HikerQuests
HIKERQUESTS EDITORIAL

1885: the Forest Preserve enters the story

Lake George area · Adirondacks

Illustration: Lake George and Adirondack granite overlook
Regional concept illustration, not an archival photograph or exact view.

Town / regional context. The reference point is approximate; this story is not tied to your exact GPS position.

1800s · 1885

New York established the Forest Preserve in 1885. That decision is part of the background to hiking on protected state lands in the Adirondacks and Catskills. Do not assume every forested hillside has the same status. Identify the land manager and rules for your exact route. Ownership adds another layer to a map and distinguishes a regional conservation story from the history of a specific trail.

Source: New York State Archives · Park overview ↗

Editorial review: 2026-10-11. Check the source and official visitor information before travelling. A listed place may be private or inaccessible.

Sign in to save or add to your wall

Add your own photos to your photo wall →

TOWNS · TRAILS · CHALLENGES

Plan your next New York hiking day

Find trail routes & loops →

Explore the town & trail directory →

GOOD DAYS START WITH “WHO’S IN?”

Pass a little trail inspiration along.

Send this page to a friend, or make the caption your own and pair it with the page’s illustrated card.

Download card

Regional concept artwork, not a trail photograph, navigation map or completion award.
1885: the Forest Preserve enters the story — HikerQuests share card