Carthage

Olympic Byway, County Rt. 3, in Jefferson County

Historic Carthage near Watertown on the Black River is on the Olympic Scenic Byway.

In spite of several fires that have devastated Carthage since the 1860's, you'll can still enjoy the village's stately old homes of mixed architectural styles, built when Carthage was a thriving commercial center. Today residents are proudly restoring magnificent buildings in the Downtown Historic District.

Carthage is at a key point on the famous Black River Recreational Corridor, where you'll find exciting fishing, canoeing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, and beautiful scenic views.
The 42-mile flat water section of the Black flows between Carthage and Lyons Falls. In the spring, the 30-mile whitewater section provides heart thumping challenges for kayakers as it flows from Carthage through the City of Watertown.

If you visit in summer, enjoy the Farmers Market, live performances and concerts at Carthage Park, and the Fourth of July Fireworks. Throughout the year, you can get to know the friendly residents of Carthage at a variety of seasonal events.

Carthage is ten miles from Fort Drum Military Reservation, one of thelargest in the U.S. and home of the highly respected 10th MountainDivision.

The 170-mile Olympic Scenic Byway starts near Lake Champlain at the village of Keeseville in the east, and near Lake Ontario at Sackets Harbor in the west. Between those two great water bodies, the route travels into the Adirondack Mountains and through the heart of the Adirondack Park.

As you travel along the byway, you'll see ever-changing vistas of rolling farmland, hills and mountains, and pristine waterways. Whether you're an armchair sports fan, or have dreams of Olympic-style challenges, you'll find opportunities in every season.

In Lake Placid, Saranac Lake Tupper Lake, and Watertown, you'll find a variety of restaurants and accommodations that include national chains, rustic lodges, and luxury resorts. In the hamlets and villages along the byway between these larger communities, learn about the determination of early settlers to succeed in this often-challenging environment. Get to know Adirondack artisans who proudly offer quality goods inspired by the historic traditions and great natural beauty of this region.

Take time to enjoy local events and meet the women and men who live, work, and take great pride in calling the distinctive Olympic Scenic Byway communities home.

• Jefferson County, 1000 Islands Area Information