The best Lake George vacations balance outdoor adventure with time to relax, and Lincoln Log Colony makes it easy to enjoy both. Cozy cottages and private log cabins provide a comfortable Adirondack home base, while the property’s convenient setting puts hiking trails, lake attractions, and family-friendly activities within easy reach.
If you’re searching for the best outdoor activities near Lake George, you’ll find plenty of options just minutes away, along with on-site amenities and games for days when you prefer to stay close to your cabin.
High-Energy Mountain & Trail Adventures
Wake up early and lace up your hiking boots to take on some of the best trail networks in the Lake George area.
Tackle a Classic Hike (or Drive!): The entrance to the famed Prospect Mountain Highway is located right across the street from Lincoln Log Colony, if you prefer to slow down and take a scenic drive.
If you’re up for a quintessential Lake George hike, the hiking trail entrance is just 1.5 miles away on Smith Street. This 3-mile, roundtrip hike follows a historical cable railway route. It can get quite steep and rocky in spots, making it a moderate-to-difficult trek better suited for adults and teens. At the top, you’re rewarded with a 100-mile view of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Kid-Friendly Trails: Got littles with you? Those traveling with younger children can still experience a fantastic mountain hike without the intense incline. Head to the eastern side of Lake George to explore Shelving Rock Falls for an easy hike, or for a more moderate, but still kid-friendly trek, consider Pilot Knob or Sleeping Beauty Mountain.
Want to avoid mountain hikes altogether? Flatter trails await at the Gurney Lane Recreation Area, or the trails at Meadowbrook Preserve, both in nearby Queensbury.
Action Packed River & Bike Paths
Experience nature from a different perspective as you take to the rapids or ride paved trails minutes from your cabin door.
Family-Friendly Whitewater Rafting: You don’t have to travel deep into the Adirondack wilderness for world-class rapids. Just about 10 minutes from Lincoln Log Colony in Lake Luzerne is the Wild Waters Outdoor Center Sacandaga Base, which runs guided, 3.5-mile trips down the Sacandaga River. Featuring consistent Class II-III waves, it delivers an optimal splash of excitement without requiring expert skills.
This is safe for kids as young as five! (Note, if you have older teens or experienced rafters in your group who are up for an all-day adventure, you might consider their 17-mile trip through the Hudson River Gorge.)
Cycling Along the Warren County Bikeway: Lincoln Log Colony is just a 12-minute walk from Million Dollar Beach and a 4-minute walk from Lake George Battleground State Park, which directly connects to the Warren County Bikeway. This paved, 9.2-mile path links the lake to Glens Falls.
It’s mostly separate from motor traffic, making it a great choice for families. Pedal past scenic spots and make pit stops for ice cream at Sprinkles in Queensbury or Cooper’s Cave Ale Company in Glens Falls.
Didn’t bring your own bikes? Rental bikes are available in Lake George, including with the CDPHP Cycle!, which has hubs on Beach Road in Lake George, and right along the bike path at the parking lot down the road from Sprinkles.
Lakeside Fun & Village Vibes
For a classic, laid-back but still outdoorsy outing experiencing the sights and sounds of Lake George, allow the lake and the Village to take center stage.
Stroll along Canada Street and Beach Road to pop into local gift shops or visit the play area and skate park at Charles R. Wood Park, which hosts major events like the Adirondack Wine & Food Festival. For a family-friendly bite to eat, grab a slice at Capri’s Pizza or visit Moose Tooth Grill, a fun spot where they make their own rootbeer.
While you explore the waterfront, you’ll naturally step into the unique, historic soundtrack of a Lake George summer:
- The sudden, dramatic boom of the black powder charge cannon echoing over the water from the Fort William Henry Museum.
- The nostalgic, cheerful melodies of the steam Calliope whistle organ floating by on the iconic Minne Ha-Ha.
To get out on the water yourself, hop aboard one of the many themed cruises with the Lake George Steamboat Company (kids love the pirate-themed cruise; adults will appreciate a sunset or dinner cruise), or with the Lake George Waterfront Cruises. See the lake from a few hundred feet in the air parasailing if you check out the highly rated flights offered by Parasailing Adventures or Parasail Joe’s.
The Sweet Sounds of Relaxation
When you’re finished adventuring around Lake George, immerse yourself in nature and relaxation right here at Lincoln Log Colony. Since there are so many outdoor activities close by, it’s just a short drive back to home base to chill out with your family or group.
Take a splash into our large 20’ x 54’ swimming pool, or challenge your family to a friendly game of cornhole or ping pong. We have a variety of on-site and close-by activities to enjoy!
As evening falls, cook out on your own private patio or gather around a crackling outdoor fire pit to toast s’mores. As the night settles in, the sounds of the nearby Village slip away and are replaced by the crackle of the fire and the call of loons echoing across the lake. Quiet hours are enforced, so come nightfall, all you hear is the surrounding nature.
Enjoy no schedule, no rush – just pure summer adventure and relaxation, at your own pace, and an authentic cabin to return to.
Book your outdoorsy Adirondack getaway at Lincoln Log Colony today >>