Relax and let us do the planning!
Winter
When winter arrives in the Whiteface Region, being close to the action takes on a whole new meaning. Outdoor activities abound - from skiing and riding Whiteface Mountain, to snowshoeing backcountry trails, to cross country skiing and ice climbing, there is no shortage of Adirondack Mountain adventures.
Day 1: Go fast on snow
Whiteface Mountain is the fifth highest peak in the Adirondacks and boasts a vertical descent of 3,430 feet - the greatest of any ski area in the east. The mountain offers 299 skiable acres and 94 trails, serviced by 12 lifts and features a variety of beginner-to-expert terrain for skiers and riders of all abilities. There is a terrain park, a beginner area, tree skiing and 35 acres of in-bounds, off-piste double-black diamond wilderness terrain skiing on "The Slides" (conditions permitting). Take a lesson from one of the expert instructors at the Bear Den Learning Center, have an après-ski meal at one of the restaurants, or stand at the summit and enjoy the incredible panoramic views.
Whiteface also has a variety of places to warm up and fill up, from hot chocolate by the fire to a delightful gourmet meal. It can be a thrilling day all by itself.
Add in: a special event
Whiteface Mountain plays host to a variety of athletic events throughout the winter season. From the Empire State Winter Games to elite ski race to amateur big air competitions, there are adrenaline-pumping sporting events all winter long. When warmer weather rolls in, don't miss spring events like pond skimming and a variety of other themed weekends that feature live music, food and drink specials, giveaways, and fun activities for kids.
Check our Events Calendar to make sure you aren't missing anything.
Day 2: Slow down to feel the nature
Explore High Falls Gorge on groomed paths, steel bridges and walkways for views of the spectacular ice formations on seven hundred feet of frozen waterfalls. The self-guided tour takes about 45 minutes and covers a half mile, but that speed can be deceptive. With their delightful cafe, added snowshoe trail, gift shop, and campfire with complimentary marshmallows hot beverages, it can easily be a day to get as many photos and memories as you wish.
The trail is cleared daily, easy to use ice cleats are provided and the bridges and walkways have 4 foot fencing for your safety.
Add in: more winter trails and Santa's Workshop
Strap on snowshoes or cross country skis and hit the winter trails. Our scenic ponds and beautiful forests are just as welcoming in winter.
Also, check out the Village of Lights and Yuletide Weekends at Santa's Workshop before and during the Holiday season!
Spring
Day 1: Go fly fishing
It's no secret that the Whiteface Region is home to some of the best fly fishing in North America. Every year, anglers from around the world come to test their skills in the region's famous rivers and streams.
Whatever you do, don't miss the West Banch Ausable River - you will find 6.5 miles of designated catch and release waters. Bring your fly fishing gear and navigate the rivers' flowing channels, thundering falls and deep pools. If you're a novice, consider hiring a licensed Adirondack guide to show you the secret stashes!
Add in: More fishing
There's more ponds and streams to explore after the season opens April 1.
Day 2: Low elevation hikes
During spring, it's recommended to keep your hiking to lower elevations. Luckily, the Whiteface Region has plenty of easy and moderate hikes!
Summer
Summer in the Whiteface Region is all about getting outside. Revel in our gorgeousness by foot, bike, or watercraft. There is no shortage of terrain to cover.
Another great way to enjoy nature to the fullest is exploring our beautiful campgrounds.
Day 1: Hit the trails
Bring your bike or boots and discover our spectacular system of trails, ponds, rivers, and mountains.
The Wild Forest Flume Trail System has over ten miles of wooded trails, ideal for mountain biking, hiking, and scenic wilderness walks. The trail head is in the town of Wilmington, 2 miles south of the village center (4 corners) on state route 86. If you need to fuel up for your Wilmington adventure, stop by the Little Supermarket on your way to the trail to find a little bit of everything, from a full deli to hardware.
For the ultimate in easy peaking, drive to the top of Whiteface Mountain. Follow the Veterans' Memorial Highway 4,867 feet to the summit of New York's fifth highest peak - and the only one with road access to the top. Five miles from the start of the paved toll road, you will see an unrivaled 360-degree panoramic view of the Adirondack Mountains, spanning hundreds of square miles and extending to Vermont and Canada.
At the top, there is also a castle built from native stone, a restaurant and gift shop and an elevator carved deep inside the mountain top. During the ascent, consider pulling off at one of the many scenic lookouts for photo opportunities or an afternoon picnic.
Add in: Santa's Workshop
For some fairytale fun, don't miss Santa's Workshop - one of the oldest theme parks in the United States. The timeless fantasy village located in North Pole, NY, has been a family tradition since 1949, offering visitors the opportunity to meet and mingle with beloved fairytale and storybook characters.
Attractions include the Workshop Village, where Santa, his busy elves, and the reindeer live, in addition to the toy makers shop, the glass blowers shop, a small animal nursery and various shops. The theme park also features several rides including the Candy Cane Express locomotive, the Christmas Carousel, Santa's Sleigh Coaster and a Ferris Wheel, among others.
Day 2: Head for the beach
The Wilmington Town Beach has more than the usual shore. Hiking trails, a scenic boglands, picnic areas, and an all-access fishing platform. Find out why "summer at the lake" is such an iconic image.
Free beach concerts weekly in July and August.
Explore more swimming at Jay Rocks near the famous Covered Bridge.
Autumn
Fall in the Whiteface Region is best spent taking in the incredible fall foliage and fresh air. Whatever activity you choose, the fall views will not disappoint.
Day 1: Ride the gondola
If it's a clear day, take the Cloudsplitter Gondola from the base of Whiteface Mountain all the way to the top! As you ascend, turn around and look at the sun shining through the mountains behind you. Also, summer isn't the only time to drive Whiteface Veterans' Memorial Highway! Make the drive until October and take in the views at the top and along the way!
When you reach the summit of Little Whiteface, head for the scenic lookout - from there you'll have views of Lake Placid and the surrounding High Peaks.
Add in: a scenic drive
We have so many scenic routes in the Adirondacks to see the fall foliage by car.
Day 2: Go biking
All of our scenic drives make great bike routes, too. We have great mountain biking and awesome special events because we are, for good reason, the biking capital of the Adirondacks!
Add in: High Falls Gorge
All of our attractions get more colorful in fall!
