Photo courtesy as noted

Each year, snowy weather descends on the great expanse of peaks, lakes, and forests of the Adirondack Mountains in Upstate New York, transforming them into a dreamy winter wonderland.

And with its picturesque landscape, thrilling outdoor sports, and charming small towns, the area offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Given that the Adirondacks encompass more than six million acres, though, an escape to them requires narrowing down your options a bit. You’ll find two of the best places to consider nestled deep in the High Peaks: the quaint villages of Lake Placid and Saranac Lake. Check out this guide to these dream destinations for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, giving you a jump start on planning the ultimate getaway.

Lake Placid

The Olympic site for the 1932 and 1980 Winter Games, Lake Placid provides an infinitely varied playground, especially for those who enjoy a good adrenaline rush. Perhaps the best place to find such adventure is at Whiteface Mountain, a resort that features a vast number of options for snowboarders, skiers, and tubers alike. There are mild runs for beginners, demanding slopes for experts (including the Slides, a double-black-diamond series of chutes), and terrain parks for those who enjoy getting creative with jumps and rails. And at 4,867 feet high, its top provides amazing sweeping views of the neighboring mountains and valleys.

If you’re looking for a calmer activity that still lets you take in the natural beauty of the area, Lake Placid has you covered as well with spots for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. With hundreds of miles of developed paths and backcountry routes, you can locate the ideal terrain fit for your degree of ability. Check out the 50-kilometer Jackrabbit Trail that spans from Keene to Paul Smiths—passing through Lake Placid—or take a guided snowshoe trip with a knowledgeable local guide, who can provide insights on the flora, fauna, and history of the region. Another option is ice-skating on Mirror Lake, which sits in the middle of the village and is backdropped against the breathtaking Adirondack Mountains.

Prefer to skip out on the physical activities but still want to partake in the excitement? Celebrate the area’s rich winter sports legacy by visiting the Olympic Museum, home to the second-largest collection of Winter Olympic artifacts in North America, or by catching an event like bobsledding or luge at the Olympic Center or Mt. Van Hoevenberg. There’s always something going on at these sites no matter the time of year.

Whatever your itinerary, long days can zap your energy. To soothe worn-out muscles and boost the spirit, consider scheduling a rejuvenating spa treatment, such as aromatherapy or a hot stone massage. Try the spa at the Mirror Lake Inn, complete with a salt wall and steam room where you can, as the website states, “breathe deeply and unwind” as the salt particles “detoxify your lungs, sinuses, and skin.”

Finally, returning to comfortable lodging is the perfect way to complete the day. Lake Placid has a range of offerings to fit every budget and inclination, whether your taste is for a luxurious resort and its contemporary conveniences or a rustic rental cabin tucked away in the woods. Consider, for instance, Lake Placid Lodge, the only hotel on the town’s namesake lake. Between the stunning views of the water and Whiteface Mountain, roaring fires in the outdoor hearths, and fine dining on the expansive porch, you may never want to end your trip.

Saranac Lake

Just ten miles down the road from Lake Placid is Saranac Lake, a somewhat more laid-back village offering equal opportunities for winter adventures. Check out Mt. Pisgah Recreation Center, where families can enjoy gentle slopes for downhill skiing, two runs for racing on inner tubes, and several trails for traversing on snowshoes. Or head over to the North Country Community College, which features a hill that is the perfect sledding spot and family-fun setting. Engage in simple pleasures like building snowmen, battling in snowball fights, and making snow angels, then hop over to the Blue Moon Cafe to warm up with some fresh chocolate chip pancakes.

Another winter classic here is ice fishing. Whether your level of experience with angling is high or low, the excitement of catching fish from a frozen lake is unforgettable. If you’re just starting out, many local outfitters provide equipment rentals as well as guided trips to ensure a complete experience. There are many good areas to choose from, but Lake Colby just outside the downtown area is always a hot spot for this activity, lending good times with loved ones as you see what you can catch.

Beyond outdoor sports, Saranac Lake is also home to a thriving artistic community thanks to artists and creatives seeking inspiration from the untamed terrain, resulting in many galleries, theaters, and public art projects to explore. The Adirondack Artists Guild Gallery, for instance, showcases new exhibits every month, hosting an opening night reception the first Friday. Meanwhile, the Pendragon Theatre is the town’s only year-round company, offering both engaging shows and educational programs to inspire budding young writers. And be on the lookout for artwork lurking around town, like Tessie the serpent. The brainchild of several middle school students, you’ll find her bursting through the lawn on Woodruff Street.

Complementing its vibrant cultural scene, Saranac Lake presents a range of lovely accommodations ideal for those wanting a quiet haven. Hotel Saranac and Saranac Waterfront Lodge are top-notch options for their views of the surrounding nature and tempting amenities—including a heated pool and day spa—as are the many rustic inns, cabins, and cottages. You may even come across little bed-and-breakfasts that were once historic Cure Cottages, designated sanatoriums for those in need of long-term care. Whatever you choose, you’re sure get a perfect respite to retreat to at the close of each day.

The Adirondacks have something to offer everyone, whether your search is for adventure, rest, or quality family time. Consider booking your next winter paradise at one of these or the many other idyllic Upstate New York villages, and create a lifetime of memories with those you love.