There is something so exciting about the change of seasons. It reminds me how fortunate I am to be living in the Adirondacks. We are in Lake Placid to get a few last minute items to round out our winter gear, which we easily find in a few of the

downtown shops. We run back to our car and pack up to leave when my children look up at the sky and notice what a perfectly clear evening it is.

view of mountains
A view of snowcapped mountain from Lake Placid

We drive to the top of Olympic Drive to a spot overlooking Mirror Lake. It is rare to sit quietly with my family and just enjoy the scenery around us. We move so fast all the time. Lake Placid is mesmerizing with its view of Whiteface Mountain, all white and clean, in the distance. The ground is starting to freeze and the streets are quiet for a brief moment between movies letting out and restaurants getting ready for the next seating. The night is so clear and we are able to capture those first moments of winter.

View of downtown Lake Placid
The street lights shine around Lake Placid

Soon the snow will stay on the ground. We will be dressed in our snow pants and won't be able to go outside without bundling up. I will be shoveling my car and wondering which trail to cross-country ski. I will be reorganizing my car to hold the snowshoes, skis and crampons. Come spring, I will forget that I eagerly waited for winter to come. That is why the change of seasons is so exciting. Come spring, I will be excited for the spring flowers and hiking boots and other Adirondack happens that I can only get in a four-season wonderland. all photos and content © Diane Chase, Adirondack Family Time™. Diane Chase is the author of the Adirondack Family Time™ guidebook series and co-owner of the the young adult wilderness adventure program, Adirondack Outdoor Expeditions.

downtown Lake Placid view
Snow topped Whiteface over Mirror Lake