Summer in the Adironack High Peaks

Lake Everest, Wilmington, NY

A beautiful swimmable beach in Wilmington featuring kayak launches, picnic areas, BBQ grills, a playground, and dog-friendly grassy areas.



Mirror Lake, Lake Placid, NY

Enjoy swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding with beautiful mountain views surrounding the lake. Public access areas and rentals nearby make it easy to spend a relaxing afternoon on the water, and one end of the lake is dog friendly for guests traveling with pets.



Jay Covered Bridge, Jay, NY

A scenic local favorite with swimming access and historic charm. The Jay Covered Bridge is a favorite summer swimming spots, offering crystal-clear mountain water, natural swimming holes, and a series of small waterfalls and cascades. Surrounded by scenic Adirondack beauty, it's the perfect place to cool off, relax on the rocks, and enjoy a refreshing day by the river.

Stop and get your lunch at the Little Supermarket Deli before leaving!

Before heading to Whiteface Mountain, make a stop at the Little Supermarket Deli in Wilmington. This local favorite is known for its freshly made sandwiches, deli subs, snacks, and drinks—perfect for a day of hiking, sightseeing, mountain biking, or exploring the Adirondacks. Grab a hearty lunch to take with you and enjoy a picnic at the summit, along the trails, or beside one of the region's beautiful lakes and rivers. It's a convenient and delicious way to fuel your Whiteface adventure.

Hiking

Whiteface Mountain offers incredible hiking opportunities with breathtaking views of the Adirondack High Peaks. Visitors can explore scenic mountain trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging summit hikes, all surrounded by alpine scenery, fresh mountain air, and panoramic vistas. Adventurous hikers can ride the gondola or drive the Whiteface Memorial Highway before continuing on foot to the summit for unforgettable 360-degree views. Stop at the Base Lodge and purchase an lunch to go for your day on the trails.



Whiteface Mountain Race on 4 July, 2026

Cheer on the runners in the Whiteface Mountain Race.  Held at Whiteface Mountain in Wilmington, the Whiteface Mountain Race challenges runners with steep climbs, rugged descents, and incredible elevation gain through the heart of the Adirondack High Peaks. Known for its demanding terrain and breathtaking mountain scenery, this event attracts endurance athletes seeking one of the East Coast’s most unforgettable mountain racing experiences.



Gondola Rides

Experience the breathtaking Scenic Gondola Rides at Whiteface Mountain, opening June 26, 2026. The Cloudsplitter Gondola provides a relaxing 15-minute ride from the base to the summit of Little Whiteface, where visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Placid, Lake Champlain, and the surrounding High Peaks. Open daily through September 7 (closed July 19 for the Ironman event). Before or after your ride, stop by Legends Café for a convenient and delicious dining option right at the base.

Disc Golf

Frisbee fun for all ages.  A nine-hole disc golf course through the lower ski trails at Whiteface Mountain, offering beautiful mountain views and family-friendly recreation.  Play a round with friends and enjoy the fresh Adirondack air.  Open 26 June to 7 September (Closed 7/19 for Ironman).  There is a fee.

Whiteface Memorial Highway

For one of the most spectacular scenic drives in the Adirondacks, take a trip up the Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway. This five-mile paved mountain road climbs more than 2,300 feet to the summit of Whiteface Mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Adirondack High Peaks, Vermont, and Canada. At the top, visitors can explore the historic stone castle, enjoy dining and shopping, and experience unforgettable 360-degree mountain vistas. Open daily from spring through fall, it’s one of the most popular attractions near Lake Placid.

On the way to Lake Placid, Visit the High Falls Gorge - 2 May 2026 to 25 October 2026

This family-friendly destination features safe, accessible walkways and bridges that lead visitors alongside the breathtaking Ausable River as it rushes through a stunning granite gorge. Guests can enjoy cascading waterfalls, scenic overlooks, nature trails, and unforgettable Adirondack photography opportunities in every season. Just minutes from Whiteface Mountain, High Falls Gorge is a must-see stop for anyone exploring Wilmington, NY, and the Lake Placid region.



Olympic Center

Step back in time and discover the rich Olympic legacy of Lake Placid Olympic Center on a guided tour led by knowledgeable local historians. Visitors can explore the iconic venues where unforgettable moments in sports history took place, including the legendary 1980 "Miracle on Ice" hockey game and Eric Heiden’s remarkable five-gold-medal performance. Filled with fascinating stories, insider insights, and historic highlights, these tours offer a unique look at Lake Placid’s role as a two-time Olympic host. 



Explore the Main Street Shops

Lake Placid’s picturesque Main Street is one of the Adirondacks’ premier destinations for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Visitors can explore unique boutiques, outdoor outfitters, art galleries, gift shops, and specialty stores while enjoying stunning views of Mirror Lake and the surrounding High Peaks. The village is home to a wide variety of restaurants, from casual cafés and family-friendly eateries to lakeside dining and upscale cuisine featuring local flavors. After a day of shopping and sightseeing, catch a movie at the historic Palace Theatre.

Concerts at the Park in Mirror Lake

Summer evenings in Lake Placid come alive with free outdoor concerts overlooking beautiful Mirror Lake. Visitors can enjoy everything from live rock, blues, folk, and jazz performances during the popular Songs at Mirror Lake series at Mid’s Park to lakeside classical performances by the renowned Lake Placid Sinfonietta. Bring a chair or blanket, stroll Main Street, and enjoy live music surrounded by stunning Adirondack mountain scenery and fresh summer air.



Head to the Horse Shows 23 June to 28 June and 30 June to 5 July 2026

The annual Lake Placid Horse Shows are among the most prestigious equestrian events in the Northeast, attracting top riders, horses, and spectators from across the country each summer. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Adirondack Mountains. Visitors can enjoy thrilling equestrian events, family-friendly entertainment, shopping, dining, and breathtaking mountain scenery, making the Lake Placid Horse Shows a highlight of the summer season and a must-see attraction for both horse enthusiasts and casual spectators.

Play miniature golf at Boots & Birdies

 Looking for family-friendly fun in Lake Placid? Boots and Birdies is a western-themed family entertainment center offering one of the area's most enjoyable miniature golf experiences. Challenge friends and family on the scenic 18-hole mini golf course, then step up to the batting cage for even more outdoor fun. Perfect for kids, parents, and groups of all ages, Boots and Birdies combines classic family entertainment with Adirondack charm, making it a popular summer attraction and a great addition to any Lake Placid vacation itinerary.