Basics
- Location:
- This Passage is located along the northeastern section of New York State between Mechanicsville to the south and Rouses Point to the north
- Length:
- 234 miles (376 km)
- Time:
- Two to five days to enjoy the Byway in New York; add a few days to explore Quebec.
Description
Jogging along the shores of Lake Champlain, the Lakes to Locks Passage runs through quaint historic villages, lakes, state parks and preserves affording awesome views at every turn. Beginning its journey in the small town of Mechanicsville, just shy of Saratoga Springs, it runs northward through the eastern portion of the state to Rouses Point, near the Canadian border.
This is an active area where whitewater rafting on the Ausable River, hiking the mountain paths of the Adirondack region, swimming at the "Million Dollar Beach" in Lake George, shopping in the upscale villages en route, and attending a re-enactment ceremony at Fort Ticonderoga are just samples of the fun at large.
Also known as the "Great Northeast Journey", the Byway encounters many points of interest along the way and presents excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation. From the very start of the journey, countless chances for entertainment pop up. It's hard to pass by Saratoga Springs without stopping to enjoy the park, spa and racetrack, not to mention Saratoga Performing Arts Center, the summer home of the New York City Ballet.
Moving northward on the scenic journey brings the traveler past Lake George, Granville, and Slate Valley. Museums, parks and outdoor sports abound throughout the journey, giving the traveler ample opportunities to stop and stretch.
The Lakes to Locks Passage begins on Route 4 in Mechanicsville , moves northward to Plattsburgh on Route 22 and follows Route 9 to its end in Rouses Point. The entire journey is 234 miles one way.
Tourism Resources
Helpful Links
Tourism Resources
Points of Interest
Points of Interest Along The Way
1812 Homestead (NY)
A working 19th Century farm, the 1812 Homestead offers the opportunity to step back in time. Buildings include a Federal-style shingled house, a one-room schoolhouse, barns, and various outbuildings. Take a look at the livestock and the antique farm equipment of the era.
Directions
In Willsboro, turn south on Mountain View Drive and continue to the junction of Reber Road N. in Reber. Turn right onto Reber Road N. and continue to the 1812 homestead.
1838 Stone Barracks (NY)
Work is currently underway for the restoration and renovation of the 1838 Stone Barracks, located on the site of the former Plattsburgh Air Force Base, the oldest continuously operated military base in the U.S.
The Battle of Plattsburgh Association is working to make this site the centerpiece of a regional history museum, focusing on the importance of the region as a strategic military base. Their bateau "Rooster" participates in the re-enactments of the Battle of Plattsburgh events.
Directions
From Highway 9 in Plattsburgh, turn west onto Connecticut Road. Follow Connecticut Road to the junction of Arizona Avenue. Turn left onto Arizona Avenue, then take the second left onto Idaho Avenue, where the Barracks are located.
Adirondack History Center and Gardens (NY)
This museum displays artifacts from over two centuries of life in Essex County and the central Adirondacks. Ten major exhibit areas are spread over three floors.
The Colonial Garden features modern varieties of old fashioned plants in a formal setting patterned after gardens of England and colonial Williamsburg.
Adsit Cabin (NY)
Located on Willsboro Point, the Adsit Cabin was built by Samuel Adsit in 1778 for his family of 16. This cabin and its artifacts provide an inside view of life in the pioneer era.
Directions
From Route 22 in Willsboro, turn north onto Farrell Road. Take the first right onto Point Road, and continue to the Adsit Cabin.
Alice T. Miner Museum (NY)
This museum features a vast collection of Americana from the19th Century and earlier. The fifteen-room colonial home includes furniture, painting, and decorative arts.
Ausable Chasm (NY)
As the Ausable River plunges from its headwaters from Mount Marcy towards Lake Champlain, it traverses the sandstone cliffs of the Ausable Chasm, formed 500 million years ago. This dramatic site has attracted visitors since 1870, making Ausable Chasm the nation's first tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the geological wonder on foot or on a thrilling boat tour through the gorge.
Battle of Plattsburgh Interpretive Center (NY)
Located on the first floor of City Hall, the Battle ofPlattsburgh and the War of 1812 is the focus of the Interpretive Center. You will see the narrated scale model diorama of the Battle of Plattsburgh, the American flagship Saratoga, historical artifacts and memorabilia. Outside, Macdonnough Monument stands in the park.
Bluff Point (NY)
The best panoramic views of Plattsburgh and Valcour Bays, as well as Crab and Valcour Islands, are available from the lakefront porch at Clinton Community College, located in the historic grand Hotel Champlain on Bluff Point.
Clinton County Historical Museum (NY)
The Museum's exhibits interpret the area's history from the earliest records through its collections of paintings, maps,furniture and decorative arts. Special exhibits follow North Country themes.
Crown Point State Historic Site (NY)
Explore the historical ruins of French and British forts. You'll find more information at the visitor center where exhibits interpret the French, British and American chapters of Crown Point's history.
