Keene Valley Earns National Spotlight on Fodor’s 2026 Must-Visit List
View over Keene Valley in the summer.
In a nod to the Adirondacks’ timeless charm and rugged appeal, Keene Valley, New York, has been named to Fodor’s Travel’s Go List 2026 as one of the top six places to visit in the USA next year — a rare and well-deserved distinction that places this serene High Peaks hamlet in the company of beloved destinations like Key West, Florida, Indio, California, and Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts.
For seasoned explorers and casual adventurers alike, Fodor’s calls Keene Valley “a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, just four hours outside New York City,” highlighting its dramatic mountain scenery, legacy of early artist retreats, and community deeply rooted in trail culture.
Why Keene Valley belongs on your 2026 map.
Tucked amid 15 of the Adirondack High Peaks in Essex County, the hamlet of Keene Valley feels like a world apart — a place where cedar-scented air mixes with the sound of the Ausable River tumbling over stone.
An early snow in autumn in Keene Valley.
Once a 19th-century artist colony inspired by transcendentalism and the wilderness beyond, the valley today retains its creative soul while also doubling as a gateway to some of the Northeast’s most celebrated hikes.
Trails range from gentle cascades to full-day ridge scrambles: steps from the village, hikers can venture to Cascade Mountain, one of the classic Adirondack High Peaks with broad summit views, or seek the scenic waterfalls near Roaring Brook Falls or Beaver Meadow Falls.
Adventurers vying for the picturesque but challenging climbs will find themselves among the famous Great Range peaks — Saddleback, Gothics, and Big Slide — all defining features of the region’s skyline.
Video: Edge of the World over Ausable Lakes at Indian Head.
Take in the breathtaking sweeping views from Indian Head, one of the Adirondacks’ classic overlooks, just a short drive from Keene Valley. Perched above Upper and Lower Ausable Lakes, this spectacular vantage point rewards hikers with a panorama that feels like the edge of the world — and captures exactly why this High Peaks gem helped land Keene Valley on Fodor’s Travel 2026 must-visit list. Video courtesy: YouTube
Video: Indian Head’s epic High Peaks overlook — a must-see in Keene Valley.
A village that feels like home.
Part of Keene Valley’s charm lies beyond its trails. The slender stretch of Route 73 that bisects the hamlet spills into a handful of cozy local businesses worthy of any traveler’s itinerary:
The Mountaineer is a beacon for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Breakfast at The Frenchman’s Bakery. A beloved start to any day, this bistro-style bakery serves up fresh pastries, French bread, and hiker lunches ideal for stashing in a pack before hitting the trail. Note: they are closed in winter.
Shop the Adirondack way at The Birch Store. A fixture for local gifts, outdoor-inspired goods, and artisanal finds, this spirited boutique captures the region’s creative impulse.
Fuel up at Noon Mark Diner. An Adirondack institution since 1958, this classic roadside diner — open daily for hearty breakfasts and home-style meals — remains a satisfying pit stop on any mountain-bound morning or afternoon. And do not miss their incredible pies.
Stock up on essential gear at The Mountaineer. This purveyor of high-quality gear is a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure. What sets The Mountaineer apart is their unique blend of community engagement, expert staff, and a curated selection for every adventurer.
More reasons to explore in every season.
While summer and early fall are ideal for hiking and paddling, Keene Valley’s calendar is lively across the year. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter festivals bring a different kind of magic to the valley, and the views — whether framed in golden foliage or winter frost — never disappoint.
Fall foliage, in particular, is a spectacle: crisp air and sweeping panoramas reward those who time their visit for September through October, when fewer crowds and clear mountain vistas make every peak appear more majestic.
Chapel Pond in Keene Valley.
Why adktaste.com thinks you should visit.
Here at ADK Taste, we’ve always believed the Adirondacks offer something rare: an intoxicating mix of wild beauty, human warmth, and a lifestyle that feels both authentic and uplifting. Keene Valley’s inclusion on Fodor’s Go List is more than a travel accolade — it’s a reminder that places where community and nature thrive together still matter.
Whether you’re lacing up boots for your first summit, chasing waterfalls along forested paths, or simply lingering over coffee before a day of aimless exploring, Keene Valley rewards curiosity with deep blue skies, crisp mountain air, and that unmistakable Adirondack sense of place.
And while “coastal escapes” and “desert blooms” have their allure (we love them too!), there’s something special about a destination that asks you to unplug, look up at the stars, and remember why you came here in the first place.
In Keene Valley, every season tells a story — and in 2026, we think you’ll want to write yours here.
Recommended places to stay, shop, eat, and things to do near Keene Valley.
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