9 Reasons to Visit the Adirondacks in June

The Wild Center is expecting some unique guests, and they plan to stay all summer long. Experience a whimsical outdoor art adventure at TROLLS: Save the Humans at The Wild Center. Six giant, folklore-inspired troll sculptures—created by Danish recycle artist Thomas Dambo—are hidden along the Center’s outdoor trails. The trolls are here to inspire visitors of all ages to rediscover nature, embrace sustainability, and reimagine how we interact with our environment.

Instead of skiing down the famous Whiteface Mountain, race up it! The Whiteface Uphill Foot and Bike Race challenges competitors to climb 3,500 feet over 8 miles up the scenic Whiteface Mountain Veterans' Memorial Highway to the top of New York’s 5th highest peak. Your reward includes a 360° panoramic view of the Adirondacks, New England, and Canada! The race is as scenic as it gets, and perfect for cyclists and runners looking for a uniquely Adirondack challenge. 

Reaching into the vast Adirondack wilds of Hamilton County, experience the Adirondack Boreal Birding Festival! The four-day event features birding hikes, walks, safaris, outings, and seminars throughout Hamilton County.

With more than 60% of the county classified as either wilderness or wild forest, this is famously one of the best locations to watch boreal birds. When you're not out hunting with your binoculars, join wildlife ecologist Michale Glennon at the Adirondack Experience Museum on Blue Mountain Lake for a talk on the boreal birds of the Adirondacks and the impacts of a changing climate. 

The Annual Wilmington Whiteface Whiskey Run and Festival, to benefit the Wilmington Historical Society’s building fund, takes place at Preston Field in Wilmington. Race options include a 5K race and a 10K race, as well as a Virtual Option. New this year, take part in the Whiskey Run's online “Racer’s Raffle” as part of the registration process. The Festival includes whiskey tastings and food, Battle of Plattsburgh re-enactors in period clothing with tents and demos, a history display, music and entertainment, a craft fair, raffles, and more. All are welcome to attend the festival, no racing required! 

As the season heats up, come experience two of the nation's most prominent equestrian events at the Lake Placid Horse Show Grounds. The events beckon world-class riders and horses from all over the world to compete in championship Hunter and Jumper competitions. As a spectator sport, it doesn't get much more exciting than show jumping, at an event Elite Equestrian Magazine calls "one of the premier stops on the nation's horse show circuit."
 

The secret is out, Lake Placid is hosting the 2026 Porsche Parade! Additional information will be announced soon, but visitors can expect a one-of-a-kind car show, races, and more. 

Join Saranac Lake for Celebrate Paddling, a thrilling season of events dedicated to exploring the beauty of our waterways and embracing the joy of paddling.

Throughout the season, there will be an incredible lineup of activities and experiences for paddling enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the world of paddling, this is an opportunity to enhance your skills, connect with fellow paddlers, and embrace the paddling community spirit. Whether you're looking for a solo adventure, a fun family outing, or a bonding experience with friends, Celebrate Paddling Month is the time to get out on the water.
 

As one of the pivotal fronts of the Revolutionary War, the Lake Champlain Region and surrounding Adirondacks are thrilled to celebrate America 250. Once a key player in shaping the nation's fight for independence, today visitors can explore charming towns and immerse themselves in history through interactive museums, historic forts, and scenic sites where battles and critical moments unfolded. From Fort Ticonderoga's legendary importance to Crown Point's majestic ruins, each corner of the region tells a tale of courage, strategy, and the enduring spirit of revolution.

Like the rest of the Adirondacks, the Adirondack Rail Trail has transformed with brilliant wildflowers and thriving ecosystems, just in time for summer! This versatile and inclusive multi-use recreation trail spans 34 miles through the picturesque towns of Lake Placid, Ray Brook, Saranac Lake, Lake Clear, and Tupper Lake. Designed with accessibility in mind, the path features a gentle grade (only ever reaching 2%), making it welcoming to a wide range of ages and abilities. The trail is free to use and not only promotes safe and healthy exercise, but also provides an opportunity for residents and visitors to connect with nature and absorb the rich history of the Adirondack region.