Otsego Lake from Lake Front Park in Cooperstown. Photo by Randy Smith
It was James Fenimore Cooper who gave Otsego Lake the name “Glimmerglass” in his novel The Deerslayer. He described the nine-mile lake as ”a broad sheet of water, so placid and limpid that it resembled a bed of the pure mountain atmosphere, compressed into a setting of hills and woods…its margin was irregular, being indented by bays, and broken by many projecting, low points. At is northern…end, it was bounded by an isolated mountain, lower land falling off east and west, gracefully relieving the sweep of the outline.”
You can experience the landscape—or should we say lakescape—that inspired Cooper’s words today. Due to the foresight and generosity of the Clark family, much of the east side of Otsego Lake is forested and green. The region is further protected through the efforts of Otsego 2000 as the Glimmerglass Historic District.
You can explore the Glimmerglass Historic District by paddle, bike, hiking, and swimming.
Kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes are available to rent at multiple locations along the lake, including
Experience the Glimmerglass Historic District by Bike in this Loop Ride around the Lake
You may also enjoy visiting the Cooper Room at the Fenimore Art Museum to find out more about James Fenimore Cooper and his family. And, Hyde Hall, a British-American Country House built during the time of Jane Austen, offers tours. Located within Glimmerglass State Park.
Speaking of Glimmerglass State Park, this wonderful spot on the northern end of Otsego Lake offers swimming, hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, mountain biking, and road cycling.
Hungry? Restaurants with views of Otsego Lake and outdoor dining options include:
More things to do:
Enjoy views of Otsego Lake from Lake Front Park (north end of Pioneer Street in Cooperstown).
Browse the unique shops and antique stores in Springfield Center, and enjoy a meal at Sunflower Cafe.
Have a favorite restaurant or outdoor activity within the Glimmerglass Historic District? Let us know!
