St. John's in the Wilderness Episcopal Church

St. John's in the Wilderness is a stone and wood church in Paul Smiths in the Adirondacks featuring traditional architectural elements including a prominent bell tower and stained glass windows. The building shows a careful balance of sturdy materials and craftsmanship that allows it to sit naturally within the forest landscape.

The church was founded in 1876 by Dr. Edward Livingston Trudeau, whose legacy shaped the spiritual identity of the area. The original log building burned in 1928 and was replaced by the current stone structure, completed in 1930.

The church serves as the spiritual center for the local community while welcoming seasonal visitors who come to experience traditional Episcopal worship blended with contemporary elements. Its open approach makes it a place where both residents and transient guests feel they belong.

The location is best reached by car since it sits in a rural Adirondack area with limited public transportation access. The cemetery on the grounds is freely accessible and can be visited anytime, while the church itself is open during service hours.

The cemetery beside the church holds the graves of some of the region's most significant figures, including Dr. Trudeau and Paul Smith, the founder of the well-known lodge. This makes the place a quiet memorial to people who shaped the character of the Adirondack community.

Location: New York

GPS coordinates: 44.44060,-74.24690

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:00