Outdoor Activities in the Adirondacks
Adventure Starts at Packbasket Lodge
Located in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, Packbasket Lodge is the perfect basecamp for year-round outdoor adventure. Whether you visit in summer or winter, the region offers miles of trails, quiet waterways, and scenic wilderness waiting to be explored.
From hiking the famous Cranberry Lake 50 to paddling calm Adirondack waters or exploring snowy trails in winter, Packbasket Lodge places you steps away from some of the best outdoor recreation in northern New York.
Hiking in the Adirondacks
Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities near Packbasket Lodge. The area surrounding Cranberry Lake offers everything from easy woodland walks to challenging multi-day backcountry routes.
The Cranberry Lake 50
The Cranberry Lake 50 is one of the most sought-after hiking experiences in the Adirondacks. This approximately 50-mile loop trail circles Cranberry Lake through forests, wetlands, and remote wilderness areas. Hikers often complete the trail over several days, staying in lean-tos or designated campsites along the route.
Highlights include:
- Scenic shoreline views of Cranberry Lake
- Remote forest trails and quiet backcountry terrain
- Multiple access points near Packbasket Lodge
- Opportunities for day hikes or overnight backpacking trips
For guests looking for a shorter adventure, there are many nearby trails including:
- The Moore Trail located just across the river from the lodge.
- The Big Pine Trail is just up the road from the lodge.
- The Cathedral Rock Trail starts at the Ranger School and has a fire tower to climb at the top.
Paddling
The Adirondacks are famous for paddling, and Wanakena and the surrounding areas are one of the region’s best destinations for canoeing and kayaking. From the protected Oswegatchie River to the open waters of Cranberry Lake paddlers can enjoy everything from short scenic outings to multi-day trips deep into the Five Ponds Wilderness and island camping on Cranberry Lake.
Paddling in the Wanakena area offers:
- Calm waters ideal for canoes and kayaks
- Access to remote islands and picnic spots
- Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities
- Beautiful Adirondack sunsets over open water
Whether you’re looking for an hour or a week on the water, this region offers many classic Adirondack paddling experiences.
Snowshoeing in the Adirondacks
Winter transforms the Adirondacks into a peaceful snowy landscape perfect for snowshoeing. Guests at Packbasket Lodge can borrow snowshoes from the lodge, making it easy to explore nearby trails and forest paths. Snowshoeing is a great way to:- Enjoy quiet winter scenery
- Access trails that are difficult to hike in deep snow
- Spot wildlife tracks in fresh powder
- Experience the Adirondack forest in winter
Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is another favorite winter activity in the Adirondacks. The region offers miles of scenic forest trails that are perfect for both beginner and experienced Nordic skiers.
Near Packbasket Lodge you will find:
- Quiet backcountry ski routes
- Scenic woodland trails
- Rolling terrain ideal for classic cross-country skiing
One of the best trails in the area is the Peavine Swamp Trail. The trail takes you through old-growth forest with large spruce and hardwoods ending at a riverside lean-to. A great place to take a break, heat up some lunch and make a cup of hot chocolate!
Snowmobiling in the Adirondacks
For visitors looking for winter adventure, the Adirondacks are known for their extensive snowmobile trail network. Trails near Cranberry Lake connect riders to hundreds of miles of groomed routes across the region. Snowmobilers can enjoy:- Access to Adirondack trail systems
- Scenic forest routes and frozen lakes
- Connections to nearby Adirondack towns and trail hubs
Your Adirondack Basecamp
No matter the season, Packbasket Lodge offers direct access to the natural beauty and outdoor recreation that make the Adirondacks special. From hiking and paddling in summer to snowshoeing and snowmobiling in winter, every stay offers a new opportunity to explore the wilderness.
Plan your Adirondack adventure and experience the outdoors right outside your door at Packbasket Lodge.
There’s something timeless about gathering with friends and family in the Adirondacks, where the pace slows and the noise of everyday life fades into water, wind, and woods. Shared meals, quiet paddles, and evenings around a fire create space to reconnect—to laugh, reflect, and simply be together. A retreat here isn’t just a getaway; it’s a chance to strengthen bonds, reset your spirit, and carry a little of that calm home with you.