The Best Places To See a Moose in Upstate New York

With its dense forests and expansive wilderness areas, New York provides a prime habitat for the majestic moose, making it a sought-after destination for those looking to experience the thrill of spotting a moose.

Moose season in New York typically begins in late September or early October, coinciding with the rut, or mating season, when bull moose become more active and vocal. This time of year allows people a better opportunity to see these elusive and massive animals.

People underestimate the size and temperament of moose. The average male moose weighs between 800 and 1,500 pounds while the average female moose weighs between 440 and 1,100 pounds. That's a whole lot of animal that could potentially do a whole lot of damage if provoked.

When you consider that the average horse is roughly 5 feet 4 inches tall and the average moose is about 7 feet tall, you can see why the moose is such a massive creature.

Most moose are not aggressive but just like humans, they can become irritated and aggravated when provoked. Seeing a moose is such an incredible thing that often people forget they shouldn't get too close or make loud sounds or even do ridiculous things like throw snowballs at the animals to get their attention.

If you want to see a moose in Upstate New York and understand that these animals are to be treated with nothing but respect and allowed space, there are a few places where you're more likely to see a moose than others.

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According to Visit Adirondacks, an estimated 400 moose call the mountain range home, and the top five best places to spot one is in Vermontville on Route 3, at Meacham Lake on Route 30, at Saranac Lake, at the Limekiln Lake-Cedar River Road, and at Lake Lila.