Our dog Maddie is quite the hiking dog. So far she’s completed the Saranac 6er and Lake Placid 9er with us, and we’re part way through the ADK-9er and Fire Tower Challenge. It can be lots of fun hiking with your dog, just remember to properly prep with the right gear and enough water for a great day in the mountains. And consider your dog’s age, health, stamina and abilities when choosing your hike. Here’s our packing and prep list for taking Maddie on the trail with us.

Just like chicken noodle soup, a walk through the woods to a pond is good for the soul. It’s different from hiking to a mountain top. Not only are these hikes less strenuous, but having a lakeside destination is often much more serene and peaceful. Generally less human traffic. Low key. Usually forested walks. Great in summer if you’re looking to take a dip in the water. Good in the spring mud season when we need to avoid higher elevations — but be prepared with bug spray in black fly season. Ideally, try these trails in autumn to catch reflections of fall color in a crystal clear pond.

Here’s our pup’s list of her top 5 favorite places to hang with us for an outdoor meal near Lake Placid, New York.

There are many reasons why you might be looking for a hike with less than 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Maybe you’re hiking with kids, dogs, or your parents. Maybe you’re a 46er looking for a nice sunset hike with some friends. Or, maybe you’re a novice and not quite ready to tackle the High Peaks. We all have to start somewhere. HYOH (hike your own hike). Here’s a list of nice hikes under 1,000 feet elevation gain.

The Adirondacks and specifically the High Peaks may be hiking nirvana. But sometimes you just want to slow down and wander through the woods. Walk the dog. Let the kids run. Or just go solo and give yourself a chance to breathe in and exhale slowly. Here are seven areas near Lake Placid, NY for a great walk in the woods.

If you’re visiting Lake Placid between late-May through mid-October, there are two quintessential sightseeing stops that we highly recommend.

The Lake Placid 9er challenge is an easy way to explore nearby hiking trails, all of which are dog-friendly. If you’re just starting this challenge or only have time for one or two hikes, here are a few of my favs.

We highly recommend everyone take a paddle day in the Adirondacks at least once. If you haven’t paddled much before, here’s what you need to know.

Upstate New York is filled with fantastic, award-winning microbreweries. Don’t miss out. Here are 7 brewery recommendations within proximity to Lake Placid, NY.