The Coldest Place in New York State: Indian Lake, Adirondacks

If you're chasing cold in New York, head northwest to the Adirondack High Peaks. The town of Indian Lake (Hamilton County) holds the state's lowest average annual temperature.

Climate Data

• Mean annual temperature: 38.6°F (3.7°C)
• Coldest month (January): 18.2°F avg (−7.7°C)
• Warmest month (July): 68.9°F avg (20.5°C)
• Record low: −45°F (−43°C) — among NY's coldest ever recorded

Why So Cold?

• Elevation: ~1,650 ft (500 m) — higher than most NY population centers
• Topography: Deep valley traps radiational cooling; surrounding peaks block moderating winds
• Continentality: Far from oceanic influence; Adirondack interior climate
• Snow cover: Persistent pack reflects insolation, reinforces cold

Other Notable Cold Spots

• Old Forge — "Snow Capital of the East," similar temps
• Saranac Lake — Historic cure-cottages, frigid winters
• Tupper Lake — Consistently sub-zero January nights

Indian Lake isn't just cold—it's a winter recreation hub (snowmobiling, ice fishing, cross-country skiing) where the freeze is the feature, not the bug.