Hiking
Lace up your boots and head into the Adirondacks! Old Forge is an ideal starting point for exploring the woods, mountains, lakes, and scenic trails that make this region so special. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a climb that gets your heart pumping, you’ll find a trail worth exploring.
One of the area’s most popular hikes is Bald Mountain, where a moderate climb through the forest leads to the historic Rondaxe Fire Tower. Make the modest climb to the top and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views stretching across the Adirondack landscape. For a more leisurely adventure, Moss Lake offers a beautiful loop that winds along the shoreline and through the woods, with plenty of opportunities to stop, take in the scenery, and enjoy the quiet.
You don’t have to go far from town to find a great walk. The Lock and Dam Trail follows the Moose River to the historic lock and dam spillway, while the McCauley Mountain and Maple Ridge trail systems offer miles of wooded trails to explore.
So grab your hiking shoes, bring some water, and get ready to discover the Adirondacks one trail at a time. And before heading out, be prepared: let someone know your plans and expected return, and remember to register at the trailhead.
OLD FORGE HIKING MAP
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Mountain Biking
Bring your bike and an appetite for adventure, Old Forge is mountain biking country. From long, scenic rides through the Adirondack woods to fast, flowing singletrack and technical terrain that will challenge even experienced riders, there’s something here for every kind of mountain biker.
The TOBIE Trail is a great way to explore the region on two wheels, connecting Thendara, Old Forge, Big Moose, Inlet and Eagle Bay. The route combines paved sections, quiet roads, old railroad beds and recreational trails, making it a terrific choice for a relaxed ride through the heart of the Adirondacks. Along the way, you’ll find beautiful scenery, gentle grades and plenty of reasons to stop and take it all in. Note: Portions of the trail are closed during hunting and snowmobile seasons.
Looking for something with a little more adrenaline fueled action? Head to Maple Ridge and McCauley Mountain, where the riding gets seriously fun. You’ll find miles of purpose-built singletrack, fast-flowing trails, berms, rollers, climbs and technical features that keep you engaged from start to finish. McCauley Mountain boasts more than 15 miles of professionally built trails, with terrain ranging from approachable to seriously challenging.
Whether you’re chasing miles, looking for your next technical challenge, or just want to spend a day ripping through the Adirondack woods, Old Forge is a mountain biking destination worth riding.
TOBIE TRAIL MAP.
MCCAULEY & MAPLE RIDGE MAP
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Camping
Experience the nature of the Adirondacks by spending your nights under a mantle of stars. Remember when your screen wasn’t the center of attention and you could actually hear yourself think? Leave the notifications behind and reconnect with what matters most. Wander into the woods, take a refreshing swim in clear Adirondack waters, and let the sights, sounds and fresh air remind you how good it feels to simply be outside.
Camping in the Old Forge area offers something for every kind of outdoor adventurer, from primitive backcountry sites tucked into the deep wilderness to developed campgrounds with electricity and comfort stations, to RV sites and comfortable camping cabins.
Set up camp near a quiet lake, spend your days hiking and paddling, gather around the campfire in the evening, and wake up surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Adirondacks. Wake up by the water, spend your days hiking and paddling, then gather around the campfire as the sun sets behind the trees. There’s nothing quite like falling asleep to the sounds of nature and waking up ready for another day of Adirondack fun.
Area campgrounds also make a great home base for exploring Old Forge, with recreation, attractions, dining and shopping nearby.
Whether it’s a family vacation, a weekend getaway with friends or a peaceful escape to the woods, camping is a wonderful way to slow down, reconnect with nature and create memories that last long after the campfire goes out.
CAMPGROUNDS |
Canoeing & Kayaking
Surrounded by beautiful lakes, ponds and rivers, Old Forge offers plenty of opportunities for canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. The area offers quiet flatwater to wilderness river trips. Bring your own craft or rent one locally for an afternoon paddle or full-day adventure.
The North and Middle branches of the Moose River offer scenic paddling close to Old Forge. The North Branch winds through peaceful wilderness, far from people or crowds. An easy four hour paddle takes you downstream with plenty of pristine private beaches to enjoy. Popular access points include Rondaxe Bridge and North Street.
For flatwater paddling, explore the Fulton Chain of Lakes, Big Moose Lake, Stillwater Reservoir and Moss Lake. If you have your own vessel, a number of peaceful backcountry ponds are waiting to be discovered.
Silently gliding across calm, quiet water is a great way to clear your mind and take in the beauty of the Adirondacks. Paddle beneath towering forests, along rocky shorelines and into secluded corners where the only sounds you’ll hear are the dip of your paddle, the call of a loon and the gentle rhythm of the water.
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PADDLING MAP |
Boating/Sailing
Get out on the water and make a day of it! With the Fulton Chain of Lakes, Stillwater Reservoir and miles of beautiful Adirondack shoreline, Old Forge and the surrounding communities offer plenty of ways to get on the water, whether you’re behind the wheel, under sail or happy to let someone else do the driving.
Rent a runabout or pontoon boat in Old Forge, Big Moose, Eagle Bay or Stillwater and spend the day exploring the lakes at your own pace. Prefer wind power? Fourth Lake is a favorite sailing destination, with plenty of room to catch a breeze and enjoy the scenery.
Free NYS DEC boat launches are available in Inlet and Stillwater. When launching, please follow all aquatic invasive species prevention guidelines to help protect our lakes for everyone.
Rather leave the navigation to someone else? Rivett's Old Forge Lake Cruises offers scenic sightseeing cruises through the Fulton Chain of Lakes. Over in Eagle Bay,Drift Upstate takes to the water aboard a one-of-a-kind cycle boat, with public and private tours, and yes, pedaling is optional!
For a true Adirondack adventure, climb aboard the Norrigewock Tour Boat at Stillwater Reservoir and cruise to the remote community of Beaver River.
Keep your eyes open for loons, bald eagles and other wildlife along the way. Once you arrive, enjoy lunch at Norridgewock Lodge, explore the community or simply find a spot by the water and soak it all.
BOAT RENTALS & SERVICES |
Fishing
From motorboat adventures to quiet lakeside spots, the Old Forge area is an ideal fishing destination. With the Town of Webb’s many pristine lakes, ponds, rivers and streams, there’s always another place to cast a line. Anglers can pursue trout, bass, salmon, muskies, perch and other local species, whether they’re looking for a relaxing afternoon or a serious day on the water.
Popular fishing destinations include the Fulton Chain of Lakes, Old Forge Pond, Nick’s Lake and the Moose River, along with smaller, quieter waters such as Bubb and Sis Lakes, Little Safford Pond and Quiver Pond. Many offer shore fishing or access for canoes and kayaks, while others welcome motorized boats, giving anglers plenty of ways to explore.
Fishing doesn’t end when winter arrives. Ice fishing is a beloved Adirondack tradition, with public access available from state and town lands and DEC campgrounds. And throughout the year, local fishing derbies add a little friendly competition and the chance to take home cash prizes.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or simply want to spend a peaceful day beside the water, there’s always a place to drop a line in the Town of Webb.
FISHING GUIDE |
Public Beach & Lakefront
Enjoy a summer day at the Town of Webb Lakefront on Lakeview Avenue in Old Forge. The public beach is open seven days a week from mid-June through Labor Day, 11 a.m.–5 p.m., with lifeguards on duty. Admission is free, with parking and beach access near the public tennis courts and Lakefront Park.
The lakefront also features two tennis courts, four pickleball courts and a public playground with swings, slides, climbing activities and a beach toy box. Courts and playground facilities are open sunrise to sunset.
BEACH RULES |
River Rafting
Make Old Forge your base camp for an Adirondack whitewater adventure! Adirondack River Outfitters (ARO) offers guided trips on the Moose River, with additional rafting opportunities on other Adirondack rivers within easy reach.
For experienced thrill-seekers, the Moose River comes alive each spring with challenging Class IV–V whitewater, steep drops and powerful rapids when water conditions allow.
Looking for something a little less wild? Nearby rivers offer guided trips ranging from family-friendly outings to exciting whitewater adventures. Choose the trip that fits your experience level, then return to Old Forge for lodging, dining and more to do after your day on the water. |
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Birding
Keep your eyes and ears open—the Old Forge area offers plenty of opportunities for birdwatching. Around Moss Lake near Eagle Bay, watch for loons, ospreys and other water-loving birds. Along the Moose River and nearby streams, you may spot herons, hawks, mergansers, kingfishers, flycatchers and swallows.
Ponds and lakes such as Nick’s Lake, Rondaxe Lake, Moss Lake and Cascade Lake are also great places to look for loons, ospreys, eagles, woodpeckers and grouse. Even a drive along quiet Adirondack roads can offer sightings of owls, turkeys, thrushes, jays and chickadees. Bring your binoculars and see how many Adirondack birds you can spot during your visit. |
Golf
If golf is your game, Old Forge has you covered. Just minutes from town, Thendara Golf Club features an 18-hole, par-72 championship course designed by legendary golf architect Donald Ross. Over the years, the course has welcomed some of golf’s biggest names, including Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino and Chi-Chi Rodríguez.
Set among the natural beauty of the Central Adirondacks, the course features beautifully maintained fairways and greens, challenging doglegs, sand traps, elevation changes and classic Adirondack scenery. Whether you're an experienced golfer or simply looking to enjoy a round while visiting the area, Thendara offers a memorable Adirondack golf experience. |
Miniature Golf
Add a little friendly competition to your Old Forge getaway with a round of miniature golf. Choose from Nutty Putty Golf or Calypso's Cove, both offering 18 holes of family-friendly fun.
Mini golf is a great activity for all ages and an easy addition to a day of exploring Old Forge. Challenge your family and friends, test your putting skills and see who earns bragging rights at the end of the round. Whether you're looking for an afternoon activity or some evening fun, it's a classic part of an Old Forge getaway.
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Seaplane Rides
See the Adirondacks from a whole new perspective with a scenic seaplane ride. Soar above forested mountains, winding waterways and the countless lakes that make this region so spectacular.
Choose a short sightseeing flight or arrange a longer excursion for an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of the Adirondacks. Seaplane service is available throughout the region, with dockside service offered at locations along the Fulton Chain of Lakes and surrounding lakes. |
Family Fun Challenge
HIKE IT. BIKE IT. PADDLE IT.Take on the Old Forge Family Fun Challenge! Complete any five of 16 Adirondack adventures — from scenic hikes and peaceful paddles to family-friendly bike rides — and earn your patch for free!
Download the challenge brochure to get started, and explore detailed information on all 16 hikes, paddles and bike routes to help plan your adventures.
When you've completed five, bring your finished challenge form to the Old Forge Visitor Information Center to receive your free patch! |
Activities & Programs
Stay active and get involved with Town of Webb Recreation , offering a variety of activities and programs for residents and visitors throughout the year. Current programs include pickleball for beginner and experienced players, adult co-ed basketball, open indoor walking and other seasonal recreation opportunities. Many programs are free and welcome walk-ins.
Programs, locations and schedules change throughout the year, so check the current schedule to see what's happening during your stay.
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