City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Lake Placid, New York
Situated southwest of Lake Champlain, Plattsburgh, New York and Burlington, Vermont, Lake Placid offers natural beauty, historic attractions, outdoor recreation and year-round activities. The Adirondack Mountains location is an excellent destination for boaters, adrenaline junkies and serenity seekers to enjoy from resorts, private boat dock rentals and marinas.
Mirror Lake
At the center of Lake Placid lies Mirror Lake, a peaceful body of water that offers breathtaking views and numerous recreational activities. During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and canoeing. A scenic 2.7-mile walking path circles the lake, which makes a terrific place for a leisurely stroll or a brisk jog. In winter, the frozen lake becomes a hub for ice skating, dog sledding and even a toboggan chute for an adrenaline rush.
Olympic Sites
Lake Placid is best known as the host of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics. History buffs and sports enthusiasts alike will appreciate visiting the Olympic Jumping Complex. You can watch athletes train and even ride the Skyride gondola to the top of the ski jump tower for panoramic views.
The Lake Placid Olympic Center houses the iconic Herb Brooks Arena, site of the "Miracle on Ice" during the 1980 games. Take a guided tour to explore its storied past. Don’t miss the Olympic Museum, which showcases memorabilia, exhibits and interactive displays celebrating the spirit of the Games.
Whiteface Mountain
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure from private boat slips for rent, Whiteface Mountain boasts the highest vertical drop in the eastern United States. It’s a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter. In the summer and fall, visitors can take the Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway to the summit, where you’ll take in stunning views of the Adirondacks. Hikers can also tackle the mountain’s challenging trails or opt for the scenic Cloudsplitter Gondola Ride.
High Falls Gorge
A short drive from private boat lift rentals and marinas near Lake Placid, High Falls Gorge is a natural wonder featuring waterfalls, rushing rivers and ancient rock formations. The well-maintained trail system includes bridges, walkways and viewing platforms, making it easy for visitors of all ages to explore this geological marvel. In winter, the gorge transforms into an icy wonderland filled with frozen waterfalls that create a magical setting for snowshoeing and photography.
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
History enthusiasts should visit the John Brown Farm State Historic Site, the former home and burial place of abolitionist John Brown. This peaceful site features a restored farmhouse, barn and gravesite, along with interpretive displays that tell the story of Brown’s life and his fight against slavery. The surrounding grounds include walking trails that offer stunning views of the Adirondack High Peaks.
