The Adirondacks of upstate New York have delightful cross country skiing. In the Adirondack Mountains, there is deep snow, a long skiing season, and unmatched wilderness scenery. There are world-class cross country touring centers. Plus endless backcountry skiing possibilities abound.
I share five of my favorite cross country skiing centers in the Lake Placid/Saranac Lake area. Also, I’ll show you some premier backcountry ski areas. Finally, for those who don’t ski, I have your back. There are plenty of other winter outdoor activities in the Adirondacks to enjoy.
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Accommodations for Cross Country Skiers in the Adirondacks
There is so much to do near the Olympic village of Lake Placid. So be sure to stay in Lake Placid to enjoy all the winter outdoor activities.
Consider staying in one of the Lake Placid Inn accommodations. The collection of three Lake Placid Inn properties has something for every visitor. The Lake Placid Inn: Main Street is an ultra-modern holiday apartment perfect for families or traveling groups. Location is in the thick of the action in Lake Placid, it’s a short walk to village attractions.
If you don’t need something quite as big or deluxe, the Lake Placid Inn Residences has very affordable luxury apartments. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at the Lake Placid Inn Residences. I made good use of the well-stocked kitchen for meals. The apartment suite is done in marvelous Adirondack wooden charm. Furthermore, it is spacious and super clean. It’s a couple minutes outside Lake Placid, but on a beautiful riverside and close to cross country skiing.
Certainly, hospitality sets some accommodations above others. From my experience, the Lake Placid Inn wins the hospitality award for accommodations. First, I was greeted with a nice welcome gift when I arrived. Next, the innkeepers, Lisa and Chuck, were enthusiastic about making sure my stay was exceptional. That kind of personal attention makes me know I’ll come back to the Lake Placid Inn collection on my next visit to the Adirondacks.
The third Lake Placid Inn property is the Boutique Hotel is an upscale hotel with many desired amenities. It’s sandwiched between Mirror Lake and the Olympic Skating Oval so you are close to premier in-town outdoor adventures I mention later.
Cross Country Skiing Touring Centers in the Adirondacks
Let’s start out with the cross country ski touring centers I visited in the Adirondacks.
The standard bar for trail maintenance is high at these world-famous cross country skiing destinations. Grooming for skate and classical skiing is exquisite. The tracks set in the squeaky cold snow are artistic masterpieces.
Dewey Mountain Recreation Center
For all-around great cross country skiing, Dewey Mountain is my choice. It’s a well-maintained and family-friendly touring center. Don’t be surprised to find a group of preschoolers taking a fun ski lesson in the morning. Or you might be passed by teenaged ski racers doing an afternoon practice.
The trails are one-way loops of varying abilities. The higher you ski up the mountain, the more difficult the trails become. The ungroomed top of the mountain gives backcountry skiers or experienced tourers a chance to ski steeper runs. The view from the top of the mountain takes in the nearby Saranac Lakes. The lower, expertly groomed green and blue trails wander through a snow-caked woodland.
During weeknights, the lights come on for magical night skiing from 5-7 pm. The golden hue of the snow makes for a gorgeous ski at night.
Dedicated snowshoe trails crisscross the property. Plus, there is a large warming center, ski and snowshoe rentals, and a very reasonable trail free.
Dewey Mountain Recreation Center is located five minutes outside Saranac Lake on Route 3 West.
Paul Smith’s College VIC
With its dedication to experiential education and the outdoors, Paul Smith’s College is my kind of place. What’s more, its VIC is quite a winter paradise.
There is 20 km of groomed trails for skate skiing, classic skiing, and snowshoeing. Furthermore, classical skiers and snowshoers can enjoy 40 km of groomed trails. That’s a whole lot of beautiful northern forest to explore by skiing.
I enjoyed cruising the easy, well-groomed Logger’s Loop. Several ungroomed but well-tracked trails branch off the loop for special side trips. The Boreal Life Trail leads down to a magnificent view of a bog dressed in winter finery.
There is a warming shelter with restrooms. Paul Smith’s College VIC is located on Route 30 north of Paul Smith’s College.
Mt. Van Hoevenberg
Cross country skiing at Mt. Van Hoevenberg is in the shadow of Olympians. The world-class trails were designed for the 1980 Olympic Games held in Lake Placid. There are still international competitions held at Mt. Van Hoevenberg. Further, you can ski on the Olympic biathlon track and see the shooting range of the Olympians.
Now 50 km of expertly maintained trails await you. There is also 4 km of new World Championship caliber trails, ensuring that Mt. Van Hoevenberg is the premier Nordic destination in North America. Snowmaking also extends the season. The Mountain Pass Lodge is a huge warming facility with rentals and food service.
The trail fee is more expensive than other nearby touring centers, but the Olympic vibe and many amenities make it worth it. Mt. Van Hoevenberg is located on Route 73 about 15 minutes south of Lake Placid.
Cascade Cross Country Ski Center
Cascade Cross Country Ski Center is just down the road from Mt. Van Hoevenberg on Route 73. However, it has a whole different character. You won’t have any Olympians in training whizz by you. Instead, you will find 20 km of enjoyable up-and-down ski trails to glide through the forest and across the brook.
The Jackrabbit Trail runs through Cascade Ski Center. You can jump on this historic trail for a mellow cruise through the area.
For those on a budget, the Bunkroom at Cascade has hostel-style lodging for cheap. Bring your own sleeping bag or blankets. For families, renting out an entire bunk room is a budget-friendly option. Wake up trailside for a morning ski.
There is a lodge with food and drink for apres ski enjoyment. Rentals of skis and snowshoes are available.
Whiteface Club & Resort Nordic Center
The Nordic Center at the Whiteface Club & Resort has 15 km of gentle trails best suited to beginner skiers. The well-groomed trails for classical and skate skiing traverse the golf course and surrounding fields. Furthermore, the Jackrabbit trail intersects this property.
I found gliding along the undulating trails to be a wonderful time in beautiful conditions. It’s a great workout without a lot of hill climbing, just constant swishing along the trails.
The Nordic Center has ski and snowshoe rentals. The Cafe on the Green has healthy lunches after a vigorous ski. The Center is located on Whiteface Lane not far from the village of Lake Placid.
Related post -> Best Free Cross Country Skiing in Vermont
Backcountry Cross Country Skiing in the Adirondacks
Besides amazing touring centers, the Adirondacks offers some of the best backcountry skiing in the world. Certainly, many backcountry skiers use climbing skins to ski up some of the ADK peaks for mind-bending descents of the snowy slides. However, I will share some ideas for backcountry terrain that can be done on touring gear.
Jackrabbit Ski Trail
The Jackrabbit Ski Trail was the creation of Herman “Jackrabbit” Smith Johannsen. Jackrabbit Johannsen was a Norwegian credited with bringing cross country skiing to the Adirondacks and parts of Canada. He pioneered many backcountry ski routes in the High Peaks and in Canada. He died at 111 years old but is said to have cross country skied until age 108.
The trail Jackrabbit Johannsen carved through the Adirondacks runs 35 miles. It meanders through villages, winds through cross country ski touring centers, and hugs the wilderness ridges of the Adirondacks. The trail starts in Keene and ends at Paul Smith’s College VIC There are parts of the Jackrabbit Trail for all abilities.
My favorite section is the 5.5-mile Old Mountain Road section from Whiteface Inn Lane to McKenzie Pond Road. We left a car at either end and skied from the trailhead across from the Whiteface Club & Resort Nordic Center side. The trail climbs gently to the Placid lean-to at 1.5 miles. This is a great snack break area. After 2.5 miles it reaches the height of land. It’s all downhill from there.
The 1.5-mile descent is challenging but doable on touring skis. You will need solid downhill technique on touring skis but the trail is wide enough to snowplow or crank turns. I enjoyed the continuous descent all way to the McKenzie Pond turnoff.
Make sure you do the short ski into the scenic winter view over McKenzie Pond. If you are looking for an out-and-back ski, start at the trailhead on McKenzie Pond Road and kick and glide into the pond on a section of the Jackrabbit Trail that is less intense.
Marcy Dam Trail
Marcy Dam is a popular destination in the heart of the High Peaks Wilderness Area. It is a gateway to the surrounding backcountry peaks. Furthermore, it’s a beautiful destination on its own with views of Mt. Marcy and the High Peaks.
The 4.2-mile out-and-back Marcy Dam Trail starts at the Adirondack Mountain Club’s complex including the Adirondack Loj, cabins, and campground. The trail has some ups and downs so is rated for intermediate skiers. Keen skiers may want to continue to Avalanche Lake for an incredible 10-mile roundtrip scenic ski trip.
For a less rigorous loop, ski into Marcy Dam and then ski out on the Old Marcy Dam Truck Road to South Meadow. It’s a mile road walk back to the Loj to make a 7-mile loop. You can also park at South Meadow for an easy out-and-back ski.
There is a fee to park at the main parking lot at the end of Adirondack Loj Road.
Johns Brook Trail
If you are looking for a quintessential Adirondack wilderness ski trail, the Johns Brook Trail has you covered. The trail up the Johns Brook Valley has gentle ups and downs as it climbs for 3.5 miles to the Johns Brook Lodge. It crosses several rivers that will test your balance on narrow bridges. The northern forest woods and house-size boulders scattered along the trail make for a fabulous ski.
While we winter camped on a recent visit, there are several backcountry cabins and lean-tos at the trail’s end for overnights. Grace Camp and Camp Peggy O’Brien are rustic accommodations offered by the Adirondack Mountain Club.
The parking lot in Keene Valley at the Garden trailhead off Johns Brook Lane is crowded to overfilled on weekends so arrive early. There is a fee collected to maintain the lot and road.
Winter Outdoor Activities Besides Cross Country Skiing in the Adirondacks
It’s hard to believe, but not everyone wants to go cross country skiing every day of their Adirondacks trip. Fortunately, there are many other winter outdoor activities to enjoy in the Adirondacks.
Ice Skating
Who wouldn’t want to ice skate on the same track that Eric Heiden won five gold medals in the 1980 Olympics? You are indeed skating with legends on the Olympic Speed Skating Oval in the heart of Lake Placid. Skate rentals are available.
For more outdoor ice skating fun head over to Mirror Lake in Lake Placid. The town clears a 2-mile oval around the shore of the lake. Views of surrounding peaks, while you glide along, are fantastic. Plus, you are right near the village to grab a quick warm-up drink or snack.
Bobsledding
Undoubtedly, hurtling down the Lake Placid bobsled track at the Olympic Sports Complex was one of the most amazing experiences I’ve had. It’s like you have become an athlete in the Winter Olympics for a brief time. A very brief time as the ride is over in the blink of an eye. However, it’s a blast.
The Lake Placid Bobsled Experience is available when the track is not being used for events. You can also try the skeleton or get a tour of the track. Additionally, the Cliffside Coaster is an exhilarating ride down the mountain.
Dog Sledding
Mirror Lake in Lake Placid is the place to be to enjoy dog sledding in the Adirondacks. Several companies run dog sledding experiences on the lake. Thunder Mountain Dog Sled Tours and Mike Arnold Dog Sled Rides offer short rides on Mirror Lake to try out the sport of dog sledding.
Sky Ride Gondola
Experience the exhilaration from the top of the Olympic Ski Jumps. The Sky Ride Gondola takes you to the top of the 120-meter ski jump to experience what Olympic skiers feel at the top of their run. Panoramic views of the Adirondack Mountains are in store for you too. The gondola is ADA-compliant to allow access for all.
Wrap Up of Cross Country Skiing in the Adirondacks
The trails of the Adirondacks check all the right boxes for cross country skiing fans. Beginner skiers will enjoy the touring centers for their easy trails, quality rental gear, and comfortable warming centers. Skate skiers will love the amazing grooming and well-designed trails. All touring centers have a variety of trail types for all abilities.
The wilderness trails of the Adirondack will thrill backcountry skiers and skilled ski tourers. It’s critical to be well-prepared when you venture into the backcountry for a skiing day trip. I put together a checklist for essential gear to pack for a safe backcountry ski trip. Signup below to grab it.
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Disclaimer: I was a guest of Lake Placid Inn Residences. I was not compensated or asked to write a positive review. All opinions are from my honest experience.
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I’ve compiled my posts on my favorite cross country skiing places in the Northeast for you to explore!
38 Comments
SUSAN W LINTON · February 11, 2021 at 10:51 am
I admire that you note: gondola is ADA compliant to allow access for all. I wish I saw those additional notes on more travel posts. Most people reading this post are not going to be interested in it when you are talking about outdoor cross country skiing but it is nice to know for others. That may be the only activity that is relevant. Thanks.
Mikaela Musa · February 12, 2021 at 8:10 am
I gotta admit. I haven’t tried skiing before but I always wanted to! This is such a good read and I will take note of your experience for when I could travel. Cross country travel is something to consider as well.
Karen · February 12, 2021 at 10:34 am
I hope you get to try it. It’s a great way to get out in the winter.
Karen · February 12, 2021 at 10:39 am
As much as I can I try to add both ADA accessibility information and also the native tribes whose land we adventure on. Outdoor adventure should be for every Body. there are so many ways to get outdoors to include all. You might be interested in this post I did on outdoor adventure programs for people with disabilities. https://www.travelbreatherepeat.com/accessible-outdoor-activities/
Jamie Sharpe · February 11, 2021 at 4:11 pm
I have to admit that I’m a West ski snob but you might have turned me on this. I’ll plan a trip for next winter!
Karen · February 12, 2021 at 10:36 am
The West is nice for sure but there is great XC skiing in the Northeast and the charming villages can’t be beaten.
Linn · February 12, 2021 at 11:03 am
Ok Karen, I’ll go West…to the Adirondacks!
Karen · February 16, 2021 at 11:02 am
You would love it. I’m sure Amelia and Pete would go back in a minute.
Lisa Shehan · February 12, 2021 at 7:32 pm
Wow, looks absolutely incredible!! I can’t ski but boy would I love to be in the snow like this!
Karen · February 16, 2021 at 11:03 am
The powder snow lightly falling is gorgeous.
Nora · February 22, 2021 at 11:46 pm
This looks amazing! Living in the UK I don’t get to see snow as often. I would love to be able to go cross country skiing!
Ellie · February 13, 2021 at 9:42 am
Wow! I have never tried cross country skiing, but I love downhill skiing so I should definitely try it out. Thanks for the helpful guide to the Adirondacks!
Karen · February 16, 2021 at 11:04 am
Most downhill skiers adapt quite well to cross country skiing.
Elena Pappalardo · February 13, 2021 at 10:53 am
I’ve always wanted to try cross-country skiing and this region looks like the perfect spot to do it! Thanks for the inspiration!
Karen · February 16, 2021 at 11:04 am
Yes, there are so many great places to learn the sport.
Katherine · February 13, 2021 at 11:10 am
I’ve always wanted to visit the Adirondacks but never thought about the possibility of going in winter and trying cross country skiing as well!
Karen · February 16, 2021 at 11:06 am
Winter in the Adirondacks is my favorite season. Especially since it’s so well known for the Winter Olympics.
Krista · February 13, 2021 at 4:07 pm
I haven’t been cross country skiing in a while but I do miss it! These trails look perfect for skiing on and the scenery is stunning.
Karen · February 16, 2021 at 11:06 am
We’ve been blessed by good snow this winter so it’s a great time to get out.
Elizabeth · February 14, 2021 at 11:03 am
I lived in NYC for several years, but only made it up to the Adirondacks once during the summer. It looks like so much fun to go cross country skiing there. It’s got to know there are some easy trails at the training centers for beginners like me. I would like all the other winter activities too, especially taking the Sky Ride Gondola!
Karen · February 16, 2021 at 11:09 am
there are lots of easy places to learn to ski.
Farrah · February 14, 2021 at 2:50 pm
I’ve never been to the Adirondacks but would loveeee to someday! Your photos are so pretty! <3
Karen · February 16, 2021 at 11:09 am
It’s a great place to visit for sure.
Melinda · February 16, 2021 at 8:19 am
What perfect timing for this post and you really have me craving getting back on skis. Would love to get to Lake Placid one day, for skiing and all the other fun activities, especially the bobsled!
Karen · February 16, 2021 at 11:11 am
I did the bobsled ride many years ago and I still talk about how fun and exciting it was. When I watch the Winter Olympic bobsledding, I think, “I was there”.
Tara · February 16, 2021 at 10:59 am
All of your skiing posts make me want to get outside, and I love the Adirondacks and Lake Placid! Which spot do you think is the most beginner-friendly? I ski a tiny loop near our house but lack any technical skills…
Karen · February 16, 2021 at 11:13 am
I like Dewey Mountain the most for beginner-friendly trails. Paul Smith’s VIC had some nice wide easy trails too. I’d also recommend Mt. Prospect right near you –it has some good beginner trails. And it’s lovely to ski there.
Josy A · February 16, 2021 at 11:23 pm
Kaen, you really do find all the best cross country skiing adventures! The trails of the Adirondacks look really fun…and I love that you included some non-skiing options too. Don’t get me wrong, I’d love to give cross country skiing a try…it’s just I like the idea of having something else to try too, to make it a super varied snowy holiday.
Kristen · February 17, 2021 at 2:56 pm
Great post! I’ve been able to go cross country skiing a few times this year and I hope to get out a few more times before the season ends. It’s such a nice change of pace from my usual walks.
Hannah · February 25, 2021 at 4:54 am
I would love to visit the Adirondacks – although I’ve never tried cross-country skiing. Dog sledding on Mirror Lake would be amazing!
Pafoua · February 3, 2022 at 12:45 am
I’ve never been skiing before and am a little hesitant to start learning, so I loved that you added other activities to enjoy. I would love to try bob sledding!
Renee · February 3, 2022 at 6:14 am
I used to be an avid cross country skier up until a few years ago when I stopped. But your post reminded me how much I loved it and now have the itch to pick it up again. There’s no better feeling than groomed trails through the woods. I would love to try night skiing, that would be especially pretty. Especially in an picturesque setting as the Adirondacks.
Karen · February 13, 2022 at 10:10 am
I do hope you get back to it. It’s such a magical sport.
Jacqueline Le · February 4, 2022 at 4:49 am
As a snowboarder, I always feel jealous that skiiers can go on such flat paths and enjoy themselves. I think I’d like to finally give it a chance especially in such a beautiful place. I also love that you can ice skate right on the lake!! And the other cool winter activities like bob sledding and dog sledding. We don’t have any of that in my part of the country, but it seems winter is not so bad after all!
Karen · February 13, 2022 at 10:09 am
XC skiing has some real differences from alpine. While I love alpine too, there is nothing like gliding through a snowy woodland.
Farrah · February 4, 2022 at 5:25 am
This sounds like so much fun! I’ve only gone skiing once when I was a kid but kinda would like to try it again (partially because I’m hoping I’ll be better at it than snowboarding, haha ._.).
It’d be awesome to try dog sledding + bob sledding too though — I’ve never done either!
Karen · February 13, 2022 at 10:07 am
I do think you would love it!
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