Adventure together in the Whiteface Region
If you feel it in your bones that you and your partner are meant to be hiking a mountain right now rather than sitting back and watching another episode of The Bachelor, this is for you. Adventurous couples like you can’t help it — you are meant to be out exploring, seeing the sights, taking the long way on the road trip just to experience the joy of the great outdoors, and the Whiteface Region hears you! It all comes down to the first and seemingly only hurdle: deciding what to do. The possibilities are pretty much endless, which can be the challenge for most to get out the door. To save you from another bout of “What do you wanna do?” the Whiteface Region has taken it upon itself to give you the ultimate itinerary, no strings attached, free advice!
Before you head out tripping over your gear in excitement, take this itinerary with all the activities planned to break you out of your comfort zone.
1. Veterans' Memorial Highway
There are several ways to get to the top of Whiteface (and no, you don’t have to be skiing to gain access). Veterans' Memorial Highway is the only vehicle-accessible route up any High Peak in the Adirondacks, and the views are incredible. This roadway isn't just to get from point A to point B, either. The Veterans' Memorial Highway is at the top of this list because of how grand it is and all the things there are to do! Enjoy scenic views all around as you slowly climb to the top. As you wind up Whiteface, take in the sights of each side of the mountain, and reach the top for a 360-degree view of the surrounding High Peaks! Consider pairing your mountain trek with your favorite road trip playlist to get the ultimate experience. While you’re up there, book a lovely dinner for the two of you at 4610’ Grill, the highest restaurant in New York state!
2. Paddling
Your visit to the Whiteface Region wouldn’t be complete without a paddling day. Get your canoe or kayak ready and experience the lakes and rivers of the area. The unique environment offers paddling opportunities like no other in the Adirondacks. If you don’t personally own a canoe or kayak, no need to worry. Places like The Park at Lake Everest offer great rental options for canoes and kayaks, or try a different paddling experience with SUP and aquabike rentals. Try the calm waters of our lakes, or for those seeking whitewater rushes and heat-racing drops, check out Ausable-West-Monument to High Falls. Whatever your preference, seize the day together.
3. Stargazing
So, not only can stargazing be totally romantic, but the Adirondacks take stargazing to a whole new level. Because we’re so high up, and situated past any major cities or towns, there is very little opportunity for light pollution to cloud the skies. For some, stargazing is an entirely new hobby that they take up while in the Adirondacks. The nighttime sights you’ll see here are unlike any other in the world, which we think is pretty neat. There’s no heavy lifting on your part, either. Just grab a blanket or chairs and look up!
4. Mountain biking
If you two are more adrenaline junkies than casual bikers, the area is prime terrain for your next mountain biking trek. Cycling in general is huge in the Adirondacks, but if you guys have been searching for that edge that you just can’t seem to find on the beaten path, consider taking a glance at the local trails available.
5. Rock climbing
The Whiteface Region is the perfect playground for all things outdoors, and rock climbing is no exception. For couples looking for a challenge and a chance to check your athleticism, rock climbing may be the perfect outing for you. Because we have some pretty steep mountains around here, climbers have been taking advantage of the terrain for years. For beginners, try the Notch Mountain Slabs for a quick and easy climb, with views to boot. This climb also offers extra protection, and help along the way. For more of you experts, try Moss Cliff, across from Notch Mountain. This 500-foot granite wall houses multi-patch crack climbs, as well as some of the toughest climbing routes in the Adirondacks. Work together to get to the top and celebrate the climb by sitting and basking in the view!
Where to stay
6. Wilderness Van
If you’re more interested in the journey over the destination, then Wilderness Van is the perfect fit for you. Although vans aren't available from the company anymore, your next camping trip is closer than ever when you choose any of their travel trailers! Choose from a range of travel trailers, stocked with kitchenettes, queen beds and bunks, and full bathrooms. Don’t want to do the heavy lifting? They’ll deliver right to your campsite and give you the lowdown on how to use and take care of your new home away from home! Cozy up by your own campfire or play cards inside; having the freedom to pick when and where you lay your head is the beauty of camping, and well deserved freedom that you and your significant other deserve.
7. Whiteface Mountain KOA Campground
Another great option for camping in the area is Whiteface Mountain’s KOA campground. For couples who might want some more accommodations during their camping trip — you know, to be one with the outdoors but not be too outdoors — KOA is the happy medium. Pitch your tent or park your camper at the site, then adventure around the campground. Even book a stay in one of KOA's cozy cabins. The grounds include walking trails and rivers, perfect for hiking and fishing. Make an evening out of their game room, or take a dip in the in-ground pool to cool down from the day's fun. Enjoy a picnic area, general store, and WiFi during your stay.
Wherever your journey takes you, know there's always plenty of room in the Whiteface Region for every curious, adventurous, go-getter couple out there. Enjoy the peaceful waters of our lakes, or take on your own challenge to test your teamwork skills with white-water paddling or mountain climbing. Perhaps take on a new skill, mapping the stars at night, or learn how to scale a rock slab! Adventure together and experience the closeness of the wilderness right outside your tent. Make sure to take the time to cozy up by the fire, toast marshmallows, or just float down the lake on your kayak from time to time! While we all love adventure, even the most daring explorers need their rest. Enjoy the Whiteface Region together today!
