This video includes a collection of my photography from around the Adirondack Mountains in Northern New York State. What do you think? Do you recognize any of these views? What’s your favorite season in the Adirondacks? Please leave your comments.
New Zealand is a beautiful small country in the South Pacific Ocean. The country is divided into two islands called the North Island and the South Island. To those unfamiliar with New Zealand, the country is made up of a vast landscape. In a short vehicles drive, one can surf at the beach, then hike up the Frans Josef Glacier. On one road you will also see the largest amount of sheep in your entire life.
Speaking of roads, the Milford Road in Southwest part of the South Island, runs through Fiordland National Park. On one section of the road, drivers must go through a 4,118 foot tunnel to pass a section of mountains. It can be a violent environment in the Winter time, so it’s suggested that you visit in another season. The 75 mile road ends at Milford Sound, a fjord that connects to the Tasman Sea. Mitre Peak dominates the landscape, rising 5,551 feet and at 532 feet Lady Bowen Falls gets honorable mention. It’s difficult for the human eye to put the sight of this natural wonder into words. The pictures are great to look at, but this is truly a place you need to visit to get the full experience of the fresh air, towering waterfalls, and wildlife in its environment.
To get to Milford Sound, many travelers rent vehicles or take a tour bus from Queenstown, a resort town about 4-5 hours drive from Milford Sound. As a recommendation, it’s a good idea to rent your own vehicle so you can make your own stops along the way.There are many beautiful sights to see between the lakes, rivers, mountains, and forests.
To get a closer look at the Milford Sound area, boat tours are offered that pass right by the peaks and waterfalls. If you’ve got some extra cash you can even take a scenic flight to capture the view from above Milford Sound.
As a reminder, don’t forget your CAMERA and bring a raincoat if you have one. Fiordland has an average annual rainfall of about 250 inches.
Looking for a getaway? Perhaps you should consider visiting the Adirondack Park in New York State. Not many people know this, but the Adirondack Park is the largest state park in the United States. Located just a few hours north of New York City, the Adirondack wilderness is comprised of about 6.1 million acres, which is almost equivalent to the size of Vermont.
With breathtaking mountains, beautiful lakes, and year-round activities, the Adirondack State Park offers an escape to nature for all ages. If hiking is your thing, take a trip up to New York’s highest point, Mt. Marcy. This is a moderate hike, that usually takes a full day to complete, and includes a 360 degree summit view of the surrounding High Peaks. With over 2,000 miles of hiking trails, there are plenty adventures to be had. If you’re looking for a challenge you can become an “Adirondack Forty-Sixer” if you climb the 46 mountains that have an elevation above 4,000 feet.
Let’s not forget about the “Miracle on Ice”, which took place in Lake Placid, NY. As a host of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympic Games, Lake Placid is a small Olympic village with a lot to offer. In the winter, visitors have the opportunity to ski the greatest vertical drop in the east at 3,340 feet. Whiteface Mountain is located just 15 minutes from Lake Placid in the small town of Wilmington, NY.
In all seasons, the Lake Placid/High Peaks Region has something to offer. Whether it be shopping at unique Adirondack stores, checking out the Olympic venues such as the bobsled track, or taking advantage of the numerous outdoor activities.
If you’re looking for a good thrill, then you should visit the Six Flags Great Escape in Lake George, NY. Summer activities in Lake George are a major draw to area, so if you like whitewater rafting, boating, swimming, golf, or hiking, then it’s time you plan a trip to the southeastern region of the Adirondacks. The Lake George area is also the host of Americade, the world’s largest multi-brand motorcycle touring rally.
Let’s not forget about camping. Whether you prefer RV camping or sleeping under the stars, all of the campgrounds in the Adirondacks offer a remarkable and breathtaking getaway experience! The Adirondack Lakes Region is a popular destination for camping in areas such as Old Forge, which is home to New York’s largest water theme park, Water Safari.
This is just the beginning of things you can do in the Adirondack Park.
Catamount Mountain – A trail for the rock-scrambling enthusiast ( adk.org )
It was an amazing day in November 2009. The sun was shining, there was a light warm breeze, and temps were in the 50s. My dad and I decided to make our way up Catamount Mountain (Elevation: 3169 feet) in the Adirondacks for the afternoon. Catamount has beautiful views from a couple lookout points and an amazing summit view, which includes Whiteface Mt. in the distance, off to the south.
“If you have adventure in your heart, this is a great peak on a clear, sunny day.”
This slideshow includes a collection of pictures from my trips around the Adirondack Park with some friends. There are beautiful mountains and lakes everywhere you go. If you have any questions or comments regarding the Adirondacks, drop a line. Enjoy the video! -EW