The Adirondack Rail Trail, connecting Lake Placid with its neighboring mountain communities, is at the center of winter adventure. The 34-mile corridor is taking off in popularity, and for good reason, as it traverses some of the most scenic stretches of Adirondack forest and wetlands. So, what is there to do on the Rail Trail? Read on to discover six ways you can recreate on the Adirondack Rail Trail this winter season!
1. Cross-country skiing
Groomed from regular snowmobile and cross-country ski travel, the gentle terrain of the Rail Trail creates the perfect environment for beginner skiers. Its wide, even surface makes it ideal for both classic and skate skiing, allowing for smooth gliding through the Adirondack winter landscape. The gradual elevation changes and long distance not only caters to beginners! Folks looking for an endurance workout can ski as many miles as they want as an out-and-back or a car-to-car, seeing as much terrain as possible. Whether you're out for a leisurely ski or a long-distance endurance session, the Adirondack Rail Trail delivers a scenic and well-maintained winter adventure, close to ski rental locations and places to refuel with food and drink. If you want to diversify your time on the Rail Trail, link up with some summer-time mountain biking turned winter-time cross-country skiing spots! At Fowler’s Crossing in Saranac Lake, it’ll be hard to miss the entrances to this trail system, where skiers track out loops in the woods.
2. Snowmobiling
For those seeking an adrenaline rush or a calm ride through the woods, Lake Placid's access to the Rail Trail is unparalleled. The trail's wide and well-graded surface makes for a perfect snowmobiling experience for those who are newer to the activity. With easy access to getting into town for food, shopping, and gas, spending the entire day (or weekend) exploring the trail is a must-do experience. Don’t have your own snowmobile? You can rent them for you and your friends while you’re in town! Snowmobiling safely on the Rail Trail is the #1 priority, so be sure to keep an eye out for other winter recreators, keep your speed low, and take care when crossing the road.
3. Fat-tire biking
Seasoned and beginner fat-tire bikers will enjoy the grade and firmness of the Adirondack Rail Trail in the winter. It has perhaps become the destination for fat-tire biking in the Adirondacks, and an exceptional destination for those traveling for the sport. Traveling from Lake Placid to Saranac Lake, there are plenty of opportunities to get off the trail and enjoy the amenities. A stop in Ray Brook for food and drinks at Ray Brook Brewhouse, or a ride into Saranac Lake for a walk around Main Street, are both great options for fat-tire bikers. There are some incredible bike shops in Lake Placid and Saranac Lake too, with spots like High Peaks Cyclery offering fat-tire bike rentals. If you’ve never tried this activity before, it’s a real unique way to enjoy the frosty features of the Adirondack woods.
4. Snowshoeing
A time-honored tradition, snowshoeing is an incredible way to experience the landscape, and offers a lot of flexibility for where and how far you want to go. The Adirondack Rail Trail is a favored route for beginner snowshoers, offering a flat and accessible path that winds through diverse habitats. Additionally, areas like the Saranac Lakes Wild Forest and McKenzie Mountain Wilderness Area provide numerous trails that cater to Rail Trail snowshoers, ranging from leisurely walks to more challenging hikes. Folks can choose from hikes that are connected to, or close by, the Rail Trail to add on to the day. Saranac Lake 6er peaks like Scarface, Haystack, and Baker can all make for a full day of hiking when combined with the Rail Trail. If you aren’t looking to add on bigger hikes like those, think about visiting The Pines trails in Saranac Lake.
5. Birding
Winter birding in Lake Placid offers a unique opportunity to observe species adapted to the cold climate. The Adirondack Rail Trail and surrounding areas are prime spots for winter birding, with habitats that attract species such as the Black-capped Chickadee, Common Redpoll, and various woodpeckers. The trail's diverse environments, from wetlands to mixed forests, provide ample opportunities to spot these hardy birds. Remember to bring binoculars and a field guide to enhance your experience. There are spots right in town to buy field guides, too. Take a walk on Main Street and pick one up at spots like The Bookstore Plus or Eastern Mountain Sports before you hit the trail!
6. Exploring other communities
The Adirondack Rail Trail not only offers recreational activities, but also serves as a scenic corridor connecting the charming communities of Lake Placid, Ray Brook, Saranac Lake, Lake Clear, and Tupper Lake. Each town boasts its own unique attractions, eateries, and shops, providing a rich cultural experience alongside your outdoor adventures. For instance, Saranac Lake is known for its vibrant arts scene and packed event schedule, while Tupper Lake offers attractions like The Wild Center, a natural history museum with interactive exhibits, and a wide array of dining options. Exploring these communities makes your trip on the Rail Trail well-rounded, where you can do things like learn about the Adirondacks, eat good food, listen to local music, sip some coffee, and just do everything that makes our slice of the Adirondacks unique.
Eager to explore all the 34-mile Adirondack Rail Trail has to offer? Plan a stay in Lake Placid, come for the adventure that is this amazing path through the Adirondack Mountains, and enjoy all that our community has to offer.
