December 22, 2023

Winter adventure beyond Lake Placid 

Lake Placid is situated among some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. Winter Olympic legacy aside, Lake Placid and the towns surrounding it offer astounding beauty in their rugged mountains, trails, and thick forests. Keene, Keene Valley, and Ray Brook offer unparalleled adventure that every winter explorer will be sure to enjoy. From scaling ice sheets on mountainsides, to cross-country skiing calm open fields, winter adventures beyond Lake Placid will transport you into a world of thrilling icy escapes, tucked away in the secret corners of the Adirondacks. 

A person climbs a white snowy mountain with outdoor winter gear on and walking sticks.

In Keene: hiking and climbing

The town of Keene emerges as a thrilling spot for winter adventure, captivating the attention of adventurers and nature enthusiasts from all over to come and experience it. The peaks that populate this outdoor haven are striped with unique and challenging hiking trails that are fun in the summer, and exhilarating in winter. Located on the east bank of the Ausable River, Keene is also home to Mount Marcy, the highest point in the Adirondacks and New York state. 

Stunning peaks aside, the region offers the best in snowshoe hiking. Notable trails to hit this season include Lower Wolfjaw Mountain, a peak with varied terrain on three different trails, with a steady climb through to the top. Another peak to look out for, Sawteeth Mountain, offers two routes to its summit, a wooded point with one perfectly positioned lookout through the trees. In winter, you may want to consider cross-country skiing nearby Lake Road, then switch to snowshoes to climb the summit. 

A man walks through thick snow in a bright blue jacket, using walking sticks.

Keene Valley: icy climbs and guides

There’s a reason Keene Valley is touted as "The Home of the High Peaks." The region is completely surrounded by the famous mountains that crop up around the Adirondacks, including peaks like Mount Marcy, Upper Wolfjaw Mountain, and Armstrong Mountain, among others that populate the views here. Not only are there plenty of giants to scale, the local mountains also feature flat sides like the ones surrounding both sides of Route 73. These peaks offer ice climbing rare to the Northeast, bringing an unbeatable winter challenge to add to your bucket list. Chapel Pond Canyon offers multiple routes that bring unique challenges season after season. The route Lions on the Beach offers the first massive ice formation in Chapel Pond Canyon. This climb sees a lot of water, so the climbing can change from day to day based on how much ice is present. For a challenging climb, try Haggis and Cold Toast. This route climbs a narrow chimney that starts off easy, then ascends into a steep and tight section of about 30 feet and eases off for the top out. The crux can be awkward and a bit overhanging, especially on the right side where there is a small ledge that provides a spot to rest, but makes the finish of the crux more difficult. The left side is more steep and direct, depending on how much ice is present. 

If you’re not entirely sure of your ice climbing capabilities, (like 99% of the population) there are local guides who can take you on a journey to mastering the icy surfaces here. Reserve a guided climbing experience with High Peaks Mountain Guides, a multi-sport guiding company that encourages visitors to experience the natural beauty of the Adirondacks, while instilling the importance of protecting and stewarding the areas they visit. What’s more, the guides provide the gear, and have the know-how on the best and safest ice routes in the region. 

Two people scale an icy wall on a mountain with pick axes and harnesses.

Ray Brook: backcountry exploring

Ray Brook is nestled between the communities of Saranac Lake and Lake Placid. It is characterized by its quiet wilderness, crisp ponds and lakes, and unique terrain. Nearby Oseetah Lake houses along its shores Oseetah Marsh, frozen over for some of the best cross-country skiing you’ll find. It’s short, easy, and scenic, with surrounding views of nearby Mckenzie Range, the Sawtooth Range, and Scarface Mountain. Following a snowmobile trail through a dense pine forest, you’ll find the tranquil frozen-over state of the Oseetah Marsh, perfect for gliding and exploring. 

A man smiles as he cross-country skis through a snowy trail.

Gear hunting

While the remoteness of the region adds to the appeal of the Adirondacks, you may feel your heart drop if you’re looking around in your pack, only to realize you forgot something important. Luckily, the region is populated with explorers just like you, and we’ve made it easy to get the gear you need, fast! In Lake Placid, stop into Eastern Mountain Sports for quality gear for any adventure. Find microspikes, jackets, and even equipment like ice axes and climbing harnesses. Only need a tool for the weekend? Cascade Welcome Center offers rentals fitting any winter excursion, so you can take what you need, and drop it off when you’re heading home. 

A woman contemplates buying a blue t shirt in a store.

Getting out

Stepping off of Main Street, Lake Placid and into the stunning scenery of the surrounding regions, winter adventurers will find exactly the kind of outdoor fun they're looking for! Whether you find solace in the silent trails of snow-covered pines, the exhilarating rush of icy walls, or simply love the peaceful views of the High Peaks, the regions around Lake Placid are sure not to disappoint this season.

A person climbs a white snowy mountain with outdoor winter gear on and walking sticks.
A man walks through thick snow in a bright blue jacket, using walking sticks.
Two people scale an icy wall on a mountain with pick axes and harnesses.
A man smiles as he cross-country skis through a snowy trail.
A woman contemplates buying a blue t shirt in a store.

Packages and Promotions

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Spa Experience

Placid Bay Hotel

Enjoy an in-room spa experience for two with your stay. What better way to connect and relax with your partner after a long day on the mountain!

Valid Jan. 11

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4th Night Free!

Lake Placid Lodge

Enjoy a night on us! 4th night free when you stay 3.

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Spa Experience

Town House Lodge by the Lake

What better way to connect and relax with your partner after a long day on the mountain than to enjoy an in-room spa experience for two?

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Winter Clearance at Whiteface!

Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort

40% off Select Items!

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Solar Eclipse Storytime

The Bookstore Plus

Come learn about a solar eclipse and make cereal box viewers with us!

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Ski with Olympic Medalist Andrew Weibrecht

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Ever dreamed of spending time on the slopes with an Olympic athlete? Well, now you can!

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Spa Escape

Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa

Our Spa Escape package is ideal for couples or friends traveling together.

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Romance Package

Town House Lodge by the Lake

Package Details Surprise your significant other with a romantic evening waiting for you on the day of your arrival!

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- Jan. 5

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Stay More, Play More

High Peaks Resort

Stay for FREE!

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Play and Stay Package

Crowne Plaza Lake Placid

Includes stay at Crowne Plaza Hotel with Golf at our Lake Placid Club Courses

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Rustic Romance Getaway Package

Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa

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Stay 3 nights save 20%

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort

Book a 3-night stay and save 20%

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Immersion into Tantra Yoga

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort

Nourish your body and mind by indulging in a weekend of growth with Todd Norian, founder of Ashaya Yoga.

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Romance Package

Placid Bay Hotel

Surprise your significant other with a romantic Getaway!  Includes roses, wine glasses, and chocolates upon arrival.

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Supper & Stay

Stagecoach Inn

Enhance your stay at The Lake Placid Stagecoach Inn with an exceptional 3-course meal.

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Solar Eclipse Viewing Party!

Moose Lodge Boathouse Restaurant

Specialty cocktails featuring Angel's Envy whiskey, delicious buffet offerings, live music and a prime viewing spot to experience totality.

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Stay More, Play More

Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa

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Winter Clearance - 40% OFF!

Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort

40% Off Winter Merchandise

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

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Golf & Stay Package

Crowne Plaza Lake Placid

Starting at: $119.00 * Weekend & Summer packages available at higher rates

Valid Jan. 9

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Couples Getaway

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Escape with your loved one to a truly romantic experience - sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries overlooking spectacular views of Mirror Lake and the Adirondack High Peaks is just the beginning...

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Adirondack Guides

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Get the most out of your stay - Guide Services Available!

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The Adirondack Elopement

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

The ultimate, intimate "I do" experience.

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Celebrate 2024 with 24% OFF!

Grand Adirondack Hotel

Winter adventure and snow-kissed peaks beckon! Celebrate 2024 with a 24% discount on stays Sunday-Thursday through March. Rate is 24 percent off our Retail rates. Rate is fully prepaid and non-refundable. Available select weekdays through March 2024...

Valid Jan. 9

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Babymoon

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Celebrate your growing family with $75 nightly resort credit!

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Pre-Season Golf Package

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort

Pre-Season Golf from May 1- June 16. Stay two nights at the Cambria Hotel Lake Placid and play two rounds of unlimited golf and a cart at the Van Kleek-designed Award-winning championship course at Whiteface Club & Resort.

Valid Jan. 8

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100th Anniversary Package

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

100 years at the Inn gets you $100 Resort Credit PER DAY!

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Stay 2 Midweek Nights and Receive a 3rd Round of Golf with Cart FREE!

Crowne Plaza Lake Placid

Stay 2 Midweek Nights and Receive a 3rd Round of Golf with Cart FREE! *Rates are per person, per night based on double occupancy in a standard room. Available Sunday-Thursday, Opening Day-mid June. Tax not included. Subject to availability. US $

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Total Eclipse of the Park IPA

Lake Placid Pub & Brewery

Get your hands on some Out-of-this-World beer before its gone!

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Ampersand Bay Resort Sweetheart Package

Ampersand Bay Resort

Dinner for 2 at the Sunset Bistro ($150 value) Chocolate Covered Strawberries and a Bottle of Champagne in the room on arrival. 1pm late check out.

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Winter Clearance - Helmets, Goggles and Poles!

Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort

40% off Helmets, Goggles and Poles!

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Girls Getaway Weekend

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

$75 Resort Credit per room per NIGHT to pamper the Girls!

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Stay and Sip

Eastwind Lake Placid

Unwind in comfort with a luxurious hotel stay while enjoying the added delight of two complimentary cocktails.

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2024 Eclipse at the Mirror Lake Inn

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Join us for a once in a lifetime opportunity to view solar eclipse with luxurious accommodations, breakfast at 'The View' Restaurant, Eclipse Viewing Glasses & $50 resort credit per room per night.

Valid May. 1

- Apr. 30

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Stay & Save

The Devlin

Book a 3-night stay with The Devlin and get 10% off your visit.

Valid Jan. 8

- Jan. 8

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Adirondack a la Carte

High Peaks Resort

Complete your Adirondack Vacation with a $150 dining credit to Dancing Bears!

Valid Jan. 11

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Savor & Stay

Lake Placid Lodge

Enjoy breakfast and dinner at one of our five star restaurants. Packaged with your stay!

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Woof and Wander

Bluebird Lake Placid

Your pooch will be as comfortable as their owners with our pet friendly package!

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- Apr. 8

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Solar Eclipse Lunch To Go

Green Goddess Natural Market & Catering

Get your eclipse provisions to go from Green Goddess Market & Cafe for just $14.99!

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- May. 1

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Nordic Ski With Olympic Medalist Andrea Henkel Burke

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Stay and Nordic Ski with an Olympic Gold Medal Recipient!

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MILITARY AND FIRST RESPONDER OFFER

Bluebird Lake Placid

10% off our Best Available Rate for all active as well as retired military personnel, and first responders on leisure stays.

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