Piseco, Arietta, Morehouse

Step into Adirondack Simplicity

Located around the sparkling waters of Piseco Lake, the quaint communities of Piseco and Arietta offer a peaceful retreat surrounded by vast wilderness, over 95% of the area is New York State Forest. Outdoor adventure is at the heart of life here, with two NYS campgrounds featuring beaches, boat launches, and canoe rentals. Nearby, the 133-mile Northville–Placid Trail and the short but scenic Panther Mountain hike provide opportunities to explore, while the Foxey Brown Trail offers gentle terrain for skiing, snowshoeing, and nature walks. Piseco’s small-town spirit shines during the annual Fly-In Breakfast and the long-running Piseco Lake Triathlon, both beloved local traditions. Visitors can stay lakeside at the Piseco Lake Lodge or the historic Irondequoit Inn and stock up on homemade donuts, ice cream, and camping supplies at the general store.

Just south, the hamlet of Morehouse, affectionately known as Morehouseville or Whoville, is small in population but rich in character. With one of New York’s tiniest post offices, a combined town hall, and a museum housed in an old church, this community embodies Adirondack charm. The recreation center and roadside flower shop add a welcoming touch, while scenic drives reveal quirky local sights, from Bigfoot statues to a replica of the Mayflower. Whether you’re exploring quiet backroads, planning a lakeside wedding, or simply soaking in mountain views, Piseco, Arietta, and Morehouse offer an authentic Adirondack experience filled with warmth, wonder, and wild beauty.

A couple hiking Panther Mountain in summer.

Fall foliage views.

A snowmobiler in Hamilton County.

Paddlers on a lake in the summer.

Things to do in Piseco, Arietta, and Morehouse

  • Panther Mountain – A popular hike that rewards adventurers with a short, steep climb and breathtaking views of Piseco Lake from the summit.
  • Piseco Lake Campground – Visitors can enjoy lakeside camping, relax on sandy beaches, and take advantage of boat launches and canoe rentals for a full Adirondack experience.
  • Annual Lion's Club Fly-In Breakfast – Each year, locals and visitors gather to watch small planes land and enjoy a festive community breakfast in Piseco.
  • Piseco Lake Triathalon – Every July, athletes and spectators come together to take part in this long-standing multi-sport event around Piseco Lake.
  • Morehouse Museum – Housed in a historic church, this small museum in Morehouse showcases the town’s unique history and local heritage.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where are Piseco, Arietta, and Morehouse located in New York?

Piseco and Arietta are neighboring communities centered around Piseco Lake in Hamilton County, in the heart of New York’s Adirondack Park. Morehouse lies just south of Piseco and Arietta, also in Hamilton County, surrounded by forested mountains, scenic backroads, and outdoor recreation opportunities. All three are in the central Adirondacks, roughly 10 miles south of Speculator.  

What lodging options are available in Piseco, Arietta, and Morehouse?

Visitors can choose from cozy lakeside inns, cabins, and lodges, including The Inn on Piseco Lake and the Piseco Lake Lodge. For a more rustic experience, there are two New York State campgrounds on Piseco Lake, offering campsites, beaches, and boat access. Nearby Speculator, just 10 miles north, also provides additional lodging, dining, and amenities for a convenient day trip or extended stay. 

What outdoor trails and areas are available for hiking, skiing, or snowmobiling in these towns?

Arietta and Piseco offer a variety of outdoor adventures year-round. Hikers can tackle the short but rewarding Panther Mountain trail or explore the gentle, scenic Foxey Brown Trail, which is also perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter. The nearby Northville–Placid Trail passes close to Piseco Lake for longer treks. Snowmobilers can enjoy local trails that wind through Hamilton County’s forests and open landscapes, connecting these small communities with the wider Adirondack trail network.  

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