Did you know that Clinton County is home to the second-longest freshwater beach in the continental United States? Stretching along the western shore of Lake Champlain, Plattsburgh City Beach offers over a mile of pristine shoreline with stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains and Vermont’s Green Mountains. This hidden gem is just one of the many treasures awaiting visitors to this captivating corner of New York State.
Getting to Clinton County
Plattsburgh International Airport serves as a convenient gateway to Clinton County
Clinton County is easily accessible by air, car, or even boat via Lake Champlain. Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG) offers direct flights from several major cities, making it a convenient entry point for travelers. Alternatively, you can fly into Burlington International Airport in Vermont or Albany International Airport, both within driving distance of Clinton County.
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If you’re driving, Clinton County is accessible via Interstate 87 (the Adirondack Northway), which runs north-south through the region. From New York City, the drive takes approximately 5-6 hours, while Montreal is just over an hour away. During summer months, the Lake Champlain ferries provide a scenic alternative for travelers coming from Vermont.
Best Time to Visit Clinton County
Fall brings spectacular foliage to Clinton County’s landscapes
Clinton County experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique attractions and activities. Summer (June-August) is the peak tourist season, with warm temperatures perfect for enjoying Lake Champlain, hiking trails, and outdoor festivals. Fall (September-October) transforms the landscape with spectacular foliage, making it ideal for scenic drives and photography.
Winter (December-March) brings snow-covered landscapes and opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. Spring (April-May) offers mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds, though some attractions may have limited hours early in the season.
| Season | Temperature Range | Highlights | Considerations |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 70-85°F (21-29°C) | Beaches, water activities, hiking, festivals | Peak tourist season, higher accommodation rates |
| Fall (Sep-Oct) | 45-70°F (7-21°C) | Fall foliage, apple picking, harvest festivals | Popular weekends, book accommodations early |
| Winter (Dec-Mar) | 10-35°F (-12-2°C) | Skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing | Snow tires/4WD recommended, shorter daylight hours |
| Spring (Apr-May) | 40-65°F (4-18°C) | Maple festivals, wildflowers, fewer crowds | Mud season on trails, variable weather |
Getting Around Clinton County
The scenic drives along Clinton County’s Adirondack Coast offer breathtaking views
Having your own vehicle is the most convenient way to explore Clinton County, as many attractions are spread throughout the region. The county’s well-maintained roads make navigation easy, and the scenic drives along Lake Champlain and through the Adirondack foothills are attractions in themselves.
Explore at Your Own Pace
Rent a car to discover all that Clinton County has to offer!
Public transportation options are limited but include the Clinton County Public Transit system, which operates bus routes throughout Plattsburgh and surrounding communities. Taxis and rideshare services are available in Plattsburgh but may be limited in rural areas. For exploring Lake Champlain, boat rentals and tours are available from several marinas during the summer months.
Where to Stay in Clinton County
Lakeside accommodations offer peaceful retreats with stunning views
Clinton County offers a range of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. In Plattsburgh, you’ll find well-known hotel chains like Best Western and Holiday Inn, along with locally owned boutique options. For a more intimate experience, consider one of the charming bed and breakfasts scattered throughout the county, many housed in historic buildings with unique character.
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During summer months, lakeside cabins and cottages are popular options, offering direct access to Lake Champlain. For outdoor enthusiasts, the region’s campgrounds and RV parks provide an immersive nature experience. Ausable Point Campground is particularly popular, with sites directly on Lake Champlain. For longer stays or family groups, vacation rentals in historic homes or modern condos provide space and amenities for a comfortable visit.
Top Attractions in Clinton County
Ausable Chasm
Ausable Chasm, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks,” offers breathtaking views
Often called the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks,” Ausable Chasm is a stunning natural sandstone gorge with towering walls rising up to 150 feet above the Ausable River. This magnificent attraction offers various experiences for visitors of all ages and abilities. Choose from guided walking tours along well-maintained trails, thrilling rafting adventures through the gorge, or the popular Adventure Trail with cable bridges and edge walks.
Plattsburgh City Beach
Plattsburgh City Beach offers a mile of sandy shoreline on Lake Champlain
As the second-longest freshwater beach in the continental United States, Plattsburgh City Beach is a must-visit destination during summer months. The beach features a mile of sandy shoreline, picnic areas, volleyball courts, and breathtaking views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains of Vermont. Swimming is supervised by lifeguards during peak season, and the beach’s shallow entry makes it ideal for families with young children.
Battle of Plattsburgh Museum
The Battle of Plattsburgh Museum preserves the region’s important War of 1812 history
History enthusiasts will appreciate the Battle of Plattsburgh Museum, which commemorates the decisive naval battle of the War of 1812. The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and detailed dioramas that bring this important historical event to life. Don’t miss the annual Battle of Plattsburgh Commemoration in September, featuring reenactments, parades, and special events throughout the city.
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Outdoor Adventures in Clinton County
Hiking and Nature Trails
Clinton County’s trails offer immersive nature experiences for all skill levels
Clinton County’s location at the edge of the Adirondack Park provides access to numerous hiking trails for all skill levels. Point au Roche State Park offers easy, family-friendly trails with lake views, while more adventurous hikers can tackle Lyon Mountain, the highest peak in the county at 3,830 feet, rewarding climbers with panoramic views extending to Montreal on clear days.
The Terry Gordon Bike Path provides a paved route for cyclists and walkers along the Saranac River, while the Clinton County Recreation Trail offers a more rugged experience through forests and fields. Nature enthusiasts should visit the Clintonville Pine Barrens, a unique ecosystem with rare plant species and distinctive sandy soil formations.
Water Activities on Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain offers endless opportunities for water recreation
Lake Champlain, with its 490 square miles of crystal-clear water, is a paradise for water enthusiasts. Rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards from local outfitters like Ausable Paddlers to explore the shoreline at your own pace. Fishing is exceptional year-round, with the lake home to over 80 fish species, including bass, pike, and the legendary Lake Champlain Monster, “Champ.”
Boaters can launch from several public marinas and boat launches throughout the county. For those without their own vessel, lake cruises and chartered fishing trips provide access to the water’s beauty. In winter, the frozen lake becomes a venue for ice fishing, with local guides available to help newcomers experience this traditional pastime.
Winter Sports
Winter transforms Clinton County into a playground for snow sports enthusiasts
When snow blankets Clinton County, outdoor recreation shifts to winter activities. Titus Mountain Family Ski Center, just a short drive from Plattsburgh, offers 50 trails for downhill skiing and snowboarding, with terrain suitable for beginners and experts alike. Cross-country skiers and snowshoers can explore groomed trails at Beartown Ski Area and various state parks throughout the county.
Snowmobilers enjoy hundreds of miles of maintained trails connecting Clinton County to the larger New York State trail system. For a unique winter experience, try ice fishing on Lake Champlain or one of the county’s smaller lakes, where locals gather in colorful ice shanties pursuing perch, pike, and other cold-water species.
Local Culture and Dining
Farm-to-Table Dining
Clinton County’s restaurants showcase fresh, locally sourced ingredients
Clinton County’s agricultural heritage is reflected in its thriving farm-to-table dining scene. Restaurants like The Farmhouse Cafe and Anthony’s Restaurant & Bistro showcase seasonal ingredients from local farms. Don’t miss the chance to try regional specialties like Michigan hot dogs (a local variation served with meat sauce), fresh-caught Lake Champlain fish, and maple-infused dishes highlighting the area’s syrup production.
For casual dining, explore the charming cafes in downtown Plattsburgh, where you’ll find everything from artisanal coffee shops to international cuisine. Farmers markets operate throughout the county during warmer months, offering an opportunity to purchase local produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and handcrafted items directly from producers.
Local Breweries and Wineries
Local breweries offer tastings of craft beers inspired by the region
Clinton County has embraced the craft beverage movement with several local breweries and wineries. Valcour Brewing Company, housed in the historic Old Stone Barracks, offers a selection of handcrafted beers in a unique historic setting. Oval Craft Brewing and Plattsburgh Brewing Company round out the local beer scene with their distinctive brews.
Wine enthusiasts can explore the Adirondack Coast Wine Trail, a 33-mile route connecting six wineries and cider producers. The region’s cold-hardy grapes produce unique varieties well-suited to the North Country climate. Many tasting rooms offer spectacular views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding mountains, making for a perfect afternoon of sipping and scenery.
Historical Sites and Museums
Kent-Delord House Museum
The Kent-Delord House Museum preserves life from the early 19th century
Step back in time at the Kent-Delord House Museum, a beautifully preserved Federal-style home that served as British officers’ headquarters during the War of 1812. The museum features period furnishings, artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of Plattsburgh’s early days and the prominent Delord family who lived there for three generations.
Clinton County Historical Museum
The Clinton County Historical Museum houses a rich collection of regional artifacts
Located in a former 1929 high school building, the Clinton County Historical Museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents chronicling the region’s past. Exhibits cover everything from Native American history to industrial development, military conflicts, and everyday life throughout the centuries. The museum’s research library is a valuable resource for genealogists and history buffs.
Valcour Island
Valcour Island’s historic lighthouse stands as a sentinel on Lake Champlain
History and nature converge at Valcour Island, site of a pivotal Revolutionary War naval battle in 1776. Today, the island is accessible only by boat and features hiking trails, a historic lighthouse, and interpretive signs explaining its significant military history. Guided tours are available during summer months, or you can explore independently by kayak or canoe from nearby launches.
Family-Friendly Activities
Imaginarium Children’s Museum
The Imaginarium Children’s Museum offers hands-on learning experiences
The Imaginarium Children’s Museum provides an engaging, hands-on environment where children can learn through play. Interactive exhibits focus on science, art, culture, and the local environment, making it a perfect destination for families, especially on rainy days. Regular workshops and special events add to the educational fun.
Country Dreams Farm
Country Dreams Farm offers seasonal activities including sleigh rides in winter
Country Dreams Farm offers year-round family activities that connect visitors with rural traditions. In winter, horse-drawn sleigh rides through snow-covered fields create magical memories. Summer brings wagon rides and opportunities to interact with farm animals. The farm’s fall festival features pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and seasonal treats, making it a favorite destination for families.
Champlain Centre Mall
Champlain Centre Mall offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options
When weather doesn’t cooperate or you need a break from outdoor adventures, Champlain Centre Mall provides indoor entertainment options. With over 80 stores, a food court, and an eight-screen cinema, it’s a convenient place for shopping, dining, and catching the latest movies. The mall also features an arcade and seasonal events throughout the year.
Practical Tips for Visitors
Weather Considerations
Clinton County experiences a full four-season climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. Summers are generally pleasant with average highs in the 70s and 80s°F (21-29°C), though occasional heat waves can push temperatures higher. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and substantial snowfall, especially in higher elevations.
Spring and fall are transitional seasons with variable conditions. Always check the forecast before outdoor activities and dress in layers, as temperatures can fluctuate significantly within a single day, particularly in spring and fall. If visiting during winter, proper cold-weather gear is essential, including insulated boots, gloves, and outerwear.
Border Information
Clinton County’s proximity to Canada makes day trips to Montreal or Quebec an appealing option. If planning to cross the border, remember to bring a passport or enhanced driver’s license. Check current border crossing requirements, as they may change. The Champlain-St. Bernard de Lacolle crossing is open 24 hours and typically processes travelers efficiently.
Local Etiquette
Clinton County residents are generally friendly and welcoming to visitors. The pace of life is more relaxed than in major urban areas, so embrace the slower rhythm. Outdoor recreation areas are cherished by locals, so practice “leave no trace” principles when enjoying natural spaces. Tipping customs are similar to the rest of the United States: 15-20% for restaurant service and taxi rides.
Is Clinton County suitable for a weekend getaway?
Absolutely! Clinton County is perfect for a weekend trip, with enough attractions to fill 2-3 days without feeling rushed. A typical weekend could include exploring Plattsburgh’s historic downtown, visiting Ausable Chasm, enjoying Lake Champlain activities, and sampling local cuisine and beverages.
What should I pack for a visit to Clinton County?
Pack according to the season, but always include layers as weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring historic sites and natural areas. If visiting in summer, bring swimwear, sun protection, and insect repellent. Winter visitors should pack warm clothing, including waterproof boots, gloves, and a heavy coat.
Are there good dining options for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, many restaurants in Clinton County offer vegetarian options and can accommodate common dietary restrictions. Farm-to-table establishments are particularly good choices, as they typically feature fresh, seasonal produce and are accustomed to customizing dishes. It’s always best to call ahead if you have specific dietary needs.
Plan Your Clinton County Adventure
The natural beauty of Clinton County creates unforgettable memories
From the breathtaking natural wonders of Ausable Chasm to the rich historical tapestry of Plattsburgh, Clinton County offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and relaxing getaways. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly activities, romantic escapes, or solo adventures, this captivating corner of New York State delivers experiences that will leave you planning your return visit before you’ve even departed.
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