LAKE PLACID – Visitors heading to the Adirondacks over the next few weeks will enjoy top winter conditions for all Lake Placid – This link opens in a new browser tab. area activities.
Snow depths are more than sufficient in Upstate New York: Mirror Lake is stone cold frozen for skating, hockey, snow shoeing, cross country skiing, dog sledding and toboggan sliding; and winter hiking is offering good, packed conditions.
With all the time you want to spend outdoors over the rest of February, we feel it’s necessary to offer some guidance in handling the various weather that can occur, especially the cold, so let’s be ready for it.
Let’s start with layers to battle the elements. Also, covering all exposed skin will be helpful in preventing frostbite. Keep an eye open for white spots on your cheeks. That’s a sure sign of problems.
Many people shy away from the outdoors when it’s like this, and while we want to be protective, we do believe that with common sense, you can still enjoy yourself. For instance, when it’s uber cold, minimize your exposure time. If you’re skiing and riding at Whiteface Mountain – This link opens in a new browser tab., it’s possible to just ski two runs at a time, and then head inside quickly. Use the new mid-station lodge and base lodge for warmth. Bear Den has an awesome new lodge for families. Also, take advantage of the Cloudsplitter gondola as opposed to riding lifts.
Ride up to the summit Little Whiteface on the gondola and on the way down, depending on how you feel, stop off at the mid-station, or if you’re doing well, cruise down to the main lodge and seek cover.
Same for Nordic skiers and hikers. You will most likely work hard enough to stay warm, but then monitor those exposed areas. Again, the word is layers. Even consider bringing replacement layers. You’ll probably break a sweat. Get out of those wet clothes and change into dry attire.
Footwear is crucial. Warm socks and boots that elevate feet from the snow are recommended. Earlier this winter, we had hikers who tackled Mount Marcy in sneakers during a snow storm. These neophytes then had the nerve to call for a ride! Really?! Please don’t be those people. They were very lucky. Don’t forget to charge your cell phone and bring a compass.
One overlooked aspect of these experiences is the need for nourishment and hydration. You must feed and fuel the beast within! While you’re outside, keep noshing. PB and J is great for this, as are legit energy bars. Stop for lunch while you warm up. And gulp down the beverages, preferably water and energy drinks.
If you’re traveling with the family dog, please be attentive to their time outside when it’s frigid. Our pets can’t talk so walk them close to your lodging and get them inside asap. When Fido sits down and puts his paw up, it’s not to shake hands or get a treat from you. He’s cold and wants to return to his great indoors.
When all is done, there’s no better way to relax sore muscles than immersion in our Lake Placid spa where we can warm you up and soothe sore muscles in our jacuzzi and indoor pool. Maybe a massage is appropriate, but that’ll require advance planning with an appointment.
Don’t give up on cold weather. Just come prepared, have a plan, and while others want nothing to do with it, you will have the needed knowledge to make it a great day.