Lake Placid is in the path of an extraordinary experience!

On April 8, 2024, Lake Placid — along with the rest of the Adirondacks — will be one of the best locations in the northeast to view an exceptional event, a total solar eclipse. This isn't just an amazing sight, it's also exceptionally rare. Total solar eclipses happen over the same place on earth about once every 400 years! As a historic village filled with Olympic Legacy Sites, situated amongst the Adirondack High Peaks, and filled with events and amenities for all travelers, Lake Placid will provide one of the most unique eclipse viewing experiences in the country. 

Eclipse viewing locations in Lake Placid

The Lake Placid events and locations listed, and on the map below, will offer parking, clear, flat scenery, and, in some cases, amenities. Because of the unpredictability of spring weather, it's important — and more fun! — to stick to a safe, easily accessible location. Mountain summits and newly thawed lakes are not ideal or safe for eclipse viewing.

What time will the eclipse take place in Lake Placid, New York?

The total duration of the April 8, 2024 eclipse will be 2 hours, 23 minutes, and 41 seconds. Maximum totality will last for 3 minutes and 21 seconds.

  • Partial eclipse begins at 2:13:02 pm
  • Full totality begins at 3:25:07 pm
  • Maximum totality at 3:26:48 pm
  • Full totality ends at 3:28:29 pm
  • Partial eclipse ends at 4:36:43 pm

Get your eclipse glasses

Enjoy viewing the solar eclipse safely with proper eye protection! Solar eclipse glasses are special viewing glasses that allow you to look at the sun directly. While some events will have glasses available on April 8, it's best to come prepared with your own glasses. Glasses for personal use can be picked up in the following locations around the Lake Placid Region:

  • The Lake Placid Visitors Bureau — 2608 Main St, Lake Placid
  • North Elba Town Hall — 2693 Main St, Lake Placid
  • Town of Keene Town Hall — 10892 Route 9N, Keene

Staring at the sun without proper eye protection can lead to the burning of your retina, and cause permanent vision loss. You’ll want to wear these for the entire event until the few minutes when the sun will be entirely blocked. 

Solar eclipse helpline

If you have more questions than we've answered here and in the frequently asked questions below, call the solar eclipse helpline at 518-621-3682. This dedicated information line is designed to field whatever inquiries remain. Whether you're a local wondering what to expect or a visitor trying to get close to totality, we're here to help. The helpline will be open from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Friday through Monday.

Cell phone usage

The period of totality and for some time afterward will be the peak load for cell towers, as people send and post their eclipse videos and photos.

How to be prepared:

  • Bring a printed map or a screenshot of your directions.
  • Plan on where to meet friends and family after the eclipse, in case you get separated.
  • Keep your phone charged.

Drone usage

In the Adirondack Park, it is legal to launch a drone anywhere the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) allows, except on specific state lands, and for private use only.

  • Drones are motorized equipment and the operation of drones on lands classified as Wilderness, Primitive, or Canoe is absolutely prohibited.
  • Commercial drone usage on state Wild Forest lands and over the Adirondack Rail Trail require a permit.
  • For more info on the land classification of your viewing site, please visit the DEC website.

For safety reasons, we strongly suggest that you enjoy the eclipse with your eyes, telescopes, and binoculars, with proper protective gear, and leave the drone at home. On April 8, the skies will already be much busier with public and private aircraft.

In Lake Placid, the viewing parties and areas at the Horse Show Grounds, North Elba Athletic Fields, Olympic Speed Skating Oval, and Olympic Jumping Complex are all within a no-fly zone, due to their proximity to the airport.

Eclipse events and updates

Check out the events at the bottom of this page for up-to-date details! As we get closer to the date of the eclipse, more information about special activities, viewing parties, and specials will be announced.

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One eclipse, a weekend of activity

Lake Placid and the surrounding towns are celebrating the eclipse in a big way. Explore the many activities and special events taking place before April 8!

Explore now

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a total solar eclipse?

A total solar eclipse is what happens when the moon passes between the earth and the sun. A bit of coincidence helps here, too: despite the massive difference in size and distance from the earth, the moon in our sky has the same apparent size as the sun. On occasion, the moon passes in front of the sun in a wonderfully precise way so that it actually blocks the disk of the sun in our sky. What happens then? The sky dims, even in the middle of the day, and all that we on earth can see of the sun is the corona: the beautiful, long streams of light that emanate from the sun.
What's April weather like in Lake Placid, and how can I prepare?

April weather can be varied, with snow and cold conditions possible. Here are some travel and safety tips:

  • Keep extra layers, snacks, and water in your car, and don’t forget to fill up on gas before you go.
  • Plan your activities and travel route ahead of time. Service is spotty, so bring a map and/or gps.
  • Trail conditions are poor, and hiking for the eclipse is not advised. If you do decide to experience the eclipse from a trail, bring the 10 essentials and practice LNT principles.
Can I show up at the last minute?

To maximize your experience, no. Please be aware that there will be a lot of traffic in the area that day, so getting to and from your chosen viewing spot will take longer than you might expect. Plan for traffic and delays and on eclipse day, be patient and kind. Our suggestion, come early and stay later! There are endless activities in Lake Placid, making the eclipse just one of several things you can do here. 
What can you expect to happen during the eclipse?

As the moon moves closer to completely covering the sun, the day around you gradually darkens to something similar to dawn or dusk. Not only is the sight beautiful and unusual for the middle of the day, but it also tricks small animals such as birds into thinking it's nighttime. The result? A quiet that is all around you, and the emergence of stars and planets in the sky, even if only for a few minutes. During this eclipse, Jupiter and Venus should be visible and there is the potential for a comet sighting, as well.
Can I watch the eclipse from a mountain summit?

It may sound like a fun adventure, but the real solar fun is to be had at lower elevations. Spring weather can mean snow, ice, mud, and even a combination of all three. Read more about safe hiking and make that a plan for another day!
Can I bring my canoe and watch the eclipse from Mirror Lake?

While we can't stop you, we strongly recommend that you leave your watercraft at home and watch the eclipse from the safety of dry land. Spring paddling is something to take very seriously and is recommended for pros only. Explore our checklist to learn more about safe paddling.
Where can I watch the eclipse in Lake Placid?

Here are some locations where there will be events or public viewing opportunities:
Where can I park in Lake Placid?

In addition to Lake Placid's municipal parking lots along Main Street, parking will be availble on April 8 at the Lake Placid Middle-High School, Shipman Youth Center, on Wesvalley Road, and at the Lake Placid Club House. If you are staying in Lake Placid, please consider parking at your lodging property. Check out the Adirondack Eclipse Viewing Map for pinned parking areas.

Solar Eclipse Safety Tips

A total solar eclipse is an amazing wonder of nature and we couldn't be more excited to have the eclipse cast its shadow over the Adirondacks this April! Between stunning snow capped mountains and glistening spring brooks it will be a spectacle to behold. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience it will be important to plan for April weather and increased traffic. Here are some planning and safety guidelines to navigate the ever changing weather while enjoying this remarkable event!

1
Plan Ahead
 
 
This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience — plan like it! A total solar eclipse is an exciting event that will attract an influx of visitors from far and wide to the region. Prepare for a perfect eclipse by making your plans well in advance.  Make lodging reservations as soon as possible. Some lodging properties are already completely booked out!
 

Use maps and GPS to plan where you’re going and note that cell service may be sparse in areas. Bring a map as a back-up to using your phone. If you’re just coming for the day, it’s a good idea to stock up on supplies before you arrive. Bring snacks and water and fill up your gas tank.

2
Come early, stay late
 
 
The eclipse itself may only last a few minutes, but there are plenty of reasons to make this a multi-day experience! Build in a buffer around the eclipse and enjoy more of the region in the days leading up to and after the eclipse.
 

Added fun isn’t the only reason to extend your stay.  Large day-of crowds may create traffic delays and springtime travel conditions may vary. Avoid any hassle by being close to the path of totality to begin with.

3
Take spring conditions seriously
 
 
Mud, snow, and ice are the most common Adirondack trail conditions in April, which makes trails more susceptible to impacts and potentially dangerous for hikers. If you plan to hike around the time of the eclipse, please be mindful of varying trail conditions and respect muddy trail advisories. High elevation trails will have snow and ice on them. Temperatures can also change dramatically between a trailhead and the summit. If you have little experience in winter hiking, it is best to avoid hiking the High Peaks. Check trail conditions before you go, and be prepared for winter conditions.
 

If you are going to hike, choose a low-elevation trail and come prepared. Bring extra layers and don’t forget to pack the 10 essentials—especially a headlamp. Be aware that there may be an increased number of visitors recreating on trails and at various locations around the region during this time. Have a back-up plan in case trailhead parking is full or, better yet, opt for a watch party and save the hike for another day.

4
Enjoy the eclipse with others
 
 
Normally we encourage seeking solitude on an Adirondack summit, but as the eclipse will plunge the region into temporary darkness, a mountain might not be your best option for a memorable experience. And since the eclipse will look the same from any location along the path of totality, why not stay in your favorite Adirondack town, and enjoy the eclipse with others! The excitement of the event has spurred on local businesses and towns to host numerous watch parties across the region, perfect for celebrating this incredible sight. 
5
Trash your trash and respect nature
 
 
Whether you’re on a trail or at a watch party, help keep the Adirondacks clean. If you’re on a hike, store litter — including food waste like peels, cores, and other scraps — in a garbage bag to be taken home and thrown out. While you’re in town, take advantage of trash and recycling cans. When the eclipse is done, pack up solar viewing glasses, chairs, food, and other waste or dispose of it in designated receptacles. Basically, if it comes with you, it leaves with you.
 

We humans aren’t the only ones that will notice this natural phenomenon. Wildlife activity may also become unusual, as most mammals and birds will wander back to their nests and dens during the sudden dark conditions. Critters are liable to be confused, so give them some extra space and try not to interfere with their movements. And, as always, keep your snacks to yourself.

6
Avoid bodies of water
 
 
In early spring, Adirondack lakes may still be covered in unsafe ice and all water will be at near-freezing temperatures. Breaking through or capsizing in these cold waters can result in severe hypothermia and life-threatening conditions. It’s best not to trust ice-covered lakes at this time of year. It might hold snow or wildlife, but it likely will not hold you.
 

Even if the ice is out, water still poses risks. The total darkness of the eclipse will cause decreased visibility that will make it harder to be seen and navigate in case of emergency. While bodies of water offer wide open views, the hazards of cold water and dark conditions make dry land a far safer viewing option.

7
Come prepared
 
 
With a large influx of travelers coming to the region to view the solar eclipse, it is important to travel prepared. Keep extra layers, snacks, and water in your car and don’t forget to fill up on gas before you go. Plan your activities ahead of time, and make sure to check weather updates.
 

Due to an increased number of visitors around the region, your planned destinations may be more crowded, including hiking trails, restaurants, and attractions. Be prepared to change your route around the region based on conditions. Cell service may be sparse in certain areas, so alert others of your plans, and travel with a map and GPS.

8
View the eclipse safely
 
 
When watching the eclipse, it is essential to wear safe solar eclipse glasses. Solar viewing glasses are different from sunglasses and block out more of the sun’s harmful rays. Many watch parties and communities will have viewing glasses available, but it’s a good idea to bring your own just in case.
 

Why are these glasses necessary? The darkness of the eclipse will cause your pupils to constrict, making your eyes more susceptible to damage from the sun’s remaining rays. Remember not to view the eclipse through a camera, telescope, binoculars, or your phone without a special solar filter either. These devices will further concentrate the remaining light and increase risk of damage to your eyes.

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