Discovering winter beyond the slopes
When most people think of Lake Placid, they picture Olympic ski jumps and world-class downhill runs, yet winter in the Adirondacks offers so much more than skiing. Strap on a pair of snowshoes and discover a whole new way to explore the region’s pristine winter landscapes, with trails and experiences that welcome everyone, from first-timers to seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. Snowshoeing opens up a quieter side of Lake Placid, where you can venture beyond the slopes and into snow-draped forests, frozen lakes, and mountain vistas at your own pace.
Ready to explore? Here are the 5 best spots to snowshoe in Lake Placid, each offering its own one-of-a-kind winter adventure.
Before you hit the trails: winter preparedness essentials
Snowshoeing is beginner-friendly, but a little preparation goes a long way in making your adventure safe and enjoyable. Once snow depth exceeds 6 inches, snowshoes become essential. Without them, you'll find yourself "post-holing," sinking knee-deep with every step, which exhausts you quickly and damages trails for other users. Speaking of trail etiquette, remember to share the path respectfully. Step aside to let faster travelers like skiers and snowmobilers pass, and avoid walking in groomed ski tracks whenever possible. These tracks take time and effort to set, and snowshoe prints make them unusable for skiers.
Dress in moisture-wicking layers that you can adjust as you warm up, and don't forget winter essentials. Pack water, high-energy snacks, a trail map, and a basic first-aid kit. Thinking about tackling a more challenging route but feeling uncertain about your skills? Or maybe you're completely new to winter hiking and want expert guidance? Hiring a licensed guide can make all the difference. They'll ensure you're safe, teach you proper techniques, and help you discover sections of the Adirondacks you might otherwise miss.
1. Marcy Dam
Starting from the High Peaks Information Center (HPIC), the trail to Marcy Dam delivers some of the most spectacular mountain views in the Adirondacks. This well-traveled route takes you deep into the iconic High Peaks Wilderness, where snow-capped summits like Marcy, Colden, and Algonquin create a dramatic backdrop. The 4.4-mile round trip involves steady elevation gain and can be challenging in deep snow, making it ideal for snowshoers with some experience or those ready to push themselves. The convenience factor is a bonus: you can rent snowshoes right at the HPIC trailhead before starting your adventure. Several outfitters in the area also offer rentals, including The Mountaineer and High Peaks Cyclery, so you can easily gear up without the investment of buying equipment.
If you’re looking for a bigger adventure with fewer crowds, consider the alternate route from South Meadows Road via the Marcy Dam Truck Trail. This approach offers a more remote, peaceful experience on less-traveled terrain, though it adds distance and requires stronger route-finding skills. Either way, the payoff at Marcy Dam is worth every step: a frozen pond surrounded by towering peaks that epitomizes Adirondack winter beauty.
2. Heaven Hill Trails
Just a short drive from Lake Placid, Heaven Hill Trails offers a network of loop trails perfect for snowshoers seeking stunning views without the commitment of a mountain expedition. This trail system caters to varying abilities, with options ranging from gentle, family-friendly paths to slightly more rolling terrain. The real charm here is accessibility: you can enjoy breathtaking High Peaks vistas from open fields without the steep climbs or backcountry navigation required at more remote locations.
Heaven Hill is an excellent choice for beginners testing out their first pair of snowshoes, families with young children, or anyone who wants a shorter outing that still delivers that classic Adirondack scenery. Dog owners will appreciate that four-legged friends are welcome on these trails, making it a great spot for the whole crew.
3. Whiteface Landing
For those who prefer distance over elevation, Whiteface Landing delivers a peaceful, relatively flat trek that rewards persistence with beautiful payoff views. This 6.5-mile out-and-back route takes you through quiet forests before opening up to stunning vistas across Lake Placid itself.
The flat terrain makes this trail accessible to most experience levels, though the length requires some endurance and proper pacing. It's an ideal choice for snowshoers who want to log miles without tackling steep ascents, or for those who find their zen in steady, rhythmic movement through the woods. Pack extra snacks and water for this one, and save some energy to fully appreciate the lakeside views at your turnaround point. The journey back offers a different perspective on the same beautiful terrain, making every step worthwhile.
4. Heart Lake Loop
Perfect for beginners or anyone seeking a shorter, leisurely outing, the Heart Lake Loop starts right at the Adirondack High Peaks Information Center and circles the picturesque lake in a scenic loop. This trail offers intimate views of the peaks surrounding the frozen lake, with well-marked paths that wind through mixed forests and along the shoreline. The relatively flat terrain and shorter distance make it an excellent choice for first-time snowshoers, families with children, or those wanting a quick escape into nature without a major time commitment.
Starting from the HPIC has another advantage: if you don't own snowshoes, you can rent them right at the trailhead before you set out. Heart Lake Loop proves that you don't need to trek miles into the backcountry to experience Adirondack magic. Sometimes the more accessible adventures are the most memorable.
5. Mt Van Hoevenberg East Trail
Craving that triumphant summit moment but not quite ready for a major mountain expedition? The Mt Van Hoevenberg East Trail offers the best of both worlds: the genuine reward of reaching a summit on a manageable ascent. This 3.6-mile round trip gains about 1,000 feet in elevation, with a grade that makes the climb accessible to intermediate snowshoers while still delivering you to a true peak with views of the surrounding High Peaks region.
The steady but moderate incline means you'll feel accomplished without being completely wiped out, making this an excellent stepping stone for those building confidence toward bigger adventures. Once you reach the top, take time to enjoy your achievement and the expansive winter vistas stretching before you.
Bonus trails: Adirondack Rail Trail and Jackrabbit Trail
Picking just five trails was hard, and two more deserve honorable mentions. The legendary Jackrabbit Trail, a historic 42-mile route from Paul Smiths to Keene, offers numerous access points so you can choose any section that suits your time and energy. With rolling elevation changes and a true backcountry feel through remote woodlands and past frozen ponds, it's perfect for snowshoers seeking solitude and a bit more challenge.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Adirondack Rail Trail provides 34 miles of flat, well-maintained terrain from Lake Placid to Saranac Lake to Tupper Lake. This converted railroad bed is ideal for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a peaceful stroll through winter scenery without any hills. Just remember it's a multi-use trail shared with cross-country skiers, snowmobiles, and fat tire bikers, so stay alert and practice good trail etiquette by stepping aside when faster users approach.
Après snowshoe
After a rewarding day on the trails, Lake Placid's charming Main Street beckons with everything you need to thaw out and celebrate your snowy adventure. Settle into a cozy restaurant for post-snow comfort food, or warm up with a craft cocktail at one of the local breweries and pubs where you can toast your accomplishment with fellow adventurers. Craving something sweet instead? Stop by a café for hot chocolate and pastries. Or grab a coffee and explore Main Street's boutiques and outdoor outfitters for Adirondack-made souvenirs, local art, or gear upgrades from knowledgeable staff who can offer tips for your next outing.
Sore muscles deserve some attention, so treat yourself to a massage or spa treatment to work out those trail-weary legs. Lake Placid's blend of mountain town hospitality and post-adventure indulgence makes the après experience just as memorable as the snowshoeing itself. After all, proper recovery and a little celebration are essential parts of any winter adventure, and a little R&R now will have you ready to plan your next snowshoe adventure.