Lake Placid – Did you know that the top three activities in Lake Placid are hiking, hiking and hiking?
Speaking facetiously, of course, but actually not too far from the truth. Yes, there are activities such as biking (which we’ll address in the near future), running, water sports and others that are right up there in popularity in the Adirondacks. As we look around us, we understand the reasons.
Hiking offers enthusiasts various levels of endurance and interest, including Adirondack peaks and natural attractions. And as always, the Mirror Lake Inn is right in the midst of all of it.
If you’re into Lake Placid hiking, we can offer so many options with nearby trailheads. Cobble Mountain is a popular hike. From the Mirror Lake Inn, take the three-minute drive part way around Mirror Lake to Northwood Road. Just beyond Northwood School, you’ll see Cobble Hill Road on your left, leading you to this short, steep hike.
Another very enjoyable hike – about a five-minute drive from the Inn – are the trails at Henry’s Woods. You can complete a 2.5-mile hike with a gradual 13-floor vertical climb. There are different routes to reach the high point of these maintained trails. This is an excellent hike on a warm day as the Adirondack pines will protect you from direct sunlight. Dogs are welcome.
If you are looking for the granddaddy of all hikes, try Mount Marcy on for size. It’s the highest point in New York State at 5,343 feet. This all-day hike demands preparation and provisions. The right clothing and footwear are paramount as is food and drink. It’s a 15-mile hike that rises over 3,100 vertical feet.
Also, check the weather forecast for Mount Marcy as hiking conditions are known to change in Upstate New York. You could experience different climates from the trailhead on the Adirondack Loj Road to Marcy’s summit. In brief, get online, do the research and plan ahead.
If you enjoy ambling through meadows, we suggest Heaven Hill Trails, just 4.5 miles from the hotel. This offers an idyllic walk in and out of the woods and is not overly taxing. Dogs will also love this hike, too.
The Haystack Mountain trailhead can be found between Lake Placid and Ray Brook. Use Rt. 86 west and proceed about six miles. It’s very easy access from a long straightaway on the highway. The total hike, considered to me moderate, is 6.6 miles. From the mountaintop, there are spectacular views to be enjoyed.
Finally, please consider a walk-through at High Falls Gorge, located eight miles from our resort on Rt. 86. Nature’s wonders come alive when you see the Ancient Valley of Foaming Water. And touch an anorthosite boulder, over 1.5 billion years old. This is the base rock of the Adirondacks. This 22-acre walk will leave you mesmerized with a great appreciation of our natural habitat.
We have obviously only scratched the surface of hiking the 46 Adirondack peaks, but we think you get the message – this region is one of the prime hiking locations in the nation no matter the time of year. It’s so serious, in fact, that an exclusive club exists for those who have ascended all 46. If you can do it, you qualify to be considered an Adirondack 46er.
As we mentioned above, planning is key to enjoyment. Prior to arriving in Lake Placid, research the weather. Check the active links that are included in this blog. If for some reason, you are in need of equipment or clothing, rest assured we have several shops in town with the outdoor expertise to help you.
This part of the state, known as the Adirondack Park, is vast. It’s six million acres of wilderness that never officially opens or closes. It’s just always here ready to be enjoyed.