Paul Smith's College VIC

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 you geared up for your winter adventure - open weekends 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Parking 

In downtown Saranac Lake, take Route 86 west toward Paul Smiths. At the intersection with Route 30, turn right on Route 30 and look for the VIC entrance on the left after about a mile. Parking is just down the road. 

The trails

Classic cross-country Trails

These trails are typically groomed 4 feet wide with an ATV and grooming equipment. Track is set when conditions permit. Classic ski trails are open to snowshoers who must walk on the side, avoiding all tracks.

WOODS AND WATERS TRAIL: This trail is a 3.0 mile (one way) route that crosses through the varied habitats of the VIC property. Cross the floating bridge, ski through open hardwoods and conifers and through a dense balsam section by the lean-to on Little Black Pond. Follow the red trail markers.

HERON MARSH TRAIL: This is a 3 mile loop that circles Heron Marsh. Features of interest include Shingle Mill Falls, the Lester family home site, several observation platforms, a 900’ boardwalk, and scenic vistas across the marsh. Follow the light grey trail markers.

ESKER TRAIL: This route is accessed from the Logger’s Loop Trail. The trail features a significant climb with switch backs and a series of enticing vistas. The 1.5 mile connector trail is in the center of the VIC property. There are challenging up and downhill grades on this recently logged terrain. Please use caution! Ski the trail clockwise to best navigate steep terrain. Follow the light green trail markers.

BOBCAT TRAIL: This trail is the connector route from the Paul Smith’s College campus. The 1.25 mile trail can be accessed by the VIC building or across the road from the Saunders Sports Complex. Follow the orange trail markers.

SILVI TRAIL: This one-mile trail intersects with the Woods and Waters Trail, leading through a forest plantation which was developed on the site of the St. Regis Golf Club. Follow the blue trail markers.

Skate Ski Trails

These trails are typically groomed 8′ to 10’ wide with the VIC’s quads and groomers. The trails are packed and rolled as conditions permit. Skate trails can be used by non-skate skiers. However, those on classic skis or snowshoes are asked to stay to the side of the trail.

EASY STREET: This trail is a one mile loop trail accessed from the Logger’s Loop Trail. Follow the light blue trail markers.

LOGGER’S LOOP: This loop is a 6 mile loop trail linking restored logging and skid trails. Skiers will experience varied terrain, a few narrow spots and a hairpin turn thrown in for good measure. Follow the dark green trail markers.

FOX RUN: This trail is a half mile, rolling connector trail accessed via Logger’s Loop. It can be bumpy and patchy with lighter snow. It provides a way for skiers to avoid steep terrain on Logger’s Loop. Follow the dark red trail markers..

SKIDDER TRAIL: This trail cuts across the silviculture area of the VIC. Skiers can explore varied hard and soft wood forests and plantation pines in different stages of succession and management. Varied animal tracks are often visible. Follow the orange trail markers.

Prices

Day Pass

$5 per person ages 6 - 17
$10 per person ages 18 and up
Children under 6 are free

Season Pass

$50 per person ages 6 - 17
$100 per person ages 18 and up
Group of 4: $325
Family: $7