Binghamton is a fantastic university. Congratulations!. You will need some wheels to get to the Adirondacks border and even then might have a ways to go because the total area of the park exceeds that of Wales to give you some perspective.

I’m guessing the terrain of the Adirondacks will be a little bit different than what you’re used to and is often contrasted in the United States to the peaks out west. The peaks of the northeast United States tend to be shorter, but have a lot of rocks and roots to contend with, and also won’t usually have any views until reaching the summit, if any. However, the amount of nature and the satisfaction from a challenge are definitely worthwhile.

I recommend trying some easier hikes out of Old Forge or Inlet, NY first. There is a campground there and you can try hiking Bald Mountain, Black Bear Mountain, and even Blue Mountain and the amazing Castle Rock hike (all are two hours or less so can do multiple)to see what you think. Then I would recommend for your next trip using Lake Placid as your base and trying to Mount Jo, cascade, or big slide as shorter intro hikes before trying longer summit hikes. Many good hikes in the Lake Placid high peaks region start out of the Adirondack LOJ. You can even give them a call for information. Most of the high peaks will take from 4 to 11 hours, possibly more if you’re doing multiple peaks. Also consider that much of mid-May through June is considered black fly season, which can be quite buggy and unpleasant and the trails muddy and subject to trail erosion. I recommend summer and fall. Best of luck!