A Decidedly Fun Winter
In Saranac Lake, winter isn't just a season—it's a way of life! Here, we embrace the snow and ice with a spirit that’s uniquely our own, creating experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Saranac Lake is known as one of the coldest places in the country, and we make the most of it with thrilling winter recreation, iconic events, and a downtown that sparkles with winter magic. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or a cozy place to warm up, Saranac Lake is ready to show you just how extraordinary winter can be.
A Unique Winter Playground
Saranac Lake offers an unforgettable winter recreation experience. From thrilling downhill adventures at Mount Pisgah’s ski, snowboard, and tubing runs to the tranquil trails at Dewey Mountain and the Paul Smith’s VIC, every kind of winter sport is right at your fingertips. Take to the Adirondack Rail Trail for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, or explore by snowmobile—just be sure to review our shared-use safety guidelines. Looking to try something new? Try a kicksled for the day! Or, if you'd rather keep it cool indoors, head to the Saranac Lake Civic Center for open ice skating, adding to our winter fun for all ages!
Family & Leisure Fun
In Saranac Lake, we know that winter fun isn’t just for grown-ups! Families can dive into a mix of outdoor and indoor adventures that everyone will love. Start with a spin on the Adirondack Carousel, where each whimsical animal reflects the charm of the region. Head to the slopes for sledding or tubing, or gather for a snowball fight or snow fort building—perfect ways to enjoy winter’s wonders together. For indoor fun, explore creative activities at ADK ArtRise and BluSeed Studios, where art comes alive for all ages. The library offers cozy story times, crafts, and winter programming, while PlayADK provides little ones a fun, safe space to play and explore. And don’t miss our downtown shops, filled with toys, games, and music treasures to bring a bit of Saranac Lake magic home with you!
Celebrate with Us
Saranac Lake’s winter events bring our town to life like nowhere else! Start the season with our Holiday Stroll and Sparkle Village, where downtown shops and local artists offer one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. Then, watch as we Light Up the Town with festive cheer. Ring in the new year at North Country New Year with live music, comedy, a kids carnival, and celebration. And of course, experience the magic of our legendary Winter Carnival—a tradition unlike any other! The fun doesn’t stop there: with ski races, fishing tournaments, art shows, live music, and so much more, every winter day holds something exciting. Don’t miss a moment—check out our events calendar for all the details!
Downtown Saranac Lake: Cozy, Creative, and Full of Charm
Our downtown may be blanketed in snow, but it’s far from hibernating! Local restaurants offer cozy spots to warm up, serving hearty, locally-sourced dishes. Wander through art galleries, browse unique shops, or dive into a bit of history at our museums. With live music, cultural events, and art everywhere you turn, downtown Saranac Lake is the perfect blend of classic winter charm and creative expression.
Plan Your Winter Getaway
Ready to experience winter in a decidedly different way? Our Visitor’s Guide has everything you need to plan your stay. From exhilarating outdoor adventures to warming up in our artsy downtown, Saranac Lake has something to captivate everyone. Embrace the snow, discover the warmth of our community, and find out why we wouldn’t have winter any other way.
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