Looking out from a lean-to across Heart Lake, in the shadows of New York’s High Peaks region, one easily senses the enormity of wilderness that defines The Adirondacks. It’s no surprise that the Adirondack Mountain Club built their rustic retreat, the Adirondak Loj, on the shores of Heart Lake. But, alas, you don't have to stay in the Loj to enjoy all of the AMC’s amenities. 37 campsites and 16 lean-tos are nestled on or just off the shores of the lake (lean-tos numbered 5-8 are prime beachfront locales). Swim in the water, rent canoes, or go on guided hikes with naturalists from the nearby nature museum. 

The mile-long trail to the short summit of Mount Jo climbs through a deep forest of uprooted birches before clambering over the final rocks to reach the top. For such a short climb, the rewards are great. Look above and you’ll find Marcy (5,334 feet) and Algonquin (5,114 feet), the two tallest mountains in New York State, standing broad shoulder to shoulder.

After this little warm-up, hit the red-marked Indian Pass Trail. This 8.3-mile one-way trek goes through a variety of terrain—rolling cedar and birch second-growth forest, fields of wildflowers and ferns, and waterfalls that tumble into creeks—before snaking through a narrow chute, where cliffs rise some 1,000 feet on either side. If you want to bag one of the big boys, take the 8-mile round trip trail to the top of Algonquin (give yourself around six hours). Algonquin’s summit offers the finest views from within the High Peaks, without Marcy’s standing-room only crowds.