The Adirondacks and Thousand Islands are Open

Have you had your vacation plans cancelled for the summer? Are you looking for some place to vacation while social distancing? If you live in New York or other nearby states upstate New York may be the answer.

The northern most part of New York includes the Adirondack Mountains and the Thousand Islands. The hotels and campgrounds in these regions are open. Popular activities in these regions include hiking, fishing, and boating. These are great activities that are easy to socially distance.

There are some things you need to be aware of before you leave. You must bring a mask to wear. Most businesses have signs up on the doors stating do not enter unless you have mask. If you are sick do not go. Hotels have signs on their door stating if you are coughing or sneezing, or generally feel sick, do not enter. Be prepared to pay by credit card or cashless. Not all places in these times will accept cash. Not all hotel restaurants were open in June. Some places offered bagged breakfast. Some food businesses, even though this region by the end of June was in stage 4 or opening up, still do not let anyone within the building.

What is available during your stay? Expect to not have cleaning service while you are there. This seems to be a statewide mandate. In some places outdoor pools are open. I did not see any indoor pools open in June. As of June museums are not open. Some stores are not open and they have help wanted signs up. Evidently they are having a hard time bringing back laid off workers. It is said they are making more on unemployment during this crisis. Many places have hand sanitizer to use before you enter. Kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and paddle boats are available to rent.

Enjoy a hike! Enjoy time on a lake or river. It is possible to have a vacation and socially distance. Getting back to nature can be fun!