite runners. Lake Placid also hosts the ultimate athletic challenge July 25th, the Ford Ironman Lake Placid 2010. Ironman is a full marathon preceded by a 2.4 mile swim and biking 112 miles. Come to Lake Placid and support the amazing athletes who push their limits to the max.