We celebrate winter
While other communities are hunkering down, counting the days until spring, Saranac Lake takes a decidedly different approach by getting out to enjoy the snow-covered landscape. There’s always a festive spirit in the air, whether it’s found laughing around a bonfire, dancing to live music, fishing one of the lakes, or celebrating during a parade — we march to our own beat and we’re proud of it.
Every day is a snow day
Don’t even think about staying inside when you’re in Saranac Lake. There’s fun, adventure, and scenic beauty to be found in every direction! Downhill skiers and riders love Mount Pisgah for its easy access and outstanding views of the surrounding mountains, while Dewey Mountain Recreation Center is a hotspot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. And if you like a party, don’t miss Dewey’s awesome Ski Jams. They’re family friendly, free, and there’s night skiing, live music, and a bonfire.
Enough about skiing — the Saranac Lake 6ers are calling, so work on that Winter 6er patch by snowshoeing these six beautiful peaks, and don’t forget your microspikes! You can also try your luck with ice fishing — hire a guide, set up a shanty right on Lake Colby, or head deep into the Saint Regis Canoe Area to drop a line.
A different kind of downtown
We keep the excitement going year-round with a steady rotation of live music, eclectic art, and decadent dining. Gaze out over the lovely Saranac River as you hop from gallery to gallery, then have dinner before checking in on the growing live music scene here!
Nothing says winter like Winter Carnival
Most towns have traditions, but Saranac Lake isn’t most towns. Every year, we don our hardiest winter gear and face the chill head-on during Winter Carnival, a 10-day event filled with the kind of creativity, pomp, and jubilant expression only Saranac Lakers could pull off. To add to the fun, each Winter Carnival has a theme. This year it’s Prehistoric Park, so expect to see all sorts of cave people mingling with dinosaurs this February! And don’t miss the ice palace, a gigantic building made out of ice blocks pulled from Lake Flower that’s properly festooned with all manner of ice sculptures and other artistic expressions.
Pay us a visit this winter and travel light, breathe deep, and enjoy life Saranac Lake style! Find out more with our Visitor's Guide to Saranac Lake, and get the inside scoop from local sources.
