Explore New York State: Spots that will take your breath away

• Ausable Chasm, which some call “The Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks,” is a two-mile long sandstone gorge just south of Plattsburgh. This is a natural wonder that you can really explore — try rafting, tubing or rock climbing in the summer. ” data-id=”117884999″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/8160_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.17884999″/>

• Cold Spring has become a sight to behold. Around 1917, Edward Joel Cornish and his wife Selina Bliss Carter Cornish moved into the home, which had a pool, multiple fire places, a greenhouse, a garage and a barn. Tragedy struck, however, when in May 1938 the Cornishes died within two weeks of each other. The property was left to fall into disrepair and caught fire in 1958, further destroying the once-stately mansion. Now, the secluded home’s stone walls stand like a skeleton in the woods, almost beckoning hikers to take a look.” data-id=”117881642″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/24610_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.17881642″/>

• Eternal Flame Falls is located in Chestnut Ridge Park in Eerie County. The park features hiking trails, cycling paths, picnic areas and more. The grotto at the base of the waterfall emits natural gas, so don’t be surprised if you smell rotten eggs. This area of the ravine can be lit to produce a small flame, about four to eight inches high. The flame is typically always lit, but you may want to bring a waterproof lighter or matches in case it’s blown out before you arrive.” data-id=”117884998″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/24612_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.17884998″/>

• Sodus Bay Lighthouse sits atop a 20-foot bluff and is open from May through October. The lighthouse is a maritime museum and tourist hot spot. You can also swim and fish at the beach and visit local restaurants for a fun day trip.” data-id=”117885001″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/24613_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.17885001″/>

• Lake Placid offers a bevy of winter sports that everyone can participate in, such as skating on the rink where Sonja Henie won a gold medal in the 1932 Winter Olympics. During the winter, you can also go on a dogsled ride across Mirror Lake or ride down the toboggan chute, a 60-foot-tall reclaimed and recycled ski jump that also descends to Mirror Lake. But Lake Placid isn’t only a winter destination. There are hundreds of hiking trails, plus rock climbing, whitewater rafting and fishing.” data-id=”117884170″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/25559_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.17884170″/>

• Whiteface Mountain is one of the region’s highest peaks. At the top of one of the trails you’ll find stone stairs. If the steps are too intense, you can drive to the top along Veteran’s Memorial Highway that begins in Wilmington. You’ll also find an elevator inside the mountain that requires a walk through a tunnel. On a clear day, you can see Vermont and Canada once you reach the top. There’s also a restaurant and a gift shop.” data-id=”117884995″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/25560_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.17884995″/>

• Wild Walk in Tupper Lake lets you see the Adirondacks like you’ve never seen them before. Visitors can take a series of bridges up to the treetops of the forest. You’ll find a four-story tree house made of twigs, swinging suspension bridges and the Spider’s Web, where you can lay and explore the ground below. At the highest point, you’ll find a full-sized bald eagle’s nest — a perfect spot for pictures.” data-id=”117884992″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/25561_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.17884992″/>

• Giant Ledge in Shandaken and Panther Mountain. In this area, autumn colors peak in late September into early October.” data-id=”112968128″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/25050_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.12968128″/>

• newyorkupstate.com.” data-id=”117885000″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/25562_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.17885000″/>

Sometimes it’s easy to forget that New York City makes up only a tiny fraction of the state we call home.

Sure, the city has impressive views and lovely parks, but it’s the rest of New York that will take your breath away.

For an exciting and beautiful weekend or day trip, head north for incredible mountain ranges; west for spectacular waterfalls and gorges; east for bluffs overlooking the ocean.

We have glaciers (and thousands of years) to thank for stunning landscapes just hours away by car, bus or train. Pick a spot and go explore.