Ski, snowshoe, snowmobile, and explore only minutes from town

When winter arrives in the Adirondacks, the Adirondack Rail Trail becomes a snow-covered haven for outdoor enthusiasts, just as inviting as it is during the summer cycling season. Saranac Lake features one of the most popular sections of the 34-mile multi-use trail, where cross-country skiers can carve tracks through fresh powder, snowshoers slowly stroll the winter landscape, and snowmobilers can zip from town to town along the snowy corridor. With easy access, convenient parking, and proximity to Saranac Lake's welcoming restaurants and cafés, you can make a full day of your winter adventure on the trail.

The Saranac Lake section is more than just a path; it’s a gateway to the season’s best experiences. From the scenic Causeway over Lower Saranac Lake to stretches that invite long-distance adventure, the trail offers both excitement and relaxation, all in one accessible spot.

Multi-use winter fun

The Adirondack Rail Trail truly lives up to its “multi-use” reputation. On any given winter day, you'll find a variety of outdoor enthusiasts sharing the trail. Fat tire biking is a unique way to navigate the trail in winter, offering a workout and scenic views all at once. Snowmobilers can enjoy designated sections, making it a lively hub for winter recreation. And of course, snowshoers and cross-country skiers can explore quieter areas, taking in the serene beauty of the forest and frozen wetlands. You’ll even spot families putting the trail to work, towing kids on sleds, a workout that’s surprisingly effective and endlessly entertaining. This multi-use approach means the trail adapts to your preferred pace and style, making it an ideal destination for groups with varied interests or solo adventurers looking to try something new. 

Don't have your own equipment? No problem. Saranac Lake makes it easy to get outfitted for your trail adventure. Sara-Placid Sled & Spoke offers a range of winter rentals to get you on the snow, while Silver Birch Cycles can set you up with fat tire bikes built for winter conditions. St. Regis Canoe Outfitters rounds out the options with quality gear and local expertise. With these convenient rental shops right in town, you can arrive in town empty-handed and still enjoy a full day on the trail. Whatever your preferred winter activity, Saranac Lake has a path for you.

Route planning and scenic highlights

Saranac Lake is one of the most popular sections of the Adirondack Rail Trail, and for good reason. The Causeway over Lake Colby provides stunning views, especially at sunrise or sunset. Beyond the Causeway, the trail continues to Little Green Pond, roughly 10 miles one way from Saranac Lake, offering a scenic route for those looking to stretch their legs. The area also connects to a trail network that includes a loop around Little Green Pond, perfect for cross-country skiers.

For travelers seeking an even longer adventure, Saranac Lake can serve as a basecamp for a roundtrip to Lake Placid to the south or Tupper Lake to the north. The Saranac Lake to Lake Placid section features diverse scenery including the wetlands of Ray Brook and long stretches of forest. The trail surface is generally well-maintained and suitable for a variety of users. From Lake Clear to the Floodwood Outpost, this area is praised for its deep woods, wilderness-like scenery and is a top recommendation for those seeking a more secluded experience. The trail passes near several ponds and designated campsites, perfect for a longer trek.

The 34-mile trail now extends all the way to Tupper Lake, offering a wide variety of scenery. For the truly ambitious, it is possible to tackle the entire trail in a single day, using Saranac Lake as a perfect stop to rest, refuel, and enjoy the views. No matter which route you choose, be sure to bring a map and come prepared for winter conditions.

Nearby dining and convenient access

One of the Saranac Lake section’s biggest perks is its accessibility. Parking is easy, and the trailhead is just minutes from a variety of restaurants and cafés. After a morning of skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling, treat yourself to a warm meal or hot drink in town. For an après-ski cocktail or pub vibe, check out RiverTrail Beerworks, Grizle T’s, Bitters & Bones, or Hotel Saranac. For coffee and sweet treats before or after your adventure, head to Origin Coffee Co., Nori’s Village Market, or Early Dawn Confections. From cozy cafés to hearty local eateries, Saranac Lake makes it easy to pair outdoor adventure with good food without the hassle of a long drive.

Plan your next Adirondack Rail Trail adventure in Saranac Lake

Saranac Lake’s winter rail trail section offers something for everyone, from cross-country skiing and snowshoeing to snowmobiling and fat-tire biking. With a variety of multi-use options, stunning landscapes, and convenient access to nearby dining and cafés, Saranac Lake makes it easy to turn a winter outing into a full-day adventure. Bundle up, hit the trail, and let Saranac Lake be your next basecamp for an unforgettable Adirondack Rail Trail experience.