This Quiet New York City Is Hiding In Plain Sight
Glens Falls, located in east-central New York along the Hudson River, is surrounded by natural marvels. Located on the outskirts of the Adirondacks, this city of about 15,000 residents was once a hub for lumber and paper production and is now a great spot for outdoor recreation, with miles of hiking trails and nearby lakes to enjoy. The restaurants and hotels in town are just as lovely, some of which have been in the community for nearly a century. Wondering what makes Glens Falls such a wonderful place to visit? Get ready to dive in.
Hiking & Biking Trails
Glens Falls is a true haven for hikers and bikers, with many trails beginning right in town and stretching into the surrounding countryside. The Warren County Bike Trail is the perfect example. This trail, popular for both biking and walking, starts right in the heart of Glens Falls and extends nine miles north to Lake George Village. Restaurants, parks, and ice cream shops can be found along the route, giving you plenty of opportunities to stop and rest. To the northwest, travelers will find Gurney Lane Recreation Park, a massive park spanning over 150 acres that has five hiking trails varying in difficulty. Although this park is particularly popular in the summer, its trails operate year-round, with many visitors using them for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and fat biking in the winter months.
For a peaceful trail near the river, travelers can head about 13 minutes southwest of town to the Hudson Pointe Nature Preserve. This semi-loop trail extends for nearly two miles, breaking up into several paths and offering hikers some incredible views of the Hudson River. Lastly, beginning in Feeder Canal Park, hikers can enjoy an afternoon on the Feeder Canal Park Heritage Trail. This scenic path stretches for nine miles along a historic 19th-century canal system and has plenty of picnic benches and a pavilion along the route in case you want to stop for a break. The trail also provides access to the river for those interested in canoeing or kayaking!
Lakes & Water Recreation
Glens Falls is wedged between several of the region’s most prominent lakes, meaning that you are never far from a bit of fun on the water. Lake George is just a 15 or 20-minute drive north, with visitors easily able to access beaches like Million Dollar Beach, which is open seasonally with a swimming beach, boat launch, and boat washing station. Driving 15 minutes southwest from Glens Falls, travelers can also reach Moreau Lake State Park, home to picnic grounds and a pavilion that overlook the lake, along with secluded and quiet wooded campsites. Other amenities along the lake include boat rentals, a beach, and boat launch sites.
Glen Lake is directly north of Glens Falls and is another popular spot for boating and fishing. There is a public boat launch for kayaks and canoes along the lake’s western shores and two islands in the lake’s east. If you get hungry during your time at Glen Lake, grab a bite at one of its lakeside restaurants, such as The Docksider, a year-round restaurant and bar that serves burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, soups, seafood, and steaks.
Places To Dine & Lodge
Before heading out for the day to explore Glens Falls’ hiking trails or lakes, you may want to fuel up with some coffee! Luckily, there are several good coffee spots in town to check out, including Kru Coffee, a family-owned coffee shop that has been serving sustainably sourced and socially responsible coffee since 2015. The lunch and dinner options in town are abundant as well. Cleome Table & Bar is a wonderful place to grab a meal, offering a menu that revolves around comfort food with a twist. A few items that are currently on the menu include shrimp & grits, BBQ pork ribs, fried chicken, red rice risotto, lobster mac n’cheese, and cast iron corn bread.
If you are looking for a place to spend the night in Glens Falls, one of the best local hotels is the Queensbury Hotel. This hotel has been receiving Adirondack tourists for nearly a century and was one of the first businesses to be listed on the NYS Historic Business Preservation Registry. Today, the hotel has 123 newly renovated rooms and suites, and provides amenities like an indoor heated pool and jacuzzi, two restaurants and a seasonal outdoor dining establishment, weekly jazz music, and more.
An Outdoor Basecamp For Every Season
Glens Falls is the perfect basecamp for your outdoor adventures. Whether you are planning on doing a bit of snowshoeing in the coming months or are already making your spring break or summer plans, you won’t have a hard time organizing an excellent outdoor itinerary. Prefer to cozy up indoors for a weekend? Its cozy coffee shops and historic hotels will provide an exceptional refuge for you as well. Regardless of your trip plans, Glens Falls provides exactly the kind of entertainment you need for a great visit.
