Lake Placid is a gorgeous place filled with fantastic views and a charming town, but with so much to see and do it can be overwhelming. That is why we, at Grand Adirondack Hotel, have created a Mini Travel Guide just for you. A way for you to know what to do, what to bring, and most importantly where to stay. It truly is as simple as that. Three steps and you will be on your way to a great Adirondack adventure!
What To Do
Hit the trails: Hike or climb into our scenic wilderness! The region’s trails lead to the 46 High Peaks, most of which are over 4,000 feet. With a lot of mountains and trails to choose from, it is no surprise that hiking and climbing are a favorite activity for those visiting Lake Placid. Mount Marcy, is the tallest mountain in New York at 5,344 feet if you are trying to reach new heights. If you are looking for something challenging, Mount Haystack is one of the most demanding hikes in the High Peaks Region. Tackle either of these, and you will see the amazing views from a new perspective! Cascade Mountain is a local favorite and is the perfect family hike. It is one of the easiest of the High Peaks to climb and is known for its spectacular panoramic vista. This is a popular mountain, so we suggest hiking Cascade on weekdays to avoid the big weekend crowds.
Jump in: Our water is perfect for swimming, paddling, and fishing! Water off of the Adirondack Mountains feeds miles of accessible rivers and lakes. Which means that Lake Placid is a favorite place to paddle. Whether kayaking, canoeing, or whitewater rafting, we have thousands of reasons – plus 6-million acres – why Lake Placid should be on your bucket list.
Go for the gold: Walk through sports history and visit the Olympic sites. When a small town is honored with hosting the Olympics, it becomes a big deal and something to see. Venture to the Olympic Jumping Complex to see where athletes train for the death-defying sport of ski jumping. While you are there, hop in a tube and hold on for the ride of your life as you rocket down the 20-meter and 90-meter ski jump landing hills. Take a look at the Lake Placid Olympic Museum to get a sense of the history that was made in this small town. Test your courage at the Lake Placid Bobsled Experience at the Olympic Sports Complex at Mt. Van Hoevenberg. To make sure you see all the Olympic history get an Olympic Sites Passport for just $35 at our front desk. It’s an excellent way to see everything and save money.
What To Bring
After you pick what you want to do, it will help you organize what to bring. Do you want to go hiking? If you do, bring hiking boots (not new!), non-cotton layers, refillable water bottles, a backpack, trail snacks, a first aid kit, compass and trail map. Get more info on trail preparedness and DEC hiking regulations at https://www.adk.org/play/hiking-information/hiking-in-the-adirondacks/. The weather changes as you reach new heights so having thin layers to add on or take off with help you on your journey. If you want to do everything that is water, suit up. Bring a beach towel and a swimsuit that you are comfortable in and can handle any activity from swimming to water sports. If you want to rent a kayak, SUP, or canoe, contact EMS, High Peaks Cyclery, Lake Placid Ski & Board (right next to Grand Adirondack Hotel), Mirror Lake Boat Rental or SUP Lake Placid. If you want to explore the town, bring comfy shoes to put some miles on while you shop till you drop or explore the Olympic sites. Don’t worry if you forget something because Lake Placid has a ton of shops for all of your wants and needs.
Where To Stay
Finally, on your trip to Lake Placid stay at Grand Adirondack Hotel. An original Lake Placid historic building renovated into a gorgeous hotel. With beautiful rooms and all the amenities of a modern hotel, you will feel right at home. After a long day of exploring and sightseeing you will want a comfortable place to lay your head. Grand Adirondack Hotel offers 92 guestrooms and suites, many with breathtaking views of Mirror Lake and the High Peaks and right in the center of Lake Placid. Close to all amenities and direct access to start your day of exploring Lake Placid. You do not even have to go far for food. Delta Blue, our Southern BBQ restaurant, and the Cabin Grill, serving a hearty Adirondack breakfast to fuel your adventures, are both located in the lower lobby of the Hotel. At Grand Adirondack Hotel we want to make sure that you are out exploring Lake Placid.
