Imagine a winter wonderland where Olympic dreams are born, nestled amidst breathtaking Adirondack scenery. This is Lake Placid, a village steeped in winter sports history and brimming with exciting activities for every adventurer. Tourists, locals, and Olympic Athletes alike patiently wait for cold weather to enjoy winter in Lake Placid.
Lake Placid, a charming village nestled in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, is synonymous with winter sports. Twice host to the Winter Olympic Games, this iconic destination boasts a rich sporting heritage and offers a diverse range of winter activities for all ages and interests. We’re sharing the best Lake Placid winter activities so you can plan an incredible winter vacation in one of our favorite Adirondacks towns!
Best Lake Placid Winter Activities
Winter months in Lake Placid are some of my favorite times to visit! Lake Placid winter activities provide some of the best indoor and outdoor winter fun in New York State.
1. Skiing & Snowboarding
One of the best Lake Placid winter activities includes spending time at an olympic ski resort! Whiteface Mountain, home to world-class skiing, was the site of the 1980 alpine skiing events.
Whiteface has the greatest vertical drop East of the Rockies at 3,340 feet making it a popular ski resort with challenging terrain. It offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the Adirondack Mountains, Vermont, and even Canada on clear days.
Lovingly called ‘Ice Face’ by many who frequent her trails, Whiteface Mountain actually earns its namesake from the white igneous rock its composed of. Gabbroic Anorthosite is an igneous rock with fewer dark crystals, making it almost white. In the winter months, however, the mountain is white with snow and ice!
2. Ice Skating & Hockey
Herb Brooks Arena is synonymous with hockey history, most famously for hosting the “Miracle on Ice” during the 1980 Winter Olympics, where the underdog US team defeated the heavily favored Soviet Union. This iconic victory captivated the nation and remains a defining moment in American sports history. The arena has also hosted numerous NCAA hockey championships, solidifying its place as a significant venue for the sport.
Not an olympic athlete looking to play hockey? That’s okay! Public skating is available at the Olympic Center in Lake Placid, allowing visitors to experience the ice where legends skated. The Olympic Center also features the 1932 Rink, another historic venue, offering additional opportunities for ice skating. If you want to ice skate outside, check out the olympic speed skating oval next door!
Herb Brooks Arena has hosted a variety of youth and prestigious hockey tournaments throughout the years. Notably, it has served as the venue for the ECAC Hockey Championships, showcasing the top collegiate teams in the region. The arena has also hosted professional hockey games and international competitions, attracting top-tier talent to the ice where history was made.
3. Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing
One of the best places for winter hiking in New York State is Lake Placid and its surrounding area. It’s the perfect place for beginner snowshoers looking for easy trails that lead to epic views and a world of winter fun for experienced winter hikers.
Those new to winter hiking and snowshoeing should check out High Falls Gorge for easy access to some epic waterfall views. Pay to rent snowshoes and enjoy the trails and then warm up at the River View Café with a warm beverage and a baked good!
Depending on weather conditions, avid hikers have access to multiple trailheads that lead to spectacular views of the Adirondack High Peaks! If hiking is at the top of your Lake Placid winter activities list, you should cross reference our list of best Adirondack Winter Hikes with the 15 Best Lake Placid Hiking Trails to find the best hike for you.
4. Winter Olympic Sites
Lake Placid Olympic Sites offer a unique opportunity to experience the legacy of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics. The Olympic Center, located in downtown Lake Placid, is home to the famous Herb Brooks Arena, where the “Miracle on Ice” took place. Visitors can tour the arena, enjoy public skating sessions, and explore the Olympic Museum, which showcases memorabilia and exhibits from both Olympic Games. Admission to the Olympic Museum typically ranges from $10-$15 for adults.
The Olympic Jumping Complex, situated on a hill overlooking the village, provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can ride the Skyride to the top of the hill, explore the ski jumping towers, and learn about the history of ski jumping in Lake Placid. Admission to the Skyride usually costs around $10-$15 per person.
The Mt. Van Hoevenberg Olympic Sports Complex offers a variety of winter activities, including a bobsled track and luge rides, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The complex also features the Cliffside Coaster, a thrilling ride that takes you down the historic bobsled run. Prices for activities at Mt. Van Hoevenberg vary depending on the chosen activity, with bobsled and luge rides typically costing around $50-$100 per person.
5. Saranac Lake Winter Carnival
The Saranac Lake Winter Carnival is a beloved annual tradition that celebrates the joys of winter in the Adirondack Mountains. This iconic 10-day festival features a dazzling array of events and activities for all ages at the end of January/beginning of February.
The carnival offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with festive parades, exciting competitions, and a variety of entertainment options. From ice sculpting demonstrations and thrilling winter sports performances to live music, delicious food vendors, and cozy gatherings in local pubs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The Saranac Lake Winter Carnival is a cherished community event that brings together locals and visitors alike to embrace the spirit of winter and create lasting memories. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a chance to soak in the festive atmosphere, this winter wonderland offers an unforgettable experience.
6. Dog Sledding
Looking for a unique experience? This is one of the Lake Placid winter activities you’ll never forget. Dog sledding in Lake Placid offers a unique and exhilarating winter adventure. Imagine gliding across the frozen surface of Mirror Lake, pulled by a team of energetic Alaskan Huskies. This thrilling experience allows you to connect with nature and witness the power and grace of these magnificent animals.
Thunder Mountain Dog Sled Tours provides exciting rides on Mirror Lake. They operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to secure your spot. Their experienced mushers ensure a safe and enjoyable ride for all ages.
Mike Arnold Dog Sled Rides is another popular option in Lake Placid. They also offer thrilling rides on Mirror Lake, showcasing the beauty of the winter landscape. Their knowledgeable guides provide insights into dog sledding and the unique environment of the Adirondacks.
7. Cross Country Skiing
Wan’t to ski but weary of downhill skills or prices? Check out Lake Placid’s cross-country skiing trails!
The Adirondack Mountain Club’s Cascade Welcome Center is a year-round outdoor recreation and information center that boasts some pretty incredible cross country ski trails. 12 miles (20km) of trails are open year-round and groomed for classic skiing, skate skiing, and snowshoeing throughout the winter.
The network features beginner-friendly and rolling terrain as well as steeper hills on the south end for a fair price. Those in need of rentals can enjoy a full day setup for $35; if you have your own gear, it’s $18 for a trail pass. Adirondack Mountain Club members ski for free all season!
8. Shopping on Main Street
Lake Placid’s quaint downtown area offers shopping and dining! Main Street it home to some of my favorite shops and eateries in the Adirondacks; it also boasts a gift shop or two where you can find just about any souvenir you might be looking for. Bonus points if you’re here in December and early January as it becomes a holiday village stroll that is simply magical with fresh snow!
If you’re looking for outdoor gear, check out Eastern Mountain Sports. I’ve purchased some of my best winter coats from this very location! Looking more for Ski and snowboarding gear specifically, step down into Lake Placid Ski and Board! This is actually where I upgraded my snowboard and bindings a few years ago…
If you’re trying to eat on Main Street, Smoke Signals and Dancing Bears Restaurant are two of my all time favorites for dinner! If I’m looking for breakfast, The Breakfast Club is my spot with its long list of tasty mimosa options. And if you’re looking for a treat after your more adventurous Lake Placid Winter Activities, check out Emma’s Creamery or Adirondack Popcorn Co.
9. Winter Olympics Museum
The Lake Placid Olympic Museum is a treasure trove for sports enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Located within the iconic Olympic Center, it chronicles the thrilling history of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympic Games held in Lake Placid.
It may be fairly small, but it allows visitors to delve into captivating exhibits showcasing rare artifacts, including medals, uniforms, and equipment used by legendary athletes. Interactive displays bring the excitement of the Games to life, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of competition through videos, photographs, and immersive technologies.
The museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about the inspiring stories of Olympic champions, the evolution of winter sports, and the enduring legacy of the Games in Lake Placid. Whether you’re a seasoned sports fan or simply curious about Olympic history, the Lake Placid Olympic Museum offers an engaging and unforgettable experience
10. Toboggan Chute
The Lake Placid Toboggan Chute is a thrilling winter activity that offers a unique and exhilarating experience. Located near the center of town, this iconic structure sends riders soaring down an icy chute at high speeds onto the frozen surface of Mirror Lake.
Built upon a former ski jump trestle, the Toboggan Chute provides a thrilling ride for all ages. Toboggans can accommodate up to four people, making it a fun activity for families and groups of friends. The cost includes toboggan rental and unlimited rides during the operating session.
However, it’s important to note that the Toboggan Chute’s operation is weather-dependent. Sufficient ice thickness on Mirror Lake is crucial for safety, and the opening date can vary each year. The official website can provide you with all the information you’re looking for!
Tips for Planning Your Winter Trip to Lake Placid
Here are a few things to help you make the most of your Lake Placid winter activities.
Best Time to Visit:
Visiting Lake Placid during school breaks can be exciting, but it also means facing larger crowds and potentially higher prices for accommodations. Popular school breaks, such as Christmas, the long MLK weekend, and Presidents’ Week will see a significant influx of visitors. While this can create a lively atmosphere, it may also lead to longer wait times at attractions and limited availability at popular restaurants.
For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting Lake Placid during the shoulder seasons: late November, early December, or late March/early April. If you have to visit in the heart of it all, plan to stay Sunday – Wednesday nights. These periods often offer fewer crowds, more affordable accommodations, and potentially better snow conditions (March/April). You might also encounter some exciting late-season deals on lift tickets and other winter activities.
Where to Stay:
For a truly luxurious winter escape, consider staying at the High Peaks Resort or the Whiteface Lodge. High Peaks Resort offers stunning views of Mirror Lake and features elegant accommodations, a renowned spa, and fine dining. Whiteface Lodge is another top choice, boasting spacious suites, a world-class spa, and an array of family-friendly amenities.
For more budget-friendly options, consider charming bed and breakfasts like the Interlaken Inn or the Stagecoach Inn. These historic inns offer cozy accommodations and a taste of local charm. Alternatively, explore vacation rentals through platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, which can offer more space and kitchen facilities for families or groups.
Getting Around:
Public transportation is practically unheard of in Lake Placid so I would recommend renting a car and/or driving your own if you’re road tripping. Many of your winter adventures require some drive time; snowboarding, cross country skiing, and access to various hiking trailheads are a short drive away.
The colder month’s can make it tough to walk around town, however, downtown is very walkable! You can reach most olympic venues and major restaurants from a lot of local accommodations. There is a free shuttle service, The Placid Xprss, that runs through the Village of Lake Placid 7 days a week.
Packing Essentials:
Most Lake Placid Winter Activities require snow, which also requires cold temperatures. It’s important that you are prepared for the weather with appropriate clothes and accessories.
We’ve shared a few cute winter hiking outfits with perfect cold-weather layering tips and tricks. Rule of thumb? You want warm and cozy baselayers and a water and wind proof outter laer on both your upper and lower body. Add in warm accessories like winter boots, mittens, and a fleece hat and you’ll be prepared for a perfect winter getaway.
Legacy Pass:
The Lake Placid Legacy Olympic Sites Passport is a fantastic way to experience the best of what Lake Placid has to offer. This value-packed pass provides access to several iconic sites, including the Whiteface Mountain Cloudsplitter Gondola, the Olympic Jumping Complex Skyride, skating on the Olympic Oval, and entry to the Lake Placid Olympic Museum.
Beyond these exciting activities, the Passport also includes a 10% discount at various retail stores and food and beverage vendors within the Legacy Sites, making it an even more attractive option for visitors.
Adirondack Mountain Club Membership:
The Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of the Adirondack Park and promoting responsible outdoor recreation. An ADK membership provides numerous benefits for visitors to the region and if you’re visiting multiple times in the year or for an extended amount of time, it may benefit you too! These benefits include discounts on ADK publications, such as trail maps and guidebooks, which are invaluable resources for planning hikes and exploring the Adirondacks. Members also receive discounts on outdoor education programs, allowing them to enhance their outdoor skills and learn more about the unique ecology of the region. Furthermore, ADK membership provides discounted parking at the LOJ, a trail pass at Cascade Ski Center, and more! By supporting the ADK, members contribute to the conservation efforts that protect the pristine beauty of the Adirondacks for generations to come.
Be Flexible:
Weather conditions can change quickly in the Adirondacks. Be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly and embrace the unexpected!
Some great backup activities include checking out the Wild Center in Tupper Lake, checking out the new Adirondack Rail Trail, and visiting nearby Adirondack Towns that are lesser visited.
Conclusion
Lake Placid transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months, offering a diverse range of activities for every visitor. From thrilling downhill skiing and snowboarding at Whiteface Mountain to the historic charm of the Olympic Center and its iconic Herb Brooks Arena, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures, exploring the legacy of the Winter Olympics, or simply enjoying the cozy atmosphere of a charming mountain village, Lake Placid provides an unforgettable winter escape.
So, bundle up, embrace the winter wonderland, and discover the magic of Lake Placid. Explore the Olympic sites, indulge in winter sports, and savor the unique charm of this historic village. With its breathtaking scenery, rich history, and endless opportunities for adventure, Lake Placid promises an unforgettable winter getaway that will leave you with lasting memories.