The leaves are changing, pumpkins are out and fall events fill the calendar. Fall is in full swing in Tupper Lake! The hiking and paddling triads promise to provide some of the best foliage views this season in the Adirondacks. Whether you want to explore by land or water, Tupper Lake has just the adventure waiting for you.
Day 1
Check in and grab a bite to eat
Choose from a cozy motel, Adirondack cabin, or vacation rental to make into your basecamp. Whatever you pick, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere, comfort, and adventures just outside your door.
Start leg 1 of the Tupper Lake Triad
The Tupper Lake Triads offer numerous ways, both on land and on the water, to get out amid that stunning fall scenery and have an outdoorsy adventure.
Land lover’s choice: Conquer the rugged beauty of Mt Arab. Scale its heights and be rewarded with breathtaking vistas that make every step worth it. The restored fire tower at the summit boasts 360-degree views of Adirondack foliage.
Water warrior’s choice: Paddle your way through the serene Stony Creek, navigating your way to Axton Landing. Feel the thrill as you glide through the water, surrounded by nature’s splendor! Tip: Raquette River Outfitters provides full rentals of everything you may need for your water adventure.
Relax, enjoy a bite to eat, and then...
Head out for live music at Raquette River Brewing or at P-2’s Irish Pub. Both places have a great fall live music schedule. And as a bonus, P-2's is known for their wings!
If you are looking for something a bit more relaxed and peaceful, head to Bog River Falls with a picnic dinner and your fishing gear! On the way back into town, pull into Rock Island Bay for some of the best dark sky stargazing in the northeast.
Day 2 - Packed with fall flavor
Grab breakfast at Washboard Donut Shoppe
Enjoy a sweet treat to kickstart your adventure. Washboard is locally adored for its hot, fresh donuts, topped with an array of frostings, like maple bacon or the classic cinnamon sugar. Get a few for the road!
Visit The Wild Center
Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, The Wild Center always has something exciting and fascinating on tap. Explore the new Raquette River Roll, meet the otters, and stroll along Wild Walk, an elevated trail through the treetops, where you can discover fall foliage from new heights.
Is golf your thing?
Fall is nothing short of spectacular at the Tupper Lake Golf Club. The 18-hole, Donald Ross-designed course is especially picturesque this time of year. Tree-lined fairways pop with gorgeous foliage throughout the fall.
The adventure intensifies with the stunning sunset edition of the Tupper Lake Triad!
Land lover’s choice: Embark on a sunset hike up Coney Mountain. Climb to the summit and be mesmerized by a 360-degree panorama that bathes in the golden glow of the setting sun. (Pro tip: Coney is great for stargazing, too! But remember to be prepared with warm layers and lights for finding your way.)
Water warrior’s choice: Paddle from the Crusher to Big Tupper Lake boat launch, where you’ll find one of the most breathtaking sunset vistas. Watch as the sky ignites with fiery colors reflected on the tranquil waters, creating a perfect, serene finale to your day.
Whether you’re reaching for the sky or gliding across the water, leg two promises a sunset experience that will leave you awe-inspired. Get ready to witness nature’s most magical moments!
Day 3
It's time for the grand finale of the Tupper Lake Triad!
Wrap up your Tupper Lake Triad adventure with leg three, the last stop, where scenic beauty and historical richness collide in an unforgettable experience, whether you're on land or on the water.
Land lover’s choice: Tackle the scenic trail of Goodman Mountain. Traverse through lush landscapes and discover trails that weave through history, offering stunning vistas and a deep connection to civil rights, the mountain having been named after civil rights activist Andrew Goodman.
Water warrior’s choice: Paddle from Raquette Pond to Setting Pole Dam. This waterway not only showcases serene beauty but also immerses you in a journey through history, with each stroke revealing the story of the past against a backdrop of tranquil waters.
Stroll uptown Park Street
Pick up your triad patch and sticker at the Tupper Lake Information Center, as well as visit the wide-ranging shops for that special gift to take home. Follow it up with a round of mini golf at TimberJaxx Pass or a movie at the Adirondack State Theater.
Celebrate your accomplishments with a fine dining experience
Just off Park Street, Amado offers intimate dining with eclectic cuisine. Let Cory and Lillian treat you to a delicious dinner as you recap your Tupper Lake adventures.
The Woodshed on Park offers comfort food with a delightful twist with culinary artisans adding creativity and flair to each dish. The Woodshed has become known for their signature artisan cocktails, which complement your meal perfectly.
Itinerary add ons!
- If you are visiting Tupper Lake on the weekend, stop by McClelland Family Farm for all things fall fun!
- In town on a Sunday? The Adirondack Railroad runs trains on Sundays to Sabattis and back. More information, plus online ticket purchases, is just a click away.
- A scenic must stop: Bog River Falls.
- A rainy day alternative: Lakeview Lanes & Foul Line Sports Bar. A complete sports bar with a full menu, bowling, and a brand new arcade to keep the kids (and adults) busy.
- If the stars align: On clear nights the Adirondack Sky Center has been hosting pop-up stargazing sessions, be sure to follow them on Facebook for the announcements (usually 24-48 hours in advance).
This fall, your next stop is Tupper Lake!