Lake Placid – It’s an interesting time of year in the Lake Placid region of Upstate New York. We waited long enough for consistent snow and recently we have received it with more on the way. Spring skiing will be excellent, but wait, there’s more….
In the coming days (March 13-15), we could receive upwards of 9-16 inches of fresh cover in the village, but up on Whiteface Mountain, that could be more. In addition, we might receive a “refresher” of snow on the weekend (March 18-19). If this materializes, in combination with temps in the 30s over the next two weeks, the ski and ride season could continue well into April. This is in stark contrast with the months of December, January and most of February when the Adirondack Mountains were afflicted with inconsistent weather.
As we reach April, some other activities come into play. Fishing season commences April 1, and of course, the Ausable River, part of which runs along Route 86 to Whiteface Mountain and beyond, is recognized as one of the best fly-fishing streams in the country. Imagine visiting us and having to pack skis, boards and fly rods?
Spend a morning enjoying spring skiing. On the drive back to Lake Placid, just pull over into one of the ample parking spots and culminate your day casting into the Ausable. This is a good story to tell when you return home.
Cross-country skiing in the area could be extended as well if these snow events do occur. Conjure up an image of a few hours of world-class striding in the morning at the Olympic Sports Complex, then take the short drive to the Ausable River via River Road and get in some early season casting.
Speaking of such, the Mirror Lake Inn will hold its annual Spring Fly Fishing Weekend on May 19-21. This year’s event comes with a new ripple. Attendees will be lodged here at the hotel, but on Saturday morning, the group will drive about 45 minutes to Shangri La in Duane, N.Y. This is the Adirondack’s premiere trout and salmon preserve, and is close to the St. Regis River. Fishing guides Gary Marchuk/Bear Cub Adventures and Ken Kalil / Kalil’s Upstate Outfitters will lead the instruction which will include the rudiments such as tying knots, casting, proper gear, reading water and more. Olympic silver and bronze medal skier Andrew Weibrecht will accompany the group at Shangri La.
But prior to this, there will be lots of skiing, riding and fishing to enjoy in the shadow of Whiteface. And who knows – it’s possible that the winter season could take us all the way to that special fly-fishing weekend in May.