Winter in Saranac Lake

A decidedly fun winter getaway!

From countless adventures to local food, beer, and art, and the incomparable Winter Carnival, winter in Saranac Lake is decidedly different and completely unforgettable! Hot winter events, arts and culture, and traditional winter activities and sports all make Saranac Lake the best place for a winter getaway. This is a town that's easy to navigate, whether on the sidewalk, street, or trail. Trust us about the fun level; we don't hibernate in winter.

A view of Saranac Lake's downtown on a snowy winter day — This town looks good in snow!

An adult and a child carry skis at Mt Pisga on a winter's night — Mt Pisgah's slopes are family-focused and light up the night!

Outdoor adventures

Snow on the ground means fluffy playtime is on tap, with Downhill Skiing, XC Skiing, Snowshoeing, and Winter Hiking all available in and around the Saranac Lake area.

Our newest winter playground is the Adirondack Rail Trail which offers smooth trails for snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, and snowmobiling. The Rail Trail connects communities and highlights great scenery. For more information on this trail, visit: https://www.saranaclake.com/story/2023/safe-winter-recreation-on-the-adirondack-rail-trail.

Beside the Adirondack Rail Trail, there are several great spots for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking.

Dewey Mountain Recreation Center which is located a mile west of downtown Saranac Lake, features groomed ski trails, night skiing, and backcountry trails to the summit.

The Paul Smith's College Visitors Interpretive Center (VIC) along with cross-country and skate skiing, offers environmental education, wildlife viewing, and local art, as well as miles of groomed trails.

The Jackrabbit Trail is a 50-kilometer trail that runs from Keene, through Lake Placid and Saranac Lake, to Paul Smiths.

For downhill, Mount Pisgah has recreational downhill skiing and snowboarding with snowmaking to keep the slopes in tune all winter. Day and night skiing and tubing are available.

Events and activities

Saranac Lake likes to celebrate, and there are many uniquely fun and memorable things to do in Saranac Lake in winter! You won't want to miss the annual Winter Carnival and a uniquely designed Ice Palace, Sparkle Village, the beloved New Year's Eve celebration First Night, and more!

Downtown Saranac Lake is packed with fun, too! Art is everywhere, with shopping and opportunities to enjoy a town full of creativity, from drop-in painting classes to live music, while family activities — game nights, open skating, Lego building, and more — brighten the snowy days. Warm your heart and soul (and belly) by visiting historic sites, indulgent shopping, and at delicious farm-to-table eateries, bakeries, and cafes.

Stay for awhile

Grand hotels, charming motels, quaint B&Bs, and a huge variety of private rentals meet the needs of every visitor and budget. The lovely lodging in Saranac Lake is sure to please, whether you’re here for a night or a week.

Saranac Lake winter activities make the cold season the best season of all! Start planning your trip to Saranac Lake now! Winter fun and smiles await.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I pack?

Layers, layers, layers, snow gear, winter boots, etc.

Will there be snow?

Saranac Lake traditionally sees consistent snowfall from November to April, however, thaws are common in more recent years and may affect winter recreation. For more up-to-date information, you can check trail conditions and availability at dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/hiking/adirondack-backcountry

We've heard about Winter Carnival, and want to know more....

For more information please visit Saranaclakewintercarnival.com

When is the best time to visit?

Saranac Lake hosts a variety of events throughout the winter, as well as winter recreation, so there's no bad time to visit! Typically, base snow for winter recreation is usually best from January through the end of March.