Adirondack Regional Airport

Overview

Adirondack Regional Airport (SLK) serves as the main air gateway to the heart of the Adirondack Park in upstate New York. Located in the village of Saranac Lake, this regional airport primarily handles general aviation and seasonal commercial flights, connecting travelers to the remote wilderness and charming communities of the Adirondack Mountains. The airport is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts heading to ski resorts, hiking trails, and pristine lakes, as well as for those visiting nearby Lake Placid, home to the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics. With a single runway and a modest terminal, SLK offers a stress-free alternative to larger airports, providing direct access to one of the most scenic regions in the northeastern United States.

Location & Access

Adirondack Regional Airport is situated about 8 miles southeast of Saranac Lake village center, at 92 Airport Road. It lies within the boundaries of the Adirondack Park, the largest protected area in the contiguous United States, covering over six million acres of forests, mountains, and waterways. The airport is easily accessible by road via New York State Route 86, which connects to the major north-south artery of Interstate 87 (the Adirondack Northway). From the airport, it’s a 20-minute drive to Lake Placid (10 miles south), 30 minutes to Tupper Lake, and about 45 minutes to the town of Keene in the High Peaks region. For those without a car, taxi and rideshare services are available, and some hotels in the area offer shuttle services. Rental cars are available from on-site agencies, making it easy to explore the vast park.

Facilities

Adirondack Regional Airport provides essential amenities to ensure a comfortable experience for passengers. The terminal includes clean, accessible restrooms, with wheelchair-accessible toilets available. The entire facility is designed for ease of access: there is a wheelchair-accessible car park at the terminal entrance, and the entrance itself is step-free. Inside, travelers can find basic on-site services such as flight information displays, baggage handling, and a small waiting area. While the airport does not have a restaurant or duty-free shop, vending machines offer snacks and drinks. For flight-related needs, the airport provides pilot services and a fixed-base operator (FBO) for general aviation. Keep in mind that amenities are limited, so it’s wise to bring your own food and supplies for longer waits, especially during peak hours (typically 9–10 am) when flights are scheduled.

About the Region

The Adirondack Region is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and year-round recreational opportunities. Encompassing the Adirondack Park, the area features the Adirondack High Peaks—46 mountains over 4,000 feet in elevation—including Mount Marcy, the highest point in New York State. Hiking, camping, canoeing, and fishing are popular in summer, while winter draws skiers and snowboarders to resorts like Whiteface Mountain (near Wilmington) and Gore Mountain. The region is also famous for its pristine lakes: Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake form a chain connected by the Saranac River. Lake Placid itself is a historic resort town that hosted the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, and visitors can tour the Olympic sites, including the ski jumps and ice skating rinks. Beyond outdoor sports, the Adirondacks offer cultural attractions like the Adirondack Museum in Blue Mountain Lake and the Wild Center natural history museum in Tupper Lake. Wildlife is abundant—moose, black bears, and loons are commonly spotted. The airport serves as the ideal arrival point for those seeking both adventure and tranquility in this protected wilderness.

Practical Information

• Airport Code: SLK (ICAO: KSLK)
• Operator: Adirondack Regional Airport Commission
• Website: www.adirondackairport.com
• Phone: +1 518-891-4600
• Hours of Operation: The terminal is typically open during scheduled flight times. Since the airport is not open all day, it’s best to check the flight schedule and plan arrival accordingly. For general inquiries, call ahead.
• Parking: The airport offers free short-term and long-term parking in a lot adjacent to the terminal. Spaces are ample, and the lot is well-lit.
• Transportation: Rental car offices are located in the terminal. Taxi services operate on demand, and rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are available (though limited in rural areas). Some local hotels provide complimentary shuttles.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available inside the terminal building.

Before traveling, always verify current flight schedules and any seasonal changes, as commercial service may vary. The airport is a haven for those flying private or charter aircraft, offering a convenient entry to the Adirondacks without the crowds of larger airports. For the smoothest experience, arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for regional flights, as security lines are minimal.