2023 Arts and Theatre
I already have Adirondack summer events on my mind. Looking ahead to the months of June, July and August, there are a number of great arts and theatre performances worthy of planning a trip around.
Top 6 Reasons to Love Mud Season
Adirondack Mud Season has gotten a bad name. Generally consisting of April and May, it’s the period when snow is melting in the High Peaks, there’s a fair amount of rain in the forecast, and plenty of mud on the trails. The visual image of getting covered in mud doesn’t sound appealing, but it’s really not that bad. People seem to want to avoid mud season in the Adirondacks, but it’s one of my favorite times.
A Winter Day on Mirror Lake
One thing about Lake Placid is there are some great ways to spend a winter day doing activities that you can’t find most other places. At least not quite like this. In the depth of winter — February into early March — when the ice is thick enough on Mirror Lake, you should definitely try out dog sledding and a toboggan ride.
Where to go Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
If you read my previous post on the basic intro to winter hiking and snowshoeing, now you’re excited and ready to try it! Right?! Here are some recommendations to get you out there and moving. Grab some snowshoes and enjoy.
Intro to Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing
If you’re new to winter hiking, this post is for you. I think there’s some anxiety around hiking or snowshoeing in the winter — the concern of getting cold. But if you prepare well, it can be such a rewarding and peaceful experience. So beautiful to walk softly through the snow covered forest, up to higher ground, looking down on a winter wonderland.
16 Ways to Enjoy Winter
Even in the winter, the mountains are calling. You probably know that Lake Placid hosted past Olympics, but may not realize the vast variety of snow activities you can enjoy in this unique area. Check out these 15 suggestions for fun winter activities in the ADK.
Seasons Greetings
November is here and our cottage is booking up for the holidays! November and December are a wonderful time to visit Lake Placid. Fewer crowds, easy to get a table at your favorite restaurant, holiday shopping deals and plenty of activities.
Hiking with Dogs
Our dog Maddie is quite the hiking dog. So far she’s completed the Saranac 6er and Lake Placid 9er with us, and we’re part way through the ADK-9er and Fire Tower Challenge. It can be lots of fun hiking with your dog, just remember to properly prep with the right gear and enough water for a great day in the mountains. And consider your dog’s age, health, stamina and abilities when choosing your hike. Here’s our packing and prep list for taking Maddie on the trail with us.
Year-Round Winter Sports
We love watching winter sports in Lake Placid, but let’s be real … sometimes it’s freaking cold standing out in the snow as a spectator. Right? I’d argue that you can achieve the best of both worlds — comfort and the thrill of being there in person — when you watch winter sports in the summer or fall. There are plenty of opportunities. Everything from Hockey, Speed Skating and Figure Skating competitions to Nordic Combined, XC Skiing, Ski Jumping and Freestyle Jumping.
15 ADK Activities Accessible For All
I recently came across the blog and Instagram account @wonders_within_reach, and was really inspired by this family’s experience traveling and finding accessible family adventures. This is a darling family of five with a 3rd grader and two kindergartners, one of whom has spina bifida and is in a wheelchair. I especially loved their story — and very positive experience — traveling to the Adirondacks. In addition to the sites mentioned in their blog, it got me thinking about other activities around Lake Placid that are accessible for all. The more research I’ve done on accessibility in the Adirondacks, the more I’ve found. Here’s what I recommend.
Peak Leaf Peeping
I love fall! It’s my favorite season with cool temperatures and gorgeous fall colors. My previous autumn post in early September got me excited about the season, but with the start of October this weekend, leaf peeping is approaching it’s peak! Here are my top tips and must-do activities for enjoying the autumn leaves.
5 Pond Walks With <500 Feet Elevation Gain
Just like chicken noodle soup, a walk through the woods to a pond is good for the soul. It’s different from hiking to a mountain top. Not only are these hikes less strenuous, but having a lakeside destination is often much more serene and peaceful. Generally less human traffic. Low key. Usually forested walks. Great in summer if you’re looking to take a dip in the water. Good in the spring mud season when we need to avoid higher elevations — but be prepared with bug spray in black fly season. Ideally, try these trails in autumn to catch reflections of fall color in a crystal clear pond.