Off-Site Activities

In Lake Placid NY

A Perfect Four-Season Destination

Lake Placid, New York is a four-season destination, offering visitors a diverse list of experiences,
from the rustic and relaxing environment, to unique events and activities year-round.
The Village of Lake Placid and nearby Whiteface Mountain offers great shopping, natural beauty,
and the timeless atmosphere of life in the Adirondacks.

Lake Placid Olympic Facilities & Museum

Open year-round | 518-302-5326
This is where ‘The Miracle’ happened in 1980, the US Hockey Team’s victory over the Soviet Union. Visit the Lake Placid Olympic Center, Olympic Jumping Complex, or Museum! Guided tours available. Open daily from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

High Falls Gorge

Open year-round | 518-946-2278
In the shadow of Whiteface Mountain you can take a nature walk to view Ausable River spilling over ancient granite cliffs. Sturdy bridges, walkways and trails provide safe access to breathtaking views and photographic vantage points.

Olympic Sports Complex Bobsled Ride

Summer/Winter | 518-523-4436
Ride with a professional driver and brakeman down the state-of-the-art competition track at the Olympic Sports Complex. Each sled has been custom-built for a safe, comfortable, exhilarating ride of a lifetime. Riders receive a complimentary bobsled pin and commemorative photo.

Santa’s Workshop at North Pole

Summer/Winter | 518-946-2211
The magic of Christmas comes alive again when you visit with Santa Claus at his home and workshop, a village of alpine flavor nestled on the side of Whiteface Mountain. Founded in 1949 and designed by Arto Monaco.

Olympic Jumping

Open year-round | 518-523-2202
The 120m jump tower features a skydeck, accessible by an elevator that will give you a sky-high perspective on the art of the Ski Jump.

Scenic Flight

Open year-round |(240) 461-1543
A magnificent tour over the Adirondacks, 25 minutes in duration.

Whiteface Memorial Highway

Summer only | 518-946-2223
Ascends to the summit of the fifth highest mountain in the Adirondacks. At the summit parking area, take a short hike to the very top or hop on the in-mountain elevator for a truly amazing 360° view of the surrounding wilderness.

The Wild Center

Summer 7 days/off summer – weekends only | 518-359-7800
Natural History Museum of the Adirondacks is a science-based museum dedicated to understanding this rare place. It has live exhibits, live feeds and live animals. Located in the town of Tupper Lake, NY, approximately a 35 minute drive.

Whiteface Mountain Scenic Gondola Ride

Summer / Winter | 518-946-2223
The 8-passenger Cloudsplitter Gondola takes you to the top of Little Whiteface in less than fifteen minutes. The ride takes you over ski trails, woods and scenic overlooks with breathtaking views. At the summit of Little Whiteface (3676’), an observation deck and picnic tables await.

Ausable Chasm

Open year-round | 518-834-7454
Walk the nature trails in the midst of the primeval Adirondack Forest. Stroll past Rainbow Falls, Elephant’s Head, Column Rock, Hyde’s Cave and the eerie quiet of Mystic Gorge. Descend hundreds of feet and walk the natural stone walkways within the Chasm. The Ausable Chasm is located an hour away.

For a full list of “Things To Do In Lake Placid”, please also visit the Lake Placid/Essex County Convention and Visitors Bureau’s website

Hiking in Lake Placid

Home to the largest trail system in the nation, the Adirondacks offers some of the best hiking in the East with over 2,000 miles of marked hiking trails. Most notable among these are the region’s trails leading to the 46 High Peaks, most of which are over 4,000 feet. With so many mountains and trails to choose from, it’s no surprise that hiking and climbing are favorites among Lake Placid’s outdoor activities.

Click here for a complete hiking guide.

Downhill Skiing 

Whiteface Mountain – also known as the Olympic Mountain, boasts the greatest vertical drop east of the Rockies and is just a short drive from Whiteface Lodge. Whiteface Mountain offers challenging terrain across two peaks, as well as ample beginner and intermediate trails to accommodate skiers and riders of all levels. The mountain provides rentals & tuning, children’s programs, private and group lessons, restaurants, cafes, and trails stretching over 22 miles.

XC Skiing/Snowshoeing

Throughout the Adirondacks, cross-country ski trails traverse frozen lakes, dash along forested glades and circumnavigate nearly every town in the region. It is one of the most easily accessible – and easiest to learn – winter sports. Trek along the famous Northville-Placid Trail, or ski from Keene to Saranac Lake exclusively on the Jackrabbit Trail. Grab a headlamp and enjoy skiing under the stars. Many cross-country ski trails are multi-use, offering Adirondack snowshoeing tracks. Pack binoculars for wildlife viewing and a winter picnic to enjoy on a soft blanket of snow.

  • Mt. Van Hoevenberg Cross Country & Biathlon Center
    220 Bobsled Run Lane, Lake Placid, NY 12946
    This former Olympic venue includes miles of groomed trails that are perfect for all ability levels. The Nordic Terrain Park at Mt. Van Hoevenberg is a unique attraction in the Adirondacks, and day trail passes and rentals are available.
  • Whiteface Club & Resort
    373 Whiteface Inn Lane, Lake Placid, NY 12946
    Visit Whiteface Club & Resort during the winter season and check out its Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Center. Take lessons, rent equipment, and then explore the resort’s groomed cross-country ski trails.
  • Cascade Cross-Country Ski Center
    4833 Cascade Road, Lake Placid, NY 12946
    This is a full service cross-country ski center that features miles of groomed trails, a Nordic shop, lessons, and more. Daily trail passes and season passes are available for all ages. Skis may also be taken off-site to any local trails of your choice.
  • Peninsula Nature Tails
    Peninsula Way, Lake Placid, NY 12946

    The DEC maintains the old access roads and new trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other seasonal recreational activities. The site is easily accessible, and there are no restrictions.
  • Jackrabbit Ski Trail
    Saranac Lake to Keene
    The 20+ mile Jackrabbit Ski Trail links sections of wilderness ski trails with populated areas and existing cross-country ski centers. Snowshoeing is also permitted on the trail.
  • Paul Smith’s College VIC
    8023 NY-30, Paul Smiths, NY 12970
    Paul Smith’s Visitor Interpretive Center has over 25 miles of trails for cross-country skiing and other winter activities. Trails are usually groomed 4 feet wide, and they are open from dawn to dusk. Visitors can rent skis, but there are fees to access the trail system.
  • Dewey Mountain
    Rte 3, Saranac Lake, NY 12983
    Dewey Mountain Recreation Center in Saranac Lake offers day passes and season passes for access to its trail network. Cross-country ski rentals are available.

Snowmobiling

Embrace the cold by riding on groomed trails throughout the Adirondacks. Local vendors such as Farmhouse Snowmobiling and Adirondack Snowmobiles offer guided snowmobile tours on both single and double sleds. Reservations are required.

Ice Fishing
The Adirondacks has an abundance of water bodies and a reputation for long, cold winters which makes it a natural fit for ice fishing. In addition, many of the lakes are not only scenic but they contain large trout and northern pike, along with abundant populations of yellow perch.

Ice fishing generally starts in December after a few inches form on ponds and lakes, but the early season ice can be hard to predict because of thaws and changing weather patterns.

Venture out on your own or Contact Whiteface Lodge Resort Concierge for guided trips with a trusted local guide.

Sleigh Rides

Enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow to experience the spirit of the season! Wrap yourself up in warm blankets and hot cocoa while enjoy the beautiful landscapes. The Lake Clear Lodge offers lantern-lit sleigh rides and even a winter speakeasy experience. Reservations are required.

Dogsledding

Experience Dog Sledding on the ice of Mirror Lake. Visitors can walk down and pay the driver directly to experience the exciting ride. The rides are typically 10 minutes long and ride consist of a loop around the lake.  Dog sledding is available during the winter season and is dependent on the condition of the ice. Weekends and holiday hours are approximately 10 AM – 4 PM. Reservations are not accepted.

Toboggan Chute 
The Lake Placid Toboggan Chute, located on Parkside Drive, adjacent to the Post Office, has been in operation since the 1960’s. The North Elba Park District currently operates the slide. Recently rebuilt from the ground up, our current structure replaced a 30′ high converted ski jump trestle.

Toboggans are sent down ice covered chutes onto frozen Mirror Lake. Depending on weather conditions toboggans can travel over 1,000 feet once they reach the frozen lake surface. To insure the safety of riders only one sled is sent down at a time. Families have always said that their visit to the Toboggan Chute was a highlight of their winter vacation.

Admission prices of $10 students and $15 for adults allows guests to slide as much as they want during the scheduled times.

Ice Skating 
The Olympic Center and Olympic Oval in the village of Lake Placid offer open skating times with skate rentals. Skate outdoors on the oval or indoors on one of the Olympic rinks! The schedule may vary and is dependent on athletes and training times. For those who want to skate under the open sky, the village prepares a beautiful skating loop on Mirror Lake and several cleared natural rinks for pick up ice hockey. This is free and open to the public.

Enjoy our Lakefront Beach Canoe Club

The Canoe Club invites you to enjoy the natural surroundings and beauty of Lake Placid. Help yourself to one of our canoes or kayaks and embark on a tranquil excursion on your own or bring a companion! Canoe Bar and Grille provides food and full bar service for your enjoyment! Seasonal hours of operation apply.

Boating

Captain Inclusive Rides:

Enjoy a memorable excursion on Lake Placid, departing from our Canoe Club. Three motor boats may be rented by making reservations with Concierge – our Ski Nautique speed boat, Hacker-Craft, and pontoon boat. Each motor boat is escorted by a certified driver. Click here for details

Boat Rentals:

Biking

The Olympic Cross Country Ski Center is a cross country mountain bike center in summer and fall. They offer 50km of groomed trails from easy cruisers to more rolling terrain.

Downhill Mountain Bike Center is located at Whiteface Mountain and offers 2,400 vertical feet of descent on a variety of intermediate and advanced terrain that crisscrosses the mountain on wide, hard-packed dirt maintenance roads and single track trails.

Additionally, there are two shops in town that rent both mountain and road bikes.

High Peaks Cyclery
2733 Main Street, Lake Placid
518-523-3764

Placid Planet Bicycles
2242 Saranac Avenue, Lake Placid
518-523-4128

Fishing

Lake Placid offers some of the finest fishing opportunities in the Adirondacks! Whether Fly Fishing or Reel Fishing, the surrounding waterways are home to a variety of trout, and a multitude of other species. Our Concierge will be delighted to arrange an outing with an extraordinary guide, upon request!

Golf

Lake Placid boasts some of the finest golf courses in the Northeast. In close proximity we have three premier courses. For further details you may wish to visit Lake Placid Golf Courses. While we are not affiliated with any one course we are happy to arrange for tee times to suit your schedule.

Kayaking & Canoeing

Whether you are in search of tranquility or a fun, family outing… Lake Placid lakes, rivers, and ponds await you! Our Canoe Club offers complimentary canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats on a first come, first served basis .

Lake Placid Boat Rentals
3 George Bliss Ln, Lake Placid
518-523-3219

Mirror Lake Boat Rental
Main Street, Lake Placid
518- 524-7890

Adirondack Lakes & Trails Outfitters
541 Lake Flower Ave, Saranac Lake
518-891-7450

Rock Climbing

The Adirondacks are known as one of the best places for rock climbing in the country. Participants learn how to tie a figure 8 knot, do low level climbing and all equipment is included. A few guides in the area have been here for over 10 years. In addition, several of the younger guides have climbed all around the world. Contact the concierge to find a Guide Company to customize your experience.

Whitewater Rafting

The Hudson River Gorge is 17 miles of class II to V rapids through beautiful Adirondack wilderness scenery. Trips are offered by the Adirondac Rafting Company on the Hudson River in Indian Lake (90 minutes from the Whiteface Lodge). The Hudson is a full day of fun, rated as one of the top trips in the United States. The individual rate is $85 per person. Depart the Lodge at approx. 7:30 AM for a 9 AM arrival in Indian Lake and enjoy 4 to 5 hours on 17 miles of white water in the beautiful Adirondack wilderness!

Olympic Venues

Whiteface Mountain
The 8-passenger Cloudsplitter Gondola takes you to the top of Little Whiteface in less than fifteen minutes. The ride takes you over ski trails, woods and scenic overlooks with breathtaking views. At the summit of Little Whiteface (3676′), an observation deck and picnic tables await.

Memorial Highway
Travel the historical route of Veteran’s Memorial Highway, to the summit of Whiteface Mountain! Opened to the public in 1936, the spectacular views of the Adirondack Park have awed countless visitors, as they ascend to the top of 4,867-foot high Whiteface Mountain!

Olympic Jumping Complex
Ride the chairlift and glass elevator to the top of the 120m tower for an “athlete’s-eye-view” from the enclosed observation deck.

Olympic Center
Olympic Museum is a must-see when you are in Lake Placid. Explore exhibits from both the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, with video highlights, athletes’ memorabilia, and lots of history. It’s open daily from 10 AM till 5 PM with guided tours at 10 AM, 11:30 AM and 1 PM.

Olympic Sports Complex Bobsled Experience
Experience the thrills of the 1980 Bobsled track, home to former generations of Olympians! A professional driver and brakeman will navigate along through the twists and turns, beginning at the half mile point!

These attractions are open for a vast majority of the year, however, temporary shoulder season closures may impact your experience. Please visit attraction website or contact Whiteface Lodge Resort Concierge for specific operating dates and hours.

Olympic Venues

Whiteface Mountain
The 8-passenger Cloudsplitter Gondola takes you to the top of Little Whiteface in less than fifteen minutes. The ride takes you over ski trails, woods and scenic overlooks with breathtaking views. At the summit of Little Whiteface (3676′), an observation deck and picnic tables await.

Olympic Jumping Complex
Ride the chairlift and glass elevator to the top of the 120m tower for an “athlete’s-eye-view” from the enclosed observation deck.

Olympic Center
Olympic Museum is a must-see when you are in Lake Placid. Explore exhibits from both the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, with video highlights, athletes’ memorabilia, and lots of history. It’s open daily from 10 AM till 5 PM with guided tours at 10 AM, 11:30 AM and 1 PM.

High Falls Gorge

In the shadow of Whiteface Mountain you can take a nature walk to view Ausable River spilling over ancient granite cliffs. Sturdy bridges, walkways and trails provide safe access to breathtaking views and photographic vantage points.

Scenic Flight

A magnificent tour over the Adirondacks, 30 minutes in duration. Choose to ride over the highest peaks in the state, over the Olympic village and Whiteface Mountain Area, or over the chain of lakes including Lake Flower, Mckenzie Pond, Kiwassa Lake, Lake Colby and the Upper, Lower and Middle Saranac Lakes. No reservations required!

Ausable Chasm

Walk the nature trails in the midst of the primeval Adirondack Forest. Stroll past Rainbow Falls, Elephant’s Head, Column Rock, Hyde’s Cave and the eerie quiet of Mystic Gorge. Descend hundreds of feet and walk the natural stone walkways within the Chasm. The Ausable Chasm is located an hour away.

Wild Center

Natural History Museum of the Adirondacks is a science-based museum dedicated to understanding this rare place. It has live exhibits, live feeds and live animals. Located in the town of Tupper Lake, NY, approximately a 35 minute drive.

Hiking

The North Country is one of nature’s extravagant playgrounds, offering tranquil walks winding through the woods and magnificent hikes throughout the world renowned 46 Peaks! Our Concierge offers assistance with recommendations tailored to ability.

Fishing

Lake Placid offers some of the finest fishing opportunities in the Adirondacks! Whether Fly Fishing or Reel Fishing, the surrounding waterways are home to a variety of trout, and a multitude of other species. Our Concierge will be delighted to arrange an outing with an extraordinary guide, upon request!

Lake Placid is best known as the two-time site of the Winter Olympics.  Lake Placid first hosted the winter games in 1932 and it hosted the event again 48 years later in 1980. In the United States, the village is especially remembered as the site of the 1980 USA–USSR hockey game, the so-called “Miracle on Ice“; when a group of American college students and amateurs upset the heavily favored Soviet national ice hockey team 4–3 and two days later won the gold medal.  Another high point during the 1980 Games was speed-skater Eric Heiden‘s performance, winning five gold medals.  Travelers now come to Lake Placid NY from all over the world to experience cozy alpine charm and a variety of vacation activities (link to our“Attractions”) in our all-season resort town. The Olympic spirit is alive and well with Year-Round Olympic Experiences (“Whiteface Facilities”) for all ages including bobsled runs, skating, Olympic museum, gondola rides and athlete shows and competitions!

The timing couldn’t be better to plan your vacation to Lake Placid and the Adirondacks.  Summer season activities will soon blend together with the spectacular fall foliage and then give way to a winter wonderland!  Let our professional concierge team(“Concierge Services“) help you dream up your perfect day in Lake Placid and plan your getaway today – with the Whiteface Lodge.

An excellent destination for a family vacations, romantic getaways, traveling with friends or seeking adventure in the High Peaks of Lake Placid!  The Lodge features all the amenities(“Amenities”) you need to enhance your stay including hot tubs, a movie theater, bowling lanes, old fashion game room, luxury spa and dining plus much more!

Finally, after a day of indoor and outdoor adventure, relax by the warmth of our campfire, toasting s’mores, and start to plan your next perfect day in Lake Placid!

While Whiteface Lodge is a destination all its own, just off the resort’s doorstep is a four-season village bursting with a spectacular array of year-round activities. Host of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, Lake Placid is home to a myriad of wintertime pursuits: bobsledding, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, tobogganing, and much more. Make no mistake, though, Lake Placid boasts all the glory of an Adirondack summer and has the events to prove it, from the Ironman Triathalon to Lake Placid’s renowned horse shows.

We invite you to explore the events and activities of Lake Placid, and our Concierge is at your disposal for coordinating your itinerary around town. Contact the Concierge by calling 518-523-0505 or utilizing our Whiteface Lodge Concierge Service.

View a Complete List of Lake Placid Events