Lake Placid – Warmer days, higher sun, more daylight hours. Welcome to springtime skiing and riding in the Adirondacks.
We’ll all agree that the past few months marked a return to good, old fashioned snow accumulation and cold temps in this part of Upstate New York. The end result was epic winter conditions. But now as we turn to page to March, relief may be in sight. Or will it?
The past few years have shown that March has become a good month for snowfall. That’s great news for alpine skiers and riders as well as Nordic skiers around these parts. A year ago, the season at Whiteface Mountain lasted until mid-April. This year, with tons of man-made snow accumulated into February, along with ample natural snow, this could be a lengthy season as well. With spring break later this year – Easter Sunday is April 20 – we are expecting mountain management to extend to that point, weather and conditions permitting.
For those who intend to keep their gear handy into the spring months, please note that its important to be ready for whatever the weather deals us. With stronger sun, have sunscreen with you. Apply lavishly before and during your outings on the hills and trails. It’s also recommended to dress in layers. You’ll start the day in chilly weather and want to be comfortable for that, but as the day wears on and temps rise, you will want to shed clothing.
Bring two pairs of gloves – winter density for the morning and a lighter glove as the mercury rises.
Another consideration at Whiteface Mountain is temperature change from top to bottom. As you ride, for instance, on the Facelift at the base to the Summit Chair, conditions will get colder as you get transported some 3,100 vertical feet. Of course, just the opposite will occur on the way down as you ski/ride in winter conditions on Skyward and Paron’s Run before encountering softer, wetter trails when you hit Lower Valley and Boreen.
With that change in climate comes a possible change in technique from aggressive to more finesse as you want to keep your speed safe and consistent throughout.
When the day is done, get ready for live tunes and cold brews on the deck outside the main lodge at Whiteface Mountain.
The site is just a 15 minute drive from the Mirror Lake Inn. For conditions, please bookmark: https://whiteface.com/mountain/conditions/
For the best experience, try our mid-week package.
Finally, a word of caution: some spring conditions can be tiring, especially if the snow gets soft. Please resist the urge late in the afternoon to take just one more run. Listen to your body, particularly the knees and thighs. It’s better to cut it short and live to ski another day.