Lake Placid in upstate New York might be most famous as the host of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, but don’t let its icy reputation fool you: there’s plenty to do all year round in this tourist-friendly mountain town. If you love the great outdoors when warm weather hits, you’ll find no shortage of ways to enjoy a summertime trip.

Hiking in the Adirondacks

Lake Placid is nestled in the Adirondack range, which can offer one of the East Coast’s best hiking experiences. With over 2,000 miles of hiking trails to explore, you’re sure to find a trail that suits you—and enough room to go off the beaten path a little if you’re hoping for some solitude. 42 out of the Adirondacks’ legendary “46 peaks,” mountains over 4,000 feet high, are within range of Lake Placid. Challenge yourself with a strenuous climb to the top of Algonquin, or enjoy a short ramble up the family-friendly 2.3-mile loop at Mt. Jo.

Paddling on the Water

If you love water, you’re in luck! Lake Placid offers multiple ways to indulge in your favorite pastimes. Enjoy a leisurely day canoeing through the still waters of Lake Placid or nearby Mirror Lake, or seek out the thrills of a whitewater kayaking trip down the Ausable River. New to whitewater? Book a guided trip with an experienced whitewater rafting guide to make sure your trip is a safe one. If you’re on an extended vacation, sign up for a padding class to learn the techniques you’ll need to brave rough waters.

Photo Courtesy of Lake Placid dot com.

Relive Olympic History

Lake Placid commemorates its legacy at the Olympic Museum, located in the center of downtown. It’s open 7 days a week, year-round, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the day of the Lake Placid Ironman race. Rewatch footage of the 1980 US Hockey Team’s “Miracle on Ice,” practice your curling skills, and discover what it takes to be a speed skater. Interactive exhibits make the museum a way to keep the whole family entertained.

Ready to plan your summertime trip to Lake Placid?