When you buy a home in the Adirondacks, it comes with significant added value beyond return on property investment. Being part of the region’s unique lifestyle and storied past is another major benefit. In particular, living in the Ausable River valley and becoming part of Ausable River history is an experience that weaves together past, nature, and community.
Flowing for over 90 miles through the heart of the Adirondacks, the Ausable River (pronounced “aw-SAY-bull”) has shaped the land, culture, and livelihoods of the region for centuries. Its name, derived from the French “Au Sable” meaning “of sand,” was given by explorer Samuel de Champlain in 1609 due to the river’s sandy delta near Lake Champlain. Today, the river is more than just a waterway—it’s a symbol of endurance, beauty, and opportunity.
The Ausable River is broken into two branches, the East Branch and the West Branch. The East Branch starts near the Upper and Lower Ausable lakes flowing through Keene Valley, Upper Jay, Jay and finishing in Ausable Forks. The West Branch starts east of Mount Jo flowing through Lake Placid and Wilmington down to the northeast part of Ausable Forks. Here, the two branches merge and continue on to Lake Champlain.
Adirondack Past – Ausable River History
A River That Built Communities
In the 19th century, the Ausable River powered the growth of towns like Keeseville and Ausable Forks. Sawmills and iron forges lined its banks, bringing industry to the wilderness. Many of the charming homes and historic buildings found in these towns today were built during this era, and they offer unique opportunities for buyers looking for character-rich properties with a sense of place and rooted in Ausable River history.
A Legacy of Conservation
The East and West branches of the Ausable River run through some of the most pristine wilderness in the Adirondack Park. Thanks to the work of local conservation groups like the Ausable Freshwater Center, the river remains a haven for fly-fishing, kayaking, and peaceful riverside living. It’s also a critical habitat for native brook trout and countless bird species.
For homeowners who cherish nature, there’s no better setting to wake up to every day. Through town and community organization sponsored activities, it’s easy to get involved with conservation efforts and contribute to strong Ausable River history preservation efforts. Multiple clean up, planting and other events are held throughout the year in Ausable River communities.
Real Estate Along the Ausable
Whether you’re looking for a cozy riverside cabin, a restored Victorian in a walkable village, or a secluded piece of land to build your dream home, the Ausable River area offers a range of properties to suit your lifestyle. Some of the best memories to be made are on various Adirondack riverfronts. Take your pick of your best day to make your own Ausable River history memories: float down the river in a canoe or kayak, cast a line out, or enjoy your morning coffee in a riverside Adirondack chair.
At Adirondack Premier Properties, our agents live and work in the region, and we can’t overstate how special this area is. Beyond the scenic beauty visible everywhere you look, close knit communities, a storied past, and deep connection with nature makes this an exceptional place to live.
With so many miles of shoreline, there is a wide variety of communities and experiences to choose from when narrowing down a location for your home purchase. Each town has its own unique flare and Ausable River history. Communities along the river include Lake Placid, Wilmington, Keene Valley, Jay, Upper Jay, Ausable Forks, and Keeseville.
While the communities listed above do not represent all the communities along the Ausable, we suggest traveling around to explore different towns and consider which best fits your lifestyle. Each Adirondack community offers its own unique feeling and lifestyle. While there are similarities between towns, there might be little variations or amenities in some that make you feel more at home.
If you’re considering a move to the Adirondacks or are simply looking for a peaceful escape steeped in Ausable River history, we would love to show you what life along the Ausable can offer. Contact one of our real estate agents to start your search today!