Lake Placid, nestled in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York, is more than just a scenic resort town; it’s a living testament to the enduring spirit of the Winter Olympics. Having hosted the Games in both 1932 and 1980, Lake Placid retains a unique charm, blending the rugged beauty of the Adirondacks with a palpable sense of athletic history. This delightful combination transforms it into an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and memorable family experiences throughout the year, but especially during the winter months.
Positioned conveniently within driving distance of major cities – approximately two hours and fifteen minutes from Montreal, two hours and thirty minutes from Albany, and five hours and fifteen minutes from New York City – Lake Placid truly shines in the winter. The legacy of the Olympics is still vibrant, and the allure of winter sports permeates the air. Visitors are drawn to the opportunity to actively participate in a variety of exhilarating activities. To maximize the experience and potentially save money, consider purchasing an Olympic Sites Passport. This pass grants access to several key attractions, including Whiteface Mountain, the Olympic Center, and the Olympic Jumping Complex, offering a comprehensive immersion into the region’s sporting heritage.
This article will delve into 13 of the most exciting and engaging things to do in Lake Placid during the winter season, offering a guide to experiencing the best of this remarkable destination.
1. Zoom Down the Lake Placid Toboggan Chute
Imagine the thrill of launching across a frozen lake on a traditional toboggan. The Lake Placid Toboggan Chute, a classic winter attraction, provides just that. A towering 30-foot wooden trestle stands ready to send riders careening down its slope and onto the icy expanse of Mirror Lake. Typically opening around the first weekend of February, the chute’s operation is, of course, dependent on weather conditions. However, when conditions are favorable, toboggans can travel distances exceeding 1,000 feet across the frozen surface, offering an exhilarating ride.
Up to four people can share a toboggan, enjoying unlimited rides per session. This thrilling experience is also quite affordable, priced at $15 per adult and $10 per student. Note that the Toboggan Chute operates on a cash-only basis, so be sure to bring appropriate funds. The combination of speed, the crisp winter air, and the stunning backdrop of the Adirondack Mountains makes the toboggan chute an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
2. Bobsled on the Olympic Track
For a truly unique and adrenaline-pumping experience, consider bobsledding at Mt. Van Hoevenberg. This is not just any bobsled ride; it’s a chance to thunder down an actual Olympic track, experiencing the thrill of high-speed racing firsthand. With a professional driver and brakeman at the helm, the bobsled reaches speeds of up to 50 miles per hour as it navigates the twists and turns of the half-mile-long track.
Mt. Van Hoevenberg is one of the very few places in the world where the public can experience the sport of bobsledding. The track is generally open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Riders must be at least 9 years old and 52 inches tall to participate. Tickets are priced at $125 per person, but discounts may be available with the Olympic Sites Passport. This is an unparalleled opportunity to feel the rush of Olympic competition and create lasting memories.
3. Go Dog Sledding
Embrace the charm of winter with a dog sled ride across the frozen surface of Mirror Lake. The rhythmic patter of paws on ice, the crisp winter air on your face, and the stunning scenery of Lake Placid create an unforgettable experience. Thunder Mountain Dog Sled Tours, with their team of energetic Alaskan Huskies, offers rides on a first-come, first-served basis from Friday through Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The cost is $20 per person for a five-minute ride.
Mike Arnold Dog Sled Rides, another reputable operator, is also available on a first-come, first-served basis, operating Thursdays through Sundays near the Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort. Contact them directly for details. Safety is paramount; before offering rides, drivers meticulously assess the ice conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all passengers. Dog sledding is a quintessential winter activity, offering a unique perspective on the beauty of Lake Placid.
4. Go Ice Skating
Lake Placid offers a variety of ice skating opportunities, catering to all skill levels and preferences. At the Olympic Center, you can skate during public sessions at either of two indoor rinks or the iconic outdoor oval where Eric Heiden achieved his historic five gold medal wins in 1980. Tickets start at $10 per person, and skate rentals are available on-site for an additional $10. Skating on the same ice as Olympic legends adds a special dimension to the experience.
Alternatively, embrace the natural beauty of Mirror Lake with a free skating experience. Each winter, a two-mile track is meticulously plowed around the lake’s perimeter, providing a scenic and accessible skating path for all to enjoy. Whether you prefer the structured environment of the Olympic Center or the open expanse of Mirror Lake, ice skating in Lake Placid is a delightful winter pastime.
5. Ski Whiteface Mountain
Whiteface Mountain, boasting the highest vertical drop in the Northeast, is a premier ski destination and one of New York’s top ski resorts. Nestled among the majestic High Peaks of the Adirondack Mountains, Whiteface served as the venue for all alpine skiing events during the 1980 Winter Olympics and continues to operate as a U.S. Olympic Training Site.
The mountain offers a diverse range of terrain, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. Ski and snowboard lessons and rentals are readily available for both adults and children. For frequent visitors, a season pass offers excellent value. Day trippers and those on short getaways can purchase one- to five-day lift tickets. Advance ticket purchase is highly recommended, as walk-up tickets are subject to availability and are often unavailable during holiday periods. Skiing at Whiteface is more than just a sport; it’s an immersion into Olympic history and the breathtaking beauty of the Adirondacks.
6. Try Skeleton Sledding
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, try skeleton sledding at the Lake Placid Olympic Sports Complex. This daring sport involves rocketing headfirst down an icy chute at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. Remarkably, no prior experience is required. A qualified USA Skeleton Team coach/trainer is on hand to provide guidance and assistance at the start, along with valuable tips for the ride.
The cost is $75 per ride, and participants must be at least 48 inches tall and 13 years old (teens under 18 must be accompanied by an adult). Skeleton sledding is not for the faint of heart, but for those seeking an unforgettable and exhilarating experience, it is an absolute must-try.
7. Be A Biathlete
Combine the endurance of cross-country skiing with the precision of rifle shooting in the challenging sport of the biathlon. The Lake Placid Olympic Sports Complex offers a "Discover Biathlon" package that provides a comprehensive introduction to this demanding discipline.
The package includes a one-day trail pass and rental equipment, an hour-long ski lesson, professional instruction at the rifle range, and an introductory video to the sport. Tickets cost $65, and the package is available to individuals aged 13 and up. This unique opportunity allows participants to experience the thrill and challenge of the biathlon firsthand, under the guidance of experienced instructors.
8. Admire Wintry Scenes from the Cloudsplitter Gondola at Whiteface
Whether you are a seasoned skier or simply seeking breathtaking views, the Cloudsplitter Gondola at Whiteface Mountain is a must-do. This scenic gondola ride ascends from the base of the mountain to the summit of Little Whiteface, offering panoramic vistas across the snow-covered Adirondacks.
At the summit, a lodge and an observation deck provide ample opportunities to soak in the stunning scenery, including views of Lake Placid, Lake Champlain, and the surrounding mountain ranges. The cost of the ride ranges from $19 to $25 (free for children 6 and under). However, gondola rides may be unavailable during certain holiday periods, so it’s recommended to check the website for the most up-to-date information on weather conditions and operating hours before your visit.
9. Crunch Along on Snowshoes
Snowshoeing is a fantastic way to explore the winter landscape at your own pace. If you can walk, you can snowshoe! At the Olympic Sports Complex, you can rent snowshoes and explore 34 miles (50 kilometers) of trails around Mt. Van Hoevenberg, including three trails specifically designated for snowshoers.
For first-timers, a guided snowshoe tour is highly recommended. These tours include a trail pass, snowshoe rental, water, and a snack. Tours typically last from two to four hours and cost $55 per person. Snowshoeing offers a wonderful way to connect with nature, get some exercise, and enjoy the serenity of the winter wilderness.
10. Enjoy Cross-Country Skiing
The Olympic Sports Complex boasts an impressive 34 miles (55 kilometers) of meticulously groomed trails for cross-country skiing, making it a haven for Nordic skiing enthusiasts. This is where Olympic gold medalist Bill Demong honed his skills.
A daily adult pass costs $32, and daily rentals are available for $25. Private and group lessons are also offered. Trails are open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the winter months. Whether you’re a seasoned cross-country skier or a beginner, the Olympic Sports Complex offers a variety of trails and resources to enjoy this invigorating winter sport.
11. Tour the Olympic Jumping Complex
Gain a unique perspective on the world of ski jumping with a tour of the Olympic Jumping Complex. Take a glass-enclosed elevator to the observation deck of Lake Placid’s HS-128 meter jump. From this vantage point, you can enter the ski jumpers’ preparation room and marvel at the panoramic views of the Adirondack High Peaks.
The complex is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and tickets cost $20 per adult. Discounts may apply. For an even more thrilling experience, consider riding the four-person zipline adjacent to the 100-meter ski jump, soaring at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. This is an unforgettable opportunity to appreciate the scale and skill involved in Olympic ski jumping.
12. Visit the Olympic Center
Located in the heart of Lake Placid’s Main Street, the Olympic Center is a historic landmark and the site of some of the most memorable moments of the 1980 Winter Olympics, including the "Miracle on Ice" hockey game and Eric Heiden’s five gold medal victories.
Take a guided tour of the complex to delve into the history and significance of this iconic venue. After your tour, browse the Olympic Center Store for USA Hockey jerseys and other winter sports apparel, such as jackets and hats. The Olympic Center is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of the Winter Olympics and the legacy of Lake Placid.
13. Appreciate Great Moments at the Lake Placid Olympic Museum
The Lake Placid Olympic Museum, located within the Olympic Center on Main Street, showcases the rich history of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Games.
Editor’s note: The museum is currently undergoing renovation and is expected to be completed in late 2022; for now, you can check out the museum’s virtual exhibits online, which cover everything from Olympic fashion to the visual design of the 1980 games.
Even in its virtual form, the Lake Placid Olympic Museum provides a captivating glimpse into the history and legacy of the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid.
