As winter blankets Saranac Lake in a pristine layer of snow, the charming village transforms into a wonderland of seasonal delights. From thrilling outdoor adventures to cozy indoor attractions, Saranac Lake offers a diverse range of activities to suit every winter enthusiast. Let's explore the top winter activities that make Saranac Lake a quintessential destination for cold-weather fun.
Skating: an icy playground
Get ready to glide into a winter wonderland at the Saranac Lake Civic Center! From public skating sessions and hockey tournaments to figure skating exhibits and curling events, this hub for winter excitement has it all. Following major renovations for the 2023 Lake Placid World University Games, the center now boasts some of the finest ice around, complete with new locker rooms, bathrooms, and a cozier interior – a unanimous win for skaters and fans alike! The Civic Center's events calendar is brimming with opportunities to embrace the ice and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow winter enthusiasts.
Saranac Lake offers an additional icy delight, with an outdoor rink on Lake Flower, just in front of the picturesque Saranac Waterfront Lodge. Depending on the ice conditions, visitors can enjoy a brisk skate and then warm up with toasty drinks at The Boathouse, creating a perfect blend of winter magic and lakeside charm.
Downhill skiing: on snowy summits
Calling all thrill-seekers! Saranac Lake is your gateway to downhill excitement with two premier skiing destinations – Pisgah and Whiteface. Enjoy night skiing at Pisgah, featuring six unique trails catering to all skill levels and perfect for families. They even have a thrilling run for tubing! And if that's not enough, the renowned slopes of Whiteface are just a short drive away, promising an unforgettable downhill experience for all.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing: glide through the backcountry
Embark on a cross-country ski or snowshoe adventure in Saranac Lake, where the tranquil winter landscape becomes your playground. With miles of groomed trails at Dewey Mountain and the Paul Smith's VIC, complete with convenient XC and snowshoe rentals, or venture out on your own along the scenic Adirondack Rail Trail or Jackrabbit Trail. From well-groomed paths to remote backcountry terrain, our diverse trails cater to backcountry enthusiasts of all levels. Come, discover the beauty of Saranac Lake in a whole new way!
Tubing and sledding: the thrills on the hills
Experience the exhilarating rush of cold air as you zoom down the slopes at NCCC field or Mount Pisgah. Perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike, tubing and sledding in Saranac Lake offer a refreshing dose of winter fun. Pisgah goes the extra mile with a designated double lane for tubing, while NCCC remains a local favorite for sledding (bring your own sled for this snowy adventure).
Snowmobiling: snowy adventures await
Saranac Lake beckons thrill-seekers to explore the Adirondack wilderness on a snowmobile through an extensive network of trails. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a first-timer, our trails cater to all levels of expertise. With recent construction on the Adirondack Rail Trail, a 34-mile stretch connecting Tupper Lake, Lake Clear, Saranac Lake, Raybrook, and Lake Placid, winter recreation has never been more inviting. Smooth, level trails provide optimal riding conditions with minimal snow cover, connecting you to vibrant communities offering everything from bars and restaurants to lodging and gas. Even without your own sled, rentals and guides are available to explore snowmobiling in Saranac Lake. Embrace the winter excitement – come and explore Saranac Lake's snowmobiling paradise!
Events: frozen festivities
In the coldest spot in the nation, we’re not afraid to get out and celebrate! Don't miss the highlight of Saranac Lake's winter calendar – the Winter Carnival. This iconic event features a parade, ice palace, and a lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of the season. It's a celebration that locals and visitors alike look forward to every year!
But that's not all – Saranac Lake hosts a spectrum of winter events, from the North Country New Year to holiday celebrations, thrilling ski races like the Jackrabbit Rally and Adirondack Tour de Ski, and competitive ice fishing tournaments like the Colby Classic. Discover the diverse array of activities that make Saranac Lake the ultimate winter wonderland!
Downtown delights: indoor attractions
Warm up from the cold with a leisurely stroll through Saranac Lake's downtown, adorned with charming shoppes and art galleries. Shop from unique gifts and gear, local art, and souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Adirondacks.
As the day winds down, immerse yourself in the village's diverse culinary scene, offering everything from cozy cafes to upscale dining experiences, satisfying every craving.
For those seeking respite from the chilly outdoors, Saranac Lake offers indoor treasures like the Adirondack Carousel and the Saranac Lake Laboratory Museum, showcasing the rich tapestry of the region's history. Step into a world where warmth and history converge in the heart of Saranac Lake.
Live music and entertainment: sounds of Saranac Lake
End your day on a high note in Saranac Lake by immersing yourself in live music at popular venues like Waterhole Music Lounge, The Garagery, Hotel Saranac, and Bitters & Bones. With a diverse range of musical genres, there's something for every ear.
But the entertainment doesn't stop there! Saranac Lake also boasts unique offerings like story slams and workshops at the Adirondack Center for Writing, and Grizle T's Garagery has become a hotbed for offbeat fun, featuring comedy shows and their Monday night Hootenanny. Discover a different kind of evening excitement in the heart of Saranac Lake!
Embrace the chill
Saranac Lake's winter wonderland beckons with a plethora of activities that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie, a culture seeker, or someone who simply enjoys the beauty of a snowy landscape, Saranac Lake has something special in store for you this winter. Embrace the chill and make lasting memories in this idyllic Adirondack village.
