Experience Lake Placid on skis 

One of the best ways to experience winter in Lake Placid is on skis! Whether you grew up skiing or are new to the sport, you'll find a trail in our area that is just right for you. Cross-country ski centers and a vast network of groomed and backcountry trails support adventures big and small, and warmth and food are never far.

Ski centers are for everyone

Cross-country ski centers are great places for seasoned skiers and those who are new to the sport — rent equipment, get some pointers from the staff, and master the basics on wide, well maintained paths. Mt Van Hoevenberg, site of the cross-country skiing events of the 1980 Olympic Winter Games, offers more than 50km of trails, including 4km of world championship rate trails, with variety for everyone. Over at the Cascade Welcome Center (now owned by Adirondack Mountain Club), you'll find 20km of groomed trails, a cozy bunkhouse, and an awesome ski shop where skiers of all abilities can make Cascade their winter getaway destination.

Go at your own pace

More experienced skiers will find plenty to love in our mountains. There’s a nice trail network near the Adirondak Loj that’s a perfect place to prepare for the longer, more demanding trails in the region, and of course there’s the famous Jackrabbit Ski Trail, which passes through several Adirondack communities including Keene, Lake Placid, and Saranac Lake along its 35 miles. You’ll find plenty of ups and downs along this breathtaking route!

Many winter enthusiasts are happy taking in the scenery from our mellower trails, while those looking to test their skills head into the High Peaks for a taste of the backcountry, where nothing beats the moderately difficult trail to Avalanche Pass. This iconic ski route is a little over 5 miles one way to Avalanche Lake, where the immense cliffs of Mount Colden rise dramatically from the shore. If steeper, thigh-burning backcountry experiences are what you crave, check out the ski trails up Mount Marcy and Wright Peak.

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. 

Results for "Cross-country and Backcountry Skiing"

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Heart Lake Loop
Adirondack Loj Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

In summer, Heart Lake is a dream. In winter, it's still a dream, but with lots of snow for skiing!

  
Mt Van Hoevenberg | Olympic Sports Complex
220 Bobsled Run Lane, Lake Placid
(518) 523-4436

No snow? No problem! The Mt Van Hoevenberg Legacy Site is jam-packed with legendary fun during the winter as well as summer months. From sledding experiences to hiking and mountain biking, you'll find days of fun.

  
Adirondack Rail Trail
400 Old Military Drive, Lake Placid

The new Adirondack Rail Trail is a 34-mile, multi-use trail that connects the communities of Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake. Walking, running, bicycling, birding, and snowmobiling are all possible on the well-graded, wheelchair accessible...

  
Heaven Hill Trails
Bear Cub Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Route Overview One of the perfect things about the Adirondacks' newest trail system is the variety of options. There are three main loops and all of the paths are relatively flat and accessible. The Big Field Loop is 0.9 miles long and leads through...

  
Northville-Lake Placid Trail
Averyville Road, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

The Northville-Placid Trail is New York's oldest long distance hiking trail, and is popular for thru hiking.

  
Cascade Welcome Center
4833 Cascade Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 837-5047

Opened in 2022, the Adirondack Mountain Club’s Cascade Welcome Center is a one-stop shop for visitor information, outdoor recreation, and much more.

  
Whiteface Landing
Off Route 86, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Whiteface Landing is a perfect outing for those looking for a peaceful walk, ski, or snowshoe to Lake Placid's shore. 

  
Nordic Ski & Snowshoe Center at Whiteface Club & Resort
373 Whiteface Inn Lane, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2551

The Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Center at Whiteface Club and Resort boasts the finest groomed, set track in Lake Placid plus professional instructions, ski shop and rentals (including snowshoes). Open throughout the winter, weather permitting, daily, 9am...

  
Scotts Cobble Nordic Center & High Peaks Guides
High Peaks Cyclery2739 Main Street, Lake Placid
(518) 523-3764

Click to book your rental now The Adirondack back country is a winter wonderland for cross country, AT, and telemark skiing opportunities. Our guides can instruct and lead you on a wide variety of cross country skiing terrain from our in town nature...

  
Marcy Dam Truck Trail
Adirondak Loj Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

This is a classic Adirondack backcountry ski and is a favorite amongst visitors and locals!

  
Klondike Notch
South Meadows Road, Lake Placid
(518) 523-3441

This steep trail ascends the shoulder of Phelps Mountain before topping out at Klondike Notch.

  
Avalanche Lake
Heart Lake, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Avalanche Lake is beautiful and remote. It's well worth the trip for those who are prepared for the miles.