Solar Eclipse 2024

On April 8, 2024, a rare total solar eclipse will cast its shadow over the Whiteface Region! The next time it'll happen in the Adirondacks? 375 years from now. The Whiteface Region stands out as an exceptional place to witness the eclipse. Our communities are at the base of Whiteface Mountain, site of two Olympics games, making the region a remarkably unique viewing location for the eclipse, especially with all of the exciting events planned.

When will the eclipse begin? 

Each of the four hamlets of the Whiteface Region are within the path of totality for the eclipse. In the Whiteface region, the eclipse will begin at 2:13 p.m., with totality beginning at 3:25 p.m. The duration of totality of the eclipse will vary slightly in each hamlet:

  • In Au Sable Forks, totality will last for 3 minutes and 25 seconds. 
  • In Jay, totality will last for 3 minutes and 21.9 seconds. 
  • In Upper Jay, totality will last for 3 minutes and 19.8 seconds. 
  • In Wilmington, totality will last for 3 minutes and 25.4 seconds. 

Get your eclipse glasses

Enjoy viewing the solar eclipse safely with proper eye protection! Solar eclipse glasses are special viewing glasses that allow you to look at the sun directly. While some events will have glasses available on April 8, it's best to come prepared with your own glasses. Glasses for personal use can be picked up in the following locations around the Whiteface Region:

  • Whiteface Visitors Bureau — 5753 NY-86, Wilmington
  • Jay Town Offices — 11 School Lane, Au Sable Forks

Staring at the sun without proper eye protection can lead to the burning of your retina, and cause permanent vision loss. You’ll want to wear these for the entire event until the few minutes when the sun will be entirely blocked. 

Where to go and what to know

Explore the map, FAQ, and event listings below for all you need to know about where to watch, what to pack, and more.

Solar eclipse helpline

If you have more questions than we've answered here and in the frequently asked questions below, call the solar eclipse helpline at 518-621-3682. This dedicated information line is designed to field whatever inquiries remain. Whether you're a local wondering what to expect or a visitor trying to get close to totality, we're here to help. The eclipse helpline will be open 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Friday through Thursday.

Cell phone usage

The period of totality and for some time afterward will be the peak load for cell towers, as people send and post their eclipse videos and photos.

How to be prepared:

  • Bring a printed map or a screenshot of your directions.
  • Plan on where to meet friends and family after the eclipse, in case you get separated.
  • Keep your phone charged.

Drone usage

In the Adirondack Park, it is legal to launch a drone anywhere the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) allows, except on specific state lands, and for private use only.

  • Drones are motorized equipment and the operation of drones on lands classified as Wilderness, Primitive, or Canoe is absolutely prohibited.
  • Commercial drone usage on state Wild Forest lands and over the Adirondack Rail Trail require a permit.
  • For more info on the land classification of your viewing site, please visit the DEC website.

For safety reasons, we strongly suggest that you enjoy the eclipse with your eyes, telescopes, and binoculars, with proper protective gear, and leave the drone at home. On April 8, the skies will already be much busier with public and private aircraft.

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Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I view the eclipse?
  • Experience the eclipse at Whiteface Mountain with a great view from the Cloudspin Bar & Grill deck at the main base! Join the fun with $40 lift tickets, live music, and giveaways. 
  • The Town of Jay welcomes visitors to view the eclipse at "The Grove" park or the Jay Village Green.
  • The Twisted Raven, located at 8 Whiteface Memorial Highway in Wilmington, will be open to the public and hosting eclipse-themed parties. More details soon!
  • Rudy's Scar Bar & Grille will host live music on the day of the eclipse.
  • Fun plans at Hungry Trout Resort are the works. Stay tuned for details!
Can I watch the eclipse from the top of Whiteface?

No, but you can watch from the base! Ski lifts on the mountain will close prior to the eclipse and hiking is not recommended. Join the celebration at the Cloudspin Bar & Grill with fellow eclipse chasers!

What's the weather like in April?

For maximum fun and comfort, pack layers! April can mean snow or rain, or even both! We're hoping for sunny skies on April 8, but otherwise, please pack wisely and be prepared for a variety of conditions.

Here are some travel and safety tips:

  • Keep extra layers, snacks, and water in your car, and don’t forget to fill up on gas before you go.
  • Plan your activities and travel route ahead of time. Service is spotty, so bring a map and/or gps.
  • Trail conditions are poor, and hiking for the eclipse is not advised. If you do decide to experience the eclipse from a trail, bring the 10 essentials and practice LNT principles.
Can I stay in the Whiteface Region for the eclipse?

Rooms are filling up quickly, book your stay as soon as possible! 

Are there things to do in the Whiteface Region before and after the eclipse?

Yes! Come early, and stay after the eclipse! The Whiteface Region has endless things to do, making the eclipse one of several memorable activities during a trip here. 

What can I expect to happen during the eclipse?

As the sun is blotted out, there will be a few things to expect due to the unusual darkness across the region. As the moon moves in front of the sun, the only light visible from the event will be from the sun's corona. The area affected by the eclipse will then experience a “false twilight” or conditions similar to dusk. Local wildlife will quiet down and probably hurry back to their boroughs and nests. Nocturnal animals, like owls, may become active. Up in the sky, stars and planets will appear, including Venus and Jupiter. The eclipse has even attracted a special visitor, Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks. The comet will pass by Jupiter and near the eclipsed sun making for a spectacular sight! Viewers may be able to see it when looking through binoculars, a telescope, or using a camera.

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Solar Eclipse Safety Tips

A total solar eclipse is an amazing wonder of nature and we couldn't be more excited to have the eclipse cast its shadow over the Adirondacks this April! Between stunning snow capped mountains and glistening spring brooks it will be a spectacle to behold. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience it will be important to plan for April weather and increased traffic. Here are some planning and safety guidelines to navigate the ever changing weather while enjoying this remarkable event!

1
Plan Ahead
 
 

This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience — plan like it! A total solar eclipse is an exciting event that will attract an influx of visitors from far and wide to the region. Prepare for a perfect eclipse by making your plans well in advance.  Make lodging reservations as soon as possible. Some lodging properties are already completely booked out!

 

Use maps and GPS to plan where you’re going and note that cell service may be sparse in areas. Bring a map as a back-up to using your phone. If you’re just coming for the day, it’s a good idea to stock up on supplies before you arrive. Bring snacks and water and fill up your gas tank.

2
Come early, stay late
 
 

The eclipse itself may only last a few minutes, but there are plenty of reasons to make this a multi-day experience! Build in a buffer around the eclipse and enjoy more of the region in the days leading up to and after the eclipse.

 

Added fun isn’t the only reason to extend your stay.  Large day-of crowds may create traffic delays and springtime travel conditions may vary. Avoid any hassle by being close to the path of totality to begin with.

3
Take spring conditions seriously
 
 

Mud, snow, and ice are the most common Adirondack trail conditions in April, which makes trails more susceptible to impacts and potentially dangerous for hikers. If you plan to hike around the time of the eclipse, please be mindful of varying trail conditions and respect muddy trail advisories. High elevation trails will have snow and ice on them. Temperatures can also change dramatically between a trailhead and the summit. If you have little experience in winter hiking, it is best to avoid hiking the High Peaks. Check trail conditions before you go, and be prepared for winter conditions.

 

If you are going to hike, choose a low-elevation trail and come prepared. Bring extra layers and don’t forget to pack the 10 essentials—especially a headlamp. Be aware that there may be an increased number of visitors recreating on trails and at various locations around the region during this time. Have a back-up plan in case trailhead parking is full or, better yet, opt for a watch party and save the hike for another day.

4
Enjoy the eclipse with others
 
 
Normally we encourage seeking solitude on an Adirondack summit, but as the eclipse will plunge the region into temporary darkness, a mountain might not be your best option for a memorable experience. And since the eclipse will look the same from any location along the path of totality, why not stay in your favorite Adirondack town, and enjoy the eclipse with others! The excitement of the event has spurred on local businesses and towns to host numerous watch parties across the region, perfect for celebrating this incredible sight. 
5
Trash your trash and respect nature
 
 

Whether you’re on a trail or at a watch party, help keep the Adirondacks clean. If you’re on a hike, store litter — including food waste like peels, cores, and other scraps — in a garbage bag to be taken home and thrown out. While you’re in town, take advantage of trash and recycling cans. When the eclipse is done, pack up solar viewing glasses, chairs, food, and other waste or dispose of it in designated receptacles. Basically, if it comes with you, it leaves with you.

 

We humans aren’t the only ones that will notice this natural phenomenon. Wildlife activity may also become unusual, as most mammals and birds will wander back to their nests and dens during the sudden dark conditions. Critters are liable to be confused, so give them some extra space and try not to interfere with their movements. And, as always, keep your snacks to yourself.

6
Avoid bodies of water
 
 

In early spring, Adirondack lakes may still be covered in unsafe ice and all water will be at near-freezing temperatures. Breaking through or capsizing in these cold waters can result in severe hypothermia and life-threatening conditions. It’s best not to trust ice-covered lakes at this time of year. It might hold snow or wildlife, but it likely will not hold you.

 

Even if the ice is out, water still poses risks. The total darkness of the eclipse will cause decreased visibility that will make it harder to be seen and navigate in case of emergency. While bodies of water offer wide open views, the hazards of cold water and dark conditions make dry land a far safer viewing option.

7
Come prepared
 
 

With a large influx of travelers coming to the region to view the solar eclipse, it is important to travel prepared. Keep extra layers, snacks, and water in your car and don’t forget to fill up on gas before you go. Plan your activities ahead of time, and make sure to check weather updates.

 

Due to an increased number of visitors around the region, your planned destinations may be more crowded, including hiking trails, restaurants, and attractions. Be prepared to change your route around the region based on conditions. Cell service may be sparse in certain areas, so alert others of your plans, and travel with a map and GPS.

8
View the eclipse safely
 
 

When watching the eclipse, it is essential to wear safe solar eclipse glasses. Solar viewing glasses are different from sunglasses and block out more of the sun’s harmful rays. Many watch parties and communities will have viewing glasses available, but it’s a good idea to bring your own just in case.

 

Why are these glasses necessary? The darkness of the eclipse will cause your pupils to constrict, making your eyes more susceptible to damage from the sun’s remaining rays. Remember not to view the eclipse through a camera, telescope, binoculars, or your phone without a special solar filter either. These devices will further concentrate the remaining light and increase risk of damage to your eyes.

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