Lake Placid
 Lake Placid [1] is a village of 2,638 in the Adirondack Mountains in Essex County, New York, near the center of the town of North Elba and named after an adjacent lake. While the village is a year-round resort, it is likely most known as the site of the 1980 Winter Olympics, and particularly the USA-USSR hockey game, the "Miracle on Ice," when a group of American college students and amateurs upset the heavily-favored Soviet national ice hockey team 4-3 and two days later won the gold medal. The victory is usually ranked as one of the greatest in American sports history. Lake Placid still hosts a Winter Olympics summer training facility offering exciting opportunities to watch ski jumping, aerial jumping, figure skating, etc. The town is charming and fun especially for the outdoorsy and/or adventure-spirited traveler, as well as for families looking to get away for the weekend. [edit] Get in[edit] By carLake Placid is about 5 hours from New York City and 2 1/2 hours from Montreal. From Interstate 87 take Route 9N and follow the signs. [edit] By busAdirondack Trailways Service (1-800-225-6815) travels between New York City, Albany, and Lake Placid with stops along the way. [edit] By trainThe closest Amtrak station is Westport, 40 miles east of Lake Placid. Amtrak runs a shuttle bus service to the village. Call for reservations 1-800-888-8478. [edit] By airThe Lake Placid Airport serves only charter and scenic planes. The closest domestic airport is Adirondack Airport in Saranac Lake. The closest international airports are Plattsburgh NY, Albany, Burlington (Vermont), and Montreal (Quebec). [edit] Get aroundWhile the downtown strip can easily be seen on foot, and there is a free trolley service along the lake, you'll need a car to see any of the nearby area. [edit][add listing] See Lake Placid is in the Adirondack Park, the largest state park east of the Mississippi River. It is home to 46 High Peaks, all of which rise above 4000 feet, and many of which can be viewed simultaneously from the summit of many of the neighboring mountains. On a clear day it is possible to see Vermont, New York, and Canada from the summit of Whiteface Mountain, which is located adjacent to Lake Placid.
[edit][add listing] Do
[edit] WinterIce Climbing: [4] Keene Valley boasts some of the best ice climbing in the northeast as Adirondack ice forms reliably from November to March. In early December, the Rock and River Adirondack Guide Service in Keene, NY creates a forty foot high ice wall complete with viewing benches and spotlights for those looking to extend their experiences beyond the daylight hours. Speed Skating: [5] The famed Speed Skating Oval in Lake Placid is home to some of the greatest legends in Winter Olympic history. You can take part in this heritage by strapping on a pair of speed skates from Dimon Sports – custom fitted and hand sharpened – every day in the afternoon during special public sessions. Saranac Lake Winter Carnival: [6] Winter comes alive with Saranac Lake’s annual carnival held since 1897. Each year the Carnival is based on a different theme, and to kick off the ten-day event a royal court is crowned, complete with a king and queen. Watch the famous Ice Palace takes shape or join in the Nordic ski and snowshoe races. Cross Country Skiing: [7] Explore the miles of groomed Nordic ski trails on the famous Jackrabbit trail system, extending from Saranac Lake to Lake Placid, which include some of the most amazing views of the High Peaks. Or try your skills on Olympic trails. Maple Syrup: [8] From late February onward the smoky sweet aroma of maple syrup as it’s boiled down to that delicious amber liquid wafts through the mountain air and beckons visitors to taste this sugary treat. World Cup Events: [9] The many world cup events being held in Lake Placid every year are fantastic opportunities to see some of the greatest talent each sport has to offer. From snowboarding, bobsled, luge, skeleton, and freestyle skiing, enjoy the feats and skills of athletes who train year-round for the chance to compete against the best. [edit] Summer Mountain Biking: [10] Lake Placid is home to some of the best mountain biking in the northeast. A true east-coast riding experience, the trails are technical and range widely in levels of difficulty. Two bike shops in town offer professional service and sales, as well as group rides during the summer. Mt. Van Hovenburg and Whiteface Mountain are both meccas for cross country and downhill riding. Road Biking: [11] The Adirondacks have thousands of miles of road on which to ride. Some of the best views can be seen between Lake Placid and Keene, as well as all around Essex County. Whether you want to bring the family or come up to train, the road biking in Lake Placid is a fantastic experience. Biathlon: [12] With the help of a range attendant you can test your marksmanship with .22 caliber biathlete rifles at the Olympic shooting complex at Mt. Van Hovenburg. The shooting distance is 50 meters. Cloudsplitter Gondola: [13] The 8-passenger Cloudsplitter Gondola takes visitors from the base of Whiteface to the summit of Little Whiteface in about fifteen minutes. With views of the trails, the Ausable River, and the Intervale Ski Jumping Complex, the ride is definitely spectacular. Veterans Memorial Highway: [14] Beginning in Wilmington, the Veterans Memorial Highway rises to the summit of Whiteface Mountain. There is a parking area at the top. Hiking: [15] All 46 High Peaks of the Adirondacks can be reached from the vicinity of Lake Placid by car. Some are more strenuous than others, and while many have well-beaten paths leading to their summits, many require significant bushwhacking to ascend. Be sure to set out with a group of people with plenty of water and food as well as rain gear and safety equipment. If you desire, local guides can help you make your trek to the top more enjoyable. Hike the Northville-Placid Trail: [16] The Northville Placid Trail (NPT) is a 133-mile footpath that crosses the heart of the Adirondack Park in New York State from Northville, NY to Lake Placid, NY. It is considered a lowland trail in that it doesn’t cross mountain peaks or follow mountain ridges. The trail passes through what many consider the wildest and most remote parts of the Adirondack Park, notably the high plateau that encompasses the Spruce, West Canada, and Cedar lakes area, along with that of the Cold River. The highest point the N-P Trail reaches (3008 ft) is at the crest of the ridge to the E of Blue Mt. and of Tirrell Pond. [17] for Northville Placid Trail latest trail conditions, hike planning help and more. [edit][add listing] BuyJust a small selection of the many types of stores located in Lake Placid: Adirondack Decorative Arts and Crafts: [18] featured on Rachel Ray's "Tasty Travels" Ruthies Run: [19] providing upscale outerwear and expert service Adirondack Museum on Main Store and Gallery: rustic crafts, art and photography located downtown Adirondack Yarns: [20] located next to Cuppa Joe, sip coffee and shop for yarn. Workshops also available Bookstore Plus: [21] full selection of books including uniquely Adirondack titles Placid Planet Bicycles: [22] great service and selection on profession quality bicycles and accessories
[edit][add listing] EatLake Placid offers a variety of different dining options. Depending on your choice of budget, atmosphere, and tastes, there is basically something for everyone. Most of the visitor-targeted restaurants can be found on Main St. along the lake front. More local options are on Highway 86 and 73 on either ends of town. [edit] Budget
[edit] Mid-range
[edit] Splurge
[edit][add listing] DrinkThere are several bars right along the main strip of the town.
[edit][add listing] SleepThere are numerous resort hotels located in town as well as Bed and Breakfasts in the surrounding area. If a longer stay is desired, various condominiums and timeshare plans are available as well.
[edit] Get out
|
|
