Lake Placid & Adirondacks Activities Guide

Each season in Lake Placid brings its own kind of magic, but summer has a rhythm that’s all its own. The days are long and sun-drenched, the mountains are alive with possibility, and Mirror Lake sparkles like it’s holding a secret just for you. Here, the Adirondacks offer more than a getaway; they offer a feeling. The kind that sneaks up on you during a quiet paddle at sunrise, or a cool breeze at the summit, or a song echoing over the lake as the stars come out.

Whether you’re drawn to the rhythm of nature, the pulse of small-town life, or simply a place to catch your breath and reconnect, Lake Placid delivers in every way. From June through August, we’ve gathered some of our favorite ways to explore, unwind, and make memories that last far beyond the season.

Photo Credit: Whiteface Club & Resort

June

In June, the Adirondacks begin to bloom with possibility. The trails are fresh, the skies are wide open, and every morning feels like an invitation to explore. Whether you’re birdwatching in quiet bogs, biking through forested paths, teeing off beside mountain views, or wandering the treetops at The Wild Center, June is when summer truly begins and Lake Placid comes to life.

Birdwatching in the Adirondacks

There’s a quiet kind of magic in the woods when the sun rises over the Adirondacks. The trails are still, the air is cool, and the trees begin to sing. At Bloomingdale Bog, just a short drive from High Peaks Resort, birdwatchers of all levels can step into this peaceful world. The bog’s open wetlands and spruce forests are home to boreal treasures like the black-backed woodpecker, yellow-bellied flycatcher, and the ever-curious Canada jay.

Whether you’re walking with a guide or simply listening with your morning coffee in hand, birdwatching in June is less about checking boxes and more about tuning in. Every flutter, every call, every moment of stillness connects you to something bigger. It’s not just about spotting birds, it’s about noticing the wild heart of the Adirondacks, one song at a time.

A Round with a View

There are golf courses, and then there are Adirondack golf courses. The kind where every swing comes with a backdrop of soaring peaks, quiet lakes, and towering white pines. Just minutes from High Peaks Resort, the Whiteface Club and Resort offers one of the most scenic and celebrated courses in the region. It’s classic, challenging, and surrounded by natural beauty.

Whether you're here to chase a personal best or enjoy a relaxing day on the greens, this is the kind of course that makes the game feel elevated, literally and figuratively. Our Golf in the Adirondacks package makes it easy to pair play with your stay, so all that’s left is to grab your clubs and soak in the view.

Biking or Walking the Adirondack Rail Trail

Imagine a path where the rhythm of your footsteps or the gentle whir of your bike tires syncs with the whispering pines and the distant call of loons. The Adirondack Rail Trail offers just that, a serene journey through the heart of the Adirondacks. This 34-mile multi-use trail connects Lake Placid to Tupper Lake, weaving through Ray Brook, Saranac Lake, and Lake Clear. Now, 25 miles are open, featuring a mix of paved sections and compacted stone dust surfaces, suitable for walking, biking, and even strollers.

Starting from Lake Placid, the trail meanders past tranquil wetlands, dense forests, and shimmering lakes, offering glimpses of McKenzie, Baker, and Scarface Mountains. Whether seeking a leisurely stroll, an invigorating bike ride, or a moment of reflection amidst nature, the Adirondack Rail Trail provides a peaceful escape, inviting you to connect with the landscape and yourself.

Journey Through The Wild Center

Step into a world where nature's stories come alive. At the Wild Center in Tupper Lake, the Adirondack wilderness isn't just observed—it's experienced. Wander through 115 acres of forested trails and immersive exhibits that celebrate the intricate tapestry of life in the Adirondacks.

Ascend the Wild Walk, a network of bridges and platforms that elevate you into the treetops, offering panoramic views and unique perspectives of the forest canopy. Inside, explore the Hall of the Adirondacks, where live exhibits showcase native species, and interactive displays deepen your connection to the natural world. From the playful antics of river otters to the insightful Climate Solutions exhibit, every corner of The Wild Center invites curiosity and wonder. It's more than a museum—it's a celebration of the wild spirit that defines the Adirondacks.

Photo Credit: Sail Adirondacks

July

July in Lake Placid feels like a deep, joyful breath. The days are long, the trails are calling, and Mirror Lake sparkles with possibility. It’s a time for adventure and connection, paddling across still waters, dancing to live music under the stars, and discovering quiet moments of rest in between. Whether you're sailing new waters, relaxing after a hike, or simply soaking in the mountain air, July invites you to live fully and feel deeply in the heart of the Adirondacks.

Summer Activities at High Peaks Resort

July at High Peaks Resort celebrates summer's vibrant energy. Each morning, the sun casts a golden hue over Mirror Lake, inviting guests to embark on aquatic adventures. With complimentary kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and pedal boats available from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, you can glide across the tranquil waters, embracing the serenity of the Adirondacks.

On land, the energy continues with weekly water aerobics, morning yoga on the lawn, and one of the most unforgettable summer highlights: our live Birds of Prey demonstration. Led by licensed wildlife educators, this special event offers a rare opportunity to meet raptors up close and learn about the vital role they play in the Adirondack ecosystem. It’s summer at its most awe-inspiring; wild, restorative, and full of wonder.

Sail Adirondacks

There’s something timeless about sailing. How the wind fills the sails, how the boat leans into the breeze, how the world slows down to match the rhythm of the water. With Sail Adirondacks, you can experience this magic firsthand on the pristine waters of the Adirondacks. Offering the region’s only crewed sailing adventures, Sail Adirondacks provides both guided cruises and learn-to-sail experiences on classic sailboats, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serenity and beauty of the lakes.

Whether you're gliding across the tranquil expanse of Lower Saranac Lake or exploring the vastness of Lake Champlain, each journey is a chance to connect with nature and embrace the art of sailing. Under the guidance of experienced captains, you'll not only witness breathtaking views but also gain insights into the region's rich maritime heritage. It's more than just a boat ride; it's an invitation to let the wind guide your adventure.

Songs at Mirror Lake

As the sun dips behind the Adirondack peaks, casting golden hues over Mirror Lake, Tuesday evenings in Lake Placid come alive with melody. The Songs at Mirror Lake concert series transforms Mid's Park into a lakeside amphitheater, where music lovers gather with blankets and chairs to enjoy free performances from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Each week offers a new genre, from soulful jazz to invigorating rock, reflecting the diverse musical tapestry of the region. Whether you're swaying to the rhythm or simply soaking in the harmonious ambiance, these concerts provide a perfect blend of community spirit and natural beauty. It's a quintessential Adirondack experience; where music and nature harmonize under the starlit sky.

Rejuvenate at Adirondack Foot Sanctuary

After days filled with mountain hikes, lake paddles, and evening concerts, your feet deserve a retreat of their own. Tucked away on Main Street in Lake Placid, the Adirondack Foot Sanctuary offers a haven of tranquility where weary soles find solace. This intimate space invites you to unwind with curative foot soaks, soothing lower leg and foot massages, and artisan teas, all designed to restore and rejuvenate.

Choose from treatments like the "My Dawgs Are Barking" soak, infused with Himalayan salt, or indulge in the "Ultimate Zen" experience, combining their signature soak with hot stones. Each session is a symphony of relaxation, tailored to melt away the day's adventures and prepare you for the next.

August

August in the Adirondacks feels like the golden hour of summer - warm, glowing, and full of meaning. It’s a time for wandering waterfalls, exploring quiet forest trails, and immersing yourself in the stories that shape this incredible place. Whether taking in sweeping mountain views, gliding across still waters, or walking through history at a world-class museum, August invites you to slow down, look closer, and savor every moment in Lake Placid.

Discover High Falls Gorge

Just a short drive from Lake Placid, High Falls Gorge offers a breathtaking encounter with nature's raw power and beauty. This privately owned, 22-acre park features four majestic waterfalls cascading through a billion-year-old granite crevice, accessible via sturdy bridges, groomed paths, and glass-floor walkways that provide unique perspectives of the rushing waters.

As you wander the half-mile trail, you'll be enveloped by the ancient Climax Forest, home to towering hemlocks untouched by time. Pause to feel the mist on your face, listen to the roar of the Ausable River, and marvel at geological wonders. After your walk, relax at the River View Café, where you can enjoy handcrafted beverages and light fare while overlooking the serene river.

Guided Nature Experiences with Ed Kanze

In the heart of the Adirondacks, where ancient forests whisper tales of time, a walk with Ed Kanze transforms a simple hike into a journey of discovery. A seventh-generation Adirondacker, naturalist, and author, Ed brings over thirty years of experience leading explorations through the region's diverse landscapes.

Whether you're interested in a gentle nature walk, an invigorating hike, or the meditative practice of forest bathing, Ed customizes each experience to your interests and abilities. His deep knowledge of local flora, fauna, and geology, combined with engaging storytelling, offers an enriching perspective on the natural world.

Embarking on a guided adventure with Ed Kanze isn't just about traversing trails; it's about connecting deeply with the Adirondack wilderness and gaining insights that linger long after the journey ends.

Explore the Adirondack Experience Museum

Perched above the serene waters of Blue Mountain Lake, the Adirondack Experience museum offers a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of Adirondack history and culture. Spanning 121 acres with over 20 buildings, this open-air museum immerses visitors in the stories that have shaped the region, from the daily lives of its early inhabitants to the evolution of its unique art and craftsmanship.

Wander through interactive exhibits like "Life in the Adirondacks," where artifacts and immersive displays bring the past to life, or find inspiration in "Artists & Inspiration in the Wild," showcasing how the natural beauty of the Adirondacks has influenced generations of creators. Whether climbing a historic fire tower, rowing a traditional guideboat, or simply soaking in the panoramic lake views, the museum offers a profound connection to the spirit of the Adirondacks.

Explore Lake Placid's Lower-Elevation Trails

In the heart of summer, when the High Peaks draw bustling crowds, Lake Placid's lesser-known trails offer serene alternatives that capture the Adirondacks' tranquil beauty. Cobble Hill, just a short walk from downtown, presents a 0.8-mile ascent leading to panoramic views of the village and surrounding mountains—a rewarding experience without the strenuous climb.

For those seeking a peaceful forest retreat, Henry's Woods provides a network of well-maintained trails meandering through mixed hardwood-conifer habitats. The 2-mile Loop Trail offers gentle terrain, while the Plateau Trail rewards hikers with scenic overlooks, making it ideal for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

A bit further afield, Moose Pond near Saranac Lake invites adventurers to a 2.5-mile round-trip hike through serene woodlands, culminating in stunning vistas of Whiteface and McKenzie Mountains. The trail's gentle grades and minimal elevation gain make it accessible for most hikers, offering a tranquil escape into nature.

These trails provide not only physical rejuvenation but also a chance to connect deeply with the Adirondack landscape, away from the more trodden paths.

The Adirondacks are calling—and there’s no better place to answer than right here in Lake Placid. Whether your days are filled with adventure, relaxation, or a little of both, High Peaks Resort puts you at the center of it all. With three unique lodging experiences, lake access, and the mountains just beyond your doorstep, your summer story starts here. Book your stay today and let the season unfold in unforgettable ways.