The Adirondack forests are filled with hundreds of pristine lakes and ponds, endless miles of rivers and streams just waiting to be explored. Known for our picturesque hiking and walking trails, abundant boating and paddling opportunities, premier fly and bass fishing, and world-class golf you will be embraced with true Adirondack hospitality. Just a short, easy drive from any east coast metropolitan center, we are closer than you think, and further from anything you can imagine!

Popularity of the Adirondacks as a destination soared in the late 1800s when the nation's most wealthy and influential citizens built their great camps in the region. The social elite would "vacate" the stifling summer heat of Northeast cities for the cool Adirondack air. Yes, this is the origin of the word – it's where vacations began.

We've broken our part of the Adirondack woods into four regions; each with their own distinct personality. Click on the images above to learn more.

In the midst of the Adirondacks is a community that has remained a serene respite through the years; Lake Placid. Surrounded by tall, majestic mountains – beautiful no matter the season – juxtaposed against clear, deep lakes and rushing rivers, this town is home to awe-inspiring scenes around every bend in the road.

From this resort community, you can experience all the Adirondacks have to offer. Paddle a canoe along a lazy river or kayak some thrilling rapids; hike a mountain trail and drink in the view; scale a rock face; cycle an Ironman course; or take a hair-raising bobsled ride. After a day of outdoor adventure, the area's restaurants, spas, shops, hotels and attractions will provide recreational adventures of a different kind.

Don't overlook Lake Placid's larger next-door neighbor, Saranac Lake. Named an All-American city in 1998, outdoor adventures live right in the center of town. For a slower-paced outing, take a ride on the scenic railroad that connects the two towns and spend the afternoon exploring the historic downtown shops, art galleries and parks of Saranac Lake.

To the south is the Town of Keene, home of the Great Range and Mount Marcy. More laid-back than its neighbors, Keene has been a retreat for artists and outdoorsmen alike.

Explore more, click on LakePlacid.com.

The legendary West branch of the Ausable River has some of the best fly-fishing in north American. Six and a half miles of the Ausable's swiftly flowing channels and deep pools are designated as catch and release waters to ensure great fishing for years to come. Hire a licensed Adirondack Guide to show you the secret stashes of rainbow and brown trout along the ricer's meandering course.

The Ausable rambles and winds its way through the Wilmington Notch, carving and transforming the rock as it flows. At High Falls Gorge, just below the Wilmington Notch, you can see first hand this dramatic river corridor.

But no matter how much the river changes the riverbed, the one stalwart holdout against the water is Whiteface Mountain. The river can't touch it. And so it stands proud and defiant against the current while simultaneously offering a playground for hikers and mountain bikers who want to defy the 4,867-foot peak. So bring your bike or waders and meet the challenge of the mountain or river head on.

If you're not interested in thrill-seeking or defying gravity, the mountain can also be accessed via gondola rides or a drive up the Veterans' Memorial Highway.

Learn more about the Whiteface Region by visiting WhitefaceRegion.com.

400 years ago Samuel de Champlain explored the vast lake that today bears his name.

The focus of the Lake Champlain Region which ties together the diverse communities of the Adirondack Coast is the lake itself. Locals who make their home along the shore adapt to the ebb and flow of the lake's changing seasons with varying leisure activities. The vastness of America's sixth largest fresh water lake calls to swimmers, boaters, fishermen, and sun bathers alike.

Along the rolling shoreline which makes up New York's Adirondack Coast a number of quaint, 18th century towns and villages are waiting to be explored. Immerse yourself in the variety of historic sites, museums and two revolutionary war forts which will provide a glimpse into the past. Here you can play some of the nations' oldest golf courses – slicing out their place in the region’s history.

Then, you can dine al fresca, luxuriating in the lazy summer day. With the deep at your fingertips, and spectacular views of Vermont's Green Mountains as a back drop, you’ll find time moves a little slower when you're on the lake.

Explore more, click on LakeChamplainRegion.com.

Only true nature lovers can appreciate the quiet seclusion of the Schroon Lake Region. Trails abound in the Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness and Hoffman Notch areas. Don't be surprised if you spend the whole day on the trail or adrift on the river without seeing another soul. But when you tire of trekking, return to the welcoming arms of a town that still knows how to throw a block party and treats neighbors as friends. Known for it's charming bed and breakfasts, the town still retains the character of the summer vacation retreat you knew as a kid. Stroll a Main Street dotted with numerous quaint antique and collectible shops, restaurants, movie theater, and churches.

Long sandy stretches of beach make for the perfect family getaway. The lakes, ponds and streams ensure that anglers and boaters are able to spend their time doing what they love, while taking in views of the beautiful mountains that ring the lakes.

Although rustic outdoor pursuits are what characterize the region, Schroon Lake still saves a spot in its heart for art and culture. The beauty of the Adirondack woods has long been the muse of many artists. Since 1915, Schroon Lake's Seagle Music Colony has beckoned to the creative spirit of musicians and performers from all over the world. Each summer, music lovers gather to enjoy shows and operas inspired by the majestic wilderness. Whatever form of diversion you enjoy, the Schroon Lake Region is the inspiration for your summer escape.

Be inspired - visit SchroonLakeRegion.com.