A century of protecting wild places
Since 1922, the Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK) has been dedicated to connecting people with nature and protecting New York’s wild lands and waters. From humble beginnings as a small hiking group to becoming a statewide leader in outdoor recreation, education, and conservation, ADK’s mission has remained the same: work to protect New York State wild lands and waters by promoting responsible outdoor recreation and building a statewide constituency of land stewardship advocates.
ADK works to protect New York State wild lands and waters by promoting responsible outdoor recreation and building a statewide constituency of land stewardship advocates.
We are a leader in providing outdoor education, promoting responsible recreation, and organizing stewardship experiences. Since 1922, the organization has worked to increase access to the backcountry by building trails, conserving natural areas, and developing a stewardship community that supports the ethical and safe use of New York’s outdoor spaces. A member, donor, and volunteer-supported organization, ADK reaches across New York through its chapters to inspire people to enjoy the outdoors ethically.
Our story
For over a century, ADK has played a pivotal role in shaping outdoor recreation and conservation in New York. What began as a shared passion for the Adirondacks has grown into a statewide movement to protect, preserve, and celebrate the outdoors.
The Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK) is established in Albany on October 13, 1922, to facilitate trail creation and maintenance in the Forest Preserve.
ADK completes construction of the Northville-Placid Trail, originally a length of 135 miles.
Johns Brook Lodge opens its doors to hikers.
The newly constructed Adirondak Loj opens.
ADK publishes its first guidebook: Guide to Adirondack Trails, Northeastern Section.
ADK purchases the Heart Lake property and Adirondak Loj from the Lake Placid Club.
ADK’s first professional trail crew is created with a crew boss and five crew members.
ADK, DEC, and the Adirondack Chapter of The Nature Conservancy establish the Adirondack High Peaks Summit Stewardship Program in response to alarming declines of alpine habitat in the Adirondack High Peaks.
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Stewardship: ADK inspires people to protect public lands. We offer exciting opportunities to explore wild and natural places safely and with care.
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Community: ADK is a welcoming and supportive community of outdoor recreators, educators, and enthusiasts who work to give back to outdoor spaces. We are supportive and engage with people regardless of background and ability.
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Responsibility: ADK can protect public lands while we explore them by making decisions that reduce impacts. We actively take care of natural spaces and the environment. We are committed to carrying out work that creates a healthier environment for our community and the world.
Be part of our next 100 years
Our mission continues, and we need passionate supporters like you to carry it forward. Whether you become a member, volunteer, or donor, your support helps us protect the Adirondacks for future generations.