An Eastern Adirondack Motorcycle Day

Before you fully lean into the day, start with a heavy dose of geological power at Ausable Chasm, located near Chesterfield and Keeseville. There is a perfect pull-off near the entrance bridge. Kick the kickstand down and take two minutes to walk the bridge; the view of Rainbow Falls and the deep sandstone canyon is the perfect visual wake-up call before hitting the road. The North Star Underground Railroad Museum is also a great option for looking into the region's history.

From Keeseville, point your front tire south on Route 9. This stretch is a rider favorite; wide shoulders, decent pavement, and gentle rollers that let you settle into a rhythm. As you pass through the quiet town of Lewis, keep an eye out for Bear Necessities. It’s the quintessential Adirondack stop to top off your saddlebag with water, snacks, or any last-minute supplies.

Continue south into Elizabethtown, the county seat known for its stately architecture and mountain backdrop. Ride into the center of town and grab a to-go lunch from a local spot like the Pleasant Valley Café. For a quiet place to eat, roll over to the park near the Adirondack History Museum. There’s plenty of shade and space to stretch your legs while you map out the lakeside portion of the trip.

Exit Elizabethtown via Route 9N toward the lake. The descent into Westport offers some of the best long-range views of Lake Champlain. Once you hit the village, ride slow through the historic Main Street and pull into Ballard Park. This is the prime vantage point in town, with the park’s sloping lawn offering a panoramic view of the bay and the Green Mountains of Vermont across the water. It’s the perfect spot for a mid-day gear check and a possible Champ sighting!

From Westport, head north on Route 22, keeping the water on your right. This stretch is pure cruising bliss. You’ll roll through Essex, a town reminiscent of the early 1800s. The road hugs the shoreline as you move toward Willsboro, providing glimpses of the broad lake and the ferry traffic. The air gets cooler here, and the curves get a bit more interesting as the road follows the natural contour of the Lake Champlain coast.

As you leave Willsboro, stay on Route 22 North for the final leg back to Keeseville. This section moves you inland slightly, cutting through rolling farmland and open fields with the Adirondack High Peaks looming in your mirrors. It’s a fast, smooth finish to a day spent between the mountains and the coast. Want a tip for the end of this trip? Check out Ausable Brewing Company, you won't regret it.