Water Everywhere!

Spring can be a tricky time here in the Adirondacks. It is starting to warm up and the snow is starting to melt. There's no more skiing, no more snowmobiling, and it's time to trade the ice fishing gear for open-water casting.

And everything is wet. 

But that's no reason to avoid nature — it's simply time to change your outdoor activities and your outerwear!

It's time to check out a couple of our favorite things that really benefit from all of that water runoff — whitewater rafting  and the waterfalls! 

Whitewater rafting

Take a little trip to Indian Lake, the whitewater capital of New York state. For thrill seekers, springtime is the best time for whitewater rafting. Starting in mid to late April, the season kicks off with some Class IV and V rapids down the Hudson River Gorge. (For those looking for some slightly calmer waters, try summer or fall when the rapids are usually around a Class III.) The rafting season generally runs to the end of September, rain or shine. Grab a wetsuit and a paddle — rentals are available at most of our outfitters — and plan to hit the river. There are dam releases from Lake Abanakee every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from early April through fall to ensure fantastic whitewater fun! This is a truly one of a kind way to see the Adirondacks! And don't forget a change of clothes. You WILL get wet!!

Waterfalls 

Also benefitting from the big melt are the waterfalls! There are a lot of them hidden throughout the Adirondacks. Try out our Waterfall Challenge if you want to try to find them all! From the easily accessible Christine Falls in Speculator, which is just a short hike from state Route 30, to OK Slip Falls in Indian Lake — one of the tallest waterfalls in the Adirondacks, and a tougher hike at 6.4 miles round trip — there are lots of falls to choose from!

With varying degrees of difficulty, waterfall seekers can choose a quick jaunt or an afternoon excursion to a secluded spot. Be sure to use caution when hiking these trails. There will be plenty of mud and lots of fast moving water, but the views will be worth it! 

Check It Out For Yourself

Take a trip to the Adirondacks to see it for yourself! Don't let the mud discourage you — get your boots on and hit the trails. Book your whitewater rafting trip now! Or, if you are feeling lucky, enter our Adirondack Giveaway!