One Of The Best Lakes On The East Coast Is A Charming Escape In The Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Park is without question one of the most breathtaking state parks in New York. At 6.1 million acres, it is the largest protected area in the Lower 48 and contains some of New York's most awe-inspiring natural sites, including gorges, rivers, mountains, and woodlands. However, the region really shines through its lakes and small villages, and Lake Placid is one of the best, most charming lake communities on the east coast.

Beginning as a refuge for the wealthy elites of the 19th century, Lake Placid today is renowned as both a sporting destination and a location to kick back and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Adirondacks. As one of only five cities to host the Winter Olympics twice, in 1932 and 1980 respectively, Lake Placid is a special place for many sports fans to visit in the winter months. However, the town is an excellent, all-season adventure destination that shines throughout the year.

Located in the heart of Adirondack Park, Lake Placid is a hike to get to from some of the east coast's biggest metros. At roughly 5 hours from New York City and 2 hours from Albany, driving to Lake Placid takes dedication. An easier option would be to take a charter flight from Cape Air in Boston to Adirondack Regional Airport. The flight takes 90 minutes, and you can arrange transportation from the airport, which is only 30 minutes away.

One of the real charms of Lake Placid are the beautiful lakes that surround the village. Mirror Lake, which sits in the heart of Lake Placid village, is as beautiful as its name suggests. Visible from anywhere in downtown, the water of Mirror Lake shimmers and beckons. Only a mile long, no large outboard motors are allowed on the lake. This allows it to be a quiet place to swim, paddle board, or kayak to your hearts content.

A little north of town is Lake Placid itself. A much larger body of water, Lake Placid allows for a wider range of water-related activities. At 4 miles long and 1.5 miles wide, motorboats are allowed on the lake. Rentals are available, and you can bring your own to the first come first serve public boat launch, or moor it for a fee at one of three different marinas.

Lake Placid is also regarded as one of the best places to fish in the area. Anglers can cast for native brown, rainbow, brook, and lake trout, as well as smallmouth bass, rock bass, and perch. Fly fishers will find a haven in the nearby Ausable River. The Hungry Trout Fly Shop, located just 17 minutes away in Wilmington, is a great stop for any angler who wants great local advice, gear, or book guided fishing trips in the area.

Surrounded by 46 peaks, you could hardly expect to take a trek out to this stunning area of the Adirondacks and not get a few good hikes in! Rocky Falls Trail is a great hike that's of moderate difficulty. The 4.6 mile round trip takes you along a gentle route through the woods and ends at a stunning miniature waterfall. For those looking to bag one of the 46, take on Mount Marcy. As the tallest peak in the Adirondacks at 5,344 feet, summiting Marcy leads to outstanding views of the surrounding peaks, and is well worth the effort. With over 3,000 feet of elevation gain, sheer rock faces, and water features, this is not a hike for beginners.

You also can't miss out on the Olympics connection while you're here. The Olympic Jumping Complex may be a haven for skiers in the wintertime, but it is also a ton of fun in the summer. If you have no fear of heights, the Sky Flyer Zip Line gives you a taste of the speed and altitude ski jumpers reach during the Olympics.

An even more in depth Olympic experience can be found at the Lake Placid Olympic Center and Museum. Learn all about the legendary sporting moments to occur in Lake Placid, especially the 1980 "Miracle on Ice" hockey game against the Soviet Union. It's a great way to explore the legacy of this small village tucked deep in the Adirondack Mountains.