Outdoor Recreation

What to do

• Kayak, canoe, or paddleboard on Mirror Lake. 
• Hit the links on one of the scenic Lake Placid golf courses.
• Sleep under the stars at a primitive backcountry campsite or rent a spot at a campground.
• Road bike a panoramic mountain loop.
• Camp at a remote island lean-to.
• Rock climb a rugged Adirondack cliff to that incredible one-of-a-kind view.
• Hike — Lake Placid’s most popular activity — and explore miles of marked hiking trails.

There are many family activities in Lake Placid. Discover outdoor Adirondack recreation for all ages and abilities. Whether you’re an avid boater, paddler, birder, hiker, biker, fisher, golfer, hunter, climber, or outdoorsman or woman, or just want to give it a try, Lake Placid has all of the tools for you to create that perfect outdoor day.

Winter and spring activities in the Adirondacks

There's nothing like winter in Lake Placid. The weather cools, the snow falls, and we find ourselves excited to enjoy a whole new set of Adirondack outdoor activities. Spring ushers in a rich, lush green landscape as the snow thaws, and with it comes the promise of both winter and summer activities.

What to do

• Ice climb using crampons and ice axes, or watch climbers from around the region scale the frozen rocks. Our amazing area guides offer guided beginner trips, so anyone willing and able can give it a try.
• Miles of frozen lakes make for a vast ice fishing paradise, with shanties scattered over the ice.
• Runners trade in sneakers for cross-country skis and snowshoes.
• Skiers and snowboarders carve the slopes of Whiteface Mountain and the expansive Adirondack backcountry.
• Ice skaters take to the Olympic Oval for public skate and Mirror Lake to enjoy a friendly game of hockey, or ski the new loop.
• Popular attractions such as High Falls Gorge take on a whole new look as the ice formations transform the rocks and cliffs into glistening sculptures. 

Make your trip effortless

Save the effort for the activities while you're here! Anyone can get out and enjoy these activities with the help of a professional guide. You know the saying “When in Rome”? Well, when in Lake Placid, get out in it and book the adventure of a lifetime.

Leave No Trace and Love Your ADK

The magic of the Adirondacks is the result of previous generations taking a long view and protecting the mountains, lakes, and rivers within the Blue Line. That tradition continues today as we support and encourage everyone to practice Leave No Trace ethics, which help protect the lands and waters of the Adirondacks.

Seven Principles of Leave No Trace