“Spectacular scenery unlike any
other in the Northeast.”
| Green Pond Trail in Bonaparte's Cave State Forest |
| Glenwood Falls Park |
| Cross Country Ski Trails near Kimball Mill |
| Harrisville Overlook of the Oswegatchie |
| Greenwood Creek State Park |
Explore by interest:
VIEW AREA MAPS Maps of the region to view or print.
Area Maps
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Plan Your Stay
CARING for our favorite natural and recreational resources - See the new guide
Invasive Species Alert
The Oswegatchie River is a key scenic and recreational resource along the western end of the Olympic Byway
Lewis County
Scenic Lewis County, including the Tug Hill Plateau, has some of the Northeast’s highest average snowfalls, and the largest wind-power facility in the East.
In the heart of the Tug Hill Plateau and foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, Lewis County is a land of prosperous dairy farms, quiet woodlands, swift rivers, and clean air. The county still maintains the spirit of the early settlers; you'll see many of their original dwellings and meet people who proudly remain close to their past.
While there are great recreation opportunities in every season, if you're a winter sports fan, Lewis County can't be beat. With more than 250 inches of snow annually you'll find prime conditions from mid-December to mid-March-- or beyond-- for snowmobiling, cross-country and downhill skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, and miles of trails designed especially for winter sports.
The Lewis County Fair is one of the oldest fairs in New York. Enjoy an old fashioned family-friendly event that celebrates the heritage of the dairy industry in the county, as well as the important role it still plays today.
On the annual Fall Foliage Drive-It Yourself Tour, a different route each year, enjoy spectacular "leaf peeping" by car or bicycle. Visit artisans, historic sites, and stop at farm stands to enjoy the season's local bounty.
The 170-mile Olympic Scenic Byway route starts near the shore of Lake Champlain at the village of Keeseville in the east, and near the shore of 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. It takes you through historic towns including Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, Tupper Lake, and Watertown.
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 hamlets and villages learn about the determination of early settlers to succeed in this often challenging environment. In Watertown,Tupper Lake, Saranac Lake, and Lake Placid you'll find a variety of restaurants and lodgings that include national chains, rustic lodges, and luxury resorts. 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 get to know the women and men who live, work, and take great pride in calling the distinctive Olympic Scenic Byway communities home.
Communities:
| Harrisville |