The splendid "high peaks" region of upstate New York has been an epicenter for wilderness play since the late 1800s, when Theodore Roosevelt visited and extolled the area's priceless natural resources. Outdoor recreation soon became a cornerstone of the area's economy and character, and it remains so today.

The active-minded Adirondacks hub of Saranac Lake, just seven miles from Lake Placid, is an ideal stepping-off point to explore thousands of miles of tree-shaded trails,

The splendid "high peaks" region of upstate New York has been an epicenter for wilderness play since the late 1800s, when Theodore Roosevelt visited and extolled the area's priceless natural resources. Outdoor recreation soon became a cornerstone of the area's economy and character, and it remains so today.

The active-minded Adirondacks hub of Saranac Lake, just seven miles from Lake Placid, is an ideal stepping-off point to explore thousands of miles of tree-shaded trails, hundreds of miles of waterways, and multitudes of mountaintops. And the historic Porcupine Inn is the area's perfect perch. The warm, elegant B&B is set on a wooded ridge with a panorama of peaks. The inn's wood floors, woven rugs, and carved staircase are classic Adirondacks, and guests can choose from a handful of classy rooms, including the Charles Suite, which has its own fireplace and screened-in porch. Mark Twain fans might opt for the brightly-lit Twain room, named for the legendary writer who is believed to have once slept there.

The Porcupine starts the day off right with a hearty, gourmet breakfast before the surrounding wilderness draws its guests outside. Trust us, you'll need the carbs. Seasonal adventures run the gamut, from tobogganing across a frozen lake or cross-country skiing hushed trails in winter to canoeing down nearby Saranac River or watching for beaver, eagles, and osprey in summer. Hike through dense forest in the company of black bears and snowshoe hares or bag a peak or two, including New York's highest, Mount Marcy (5,344 feet).

At the end of the day, guests can enjoy afternoon tea by one the Porcupine's six fireplaces, tuck into its well-stocked wine cellar, and settle down in one of its glassed-in porches overlooking a lush, three-acre garden. Or there's always the year-round outdoor hot tub, billiard lounge, and in-house massages to round things out.