1. Discovering Adirondack Mountains
2. The Allure of Lake Placid
3. Revamped Olympic Facilities
4. Hiking Adventures
The American summer vacation originally blossomed not at the beach but amidst the mountains. In the late 19th century, elite families such as the Carnegies, Rockefellers, and Vanderbilts vacated their Manhattan residences in search of fresh air and cooler temperatures, establishing seasonal retreats known as “Great Camps” in the Adirondack Mountains of northeastern New York. Presently, the Adirondack Park—protected as “forever wild” by the New York State Constitution since 1892—remains the largest publicly preserved area in the contiguous United States, encompassing 6 million acres, surpassing the combined size of Everglades, Glacier, Grand Canyon, and Yellowstone National Parks.
Currently, the most charming entry point to this outdoor paradise is Lake Placid, a village famous for hosting two Olympic Winter Games (1932 and 1980) and proximity to some of the area’s finest hiking trails. Several hotels have opened recently, including the stylish Eastwind Lake Placid, a cozy property nestled along the Chubb River. The 21 rooms and eight cabins feature a Scandinavian-chic aesthetic, adorned with vintage elements such as wooden tennis rackets and old editions of Adirondack Life magazine. The property boasts a sauna, pool, fire pit area, private dining cabin, and a bar and lounge, enhancing the overall experience.
Moreover, many of the town’s historic sporting facilities have undergone significant upgrades. In December, the renovated Lake Placid Olympic Museum opened its doors, accompanied by two revamped ice arenas and a speed-skating oval. Attractions such as the Olympic Jumping Complex and Mount Van Hoevenberg—where bobsled, skeleton, luge, biathlon, and cross-country skiing events take place in winter, along with indoor climbing and biking in summer—have also seen renovations. Additionally, the Legacy Sites Passport now allows access to all Olympic venues, providing comprehensive experiences for visitors seeking adventure.
Consequently, for those seeking simpler pleasures, an old-fashioned hike remains a rewarding option. Just ten minutes outside of town is Mount Marcy, the highest peak in New York State, accessible via a challenging 16-mile trail. Alternatively, for a more relaxed adventure, the 5.8-mile trail leading to the summit of Hurricane Mountain offers a delightful experience. At the summit, climbers can ascend the fire tower to enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the pristine wilderness, reminiscent of the era of the Great Camps.
