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Cross-Country Skiing in Saranac Lake
Welcome to winter

Winter's Endless Exploration

A favorite time of year is when the snow flies and we can get out into the woods and on the trails to cross-country ski. Cross-country skiing has grown into a popular recreational activity, it’s a great way to get out and enjoy the outdoors, plus get some exercise!

Groomed

For the groomed experience, check out the winter wonderland at the Dewey Mountain Recreation Center, located a mile west of downtown Saranac Lake. A mountain bike haven in the summer and fall, the center features 15 kilometers of groomed ski trails, night skiing, and several kilometers of backcountry trails to the summit.

Five-time Olympian and Olympic gold and silver medalist Billy Demong, along with 3-time Olympic biathlete Tim Burke, each first learned to ski on these trails. Don’t let that intimidate you – they learned and fell here – Dewey Mountain is a great spot for families and all abilities. What’s cooler than skiing in the groomed ski tracks of Olympians! 

The Paul Smith's College Visitors Interpretive Center (VIC) is another cool spot for cross-country and skate skiing. Twelve miles from downtown Saranac Lake, the VIC offers environmental education, a cafe and local art, as well as over 20 miles of groomed trails.

Natural Conditions

Want to get into your own groove? The famous Jackrabbit Trail starts at Paul Smith's, and lets you travel to Lake Placid, and beyond.  Don’t think your options end there – the backcountry skiing options are endless – from old logging roads to all of our area hiking trails, there is always something new and different for you to experience. 

Leave No Trace and Love Your ADK Pledge

The magic of the Adirondacks is the result of previous generations taking a long view and protecting the mountains, lakes, and rivers within the Blue Line. That tradition continues today as we support and encourage everyone to practice Leave No Trace ethics, which help protect the lands and waters of the Adirondacks.

Love Your ADK Pledge

In winter, it is especially important to come prepared and practice ways to Love Your ADK; the best way to avoid emergencies is to properly plan and prepare for your trip.

Paul Smith's College VIC
Cross-Country Skiing
Location:
8023 State Route 30 , Paul Smiths , 12970
Phone:
(518) 327-6241
Details
Dewey Mountain Recreation Center
Cross-Country Skiing
Location:
Route 3 , Saranac Lake , 12983
Phone:
(518) 891-7450
Details
Fish Pond Truck Trail
This hike can be extended with spur trails for more pond exploration. Despite the name, motor vehicles are not allowed on the trail by the general public. However, the designation does allow for...
Location:
, Saranac Lake , 12983
Details
Jackrabbit Trail
Cross-Country Skiing
Location:
From Keene Valley to Paul Smiths , Saranac Lake , 12983
Phone:
(518) 523-1365
Details
Bloomingdale Bog Trail
The Bloomingdale Bog Trail is a scenic, end-to-end path that follows an old railroad corridor that connects Saranac Lake to Bloomingdale. The entire route is wide, level, and mostly...
Location:
Route 86 , Saranac Lake , 12983
Phone:
(518) 891-1990
Details
Fernow Trail
Fernow Trail, also known as the Fernow Plantation Loop, was named after Bernhard Fernow. He was one of the fathers of modern forestry and the first chief of the US Forest Service. Look for brochures...
Location:
Route 30 , Tupper Lake , 12986
Details
Raquette Falls
Location:
Corey's Road , Tupper Lake , 12986
Phone:
(518) 359-3328

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Upcoming Events

Paul Smith's College VIC - What to Know
Monday, April 12th, 2021
The nature trails at the Paul Smith's VIC are open dawn to dusk for hiking. Take advantage of great trails on our spectacular natural landscape! The VIC offers something for everyone, with...
Call for artists: Adirondack Plein Air Festival
Monday, April 12th, 2021
Registration is open for the 13th Adirondack Plein Air Festival, held in Saranac Lake, NY on Aug 16-21. Artists will spend a week in the Adirondack Park, surrounded by the picturesque scenery that...
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Recent Blog Posts...

Treat Yourself, Spring ADK Edition
Friday, April 2nd, 2021
Self-care is earning a very good name for itself, and even when visiting the Adirondacks, no one is immune to the necessity of such a rich practice. Whether it be a yoga class, an outdoor adventure...
The Gift of the Maple Tree
Friday, February 26th, 2021
If you ask me, the maple tree is rather wonderful. In fall, the astonishing change of color from vivid green leaves to shades of yellow, red, and orange light up the Adirondacks to the awe of...
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Earn Your Patch There’s an adventurous spirit in all of us. In Saranac Lake, you can answer that call by becoming a Saranac Lake 6er.
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Unplug Outdoors The mountains, rivers, and lakes bordering Saranac Lake aren’t just for show, and those boots on everyone’s feet aren’t a bold new fashion statement.
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Enter to Win Sample Saranac Lake with this getaway package. Enter now!
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