We don't need to remind real New Yorkers of this fact, but we are going to do it anyway: New York is chock-full of some of the most beautiful lakes in the country. And do you know what is better than one lake? How about five lakes! That's why we put together this road trip that takes a ride through the state via five of its most beautiful lakes. We think it's the best lake road trip in New York State. To learn keep reading, below.
To check out the full itinerary, or customize the stop order, check out this road trip map on Google Maps.
1. Lake George
Located in the Adirondack region of New York, Lake George is not just a beautiful lake, it’s a charming town that has plenty of great shops and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to start a road trip.
2. North-South Lake
The biggest home for camping in the entire Catskill Forest Preserve, the scenic North-South lake is more than just a place for swimming, though you can do that, too: it’s open for bathers between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
3. Otsego Lake
This 4,046-acre lake in Otsego County is a stunning place to both swim—there are beach and swim areas open in the summer—it’s also great for fishing everything from walleye and chain pickerel to largemouth bass and lake whitefish.
4. Cayuga Lake
Within all of New York’s glacial finger lakes, Cayuga Lake is the longest. It’s a little under 39 miles long! Because it contains an abundance of brown and rainbow trout, it’s a well-liked area for fishing,
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5. Chautauqua Lake
Finally, road trippers will end their day—or weekend, there is no right or wrong speed to do this trip—at this lake, which is known for its boating, sailing, and fishing. Want to rent a power boat or kayak? No problem! There are on-lake marinas where visitors can do just that.
That's a lot of amazing lakes for under 10 hours of driving total! We think that this lake road trip is perfect for spring or summer, so we suggest that all New Yorkers get out there on the road for this lake road trip in New York State and make the most of the warm season. While in the Lake George area, why not also check out Tiki Tours, which we think is the best floating tiki bar in New York. And for those looking for a place to stay near Chautauqua Lake, we recommend Spencer Hotel & Spa, Chautauqua.
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