Rich history
Journey Through Adirondack History
Follow the Adirondack Rail Trail along the path of the historic New York Central Railroad. Once a vital connection, these tracks brought adventurous travelers, timber, and minerals—shaping the region’s story.
Over the years
As rail use declined, the tracks fell silent—leaving behind
A corridor brimming with untapped potential.
Adirondack Recreational Trail Advocates, ARTA’s predecessor, partnered with the State and local communities to reimagine it as a vibrant multi-use trail that celebrates its rich history.
The history
In 1892, William Seward Webb built the railroad to bring passengers and freight into the Adirondacks, fueling the region’s growing tourism industry. Visitors have always sought the beauty and serenity of the Adirondacks. Rail service ended by 1972 as highways took over, and New York State acquired the corridor in 1974.
From 1991 to 2020, the future of the corridor was debated. In 2012, a diverse coalition of businesses, municipal leaders, and stakeholders—Adirondack Recreational Trail Advocates—formed to support a trail vision. After years of planning, public input, and legal challenges, a compromise was reached in 2020.
Today, the corridor supports both rail and trail. From Remsen (near Utica) to Tupper Lake, 45 miles of track have been rehabilitated and are managed by the Department of Transportation for train service. From Lake Placid to Tupper Lake, a 34-mile accessible, multi-use trail was built and is managed by the Department of Environmental Conservation.
Today’s trail continues and fulfills the railroad’s original purpose—to help people connect with the wild places and natural beauty of the Adirondacks, and to support its local communities.
Timeline overview
1892
Remsen-Lake Placid Travel Corridor was constructed
1974
The Corridor was purchased by New York State
1991
A team to compose a management plan for the use of the Corridor was established
2012
ARTA formed to advocate for trail
2022
Trail Construction begins
1972
Freight service ceased
1977
The State leased the line to the Adirondack Railway Corporation
1994
The Planning Team completed the Draft Remsen-Lake Placid Corridor Management Plan/EIS
2020
The 1996 Unit Management Plan was amended to include the Adirondack Rail Trail
2025
Completion of the Adirondack Rail Trail
Today, the Adirondack Rail Trail stands as a testament to vision, determination, and collaboration.
The future
COMPLETED SECTIONS
offer stunning views, charming towns, and a taste of local culture. As we work toward full completion, we invite you to join the journey and be part of the Adirondacks’ living history
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