THE ADIRONDACKS: A SKIING AND RIDING PARADISE
Awe-inspiring mountain views. Great powder, snowglobe-like glades, and exhilarating vertical drops. For skiers, the Adirondacks are a playland of excellent skiing on an array of mountains offering great runs for athletes of all ages and abilities. We've got the greatest vertical drop in the East at Whiteface Mountain, site of the alpine events at the 1980 Winter Olympic Games. You don't have to be an Olympian to enjoy Whiteface's slopes; the mountain's 288 acres of trails ensure there is something for everyone.
Think that sounds great? Read on, because we have even more, in all corners of the Adirondack Park.Malone's Titus Mountain is a family favorite, offering more than 50 trails on three mountains. In fact, family offerings is Titus' specialty and in 2019 Liftopia named Titus the #2 family-friendly ski center in North America. Mount Pisgah Recreation Center in Saranac Lake offers skiing and tubing with beautiful views just a few minutes from downtown. Pisgah's night skiing, torchlight races, and other special events make for unique and fun adventures. Night skiing can also be found at West Mountain, and McCauley Mountain in Old Forge.
For a vacation in the southern parts of the park, skiers can schuss their way to fun at Oak Mountain in Speculator and Gore Mountain in North Creek. Oak Mountain's 230 acres offer 22 runs with a perfect mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs, plus a terrain park offering plenty of features to explore. Oak Mountain is one of the oldest ski areas in the Adirondacks and is suitably beloved by locals and repeat visitors. The downhill adventures at Gore Mountain covers four mountains and 110 runs. As the closest ski center to the capital area, it's easy to get to, has great vertical drop, and is perfect for beginners and experts alike.
Tips for great skiing in the Adirondacks
- Looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy the slopes? Consider skiing midweek instead of weekends! Mountains may offer discounted ticket prices in the middle of the week as well.
- Plan ahead: It's helpful to research the mountains and trails you'll be skiing before you go. Anticipate weather conditions and trail difficulty levels before you hop on the lift!
- Explore your options! There are many ski mountains around for every interest. Looking for a lowkey spot to practice your tricks? A smaller mountain may be a better fit before heading out on giants like Whiteface.
- Night skiing is another great way to avoid gondola lines and enjoy the mountain at peace, under the big lights that line the slopes.
- Bring the fam! Skiing and riding is way more fun with a group, bring the whole family or your pack of ski bums to join on your next adventure.
To help ensure a great experience, please check directly with the mountains to familiarize yourself with the mountain’s specific operating procedures.
