In summer, Heart Lake is a dream. In winter, it's still a dream, but with lots of snow for skiing!

Getting there

Take Route 73 from Lake Placid heading east, toward Keene. Continue for about 3 miles and turn right on Adirondack Lodge Road. Follow that to its end at Heart Lake and go straight through the entrance booth and drive through the campground. Parking is at the back of the campground. 

By the numbers

• Elevation Gain/Loss to Destination: 100 feet
• Distance: 1.75 miles round trip

Cross-country skiing

From the trailhead you will ski on a slight downhill with the lake to your right and pass by a few lean-to’s. Cross a small bridge over a creek and remain to the right. Eventually the trail will bring you to the base of a practice hill. Ski up the hill slightly, to where the trail leaves it on the right and start a mellow ski through the open hardwoods. The trail is narrow in this area but a very nice ski around the lake. You will come out to the Indian Pass Trail which is much heavier in use; follow to the right back to behind the Adirondack Loj. A trail from the lodge will bring you back to the campground. 

Additional Important Information: You will pass by a backcountry ski slope called the practice hill. If you want a bit of downhill, climb this a couple of times and make your way back down.