New York state’s oldest long distance trail

Completed in 1924, the Northville-Placid Trail (NPT) extends 138 miles through the Adirondack Park. The footpath connects hikers to the wild character of the Adirondack Park, as well as the communities that the trail crosses. 

Hiking the NPT

Described here is the northern section of the NPT, which runs from Lake Placid to Long Lake, and is a backpacking route of roughly 36 miles. The long distance trail continues for 100+ more miles from Long Lake to Northville. Read more about the southern section of the NPT from Long Lake to Northville. The northern terminus originally began at the Lake Placid-North Elba History Museum (once a train station), but most hikers now begin or end their hike at the Averyville Road Trailhead. From here, the trail meanders through a hardwood forest for some time, crossing streams and eventually reaching some more difficult hiking before reaching Duck Hole. From Duck Hole, a remote hike that features everything from metal suspension bridges, backcountry swimming holes, and historical sites takes hikers to the shores of Long Lake. After a night spent in one of the several Long Lake lean-tos, hikers can choose to refuel in the town of Long Lake.

Day hikes on the NPT

While the NPT can be done as a long backpacking trip, or as multiple section hikes, there are plenty of opportunities for hikers to enjoy a day hike on the trail. 

  • Wanika Falls - 14 miles round-trip to a backcountry waterfall.
  • Duck Hole (via Upper Works) - 14 miles round-trip to a handful of backcountry lakes.

Winter on the NPT 

The High Peaks Wilderness Area section of the NPT from Lake Placid is remote, and in the winter the trail tends to remain untracked with deep snow. A snowshoe or cross-country ski trip is possible, but not something to take lightly. 

Leave No Trace and resources for the NPT

Responsibly recreating on the Northville-Placid Trail means recognizing our impact on the environment, and doing the best we can to leave the trail, and surrounding ecosystem, the way we found it. Planning ahead and preparing for the trip, no matter the length, is a key to success. Part of this is picking up resources like the guidebook and map for the NPT.

The NPT is 100!

The NPT turned 100 this year! That’s 100 years of trailblazing, sight-seeing, species-finding, and a thru-hike that has connected our communities in the heart of the Adirondack region year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there places to camp overnight on the NPT?

Yes, there are over 12 lean-tos on the northern stretch of the NPT that runs from Lake Placid to Long Lake. Additionally, there are designated tent sites.
Are there hiker shuttles for people thru-hiking the NPT?

There are several local guides that offer shuttle service to and from trailheads.
Are there other hikes to do in the area to help me prepare for a thru-hike?

Yes! Check out the Lake Placid hiking page for more information on the types of hikes you can do to prepare. 
Upon completion of thru or section hiking the NPT, can you register your hike and get a patch?

Yes, the Schenectedy Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club offers patches to all completers. 

Leave No Trace 7 Principles

The Adirondack Park provides a haven of pristine wilderness in New York state’s northernmost reaches. It also offers an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities for explorers of all ages and experience levels! While you enjoy your visit, please keep the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace in mind. Set forth by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, and championed by many partners within the Adirondack Park, these principles will not only improve your own nature experience, but they help preserve this unparalleled natural wonder for generations to come.

1
Know before you go
 
 
Be prepared! Remember food, water, and clothes to protect you from cold, heat, and rain.     
Use maps to plan where you’re going. Check them along the way so you’ll stay on course and avoid getting lost. Learn about the areas you plan to visit.
2
Stick to trails and camp overnight right
 
 
Walk and ride on designated trails to protect trailside plants. Camp only on existing or designated campsites to avoid damaging vegetation.
3
Trash your trash and pick up poop
 
 
Pack it in, pack it out. Put litter—even crumbs, peels and cores—in garbage bags and carry it home. Use bathrooms or outhouses when available. If they're not available, bury human waste in a small hole 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet or 70 big steps from water and the trail.
4
Leave it as you find it
 
 
Leave plants, rocks, and historical items as you find them so others can enjoy them. Treat living plants with respect. Carving, hacking, or peeling plants may kill them.
5
Be careful with fire
 
 
Use a camp stove for cooking. Stoves are easier to cook on and create less impact than a fire. If you want to have a campfire, be sure it’s permitted and safe to build a fire in the area you’re visiting. Use only existing fire rings to protect the ground from heat. Keep your fire small.
6
Keep wildlife wild
 
 
Observe wildlife from a distance and never approach, feed or follow them. Human food is unhealthy for all wildlife and feeding them starts bad habits. Protect wildlife and your food by securely storing your meals and trash.
7
Share our trails and manage your pet
 
 
Be considerate when passing others on the trail. Keep your pet under control to protect it, other visitors, and wildlife. Be sure the fun you have outdoors does not bother anyone else. Remember, other visitors are there to enjoy the outdoors too.

Packages and Promotions

Clear All Filters

Browse by:

Category

Date

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Babymoon

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Whether you're celebrating the news of an addition to your family, or taking that last minute getaway before the birth, this package is for you! With the included $75 nightly credit, indulge in a romantic candle light dinner in The View, a relaxing...

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

MILITARY AND FIRST RESPONDER OFFER

Bluebird Lake Placid

10% off our Best Available Rate for all active as well as retired military personnel, and first responders on leisure stays.

Valid Mar. 28

- May. 3

Valid Feb. 10

- May. 3

Stay-Cation at Cambria

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort

Take a Staycation! Can't get away to somewhere warmer for spring break this year? Get away with us instead!

Valid Feb. 28

- Dec. 31

Valid Feb. 28

- Dec. 31

Stay 4, Get a 5th Night Free

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

That's right, stay 4 or more consecutive nights and we'll add a 5th night onto your stay for FREE!* This offer will be available for a limited time only and cannot be combined with any other promotions. Best Available Rates start at $349.00 per night,...

Valid Feb. 4

- Feb. 28

Valid Feb. 4

- Feb. 28

Fabulous Value in Lake Placid: Dancing Bear Condo

Adirondack "By Owner" Vacation Rentals

- The condo is a bright, spacious and charming 1 bedroom. Completely renovated and beautifully furnished. Perfect for couples. Surrounded by exquisite views of the mountains and lake a few steps from the condo, adjacent to the Whiteface Club and Resort.

Valid Jan. 11

- May. 1

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Nordic Ski With Olympic Medalist Andrea Henkel Burke

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Stay and Nordic Ski with an Olympic Gold Medal Recipient!

Valid Jan. 11

- Apr. 30

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Ski with Olympic Medalist Andrew Weibrecht

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Ever dreamed of spending time on the slopes with an Olympic athlete? Well, now you can!

Valid May. 2

- May. 4

Valid Jan. 6

- Apr. 30

Yoga Retreat with Todd Norian

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort

3 DAY YOGA RETREAT WITH WORLD-RENOWNED YOGI TODD NORIAN

Valid Nov. 12

- Dec. 2

Valid Nov. 12

- Dec. 2

Turkey Special in November

Adirondack "By Owner" Vacation Rentals

Turkey Special In November - 3nts/4day weekend ($500/night: $1500) or 2 nts/3 day weekend ($600/night: $1200)

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Adirondack Guides

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Get the most out of your stay - Guide Services Available!

Valid Oct. 23

- Oct. 23

Valid Oct. 24

- Oct. 23

SAVE 10% off any weekly rentals!

New York Rental By Owner

SAVE 10% off any weekly rentals!

Valid Jun. 20

- Sep. 7

Valid Mar. 12

- Jun. 30

Guided Nature Immersions - 10% off for Pre-Season Registration

Adirondack Riverwalking & Forest Bathing

Picture it now...you are wading the Ausable River on a warm summer day, feel the cool water against you, hear the sounds of the birds and the water, surrounded by lush greenery and feel the textures of the river bed...

Valid Mar. 7

- Mar. 31

Valid Mar. 7

- Mar. 31

March Special at Scenic Point Chalet

Last Minute Special! Available from Mar 1, 2025 to Mar 31, 2025 Special Rate Being Offered: $195 a night - three night minimum!

Valid Mar. 1

- Apr. 6

Valid Mar. 1

- Apr. 6

Ski with Olympic Medalist Andrew Weibrecht

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Ever dreamed of spending time on the slopes with an Olympic athlete? Well, now you can! Available exclusively to hotel guests, you can now ski alongside the Inn's very own U.S. Skiing Hall of Famer & 2-Time Olympic Medalist, Andrew Weibrecht. Open to...

Valid Jan. 8

- Jan. 8

Valid Jan. 8

- Jan. 8

Adirondack a la Carte

High Peaks Resort

Complete your Adirondack Vacation with a $150 dining credit to Dancing Bears!

Valid Nov. 27

- Mar. 30

Valid Nov. 27

- Mar. 30

10% off Gift The Gorge Package

High Falls Gorge

Treat someone you love with the gift of nature! This is an e-gift card program with packages for admission to the park, money to spend in the Gift Shop, and even more to spend in the River View Café.

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Spa Experience

Placid Bay Hotel

Enjoy an in-room spa experience for two with your stay. What better way to connect and relax with your partner after a long day on the mountain!

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

The Adirondack Elopement

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

The ultimate, intimate "I do" experience.

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Pamper Yourself

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Let's face it, life is hectic these days and you deserve a break. Grab your girlfriend, your mom, your sister, and head to the Inn for some much needed time away to relax and recharge. This package includes: Overnight accommodations Daily breakfast in...

Valid Jun. 1

- Oct. 1

Valid Jan. 11

- Oct. 1

Golf & Stay Package

Crowne Plaza Lake Placid

Golf Packages starting at: $119.00 * Weekend & Summer packages available at higher rates

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 25

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Bed & Breakfast Package

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Our most popular package is back and better than ever. Start your day off right by experiencing our re-imagined breakfast menu in The View restaurant, or by relaxing in your robe and enjoying selections from our room service menu delivered right to...

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

The Adirondack Elopement

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

This all-inclusive Lake Placid elopement package is perfect for those who are ready to say "I do" and want to do it in style. Elopement Package includes: 2-Nights lodging & vow ceremony in your luxurious Colonial House "Placid Suite" Breakfast each...

Valid Jan. 9

- Dec. 31

Valid Jan. 9

- Dec. 31

Couples Getaway

Escape with your loved one to a truly romantic experience - sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries overlooking spectacular views of Mirror Lake and the Adirondack High Peaks is just the beginning...

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Romance Package

Town House Lodge by the Lake

Package Details Surprise your significant other with a romantic evening waiting for you on the day of your arrival!

Valid Jan. 8

- Dec. 31

Valid Jan. 8

- Dec. 25

100th Anniversary Package

100 years at the Inn gets you $100 Resort Credit PER DAY!

Valid Jan. 21

- Jan. 21

Valid Jan. 21

- Jan. 21

Stay and Dine

Voco Saranac Lake

Receive a 50 dollar credit per stay to use in our Boathouse Saranac Lake Pub. Enjoy an exceptional dining experience with unparalleled views great food and craft beers in a friendly and relaxed environment.

Valid Feb. 28

- Mar. 10

Valid Jan. 25

- Mar. 7

Prescott House ADK Winter Pride Promo

Prescott House ADK Winter Pride Promo

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Spa Escape

Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa

Our Spa Escape package is ideal for couples or friends traveling together.

Valid May. 1

- Nov. 2

Valid Mar. 17

- May. 1

Forest Bathing Guided Experience - 10% off for pre-season registration

Adirondack Riverwalking & Forest Bathing

Guided forest sensory immersion walk for all. Sign up early for 10% off!

Valid Dec. 1

- Dec. 25

Valid Aug. 8

- Dec. 19

Christmas Buy One Get One FREE

Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort

Buy One Get One FREE on stays December 1 - December 25! Call 855-421-3002 to book today! Terms: Buy One Get One Free valid for stays December 1-25, 2024, Sunday - Wednesday nights. Not valid on existing reservations; new reservations only. Cannot be...

Valid Dec. 6

- Dec. 8

Valid Jan. 8

- Dec. 5

Girls Getaway Weekend

$75 Resort Credit per room per NIGHT to pamper the Girls!

Valid Oct. 23

- May. 31

Valid Oct. 23

- May. 31

Stay and Save!

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort

Stay 3 nights and get 20% off.

Valid Jan. 9

- Dec. 31

Valid Jan. 9

- Dec. 31

Babymoon

Celebrate your growing family with $75 nightly resort credit!

Valid Dec. 19

- Jan. 22

Valid Dec. 19

- Jan. 22

Winter Wonderland Special!

Stay longer and Save!

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Romance Package

Placid Bay Hotel

Surprise your significant other with a romantic Getaway!  Includes roses, wine glasses, and chocolates upon arrival.

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Stay More, Play More

Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa

Linger longer in the Adirondacks and be rewarded!

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Spa Experience

Town House Lodge by the Lake

What better way to connect and relax with your partner after a long day on the mountain than to enjoy an in-room spa experience for two?

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Rustic Romance Getaway Package

Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa

Experience the unspoiled Adirondacks while spoiling yourself and a loved one

Valid Mar. 7

- Mar. 9

Valid Mar. 7

- Mar. 9

Winter Pride Pet Apparel

Man and Beast

25% All toys and apparel for Pets that are Pride or Rainbow themed!

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Couples Getaway

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Escape with your loved one to a truly romantic experience. Choose your preferred accommodation and enjoy a $75 nightly credit, which can be used to indulge in a romantic candle light dinner in The View, a relaxing spa service or fun at The Cottage...

Valid May. 1

- Oct. 31

Valid Dec. 6

- Nov. 1

Zip and Whip Expedition

Farmhouse UTVs

Experience Outdoors and Farmhouse UTVs have teamed up to bring your family and friends the Adirondack adventure you've been waiting for. Double up on a UTV and zipline experience. Ziplines are located in Lake Placid and the UTVs are located in Gabriels.

Valid Mar. 1

- Apr. 6

Valid Mar. 1

- Apr. 6

Midweek Ski & Stay Package

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Midweek at Whiteface Mountain provides the ultimate ski experience! Avoid the crowds and lift lines often associated with weekend and holiday periods with this incredible midweek offer.

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Woof and Wander

Bluebird Lake Placid

Your pooch will be as comfortable as their owners with our pet friendly package!

Valid May. 1

- Jun. 22

Valid Mar. 24

- Jun. 22

Pre-Season Golf Package

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort

Stay and Golf in Lake Placid. Enjoy unlimited golf and a cart for 18 holes at the Van Kleek-designed championship course at Whiteface Club and Resort.

Valid Jan. 21

- Jan. 21

Valid Jan. 21

- Jan. 21

Pet Getaway

Voco Saranac Lake

Your dog deserves an Adirondack getaway too. Book our pet friendly hotel near Lake Placid welcomes every member of your crew. Book our Pet Package and enjoy a dog friendly room with pet fees included.

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

4th Night Free!

Lake Placid Lodge

Enjoy a night on us! 4th night free when you stay 3.

Valid May. 1

- May. 31

Valid Jan. 1

- May. 27

Stay & Save

The Devlin

Book a 3-night stay with The Devlin and get 10% off your visit.

Valid May. 2

- May. 4

Valid Mar. 3

- May. 4

Culinary Weekend Getaways

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

We have once again partnered with The Carriage House Cooking School. Led by Chef Curtiss Hemm to offer select getaway packages celebrating the bounty of the Adirondack Park's vibrant farm to table landscape.

Valid Jan. 21

- Mar. 31

Valid Jan. 21

- Mar. 31

Titus Mountain Ski Package

Voco Saranac Lake

Enjoy your stay at the award winning voco Saranac Lake which includes two adult lift tickets at Titus Mountain Family Ski Center. Additional complimentary amenities include ski storage at the hotel and preferred parking at the mountain.

Valid Jan. 12

- Jan. 12

Valid Jan. 12

- Jan. 12

Supper & Stay

Stagecoach Inn

Enhance your stay at The Lake Placid Stagecoach Inn with an exceptional 3-course meal.

Valid May. 11

- Jun. 26

Valid Mar. 6

- Jun. 26

Saranac Inn Golf & Stay Package

Saranac Inn Golf & Country Club

Includes 18 holes of golf with cart each day, continental breakfast, and sales tax 2 days / 1 night $190.00 per person 2 days / 2 nights $240.00 per person 3 days / 2 nights $310.00 per person

Valid Mar. 2

- Mar. 9

Valid Feb. 12

- Mar. 6

Winter Pride 3rd Night free!

Book Whiteface Farm for your Adirondack Winter Pride weekend and receive your third night free!

Valid Jan. 5

- Jan. 5

Valid Jan. 5

- Jan. 5

Stay More, Play More

High Peaks Resort

Stay for FREE!

Valid Jan. 10

- Mar. 30

Valid Jan. 10

- Mar. 30

10% off admission tickets when purchased online

High Falls Gorge

Get 10% off adult and child winter 2024-2025 admission tickets with code: WINTER25.

Valid Dec. 22

- Dec. 27

Valid Dec. 7

- Dec. 30

Discounted Holiday Dates

New York Rental By Owner

Sunburst Cottage on Mirror Lake in Lake Placid! Sunburst is an Adirondack lakefront house that features a 7-person hot tub and free wifi. This is the premier vacation rentals on Mirror Lake with 6 bedrooms , each with their own private bath. In...

Valid Mar. 21

- Mar. 23

Valid Mar. 1

- Mar. 21

Your Turn Women’s Ski Clinic

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Join us March 21-23, 2025 for an exciting women's ski clinic with your hosts, instructor Lisa Ballard and two-time Olympic medalist Andrew Weibrecht. This exciting experience will help you to improve your skiing while taking in the breathtaking...

Valid Feb. 11

- Apr. 15

Valid Feb. 11

- Mar. 31

Stay and Ski!

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort

When you book your stay at Cambria Hotel Lake Placid, you'll save on your lift ticket for mid-week skiing at Whiteface Mountain. Our affordable weekday rates, paired with this ski offer, make it the perfect time for your next getaway!

Load More