Motorcycle Tour of the Southern Adirondacks
This motorcycle itinerary winds through the most scenic regions of the six million-acre park. The loop covers quiet, less traveled roads near gentle lakeside beaches, heads through the heart of the forest and descends down all the way to Lake George—and back up again! Expect anything and everything, from miles of undisturbed wilderness to bustling downtowns. These stops are some of the best, absolutely can't-miss destinations for bikers traveling in the Adirondacks, from taverns dedicated to motorcycles to scenic views and classic roadside attractions.
Day 1
Staying in Schroon Lake
Your tour starts in Schroon Lake, after you've had a proper Adirondack stay at the Lodge at Schroon ...
Your tour starts in Schroon Lake, after you've had a proper Adirondack stay at the Lodge at Schroon Lake (complete with sweeping lake views and amenities you'll be sad to part with). The drive takes you down Route 9 to Pottersville, then winding up to Minerva.
Minerva
Small but mighty, Minerva is nestled in the heart of High Peaks and the home to incredible roadside ...
Small but mighty, Minerva is nestled in the heart of High Peaks and the home to incredible roadside views filled with rivers, vantage points, and deep forest scenery. It also happens to be home to a biker's dream bar, Sporty's Iron Duke Saloon. Heavily decorated in biker memorabilia of the past, this delightful bar and its owner welcomes all motorists to relax and enjoy the pitstop. There's more to explore in Minerva, take a peek at the adventures to be had.
Indian Lake
From Minerva, take the scenic route to Indian Lake, dipping down into North Creek (where you'll catc...
From Minerva, take the scenic route to Indian Lake, dipping down into North Creek (where you'll catch views of Gore Mountain) and follow the Hudson River up to Indian Lake. The road hugging the river gently winds and bends, while showcasing the best of Adirondack scenery. In Indian Lake you'll find a breathtaking overlook with an accompanying guide to the mountains you see. With all those miles, reward yourself with a bite at the Indian Lake Restaurant or Puterko's Family Pizzeria.
Speculator
Back on Route 30, your next objective is to find Pig Rock. It's pretty hard to miss, a giant boulder...
Back on Route 30, your next objective is to find Pig Rock. It's pretty hard to miss, a giant boulder in the shape of a pig's head has been painted to give it a snout and eyes, making for quirky roadside pictures. Once you get to Speculator, grab ice cream at Speculator Creamery. As the day starts to wind down, consider staying in town at the Inn at Speculator, combining cozy lodging with a full-service restaurant.
Piseco
Just down the road, Piseco is the perfect place to lay your head for those looking for a quieter sta...
Just down the road, Piseco is the perfect place to lay your head for those looking for a quieter stay. Most lodging resides on the two lakes, Oxbow and Piseco Lake. The Inn on Piseco Lake offers a variety of ways to stay, from lodging in the main house to renting your own cabin. The lake front property gives you all the Adirondack peace you need, and its proximity to local trails, including the Northville-Placid Trail, make it the perfect basecamp.
Day 2
Wells
Leaving the Piseco area, you'll make the descent to the small town of Wells, showcasing deep forest ...
Leaving the Piseco area, you'll make the descent to the small town of Wells, showcasing deep forest views, waterfalls, and peaceful lake fronts. In town, Lake Algonquin is the centerpiece, framed by mountains and a public beach. Further out of town, you'll find Griffin Falls, an epic collection of waterfalls making for a refreshing and stunning stop on your tour.
Hope
Before driving into Hope, stop at the Sacandaga Day Use Area. Situated on the Sacandaga River, this ...
Before driving into Hope, stop at the Sacandaga Day Use Area. Situated on the Sacandaga River, this state park is home to hiking trails, river access, and sweeping views of the Adirondacks. Here you'll find plenty of picnic tables for lunch by the river, before heading back on the road towards Hope. Once in Hope, Tenant Falls is a can't-miss sight. A short hike gives you access to the multi-tiered waterfall, rushing down into the waters of Tenant Creek.
Northville
Continuing on to Northville, follow the Sacandaga River for a pleasant drive along one of the main a...
Continuing on to Northville, follow the Sacandaga River for a pleasant drive along one of the main arteries of the Adirondacks. Once in Northville, take a peak at the beautiful arch at the southern terminus of the Northville-Placid Trail. And, if you're in need of fuel, a Stewart's is conveniently across the street.
Lake George
From Northville, the drive to Lake George cuts through thick forest and rare views, avoiding major r...
From Northville, the drive to Lake George cuts through thick forest and rare views, avoiding major roadways and favoring roads that hug lakes and small towns. Spend some time at the outlets in Lake George, grab a bite to eat, then make the journey back to Schroon Lake.