Nine Sides Lodge
The Perfect Day
A curated day-by-day guide to making the most of the Adirondacks — straight from the hosts who know it best.
Summer Day
Summits, Swimming Holes & Soft Serve
A full summer day in the Adirondacks — starting at the trailhead before the crowds arrive and ending by the fire with a full heart and tired legs.
6:00 AM
Rise Early — Beat the Crowds
Set your alarm. The Cascade Mountain trailhead is one of the most popular in the Adirondacks, and parking fills up fast — especially on summer weekends. Getting there before 7 AM makes all the difference.
Grab coffee and a quick bite at the lodge before you head out. The drive to the trailhead is about 25 minutes from Nine Sides.
7:00 AM
Hike Cascade & Porter — Two Summits, One Trail
Cascade and Porter are the two most accessible High Peaks in the Adirondacks — and the views from the top are anything but easy. The out-and-back trail covers about 4.8 miles with 1,940 feet of elevation gain. Expect to be on the mountain for 4–5 hours.
View trail on AllTrails
12:30 PM
Cool Off at Flume Falls
After the descent, head straight to Flume Falls on the AuSable River — one of the best-kept secrets in the area. The natural swimming hole is cold, clear, and absolutely worth it after a long morning on the trail. Jump in if you dare.
Bring a dry bag for your phone and a towel. The rocks can be slippery — wear water shoes if you have them.
3:00 PM
Early Dinner at Ice Jam Inn
Get some clothes on and head over to Ice Jam Inn — a local favorite in Jay. The portions are generous, the atmosphere is relaxed, and after a full day on the mountain and in the river, you've earned every bite.
Go early — it fills up quickly on summer evenings and they don't take reservations.
5:30 PM
Ice Cream at Whitebrook Dairy Bar
No summer day in the Adirondacks is complete without a stop at Whitebrook Dairy Bar. This classic roadside stand has been serving soft-serve and foot-long hot dogs since 1968. Get the twist cone. You won't regret it.
7:00 PM
Fire Pit at the Lodge
Head back to Nine Sides, light the fire pit, and let the evening slow down. The woods are quiet, the stars come out early up here, and there's nowhere else you need to be.
9:00 PM
Collapse Into Bed — You Earned It
Our beds are highly rated for a reason. Sink in, sleep deep, and take it easy tomorrow. You've done the Adirondacks right.
Ready to make it happen? Book Nine Sides Lodge and use this as your blueprint.
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