Boating, Biking & Beyond: Check Out the Best Things to Do in Brant Lake, NY
Nestled in the Adirondack Park between Lake George and Schroon Lake, Brant Lake is a quaint hamlet in northern Warren County. Its namesake, the 5-mile long lake, draws fishing enthusiasts, boaters, paddlers, and others to the region. Learn about all of the fun things to do in Brant Lake.
Swim at the Beach and Spend a Day in Brant Lake
During the summer months, the public beach at Brant Lake awaits, conveniently situated opposite the Horicon Volunteer Fire Department at the lake's southern tip. This inviting spot offers a swim platform and a designated swimming area, all without any entry fee.
Bring your family for a day of sunbathing on the sandy shore and taking refreshing dips in the water. As you relax, you'll notice a charming stone fountain adding to the scene.
Parking isn't permitted along the beach, but you'll find spots available behind the nearby Horicon Community Center.
See Why the Lake Is a Hotspot for Boating, Paddling, and Fishing
One of the best ways to experience this Adirondack lake is on the water, and boating, paddling, and fishing are all permitted and fun ways to spend the day.
Boating
For boat owners seeking adventure on Brant Lake, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) provides a convenient public boat launch at the intersection of NY-8 and Co Rd 26.
This well-equipped facility features a hard surface ramp with parking space for approximately 11 vehicles and trailers, all without any fees. Typically operational from spring through fall, it offers easy access for boating enthusiasts.
If you're without a boat of your own, rentals are available at Brant Lake Marina or EZ Marine & Storage in Brant Lake, ensuring everyone can enjoy a day out on the water.
Paddling
Embrace the warmer months with kayaking and canoeing adventures on Brant Lake. Paddlers can access the lake from the DEC public boat launch.
Canoe, kayak, and SUP rentals are available nearby in Bolton Landing at the Lake George Kayak Company. There are other companies in the Lake George region that offer rentals as well.
Fishing
Don't miss out on the fishing opportunities at Brant Lake. Stocked annually with rainbow and brown trout, it's also home to largemouth and smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, brown bullhead, yellow perch, rock bass, pumpkinseed, and black crappie.
During the winter months, try your hand at ice fishing for an added challenge.
Grab at Bite to Eat in Brant Lake
While you're in Brant Lake, make sure to grab a bite at one of these great local options.
The Hub
This unique bike shop, bar, cafe, and community gathering spot is a perfect stopping point for any Brant Lake adventure. Enjoy locally sourced, delicious fare at the cafe with specialty paninis, pizza, and salads, along with a full bar and several tasty local brews.
Check their schedule for music & events during the summer for the best local music.
Jimbo's Club at the Point
Discover the Adirondack's best-kept secret at Jimbo's Club, where rustic charm meets city sophistication. From weddings to fine dining, conferences, and retreats, their 25-acre peninsula offers breathtaking views of the mountains right on scenic Brant Lake.
Indulge in exquisite cuisine with global influences, from French Onion Soup Gratinée to the Char-Grilled Boneless Pork Chop, or the Black Angus Ribeye. There are a variety of expertly crafted options made by their experienced chefs.
The restaurant is open to the public Thursday through Saturday from late fall to early spring.
The Trails Await! Explore on Foot or by Bike
The Brant Lake area is an excellent place to visit for off-the-water activities too. You can go hiking and biking on trails throughout the community, and we've highlighted some recommended ones below.
Biking Trails
Embark on an exciting mountain biking journey at the Brant Lake Bike Park, a professionally crafted singletrack trail system situated behind The Hub. Spanning 3.5 miles across 200 acres, this free and open-to-the-public park promises thrilling adventures for all biking enthusiasts.
Or, hit the road and bike your way along the 14.7-mile Brant Lake Loop. This scenic road ride also begins at The Hub, and it brings bikers around the entire lake and back. See a map »
Hiking Trails
Want to see some spectacular views of Brant Lake? Go to the Bartonville Mountain Hiking Trail, an easy-to-moderate 1.5-mile round trip hike that begins at The Hub in Brant Lake. Parking is available next to The Hub, and the trailhead is behind the shop.
For a longer hike, plan a trip to the nearby Lily Pond and Round Pound. This 5.2-mile round-trip hike features fairly easy terrain, but it can be muddy during periods of wet weather. See a map »
Another option is to head north toward the vast Pharaoh Lake Wilderness. The wilderness area contains a wide variety of trails, including the Pharaoh Lake Trail, which starts off of Pharaoh Road in Brant Lake.
Take a Driving Tour of This Scenic Region
Plan a road trip to soak in the scenery, whether it's a leisurely drive around the lake or a picturesque journey along the shoreline and through the mountains via NY-8.
For an especially scenic route, start your adventure in Bolton Landing:
- Begin by heading northwest on Bolton Landing-Riverbank Road.
- Access the Adirondack Northway via Exit 24, then head north and take Exit 25.
- Continue east on NY-8, tracing the shoreline of Brant Lake. As you proceed, the road transitions into Graphite Mountain Road.
- Stay on Graphite Mountain Road until you reach Hague and intersect with Route 9N. Turn right onto Route 9N, heading south back to Bolton Landing.
At the end of your trip, celebrate with a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants, such as Tavern on the Lake at Blue Water Manor, the Algonquin Restaurant, or Frederick's Restaurant & Lounge.
Whether you're seeking boating, biking, or other outdoor adventures, hop in the car and make your way to Brant Lake for your next memorable excursion.