New York
Choose Your Pace: Hiking the Adirondacks
Program No. 23151RJ
Learn about garnet mines, railroads, wildlife and more as you explore the Adirondacks on foot and by canoe, choosing from multiple activity levels each day.
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Participant Reviews
Based on 56 Reviews
SHOWING
This is a great program. Hiked during the Fall Foliage and it was beautiful. Every Staff member at Garnet Hill makes you feel welcome and goes out of their way to make sure you enjoy your vacation.
— Review left October 14, 2024
This program with hiking according to your level of ability was amazing!! The beauty of the Adirondacks, the leadership, and the presentations really made this trip beyond our expectations. Thank you!!
— Review left October 6, 2024
I loved this trip, it was well organized, a beautiful setting, great meals, all the staff, trip leaders, and lodge staff/employees were friendly and helpful. We were blessed by great weather, which added to my enjoyment of the program. I plan to repeat this program next year.
— Review left October 5, 2024
Every aspect about this program was excellent. Jim and Frances (the owners of the lodge) were outstanding, caring, and organized. I especially liked how Jim would decide the evening before where we would be hiking the next day. He considered the weather, the group's ability and desires. We could choose from 3 separate hikes each day and every hike had 2 local guides who were also enthusiastic and knowledgeable of the trails and the flora and fauna of the area. This was my 44th Road Scholar trip and one of my very favorites.
— Review left September 30, 2024
If you want to decompress at your own pace while actively participating in the program, this is the place to do it. The program leader/lodge owners and staff are welcoming, knowledgeable and supportive.
— Review left September 28, 2024
This is a terrific trip. The lodge is beautiful and welcoming, the food is excellent and the programs are varied and well explained before to meet everyone’s needs. We repeated this program as we enjoyed it so much and would do it again. Jim and his entire staff make everyone feel welcome and taken care of.
— Review left September 28, 2024
Aside from the beautiful trails, you won’t find a nicer hiking lodge or better hosts!
— Review left September 27, 2024
If you love to hike, this is a wonderful program and it is geared well to various levels of fitness. The accommodations, food, and location were fabulous, and the host, guides, programs and instructors were top notch. I enjoyed every moment and highly recommend this program.
— Review left September 27, 2024
This program has it all: three hike choices each day, beautiful location surrounding by woods and lakes, lovely updated lodge accommodations with super comfy beds, meticulously clean bathrooms, great food, enlightening evening lectures and welcoming passionate host/inn owner.
— Review left September 20, 2024
Fantastic week! The Garnet Lodge was beautiful and the food delicious. It was fun to spend time with the different guides during the week as they shared their passion for their community and the local nature. Enjoyed talking with other attendees during our hikes and meals. Highly recommend this program!
— Review left September 10, 2024
We had an excellent experience and recommend this anyone who wishes to hike in the Adirondacks. Our guides made the adventure some much more fun.
— Review left September 7, 2024
Choose Your Pace: Hiking the Adirondacks is a great introduction to the area. Their program is well run and will not disappoint. Our trail guides couldn't have been better and we were introduced to hikes we may not have selected on our own and they shared good insights about the area's history and plant life, even introducing us to a wild carnivorous plant.
— Review left September 7, 2024
This was a wonderfully planned trip in a beautiful setting.
— Review left September 7, 2024
Perfect vacation: wonderful folks, exceptional lodge & staff, beautiful location, delicious food, great activities!
— Review left August 31, 2024
Highly recommended. Having three hiking options each day is wonderful. Jim, the program coordinator and owner of the facility was friendly and accommodating. Lodging was upscale as were the meals (mostly buffets). Beautiful part of the country.
— Review left July 12, 2024
This was a fabulous trip - a beautiful setting, great hikes with wonderful guides, comfortable lodging, delicious food, and interesting evening programs. The Adirondacks are a treasure. I highly recommend this program.
— Review left July 3, 2024
Everything about this program was top notch - the lodge, the director/owners (Jim and Francis), the staff, the meals, the fellow participants, the hikes, and the spectacular setting. I love to be in nature and to go for walks and "gentle" hikes and this program allowed me to do so. With its 3 levels of hike options all of us were able to participate fully, at our own pace. I so enjoyed this program that I hope to come back again. I give it an enthusiastic two thumbs up and 5 stars!!
— Review left July 1, 2024
Choose Your Pace: Hiking the Adirondacks is a hidden gem. You reside at the Garnet Hill Lodge in the heart of the Adirondacks surrounded by ponds, mountains, greenery and enough outdoor activity options to keep you busy for more than your stay. Guides are licensed and skilled leaders navigating you safely through terrain that can be rocky and wet. The program is very well run, the accommodations clean with plenty of space and the food is excellent particularly if you are gluten-free. If you enjoy the outdoors, this is one trip you want to add to your wish list.
— Review left June 30, 2024
If you want to experience the wildness of the Adirondacks, this Road Scholar program is for you. The difficulty or ease of each hike, elevation grade, total mileage, and weather were clearly outlined the day before each hike, making it easier to choose a daily hike. The guides were knowledgeable about trail conditions and plants. Our group developed a nice camaraderie, partly due to the welcoming demeanor of our hosts, Jim and Francis, owners of Garnett Hill Resort, who accompanied us on many of our hikes. The historic nature of the lodge, which has been beautifully preserved, featuring a log interior with wood throughout, is an added bonus. The kitchen staff were attentive and accommodating to our dietary needs. Evening meals were first-rate, and the diverse and engaging special programs after dinner were a highlight. I would give this program five stars!
— Review left June 30, 2024
This program is a wonderful introduction to the historic and beautiful Adirondacks, set in a charming lodge with comfortable and attractive accommodations, genial and responsive hosts and staff, superb organization and a selection of hikes & activities each day for every level, from "jock" hikers intent on a workout to folks who prefer a flat, 2-mile walk in the woods. I recommend it without hesitation. Delicious food, great leaders, totally fun.
— Review left June 29, 2024
This was an absolutely beautiful trip. The fall colors were peak. The guides are very knowledgeable and so personable adding a special touch to this trip. The lodge and staff are incredible and always helping to make sure you are enjoying the trip. The hiking is awesome and there is so many to choose from in the area. The owner Jim and his wife really have a gem of a place and their labor of love for the area, attention to detail and most of all their hospitality are truly worth a stay.
— Review left November 10, 2023
This was a great hiking trip. The group leaders I had contact with were Chris, Jim, and Martin.
They were helpful, knowledgeable, and fun to have as leaders. Their concern for safety while on the trails was much appreciated.
The accommodations and food and the staff who were working for feeding us were so gracious.
A few of us thought that if possible to offer a short yoga session or two would be a nice added feature.
It was helpful to learn once we arrived that hiking poles were available to use.
The area was absolutely breathtaking and peaceful.
I would love to do this program again.
Thank you Road Scholars for putting this program together.
— Review left October 29, 2023
This is an excellent program. hiking guides are excellent and the options for easy, moderate or challenging hikes are well organized. This is a beautiful area. Facilities and food were good and staff could not be nicer. We have taken over 20 Road Scholar trips and will continue to make them our preferred travel company
— Review left October 21, 2023
Excellent program! Great balance of physical activity and program content. If you love hiking in beautiful surroundings, choose this program--it was wonderful.
— Review left October 19, 2023
We were treated to a peak fall week in the Adirondacks -- the comforts of Garnet Hill Lodge; its welcoming and accommodating staff; a choice of invigorating daily outdoor activities; expert and caring guides; and informative and involving lectures. Mother Nature also gets a shoutout for providing sunny and warm days.
— Review left October 9, 2023
Loved the Garnet Hill Lodge and the Adirondacks!
— Review left October 9, 2023
I have never been hiking before but loved the choose your own pace aspect . This worked out perfectly for us- I did the easy trips and my husband did the moderate ones and we both enjoyed. So many participants come back to this program year after year and it's obvious why. This is a wonderful program that we will never forget!
— Review left October 8, 2023
This program is excellent! The Adirondacks in the fall are gorgeous, and the hiking was plentiful. The guides were knowledgeable of the trails and friendly. The Lodge is comfortable, food was very good, and the views/vistas are excellent. There were 3 return "Road Scholars" on this trip, and I may become one of them, too! Kudos to everyone at Red Garnet Lodge for an excellent fall experience.
— Review left October 7, 2023
Great program for the easy, moderate, or challenging hiker. The lodge was rustic but so beautiful. Food was top notch.
— Review left October 1, 2023
This was a wonderful trip in a beautiful area. It is an active trip, but they accommodate different hiking levels well. Good selection of hikes for all ability levels. I used hiking poles, but not everyone did. There were a few, not a lot, muddy/damp/wet spots on hikes so you might want to consider waterproof/resistant shoes. The Granite Hill Lodge staff and guides are friendly and knowledgeable.
— Review left September 23, 2023
This trip exceeded my expectations. The guides were terrific and the scenery wonderful. The people were down-to-earth and full of fun. I hated to have the trip end.
— Review left September 8, 2023
It felt a little like summer camp, simples pleasures, all outdoors, camaraderie.
I would go back.
— Review left January 19, 2023
I enjoyed everything about this program, from the accommodations to the food to the camaraderie to the activities. I particularly liked having the ability to choose my activity each day.
— Review left October 16, 2022
A not to be missed hiking experience. Wonderful guides, food and hiking choices, If you want to hike Adirondacks , here is your chance.
— Review left October 8, 2022
Wonderful trip. I really like the "choose your own pace" format. Quite a few participants shifted between levels over the course of the week, depending on the available options each day. And it gave someone like me, who stayed firmly entrenched in the "Easy" group, the opportunity to interact with more experienced hikers. The guides were great, food was good, and as always with Road Scholar, the evening lectures were interesting and informative.
— Review left October 1, 2022
This is a wonderful program with a wonderful facility, and exceptional
leaders
— Review left September 21, 2022
I truly enjoyed the Choose Your Pace hiking trip in the Adirondacks at Garnet Hill Lodge, a classic hiking/skiing lodge in an incredibly beautiful setting. There were hikes for every level of experience as well as a half-day kayaking/canoeing on a pristine lake. The group leader did a great job - very organized and flexible and genuinely committed to making sure everyone had the experience they wanted. The guides were fantastic, too. As a vegetarian, I was pleased with the options. Our room was comfortable and attractive. This is a wonderful place to visit with so much to see and do and a rich history. I highly recommend this trip.
— Review left September 17, 2022
Great trip….lovely location with beautiful hikes. Very nice lodge with an accommodating staff. Excellent food! Guides were very knowledgeable and helpful.
— Review left September 3, 2022
A fun adventure in the beautiful Adirondacks. Hiking the gentle hills or experience the thrill of a 360 degree view of the high peaks or enjoy a kayak paddle or swim in a clear mountain lake. End the day relaxing in the comfortable Adirondack lodge and enjoy a delicious dinner with new friends and learn about the people and their life in the Adirondacks.
— Review left September 2, 2022
The setting for this program is exceptional. The lodge is clean and comfortable. The balcony rooms overlooking the lake are particularly nice. The food is outstanding, and it is a bonus that every meal is taken from the lodge. The guides are all very nice and knowledgeable. Different hiking levels are accommodated very well, though participants of different abilities might find they want to add either more or less challenging hikes on their own which is possible within the structure of the program. I recommend that Road Scholar expand it's offerings at this lodge as the facility is really special.
— Review left October 9, 2021
For my first time traveling with this organization, I can say I was in my comfort zone. It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
— Review left October 9, 2021
A great program for variety of options and activities. I learned a lot of interesting things about the Adirondacks, and treasured the interactions with others.
— Review left October 4, 2021
Great trip! Well organized, great staff and facilities, enjoyed the lectures and events. Highly recommend this trip. Thanks for a job well done!
— Review left October 3, 2021
The aspect of choosing your own pace was perfect. Those of us who are less fit could still enjoy outdoor activities without worrying that we were holding the others back.
— Review left October 3, 2021
Hiking in the Adirondacks is a wonderful program. Perfect location, food, and accommodations. Guides helped me achieve my goals of hiking challenging mountain hikes. Loved all the evening sessions, talk about mushrooms in the Adirondacks, the Garnet mines, and logging in the Adirondacks, Gentleman singing 60's music with guitar was great, and a small music combo on the last evening. Jim had excellent speakers and learning opportunities for us that kept us engaged even after a long day on the trail. We appreciated his careful planning with the time schedule so we were able to get back to our rooms at a very reasonable time.
— Review left October 1, 2021
This trip was wonderful in so many ways! Garnet Hill Lodge was a beautiful place to stay! I reserved a "room with a view" and was not disappointed! Jim our host was very kind and knowledgeable! The other Road Scholars I met during this time were fun to be with and also very helpful to anyone who may of needed any type of help. I would recommend this program highly!!!!
— Review left September 21, 2021
As a participant in 35 Elderhostel/Road Scholar hiking programs, in terms of all-around satisfaction, I would rank this program among the top three or four.
— Review left September 19, 2021
This was our second Road Scholars trip, and my husband and I eagerly look forward to many more to come! We loved the 3 levels of hiking, as well as being able to walk on the beautiful trails around the lodge and the easy availability of kayaking on 13th Lake. The guides were warm and friendly, as well as being fonts of knowledge about the local animals, trees, and plants. The evening speakers had fascinating and unusual expertise. All in all, I would highly recommend Hiking in the Adirondacks!
— Review left September 18, 2021
Garnet Hill Lodge was perfect for me. Jim the program leader was invested in making our trip the best possible experience. If you hike the most challenging hikes be prepared to get dirty and fall at least once during the week. Enjoyed the week very much.
— Review left September 6, 2021
Whether you're an experienced hiker or just a beginner, there is a hiking adventure for everyone! The Garnet Hill Lodge in the Adirondacks was idyllic, with mountains, lakes and great trails.
— Review left August 30, 2021
My hike in the Adirondaks was such a great experience. The accommodations at Garnet Hill Lodge were beautiful and clean, the staff always friendly and helpful, great food and Jim Rucker, the leader, is a peach of a guy! The hikes everyday were divided up so you can choose what you feel like doing...no pressure. Lots of nice people from all over led to many great conversations. I would definitely repeat this trip and have already recommended it to several people.
— Review left August 29, 2021
Garnet Lodge is a very comfortable and picturesque area. The challenging hikes were enjoyable with very knowledgeable guides. We would like to return to the area to hike some of the other trails.
— Review left August 28, 2021
This program was exceptional in the hikes and the lodging. The level of each hike was well communicated the night before, making it easy to choose the appropriate one. The area was beautiful, as was the lodge and its grounds. The program leader, hiking leaders and lodge staff were all very attentive and interested in ensuring participants were satisfied. Just an excellent program - it set a high bar for my first RS hiking trip!
— Review left August 28, 2021
Very well organized. Martin gave a very excellent description of the difficulty of the hikes that were available for each day. The accommodations were excellent. The bathrooms have been recently been redone. The meals provided were of excellent quality. This is the third Road Scholar program that I've attended and it was the most fun and enjoyable.
— Review left October 28, 2019
Everything about this experience was superb: Garnet Hill Lodge is comfortable with many amenities. The views are amazing, staff are knowledgeable and enjoyable, our hikes were set up to accommodate everyone (everyone thought they had the best experience of the day, so all were satisfied), and the educational programs both on- and off-site were informative and led by interesting instructors. Having buffet-style food resulted in satisfying food for everyone. It was a first-rate experience. I’d gladly do it all over again.
— Review left October 12, 2019
This was my 16 th RS trip. What distinguishes this trip from some of the others is the wide range of options for activities , that there were always choices for ever meal, and the food was the best of any of the domestic hiking trips I have done. There were plenty of guides; I particularly liked hiking with Julie. She was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic.
— Review left September 14, 2019