Winter's Endless Exploration

A favorite time of year is when the snow flies and we can get out into the woods and on the trails to cross-country ski. Cross-country skiing has grown into a popular recreational activity. It’s a great way to get out and enjoy the outdoors, plus get some exercise!

Groomed

For the groomed experience, check out the winter wonderland at the Dewey Mountain Recreation Center, located a mile west of downtown Saranac Lake. A mountain bike haven in the summer and fall, the center features 15 kilometers of groomed ski trails, night skiing, and several kilometers of backcountry trails to the summit.

Five-time Olympian and Olympic gold and silver medalist Billy Demong, along with 3-time Olympic biathlete Tim Burke, each first learned to ski on these trails. Don’t let that intimidate you – they learned and fell here. Dewey Mountain is a great spot for families and all abilities. What’s cooler than skiing in the groomed ski tracks of Olympians!?

The Paul Smith's College Visitors Interpretive Center (VIC) is another cool spot for cross-country and skate skiing. Twelve miles from downtown Saranac Lake, the VIC offers environmental education, wildlife viewing, and local art, as well as over 20 miles of groomed trails.

Natural Conditions

Want to get into your own groove? The famous Jackrabbit Trail starts at Paul Smith's, and lets you travel to Lake Placid, and beyond.  Don’t think your options end there – the backcountry skiing options are endless – from old logging roads to all of our area hiking trails, there is always something new and different for you to experience. 

Leave No Trace and Love Your ADK Pledge

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

In winter, it is especially important to come prepared and practice ways to Love Your ADK; the best way to avoid emergencies is to properly plan and prepare for your trip.

 

(518) 891-2697
Route 3
Saranac Lake, NY 12983
All lower ski trails are groomed Most lower trails are lit for night use Snowshoes must be worn at all times Dogs are permitted on snowshoe trails A warming lodge with cocoa, coffee, and restrooms is open during winter...
Couple skiing at view of the Dewey Mountain Lodge in the background.
(518) 327-6241
8023 State Route 30
Paul Smiths, NY 12970
Cross-Country Skiing The lowdown Trails are open dawn to dusk 15K of groomed trails for snowshoeing, skate and classic skiing 40K of maintained trails for classic skiers and snowshoers A full range of trail difficulties and lengths Indoor space to get...
Saranac Lake, NY 12983
This hike can be extended with spur trails for more pond exploration. Despite the name, motor vehicles are not allowed on the trail by the general public. However, the designation does allow for mountain and fat biking, skiing, hiking, and snowshoeing.
A rocky stream
Route 30
Tupper Lake, NY 12986
Fernow Trail, also known as the Fernow Plantation Loop, was named after Bernhard Fernow. He was one of the fathers of modern forestry and the first chief of the US Forest Service. Look for brochures in the register box for information which...
A metal plaque on a rock for B. Fernow.
Corey's Road
Tupper Lake, NY 12986
The Raquette Falls Trail is one of the most popular Adirondack backcountry ski routes in winter, and a wonderful hiking route along the river in summer.
A lean-to with a firepit
Route 86
Saranac Lake, NY 12983
The Bloomingdale Bog Trail is a scenic, end-to-end path that follows an old railroad corridor that connects Saranac Lake to Bloomingdale. The entire route is wide, level, and mostly straight, making it perfect for a casual stroll or bike ride.
A person walking a flat trail in the fall
From Keene Valley to Paul Smiths
Saranac Lake, NY 12983
The 50-kilometer Jackrabbit Trail runs from Keene, through Lake Placid and Saranac Lake, to Paul Smiths. It is a trail that connects with four ski centers and several backcountry routes along the way.
A skier travels through snowy green trees
Saranac Lake, NY 12983
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...
Two people cycle on a rail trail