Lake Placid is a popular getaway in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York that is full of fun times in the summer and winter. Here your family can enjoy a full week or long weekend settled into a lakeside cabin or enjoy a quaint cottage nearby with Lake Placid vacation rentals from Tripping. There is so much to do and see in the area, however, here are some of our favorites.
1. Boating
Take the entire family out on the lake for a day of boating on the calm water of Lake Placid. Whether you prefer spending time on a slow sailboat or desire something a little faster like a motorboat, Lake Placid has rentals available for both. Use the public boat launch for your personal boat, or rent a boat from a local company.
2. Rock Climbing
Rock climbing offers your adventurous family members the opportunity to challenge themselves. Some popular places for rock climbing in the area include Avalanche Pass, Rooster Comb and Henderson Cliff. Your climb will be on lakeside cliffs and granite mountains, so don’t forget to bring your camera to take photos of the amazing views.
3. Skiing
If you take your lake vacation in the winter months you can enjoy some great skiing near Lake Placid. Skiing at Whiteface Mountain offers trails for every level skier in your family. This ski resort has skiing lessons for those just learning to ski and for others who want to brush up their skills before hitting the slopes.
4. Snowmobiling
If you’re lucky enough to rent a Lake Placid cottage during the winter months, you and the family can enjoy traveling around the paved and back country trails on snowmobiles. Bring your own snowmobiles from home or rent one from a local facility. Younger family members must ride with an adult and remember to always wear a helmet!
5. Fishing
With eight lakes and ponds in the area, Lake Placid offers ample fishing opportunities for your entire family. You can fish from the banks of the lake or while out on a boat. Don’t forget to pack your camera so you can capture images of large catches!
6. Biking
Put on your bike helmets, grab a bike and enjoy a day of riding with your friends and family. The Lake Placid area offers many loops and trails for beginners and experienced riders. Those who want a challenge can choose from several mountain bike trails. Depending on your vacation rental, you may have access to bikes. If not, you can rent bikes from a local retailer.
7. Whitewater Rafting
With several raging rivers in the area, you and the group can put on your life jackets and navigate the rough waters. It’s recommended to book your whitewater rafting experience with a group that can find all the best spots and keep you safe. If you want to tackle the most popular route, Hudson River Gorge, you must hire a guide to help you navigate the challenging rapids.
8. Golfing
If you love playing golf, Lake Placid has multiple golf courses for you to try out with scenic views and different levels of difficulty. There are four public golf courses in the area with 18 holes, each with a par 72. These courses offer something for everyone whether you want a casual game with the family or to plan a day of competition.
9. Enjoy a Spa Day
Gather up everyone in the group who deserves some pampering and enjoy a day at the spa. The Spa at Whiteface Lodge offers everything from professional massages to salon services. Enjoy a couple’s massage for a romantic date or detox and rejuvenate with a mud wrap.
10. Visit the Olympic Sites
In 1980, Lake Placid hosted the Olympics Winter Games. Feel like a competitor when you visit some of the game sites and practice on the ice arena. Visit the site of the 70 and 90 meter ski jump towers and the Miracle on Ice Arena where the United States hockey team played for glory.