Hiking is one of the most popular activities in the Tupper Lake area. We’ve got options from the Tupper Lake Triad, to nature walks, to access to the High Peaks. For generations, travelers have been coming here to get into the woods and enjoy hiking.
Tupper Lake prides itself on becoming more and more accessible to all visitors. A few of the best hikes in the Tupper Lake region also are considered accessible for people with disabilities as well. Below are a few options that everyone can enjoy!
John Dillon Park
John Dillon Park is a fully accessible wilderness area located between Tupper Lake and Long Lake. The park is operated by Paul Smith’s College, and it is one of the only parks of its kind in the Adirondacks. The hiking trails are wheelchair accessible and can accommodate hikers of all abilities. There are three miles of hiking trails with different spots to take a break or take in the views. John Dillon, a retired CEO of International Paper and Paul Smith’s College alumnus, wanted to see a place where everyone could enjoy the Adirondack wilderness.
All of the camping lean-tos are built for accessibility, the fishing piers are handicap accessible, and rides are available on the electric pontoon boat. Paddlers can bring canoes or kayaks and go for a beautiful paddle around Grampus Lake. John Dillon park is the perfect place for everyone to experience an Adirondack adventure.
Junction Pass Trail
It can’t get much more scenic and beautiful than a stroll along the waterfront walkway at the Tupper Lake Municipal Park. The paved walkway along Raquette Pond has two scenic overlooks, benches, and a gazebo that makes a perfect picnic spot. The walkway is handicap accessible, and connects to the Junction Pass Trail that runs behind the former Oval Wood Dish factory all the way to the train station. This is a great trail for walking, biking, or running. The trail is nice and wide and has packed crushed gravel, so it's wheelchair friendly as well.
Goodman Mountain
The first part of the trail of Goodman Mountain follows an old road that used to run to Long Lake. When trail crews re-did the trail several years ago, they removed ground cover to expose the old asphalt, which is accessible but also on a very slight incline. The trail continues like this for about 3/4 of a mile. It then takes a sharp left and starts to climb as it leaves the old road and becomes a classic Adirondack hiking trail. From here on out the trail is no longer accessible for everyone, but the first section provides a great opportunity for everyone to get in the woods together.
The Wild Walk
The Wild Walk provides a unique opportunity for all abilities. Walk up a trail of bridges to a trail along the tree tops and experience nature from a new perspective. The Wild Walk offers a human-sized eagles nest, spider web, and so much more. The Wild Walk is accessible to people of all abilities. The Wild Center and The Wild Walk is a must-stop during your trip to Tupper Lake.
During your next trip to Tupper Lake with your group, check out some of these accessible opportunities. You will find some of the best adventures, with stops for lunch, scenic views, and much more. Find a place to stay and enjoy your trip to Tupper Lake!