If you’re like me and sometimes crave a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, Northeast New York offers some wonderfully secluded towns that are perfect retreats.
Nestled within the stunning landscapes of the Adirondacks and along the serene shores of Lake Champlain, these hidden gems provide tranquility, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life.
Whether you’re looking to unwind amidst nature, explore charming historic streets, or simply enjoy some solitude, these towns have something special to offer. Let’s journey through these quiet corners of New York and discover what makes each one uniquely serene.
25. Westport: Lakeside Quiet with Mountain Views
Cradled between Lake Champlain and the Adirondack foothills, Westport, New York, feels quietly hidden from the wider world. Its distance from major highways and its small year-round population give it a sense of stillness, as if time flows slower here.
The air carries the scent of pine and lakewater, and mornings often arrive wrapped in mist. You might spend a day paddling the shoreline, hiking forest paths, browsing the Heritage House, or catching a show at the Depot Theatre.
In late summer, the Essex County Fair offers a glimpse into old-fashioned community life. Tourism helps support the town, but nothing ever feels rushed or commercial. It’s the kind of place that reminds you how quiet the world can be.
Where is Westport?
Westport sits in northeastern New York, along the western shore of Lake Champlain within the boundaries of the Adirondack Park. It’s about 40 miles south of Plattsburgh and 100 miles north of Albany, tucked far from major interstates and reached mainly via scenic Route 9N or a winding rural road off Interstate 87.
Visitors often arrive through quiet byways or aboard the Amtrak train that stops just once daily in its historic depot. It’s close enough to find without getting lost, but remote enough that the lake breeze feels like it’s carrying yesterday away.
24. Schroon Lake: Hidden Village in the Forest
Schroon Lake feels like a forgotten note tucked between pages of the high desert, where land stretches wide and roads whisper instead of roar. Far from interstates and surrounded by sunbaked ridges, this unincorporated Nevada spot shares little with its New York namesake.
There’s a stillness here—where the wind carries only your breath, and stars arrive early and linger long. The vibe is rustic and bare, more dust than polish, but that’s part of its quiet pull. You might wander old homestead ruins, trace dry creek beds, or sit still watching hawks drift through a pale sky.
Locals live simply—some ranch, some retire, all seemingly in on a secret. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t ask much—just that you slow down and listen.
Where is Schroon Lake?
Schroon Lake lies in northeastern New York, tucked between forested slopes in the Adirondack Mountains, about 30 miles north of Lake George and just west of Interstate 87. Though close to the highway, the town feels removed from the rush—reached by a quiet exit and a winding road that descends gently into a village wrapped around the lake’s edge.
The final stretch takes you past pine groves and trailheads, hinting at the region’s slower rhythm. It’s close enough to reach, but far enough to feel like you’ve left everything behind.
23. Elizabethtown: Mountain Hamlet with Historic Roots
Elizabethtown rests in a quiet cradle of the Adirondacks, surrounded by peaks and forests that seem to muffle time. With no major highways cutting through and wilderness on every side, it feels like the world simply forgot to keep up.
The air smells of pine and old earth, and the streets move at the pace of a front porch conversation. You can hike Cobble Hill, visit the Adirondack History Museum, or grab a slice at the local pizza spot where everyone knows your name.
Life leans on old rhythms—law offices in historic homes, families working the land or welcoming tourists. Nights fall soft and starry, with only rustling trees and distant crickets to remind you you’re not alone. It’s the kind of place that makes you wonder if quiet was all you ever needed.
Where is Elizabethtown?
Elizabethtown rests in the heart of the Adirondacks in northeastern New York, about 40 miles southwest of Plattsburgh and 25 miles inland from Lake Champlain. Tucked along Route 9 and accessed via winding country roads from the Adirondack Northway (I-87)
The town feels quietly tucked away between mountain ridges and dense forest. The drive in reveals sleepy meadows, old barns, and the kind of stillness that settles in your chest. It’s a place where the world narrows to two-lane roads and wide skies, and everything slows down without asking.
22. Wilmington: Quiet Gateway to Whiteface
Wilmington rests in the shadow of Whiteface Mountain, where winding roads slip through forest and the river hums in the background. Though close to Lake Placid, it feels worlds apart—smaller, quieter, and tuned to the rhythm of trees and sky.
The vibe is rustic and calm, with fog in the valleys and neighbors waving from porches with chipped paint and warm hearts. You can hike the Flume Trails, fish the Ausable River, or ride the gondola for sweeping mountain views.
Life moves with the weather—tourism helps sustain it, but never overwhelms. Wilmington doesn’t try to impress; it simply stays tucked beneath the peaks. It’s the kind of place that teaches you to breathe slower—and mean it.
Where is Wilmington?
Wilmington sits in northeastern New York, just 12 miles north of Lake Placid and nestled at the foot of Whiteface Mountain. Though it’s easily reached via the scenic Veterans’ Memorial Highway or Route 86, the approach winds through pine woods, river bends, and misty slopes that gradually quiet the outside world.
The Ausable River weaves alongside the road, drawing you deeper into a town shaped by mountain air and alpine rhythm. It’s the kind of place where the peaks feel close enough to touch, and time slips quietly past like the current below.
21. Ticonderoga: Historic Stillness Between Lakes
Ticonderoga sits between two great lakes—Champlain and George—quietly nestled where mountains meet water and history lingers. Though roads reach it, few pass through without purpose, making it feel like a place paused in time.
The town hums with echoes of its Revolutionary past, yet its pace today is slow and steady, wrapped in the scent of trees, stone, and lake mist. You can walk the grounds of Fort Ticonderoga, paddle still waters, or wander quiet streets where old churches and diners stand unchanged.
Industry once boomed here; now it’s quieter, with paper mills, tourism, and tradition holding it together. Mornings often come with fog, and evenings end in golden silence over the hills. It’s the kind of place where even the wind seems to whisper stories you didn’t know you were waiting to hear.
Where is Ticonderoga?
Ticonderoga lies at the southeastern edge of the Adirondacks, between Lake George and Lake Champlain in northeastern New York, about 90 miles north of Albany. Accessible via Route 74 or by a winding drive off the Adirondack Northway, the journey passes through wooded corridors and historic farmland before opening to views of two lakes that shaped early American history.
The town itself feels quietly set apart, bordered by water on two sides and softened by centuries of stillness. It’s a crossroads of past and present, where the silence between lakes carries more than just echoes.
20. Saranac: Woodland Hideaway by the River
Saranac lies tucked deep in the northern Adirondacks, far from bustling highways and framed by dense forest, winding rivers, and sleepy backroads. It’s a place where cell service fades and quiet settles in like an old friend.
The vibe is unhurried and woodsy—log cabins, old barns, and the smell of pine and chimney smoke filling the air. You can kayak the Saranac River, hike hidden trails, or visit a roadside farmstand with fresh eggs and maple syrup.
Life here leans on simplicity—locals farm, fish, build, and pass down stories like heirlooms. It’s not a town of attractions but of atmosphere, where the landscape is the main event. It’s the kind of place that gently reminds you how little you need to feel at home.
Where is Saranac?
Saranac is tucked in the northeastern corner of New York, about 20 miles west of Plattsburgh and just south of the Canadian border. Reached by meandering county roads off Route 3, the drive into town winds through dense forest, quiet farmland, and the rolling foothills of the northern Adirondacks.
The sparse traffic and deep woods create a sense of distance, even though civilization isn’t far behind. It’s a place where the air smells of pine and the stillness feels earned, not accidental.
19. Au Sable Forks: A River Town on the Edge
Au Sable Forks sits where the East and West Branches of the Au Sable River meet, surrounded by forest and Adirondack foothills that keep it tucked away. With no major routes cutting through and miles of wilderness in every direction, the town feels naturally shielded—peaceful, patient, and a little weather-worn.
The vibe is working-class and close-knit, where the river sets the rhythm and neighbors gather like family. You can fish the rapids, hike Silver Lake Mountain, or stop by the corner deli where stories flow as easily as coffee.
Once centered around paper mills and ironworks, it now leans on tradition, resilience, and quiet days. Fog hangs low in the mornings, and stars shine sharp at night. It’s the kind of place that stays with you—not loud, not showy, just steady as the river that runs through it.
Where is Au Sable Forks?
Au Sable Forks sits in northeastern New York at the meeting point of the East and West branches of the Ausable River, about 30 miles southwest of Plattsburgh. Reached via Route 9N or quiet county roads from the Adirondack Northway, the approach winds past sleepy hamlets and tree-lined bends that slow both pace and thought.
Framed by forested hills and rushing water, the town feels held gently in a pocket of time. It’s where the river speaks louder than the road, and quiet settles in like an old friend.
18. Bloomingdale: Small Hamlet Outside the Spotlight
Bloomingdale rests quietly along the Saranac River, tucked between the high peaks and hidden lakes of the northern Adirondacks. It’s not on the way to anywhere—just a cluster of homes, woods, and winding roads where the silence feels complete.
The vibe is earthy and unfiltered, where neighbors trade garden veggies, and the forest always feels a few steps away. You can paddle the river, pick berries along back trails, or stop into the local general store where time moves a little slower.
Logging and small-scale trades still shape the town’s rhythm, though nature is the true anchor. Mornings break with mist rising off the water, and evenings fade into the hush of crickets and wind through pines. It’s the kind of place that feels untouched—not because the world forgot it, but because it chose to stay still.
Where is Bloomingdale?
Bloomingdale is nestled in the northern Adirondacks of New York, about 8 miles northwest of Saranac Lake along Route 3. The drive in follows a stretch of two-lane road that slips past quiet ponds, dense evergreens, and stretches of open sky, far from any major highway.
Though modest in size, the town is surrounded by wilderness, giving it a hushed, tucked-away feeling. It’s the kind of place where the sound of wind through the trees is more common than passing cars.
17. Chestertown: Wooded Peace in Warren County
Chestertown rests quietly between forested hills and still lakes, tucked just far enough off the main routes to feel hidden from the rush of the world. Surrounded by the southern Adirondacks, it’s a place where time slows and nature takes the lead.
The vibe is peaceful and grounded—wood cabins, mom-and-pop shops, and mornings that start with mist rising over Loon Lake. You can hike the Chester Challenge trails, kayak calm waters, or browse local crafts at the farmer’s market.
Tourism filters in gently, but life here is steady—rooted in seasonal rhythms, family-run businesses, and a deep connection to the land. Evenings come with quiet skies and crackling fires. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t need to speak loudly to make you feel welcome.
Where is Chestertown?
Chestertown lies in the southeastern Adirondacks of New York, about 25 miles north of Lake George and just west of the Adirondack Northway (I-87). Though it’s not far from the interstate, the final stretch winds along quiet forest roads, past lakeshores and forgotten trailheads that signal the shift into a slower rhythm.
The town itself rests beside Loon Lake, surrounded by pine woods and seasonal silence. It’s close enough for a weekend drive, but distant enough to feel like the world stepped back a few decades.
16. Tupper Lake: Quiet by the Water and Pines
Tucked deep in the Adirondack Mountains, Tupper Lake feels like a town surrounded by wilderness on all sides—far from thruways, wrapped in pine, and touched by still water and silence. It’s both remote and rooted, shaped by logging history and the steady presence of its namesake lake.
The vibe is raw and woodsy, where fog lingers over the water and Main Street wakes slowly with the sun. You can paddle the Raquette River, hike the Tupper Lake Triad, or explore The Wild Center’s forest trails and treetop walkways.
Though tourism helps, many still work in the woods or live by the rhythm of the land. Nights are quiet, pierced only by loon calls and starlight. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel small in the best possible way.
Where is Tupper Lake?
Tupper Lake is located in the central-western Adirondacks of New York, about 30 miles southwest of Saranac Lake and far from any major highways. Reached via Routes 3 or 30, the journey curves through highland forests and around glacial lakes, gradually revealing a town nestled beside the water and surrounded by wilderness.
The approach feels like a passage—each mile quieter than the last, each bend a deeper breath. It’s a place where the mountains draw close, and the pace of life recedes like ripples on the lake.
15. Northville: A Lakeside Village at the Edge of the Park
Northville sits at the edge of the Great Sacandaga Lake, where the Adirondacks begin to rise and the outside world quietly fades. Its main road winds through forest and along calm shores, giving the town a sense of being tucked between water and woods.
The vibe is timeless and neighborly—white porches, old storefronts, and the scent of woodsmoke on mountain air. You can walk the village trail, fish by the lake, or stop for coffee where everyone knows your name.
Once a hub for logging and rail travel, Northville now leans on tourism, small business, and Adirondack tradition. Even summer feels unrushed here. It’s the kind of place that holds you gently, like the last warm light before dusk.
Where is Northville?
Northville rests at the southern edge of the Adirondack Park in upstate New York, about 40 miles northwest of Albany and just beyond the end of the Sacandaga Reservoir. Accessible via Route 30 and a few winding backroads, the drive in slips through farmland, forest, and finally into a village perched where river meets lake.
Though it’s not far from city limits, the transition feels distinct—each turn edging closer to quiet water and wooded solitude. It’s where the park begins, and the rest of the world gently fades behind you.
14. Indian Lake: Surrounded by Mountains and Silence
Indian Lake lies deep in the central Adirondacks, far from major roads and framed by rugged peaks, endless forest, and cold, quiet water. It’s a town where distance isn’t just geography—it’s a feeling, as if the world outside simply doesn’t reach this far.
The vibe is rugged and serene—canoes resting on rocky shores, trails that disappear into pine, and smoke curling from chimneys in the early chill. You can paddle the lake, hike Snowy Mountain, or browse handmade goods at the Adirondack Mountains Antiques show.
Logging and seasonal tourism sustain the town, but its true pulse comes from the wilderness that surrounds it. Nights are dark and star-filled, and the quiet settles in like snow. It’s the kind of place that makes solitude feel like a gift, not a burden.
Where is Indian Lake?
Indian Lake is tucked deep in the central Adirondacks of New York, about 90 miles north of Albany and far from the nearest major highways. Reached via Route 28 and Route 30, the drive in follows long stretches of forested road, past lakes, trailheads, and little else.
The town is surrounded on all sides by wilderness, with blue peaks in the distance and silence in the trees. It’s the kind of place where you don’t just arrive—you disappear into it.
13. Blue Mountain Lake: A Hidden Gem with Scenic Views
Blue Mountain Lake feels like a secret tucked into the heart of the Adirondacks—surrounded by forest, steep mountains, and water so still it mirrors the sky. With no bustling downtown and only a few winding roads in or out, it exists gently, quietly, beyond the reach of hurried travel.
The vibe is reflective and remote—boathouses on glassy shores, trails that vanish into green, and museum cabins echoing with the past. You can canoe across the lake, hike Blue Mountain, or explore the Adirondack Experience museum above the trees.
There’s little commerce here—just seasonal inns, artists, and caretakers of the land. Even time seems to pause when the sun slips behind the ridgeline. It’s the kind of place that feels untouched, like it’s waiting for you to stop and listen.
Where is Blue Mountain Lake?
Blue Mountain Lake sits at the heart of the central Adirondacks in New York, about 70 miles northwest of Lake George and miles from any major town or highway. Accessible only via scenic Route 28 or Route 30, the winding drive threads through dense forest, skirting lakeshores and rising mountain slopes.
The village itself is small, hugged by wilderness and perched beside the still waters of the lake that shares its name. It’s the kind of place where the road ends and the quiet begins.
12. Raquette Lake: Scattered Cabins and a Timeless Shoreline
Raquette Lake sits deep in the western Adirondacks, reached by winding roads that disappear into forest and sky. With no traffic lights, few year-round residents, and miles of wooded shoreline, it feels far removed from modern life.
The vibe is quiet and historic—grand old camps in the trees, canoes tied to worn docks, and smoke rising from chimneys at dusk. You can boat across the lake, hike to Castle Rock, or tour Great Camp Sagamore hidden in the woods. Life moves slowly, shaped by seasons and families who return each year.
There’s no rush, no noise—just water lapping against the shore. It’s the kind of place that reminds you some parts of the world are still ruled by silence and sky.
Where is Raquette Lake?
Raquette Lake lies deep in the central Adirondacks of New York, about 65 miles northwest of Lake George and well off any major route. Reached by a winding stretch of Route 28 and then a narrow side road that seems to vanish into the trees, the journey feels more like a retreat than a drive.
The hamlet hugs the shoreline of the largest natural lake in the Adirondacks, surrounded by dense forest and few signs of modern pace. It’s where the map thins out, and stillness takes over.
11. Speculator: Quiet Crossroads with Mountain Energy
Speculator sits tucked within the southern Adirondacks, where mountains rise around quiet lakes and the roads feel more like invitations than throughways. It’s far from big cities and commercial sprawl, with just enough distance to let the silence settle in.
The vibe is low-key and outdoorsy—wood-paneled lodges, the smell of campfires, and trails leading straight from the edge of town into deep forest. You can hike Panther Mountain, fish in Lake Pleasant, or catch a summer concert on the community lawn.
Tourism supports much of the economy, but it never feels crowded—just seasonal and steady. Mornings are crisp, even in July, and nights come with stars sharp enough to stop you mid-step. It’s the kind of place that reminds you how alive the quiet can feel.
Where is Speculator?
Speculator is located in the southern Adirondacks of New York, about 60 miles northwest of Saratoga Springs and tucked where Routes 8 and 30 meet. The drive in weaves through long stretches of forest and over quiet rivers, with mountains rising slowly in the distance.
Surrounded by lakes, trails, and acres of wilderness, the village feels gently removed from everything but nature. It’s a place where the road narrows, the trees close in, and time seems to pause.
10. Essex: Historic Serenity by the Lake
With a population of just around 600, Essex is a quaint town that exudes historic charm along the shores of Lake Champlain.
I love wandering through its well-preserved streets lined with 19th-century architecture, including beautiful houses and public buildings that tell tales of the past.
Boating and fishing are popular here, and the Adirondack Art Association Gallery is a hidden gem showcasing local artists. Agriculture and tourism are the mainstays of the local economy, keeping the community close-knit and grounded.
What makes Essex truly secluded is its remote location and lack of commercialization, offering a peaceful atmosphere far from crowded tourist spots.
Where is Essex?
Essex is tucked away in Essex County, sitting right on the western shore of Lake Champlain, opposite Vermont. Its seclusion stems from its distance from major highways and cities, making it a peaceful lakeside retreat.
To get there, I usually take the scenic drive along Route 22, enjoying views of rolling hills and the lake. The town’s remote location ensures that it remains a quiet haven, perfect for anyone looking to escape the fast pace of modern life.
9. Willsboro: Secluded Shores on Lake Champlain
Willsboro, with a population of about 2,000, is another lakeside treasure offering tranquility and natural beauty. The town boasts access to serene beaches and boating on Lake Champlain, and I often enjoy picnicking at Noblewood Park, a spot many overlook.
Industries here include small-scale agriculture and some manufacturing, but the community remains largely residential. Willsboro’s large lot sizes and natural landscapes provide plenty of privacy, making it a peaceful retreat away from urban noise.
Where is Willsboro?
Nestled in Essex County, Willsboro is located along the eastern edge of the Adirondack Park, bordered by Lake Champlain. Its seclusion is enhanced by the surrounding forests and the lake itself, which creates a natural barrier from more developed areas.
Reaching Willsboro typically involves a leisurely drive on Route 22 or a ferry ride from Vermont, emphasizing its tranquil setting. This secluded location means visitors can enjoy the quiet serenity of lakeside living without the crowds.
8. Jay: A Quiet Hamlet with Rustic Charm
Jay is a small town of approximately 2,500 residents that captivates with its rural setting and rustic charm. I find it’s a great place for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, especially around the Ausable River and the covered bridge that is a local landmark.
The town is not heavily industrialized, with some local businesses and agriculture supporting the economy. Spacious properties and the lack of commercial zones contribute to Jay’s tranquil environment, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
Where is Jay?
Located in the northeastern part of Essex County, Jay sits comfortably within the Adirondack Mountains. Its seclusion comes from its mountainous surroundings and the absence of major thoroughfares nearby.
I usually access Jay via Route 9N, which winds through picturesque landscapes. The town’s remote location amidst forests and hills ensures it’s a quiet hamlet removed from the hustle and bustle of larger towns.
7. North Hudson: Peaceful Wilderness Living
North Hudson is a tiny community with a population of less than 250, offering a true escape into wilderness living. The area is perfect for nature enthusiasts like me, with easy access to hiking trails, camping spots, and pristine waterways within the Adirondack Park.
There’s minimal development here, and industries are virtually nonexistent, preserving the natural state of the surroundings. The seclusion is profound, providing a strong connection to the outdoors and a peaceful environment free from urban distractions.
Where is North Hudson?
Situated in Essex County, North Hudson lies deep within the Adirondacks, bordered by expansive forests and mountain ranges. Its secluded nature is due to the vast wilderness that envelops it, with few roads leading into the town.
Access is mainly via the Adirondack Northway (I-87) at Exit 29, followed by local roads that meander through the forest. This remoteness makes North Hudson a haven for those who appreciate solitude and unspoiled natural beauty.
6. Lake Pleasant: Serenity in the Adirondacks
Home to about 800 residents, Lake Pleasant offers a serene lifestyle nestled amid the Adirondack Mountains. The town surrounds the beautiful Lake Pleasant, where I enjoy kayaking and fishing in the calm waters.
The main industries are tourism and small businesses that cater to outdoor recreation enthusiasts. The low population density and abundant natural barriers, like forests and mountains, provide residents with a quiet, secluded environment that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Where is Lake Pleasant?
Located in Hamilton County, Lake Pleasant is centrally positioned within the Adirondack Park. Its seclusion is due to its distance from major cities and the surrounding wilderness that limits through traffic.
To get there, I often take Route 8 or Route 30, both of which offer scenic drives through forests and around lakes. The town’s geographic isolation ensures a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking serenity.
5. Long Lake: Solitude Along the Shores
Long Lake has a close-knit community of around 700 people and is renowned for its stunning 14-mile-long lake, which is a centerpiece for boating, fishing, and swimming. I find the local hiking trails offer some of the most breathtaking views in the Adirondacks.
Tourism is the primary industry, but it remains low-key, preserving the town’s tranquil vibe. The remote location and large properties contribute to a sense of solitude, making it a haven for privacy seekers surrounded by water and forests.
Where is Long Lake?
Nestled in Hamilton County, Long Lake sits in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains. Its secluded nature is accentuated by the extensive forests and the lake itself, which separates it from more populated areas.
Accessible via Route 28N and Route 30, the journey to Long Lake is an immersion into wilderness. Its remote setting ensures that even during peak seasons, the town maintains a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere.
4. Inlet: A Quiet Retreat by the Lakes
Inlet is a small town with a population of about 300, located near the Fulton Chain of Lakes. I particularly enjoy the quiet beaches and the opportunity for canoeing and fishing in the calm waters.
The economy revolves around tourism and small hospitality businesses that cater to visitors seeking relaxation. The town’s natural beauty and the surrounding forests ensure a low-traffic, peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding away from the city’s hustle.
Where is Inlet?
Inlet is located in Hamilton County, at the western edge of the Adirondack Park. Its secluded setting is due to its position amid a network of lakes and dense forests, which naturally limit development.
Accessing Inlet typically involves a scenic drive along Route 28, passing through other small towns and vast woodland areas. This isolation makes Inlet a cherished spot for those wanting a quiet retreat immersed in nature.
3. Minerva: Tranquil Living Amidst Nature
Minerva, with around 800 residents, offers expansive undeveloped lands and a peaceful environment that I find incredibly rejuvenating. The town provides access to outdoor activities like hiking, snowshoeing, and exploring Minerva Lake.
There are few industries beyond local services and some small-scale tourism, preserving the quiet nature of the community. Minerva’s privacy and quietness are enhanced by its vast natural spaces and lack of urban development, making it a perfect spot for those seeking tranquility.
Where is Minerva?
Located in Essex County, Minerva is nestled within the Adirondack Park, surrounded by mountains and forests. Its seclusion is due to its remote location, far from major highways and cities.
I usually reach Minerva via Route 28N, which is a picturesque drive through natural landscapes. The town’s setting amidst expansive wilderness areas ensures a peaceful environment free from the noise and distractions of urban life.
2. Newcomb: Seclusion in the Heart of the Wilderness
Newcomb is a tiny town with a population of approximately 450, offering a serene escape in the heart of the Adirondacks. The vast forests and lakes provide endless opportunities for hiking, canoeing, and wildlife observation, which I find truly invigorating.
There are virtually no industries besides some tourism and services related to outdoor activities, preserving its untouched character. The low housing density and expansive wilderness give Newcomb a sense of solitude that is hard to match.
Where is Newcomb?
Situated in Essex County, Newcomb lies deep within the Adirondack Park, making it one of the most secluded towns in the region. Its seclusion is a result of the surrounding High Peaks and the scarcity of major roads.
I typically access Newcomb via Route 28N, which winds through dense forests and over gentle hills. The journey itself underscores the town’s remoteness, ensuring that Newcomb remains a peaceful enclave for solitude seekers.
1. Keene Valley: A Hidden Gem in the Adirondacks
Keene Valley, part of the town of Keene with a population of about 1,100, is truly a hidden gem nestled among the High Peaks. I adore its picturesque landscapes, dotted with farms, trails, and some of the best hiking spots in the Adirondacks, including the trailheads to peaks like Mount Marcy.
There are a few local businesses, bed and breakfasts, and artisan shops, but the economy is largely supported by outdoor recreation. The natural barriers of the surrounding mountains and the sparse population offer tranquil surroundings and privacy that make Keene Valley exceptionally secluded.
Where is Keene Valley?
Located in Essex County, Keene Valley sits right in the heart of the Adirondack High Peaks region. Its secluded location is due to the encircling mountains and limited access roads. I usually reach Keene Valley via Route 73, a drive that offers breathtaking views but underscores the town’s remoteness.
The combination of towering peaks and deep valleys creates a haven that’s both isolated and incredibly beautiful, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
