Snowboarding at Whiteface Mountain, Adirondacks, New York – A Black Girl’s Guide

After spending the past week learning the basics of snowboarding at Belleayre Mountain and Gore Mountain, it was time to wear my big girl panties and face the ultimate test of them all, Whiteface Mountain. Before reading my guide on snowboarding at Whiteface Mountain, check out the prequels to this post:

  1. A Black Girl’s Guide to Snowboarding and Skiing – the Prep Phase
  2. A Black Girl’s Guide to Snowboarding at Belleayre Mountain
  3. Snowboarding at Gore Mountain: A Guide to Adventure in the Adirondacks, New York for Black Girls

My Experience – Learning How to Snowboard at Whiteface

Day 7 of a Black Girl’s Guide to Snowboarding at Whiteface – Drive to Lake Placid, New York!

The drive from North Creek was short, only 1.5 hours, and I settled into the Cambria hotel, conveniently located just minutes from Lake Placid’s downtown and close to Whiteface Mountain.

Exploring Lake Placid was a treat, especially with the snow-covered main street resembling a festive wonderland. Despite the bustling atmosphere, the town exuded charm and warmth. I secured dinner reservations at Smoke Signals, but my initial encounter there left me uneasy. Thankfully, the kindness of the staff at Dack Shack restored my faith in the area’s hospitality.

Before driving up from New Jersey, I also purchased my first-ever snowboarding basewear and outerwear as those were not available for rent at the ski resort. I go into the deeper details about what to wear in A Black Girl’s Guide to Snowboarding and Skiing – the Prep Phase but see below for the main gist of what I purchased.

My Snowboarding Outfit at Whiteface

Arctix Women’s Essential Insulated Bib Overalls
Rdruko Women’s Waterproof Snowboard Jacket Windproof Warm Insulated Winter Ski Jacket Hooded
COOLOO Ski Goggles, 2 Pack Snow Goggles Snowboard Goggles for Men Women Kids – UV Protection Foam Anti-Scratch Dustproof
MORXPLOR Ski Snow Gloves – Men & Women, 3M Thinsulate Insulated, Waterproof Windproof Winter Snowboard & Snowmobile Gloves for Cold Weather
Arctix Women's Essential Insulated Bib Overalls
Rdruko Women's Waterproof Snowboard Jacket Windproof Warm Insulated Winter Ski Jacket Hooded
COOLOO Ski Goggles, 2 Pack Snow Goggles Snowboard Goggles for Men Women Kids - UV Protection Foam Anti-Scratch Dustproof
MORXPLOR Ski Snow Gloves - Men & Women, 3M Thinsulate Insulated, Waterproof Windproof Winter Snowboard & Snowmobile Gloves for Cold Weather
Price not available
Price not available
$8.99
Price not available
Arctix Women’s Essential Insulated Bib Overalls
Arctix Women's Essential Insulated Bib Overalls
Price not available
Rdruko Women’s Waterproof Snowboard Jacket Windproof Warm Insulated Winter Ski Jacket Hooded
Rdruko Women's Waterproof Snowboard Jacket Windproof Warm Insulated Winter Ski Jacket Hooded
Price not available
COOLOO Ski Goggles, 2 Pack Snow Goggles Snowboard Goggles for Men Women Kids – UV Protection Foam Anti-Scratch Dustproof
COOLOO Ski Goggles, 2 Pack Snow Goggles Snowboard Goggles for Men Women Kids - UV Protection Foam Anti-Scratch Dustproof
$8.99
MORXPLOR Ski Snow Gloves – Men & Women, 3M Thinsulate Insulated, Waterproof Windproof Winter Snowboard & Snowmobile Gloves for Cold Weather
MORXPLOR Ski Snow Gloves - Men & Women, 3M Thinsulate Insulated, Waterproof Windproof Winter Snowboard & Snowmobile Gloves for Cold Weather
Price not available
American Trends Womens Thermal Underwear Set Long Johns Base Layer Fleece Lined Top and Bottom Thermals Sets Loungewear
Balaclava Ski Mask 2 Pcs – Windproof Warmer Fleece Adjustable Winter Mask for Men Women
Fengbay 3 Pack High Waist Yoga Pants,Yoga Pants for Women Tummy Control Workout Pants 4 Way Stretch Leggings with Pockets
Little Hotties 8-Hour Hand Warmers, 40 Pair (7201)
American Trends Womens Thermal Underwear Set Long Johns Base Layer Fleece Lined Top and Bottom Thermals Sets Loungewear
Balaclava Ski Mask 2 Pcs - Windproof Warmer Fleece Adjustable Winter Mask for Men Women
Fengbay 3 Pack High Waist Yoga Pants,Yoga Pants for Women Tummy Control Workout Pants 4 Way Stretch Leggings with Pockets
Little Hotties 8-Hour Hand Warmers, 40 Pair (7201)
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
$19.78
American Trends Womens Thermal Underwear Set Long Johns Base Layer Fleece Lined Top and Bottom Thermals Sets Loungewear
American Trends Womens Thermal Underwear Set Long Johns Base Layer Fleece Lined Top and Bottom Thermals Sets Loungewear
Price not available
Balaclava Ski Mask 2 Pcs – Windproof Warmer Fleece Adjustable Winter Mask for Men Women
Balaclava Ski Mask 2 Pcs - Windproof Warmer Fleece Adjustable Winter Mask for Men Women
Price not available
Fengbay 3 Pack High Waist Yoga Pants,Yoga Pants for Women Tummy Control Workout Pants 4 Way Stretch Leggings with Pockets
Fengbay 3 Pack High Waist Yoga Pants,Yoga Pants for Women Tummy Control Workout Pants 4 Way Stretch Leggings with Pockets
Price not available
Little Hotties 8-Hour Hand Warmers, 40 Pair (7201)
Little Hotties 8-Hour Hand Warmers, 40 Pair (7201)
$19.78

Read here for Travel Tips and Safety for Women.

My first morning at Whiteface was upon me and I could feel the stares of my ancestors begging me not to shame them after spending the past week learning the basics of snowboarding at Belleayre and Gore Mountains. Surely, I was going to impress my snowboard instructor today and we’d skip the beginner lesson and hop right on to the intermediate level, surely.

As I approached Bear Den Lodge, Whiteface Mountain’s beginner area, the nerves kicked in, but a chance encounter with a local black gentleman and his children eased my anxiety. His calming presence set the tone for the day, and I felt a newfound sense of confidence as I prepared for my lesson.

Meeting my instructor, who turned out to be the niece of the man I had spoken to earlier, felt like fate. With a focus on linking turns and mindful of my recent knee strain, I spent the next two days honing my skills on the green trails. While the blue trails remained a goal for the future, I left Whiteface Mountain with a newfound confidence in my abilities.

Read here for how I prepared my body for snowboarding.

Though my journey to conquer the blue trails may be on hold for now, I’m excited for the challenges that lie ahead in the next season. Who knows? Maybe I’ll even tackle some black trails along the way. Until then, I’ll cherish the progress made and look forward to future adventures on the slopes.

Day 10 of a Black Girl’s Guide to Snowboarding at Whiteface Mountain – Explore the Olympics Sites

With my snowboarding goals achieved and my knees a little worse for wear, I set out to explore the Olympic sites in Lake Placid. In addition to my snowboarding adventures, I had a few extra items on my bucket list to explore while in the Adirondacks. I wanted to watch my first live hockey game, experience either bobsledding, skeleton, or tobogganing, and maybe even watch a curling game session or attempt to give it a try.

I immersed myself in the rich history of the Olympics by spending the morning at the Olympic Museum. It was a fascinating experience, delving into the stories and achievements of past Olympic athletes and reliving the magic of the games. And while I didn’t catch a full hockey game, seeing a team practice at one of the rinks felt like a win. However, the highlight of the day was undoubtedly the skeleton ride at the Mt. Van Hoevenberg Olympic Center—a thrilling experience I’ll never forget.

Don’t forget to also have a lip balm handy while on the slopes, see our faves here.

Day 11 of a Black Girl’s Guide to Snowboarding in Whiteface – Drive Back to New Jersey

Before embarking on my long journey back to New Jersey, I felt compelled to visit the home of John Brown, a brave abolitionist who played a pivotal role in the Underground Railroad. Spending a couple of hours immersed in America’s tumultuous slave history left me in a somber mood as I prepared to hit the road.

John Brown Road, Lake Placid

(518) 523-3900

As I departed Lake Placid, heavy snowfall and dense fog created treacherous driving conditions, turning what should have been a 6-hour drive into a harrowing 10-hour ordeal. Despite the challenging circumstances, I couldn’t resist making a detour to Albany to sample a local restaurant, the Illusive. After all, a girl’s gotta eat and get a restroom break.

Whiteface Mountain Ski Center

Why Go to Whiteface Mountain?

Whiteface Mountain is the holy grail of ski resorts on the East Coast, boasting the greatest vertical drop east of the Rockies. Its expansive terrain features 94 trails spanning 25 miles, with elevations reaching 4,867 feet from the summit, offering a diverse playground for snowboarders of all levels.

While Whiteface attracts seasoned snowboarders, it caters to a wide range of abilities, with 24% of trails designed for beginners, 46% for intermediates, and 30% for experts. Thanks to its 11 multi-passenger lifts, even on busy days, you’ll spend more time shredding the slopes than waiting in line.

Traveling Bouquet
Snowboarding at Whiteface Mountain, Adirondacks, New York - A Black Girl’s Guide 71

For those new to the sport or still refining their skills, Bear Den Lodge serves as an ideal starting point. Here, lessons are available, providing a supportive environment for beginners to gain confidence. Once you’ve mastered the basics, progressing to the green and blue trails accessed via The Notch ski lift offers the perfect next challenge.

A single day may not suffice to fully explore Whiteface’s offerings. If time permits, consider extending your stay to two days. Use the first day to acclimate to the terrain and build confidence on the slopes. On the second day, embark on the ultimate test by taking the gondola to Little Whiteface’s summit and tackling trails like Excelsior. You can give your legs a break by relaxing at the Legacy Lodge which serves as a midway point down the challenging terrain.

Read here for The Essential Travel Safety Guide for Women.

Eating at Whiteface Mountain


Dining at Whiteface Mountain offers a variety of satisfying options to refuel after hitting the slopes. Similar to Belleayre and Gore Mountain, they serve a hot filling bowl of chili at Black Bear Market which was essential, especially after braving windy conditions on the slopes.

For an early Apres-Ski bite, head to The Cloudspin Bar & Grill on the third level of the Base Lodge. I ordered the crispy chicken sandwich served on a toasted brioche bun with a side of salad and a glass of Lake Placid’s UBU ale. It came recommended by the waitstaff, and every bite was so satisfyingly delicious.

Keep in mind that mountain restaurants typically close when the lifts do, so the apres-ski scene at Whiteface Mountain is limited.

Eating at Whiteface Mountain Tip: Bring a water bottle and refill as needed from the water fountains available at the lodges, buying a bottle of water here is pretty expensive.

Snowboarding at Whiteface Mountain
Snowboarding at Whiteface Mountain, Adirondacks, New York - A Black Girl’s Guide 72

How to Get to and Around Whiteface Mountain

Whiteface Mountain is approximately 5 hours from NYC and Northern New Jersey. For those without cars planning to spend multiple days in the area, renting a car is the most convenient option. I typically use either Discover Cars or Rental Cars to compare the best deals. I’ve found that Rental Cars offers more options, especially in rural parts of New York.

There are various transportation options to reach Whiteface—whether you prefer driving, flying to a nearby airport, taking a bus alongside fellow skiers and snowboarders, or opting for a train ride. Having your vehicle provides the utmost convenience. However, there are alternative transportation choices available to suit your preferences.

Flight Options to Visit Whiteface Mountain

If you are flying in for your Whiteface Mountain trip, Adirondack Regional Airport (SLK) is a 40-minute drive away – Cape Air is the only commercial airline that flies in directly from JFK and Boston to the airport. There is limited Uber/Lyft service in the area, but you can arrange for a car rental service from the airport, click on this link for more information.

There are other airports with more flight options about 2 hours away from Whiteface Mountain:

Albany International Airport (ALB), NY – 131 miles / 210km / 2 hours 9 minutes
Burlington International Airport (BTV), VT – 61.9 miles / 100km / 1 hour 54 minutes
Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL), Quebec – 106 miles / 171km / 2 hours (International – Camada)

How to Get to Whiteface Mountain by Bus from NYC

You can get to Whiteface by bus from New York City by hopping on a Trailways bus from New York’s Port Authority Station and it will take you to Lake Placid, travel time is about 7 hours. You can get to Whiteface Mountain from Lake Placid using the free shuttle service that operates during the ski season – click here to view the bus schedule.

How to Get to Whiteface Mountain by Train from NYC

You can also get there using a combination of train and the local bus system or rent a car with the following options:

There used to be a combo package by Amtrak that allowed travelers from NYC to book a train service from Penn Station in NY through either Westport or Plattsburgh Station and then transfer to a bus shuttle service to Lake Placid. The service has been put on hold since 2019, but feel free to search for rides to Lake Placid on Amtrak.com and let us know if you have any luck with it!

Take the Amtrak train from NY Penn to Westport Station (use the link to get 15% off!) – 6 hours travel time. There are currently no local bus services from Westport to Lake Placid but do reach out to Enterprise and similar car rental services, they may offer pickup service from the station. A more convenient option is to go to Plattsburgh Station and below for my instructions.

Take the Amtrak train from NY Penn to Plattsburgh Station (use the link to get 15% off!) – 7 hours travel time. To use the Essex County bus system from Plattsburgh to Lake Placid, follow these steps:

PLATTSBURGH TO LAKE PLACID BY BUS

  1. Arrive at the Clinton County Government Center stop (137 Margaret Street, Plattsburgh) before 3:53 pm.
  2. Board the Keeseville/Ausable bus to Ausable Forks Tops Market and pay the $3 fare.
  3. Advise the driver you are getting off at the Ausble Forks Tops Market to transfer to the MVS bus. You will arrive in Ausable Forks at approximately 4:53 pm.
  4. Board the MVS bus to Lake Placid and pay the $2 fare. TELL THE DRIVER YOU ARE GOING TO WILMINGTON OR LAKE PLACID. Service at this time of day into Wilmington and Lake Placid is only available upon request (otherwise the bus will go directly back to the bus garage in Lewis). The MVS bus departs at 4:53 pm.
    WEBSITE: www.essexcountyny.gov/transportation/
    ESSEX COUNTY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION (800) 914-9266
Essex County

To rent a car from Plattsburgh Station to Lake Placid, there’s an ongoing New York by Rail partnership with Enterprise where you will get picked up for free from the train station, so when you book using the link, it will ensure you book from the right Enterprise location – 724 Ny-3 Plattsburgh, NY 12901

The Enterprise office is about 3.8 miles away from the train station, make sure to call them at +1 518-566-0190 at least 30 minutes ahead of train arrival time to schedule a free pick-up service from the train station.

Tip – other rental car companies in the area may also offer free pick-up service, so if you find better deals with them, call to find out if they will pick you up from the station.

How to Get Around Whiteface Mountain and Lake Placid without a Car

There are limited Uber and Lyft options in the area, but beyond that, you still have options. The Essex County buses offer complimentary shuttle services from most hotels to Whiteface Mountain during the ski season from around 7 am to 5 pm, click here for their bus schedule and their pickup points.

To get around Lake Placid, there are also the Placid XPRSS free shuttles that are available to keep you in apres-ski party mode while staying safe! The bus schedule is not on Google Maps, so make sure to download the map on your phone and choose your accommodation wisely!

Pro Tip: Before hitting the road, ensure you download an offline map of the region on your preferred GPS app. 

What You Need to Know Before Heading to Whiteface Mountain

Purchase your lift tickets online for discounted deals, same-day purchases at the ski resort are not guaranteed. If you plan to rent their equipment and take lessons, it is required to make reservations in advance, 3 days ahead, minimum, is my suggestion.

Whiteface offers package deals for beginners that, according to their website, “includes a Bear Den lift ticket for levels 1 through 3, a full mountain lift ticket for level 4, with a 2-hour lesson and rental equipment. Lesson time is from 9 am to 11 am.”

Whiteface Mountain Address

Whiteface Mountain
5021 Route 86
Wilmington, NY 12997

(518) 946-2223

Whiteface Mountain’s Lifts Opening Hours – Sunday – Saturday from 9:00 am – 4:30 pm

Where to Stay Around Whiteface Mountain

Whiteface Mountain does not have its lodging but there are so many options of places to stay within 25 minutes driving distance from the mountain. Apres-ski in the area happens mainly in Lake Placid and they take it very seriously. There are a decent number of hotels within walking distance from the main strip, so if you book with one of those, you can easily explore the many activities available on foot.

Also, don’t forget that the Placid XPRSS free shuttles are available to keep you in apres-ski party mode while staying safe!

Where I Stayed Near Whiteface Mountain – Cambria

During my trip near Whiteface Mountain, I lodged at Cambria Hotel, a contemporary establishment featuring stunning imagery of the Adirondacks adorning the room walls. Catering to many types of travelers, business included, the hotel boasts impeccable service, sleek accommodations, and modern amenities. Despite being in town during a bustling hockey weekend with many families, my stay remained peaceful and undisturbed.

Conveniently situated just an 18-minute drive from Whiteface Mountain and a mere 3 minutes from Lake Placid’s main street, Cambria Hotel offers easy access to the area’s attractions. The county’s free shuttle to Whiteface also stops at the end of the hotel’s driveway to pick up guests, but do note that the walk down to the driveway is steep and not a path to take when it is snowing. Especially if you are carrying large ski or snowboarding equipment.

Although breakfast is not included with the rooms, the hotel features the Haystack Bar & Bistro. On my second night in Lake Placid, I indulged in their highly recommended Angus Steak Burger when the weather appeared too bleak for driving. It was a comforting choice that helped alleviate any disappointment from missing out on après-ski activities on the main strip.

Note: I was nervous about driving up and down the steep driveway of the hotel during the days of heavy snow, and my car had no difficulty driving the path.

Other Accommodations Around Whiteface Mountain

Mirror Lake Inn – Nestled right on the shores of Mirror Lake, this AAA Four-Diamond resort is renowned for its exceptional spa services, perfect for rejuvenating after a day of adventure on the slopes. During the winter months, guests can delight in seasonal activities like ice skating on the lake and complimentary snowshoeing, adding to the charm of this idyllic mountain retreat. Mirror Lake Inn is a 15-minute drive from Whiteface Mountain and is right at the edge of Lake Placid’s main street.

LOCATION

77 Mirror Lake Drive

Lake Placid, NY 12946

Call: (518) 523-2544

Golden Arrow Lakeside Resortan eco-friendly, pet-friendly, and completely nonsmoking haven for travelers seeking a serene retreat in Lake Placid. Throughout the winter, guests can indulge in a variety of outdoor activities including skating, cross-country skiing, and fun dog sled rides on the frozen lake. Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort is a 15-minute drive from Whiteface Mountain and is right in the middle of Lake Placid’s main street.

LOCATION

2559 Main St

Lake Placid, NY 12946

Call: (877) 832-9912

Best Western Adirondack Inn – conveniently located opposite the Olympic Center, offering a cozy ambiance and complimentary breakfasts. Guests can easily walk to skating, tobogganing, restaurants, shops, and cross-country skiing. Situated in the heart of Lake Placid’s main street, this family-friendly hotel is just a 15-minute drive from Whiteface Mountain.

LOCATION

2625 Main Street

Lake Placid

Call: (518) 523-2424

TMax-n-Topo’s Hostel – is perfect for budget travelers seeking affordable accommodations. Hostels are ideal for solo travelers looking to make friends while on the road, this hostel offers a friendly atmosphere, a kitchen, and a communal space for social activities. TMax-n-Topo hostel is an 18-minute drive from Whiteface Mountain and just a 9-minute drive away from Lake Placid’s main street.

LOCATION

5046 Cascade Rd

Lake Placid, NY 12946

Call:  (518) 523-0123

Apres Ski and Dining Near Whiteface Mountain

Capping off a day on the mountain with a drink and a bite to eat is the perfect way to unwind, and as I mentioned before, the apres-ski scene around Whiteface Mountain is no joke. You could spend hours tasting flights of beer at either Big Slide or Lake Placid Brewery, go bowling at Big Z’s before heading off to Roomers to dance the calories away till morning. Here are some tips and recommendations if you plan to head that way:

Restaurant Options around Whiteface Mountain

The dining and apres-ski scene at Lake Placid is popular and gets busy, therefore, it’s advisable to call and confirm their availability before you visit. Additionally, make sure to reserve a table before showing up.

Where to Eat in the Adirondacks and Around Whiteface Mountain

Overhyped or was it just a bad day? Smoke Signals – a popular restaurant highly recommended by multiple people at my hotel as the best place to eat in Lake Placid, left me disappointed. Despite the warm and welcoming tone of the lady I spoke with when booking a table, the food did not meet my high expectations.

I ordered their award-winning wings with dry rub for the starter and burnt ends for my main course. Unfortunately, both dishes were overly sweet, making them difficult to enjoy. Despite attempting to balance the sweetness with vinegary pepper sauce, I struggled to eat even a quarter of my meal. Disappointed, I ended up packing the leftovers and rinsing off most of the seasoning when I got home.

However, the picturesque view of Mirror Lake and the opportunity to watch my first-ever dog-sledding activity provided some consolation. On the downside, the manager’s condescendingly rude response to a simple question marred the overall experience.

Perhaps Smoke Signals had an off day with heavy-handed sugar in their dishes. Overall, the restaurant’s mixed experience leaves me hesitant to return anytime soon.

LOCATION

2489 Main St,
Lake Placid, NY 12946

Call: (518) 523-2271

Big Slide Brewery & Public House – If you’re craving a taste of the local brews in a relaxed atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle, Big Slide Brewery & Public House is the perfect spot. As the sister establishment to the popular Lake Placid Brewery on the main strip, it offers a more laid-back vibe.

During my visit, I opted for a 10-beer flight, which included every type of beer brewed in-house, accompanied by a New Steak Sandwich and a cup of chili. Among the diverse selection, several beers stood out. The Hot Pepper Pale Ale beautifully highlighted the flavors of poblanos and jalapenos without overwhelming the palate. The Berliner Weisse, with its light and tart profile, proved refreshing, particularly on a hot summer day. Finally, the Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout, known for its robust character, offered a delightful fusion of stout and bourbon flavors.

For those who appreciate bold brews, the Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout is a must-try, best enjoyed as the final sip of a flight. With its unique offerings and inviting ambiance, Big Slide Brewery & Public House promises a memorable tasting experience for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike.

LOCATION

5686 Cascade Rd

Lake Placid, NY 12946

Call: 845.254.6500

Lisa G’s – a must-visit dining destination for anyone exploring Lake Placid. With its vibrant atmosphere and enticing menu, it’s no wonder this restaurant draws crowds, especially on Monday nights when they offer a special deal on wings.

During my visit, I had the pleasure of trying their buffalo chicken wings, which were fantastic. Cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor, they were a true highlight of the meal. Additionally, the shrimp tacos were a delightful surprise, offering a fresh and satisfying combination of flavors.

Despite the bustling crowds, the attentive staff ensured that service was prompt and efficient. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food or innovative dishes, Lisa G’s has something for everyone.

If you find yourself in Lake Placid, be sure to make a reservation at Lisa G’s for an unforgettable dining experience.

LOCATION

6125 Sentinel Rd,
Lake Placid, NY 12946

Call: (518) 523-2093

Dack Shack – Located just a stone’s throw away from my hotel, Dack Shack quickly became a favorite dining spot during my time in Lake Placid. The service I received here was truly exceptional, thanks in large part to the wonderful black lady who attended to me. Her kindness and understanding made a potentially embarrassing situation incredibly pleasant.

I had arrived at Dack Shack without my wallet, mistakenly assuming that I could make payments using my phone. However, their payment system proved to be a bit outdated, requiring me to return to my hotel room to retrieve my wallet.

In a moment of unexpected kindness, the lady attending to me generously offered to cover my bill. Her gesture turned what could have been a mortifying experience into a remarkably kind one. Despite her insistence, I was determined to settle the bill myself. After retrieving my wallet from the hotel, I returned to Dack Shack to pay for my meal.

As for the food, it was nothing short of outstanding. I started with a bowl of their clam chowder, which was delicious, but the real star of the show was the Prime Rib French Dip. Each bite of this thinly shaved, juicy prime rib sandwich, nestled between freshly made bread and topped with cheese, was a revelation. The warm cup of jus provided the perfect finishing touch, elevating the sandwich to new heights of flavor.

Despite my temptation to indulge in dessert, I couldn’t bear to shorten the experience of savoring every last bite of the sandwich. After settling my bill and bidding farewell to the lovely staff, I headed back to my hotel, content and thoroughly satisfied.

If I ever find myself in Lake Placid again, Dack Shack will undoubtedly be my first stop for another unforgettable meal.

LOCATION

8373 State Route 28
Big Indian, NY 12410

Call: (518) 523-7844

Saranac Sourdough – offers a unique and intriguing ambiance that defies easy description, though ‘interesting’ may come closest to capturing its essence. As for my breakfast experience, I opted for the Mountain Woman Combo, which included a sourdough pancake, sourdough toast, an egg, a sausage, and home fries accompanied by a cup of lentil soup. The food was notably light on sodium, but each table was equipped with an array of condiments to customize the flavors according to personal preferences. I particularly enjoyed the sourdough pancakes, which were unexpectedly fluffy and made for a satisfying breakfast.

LOCATION

8373 State Route 28
Big Indian, NY 12410

Call: (518) 523-7844

Other Dining and Apres Ski Options Around Whiteface Mountain

Big Z’s at Lake Placid Lanes – is the perfect spot for groups looking for a fun and casual outing in Lake Placid. Offering a combination of casual bites, arcade games, and bowling lanes, it’s a great place to gather with friends or family for entertainment and good food.

LOCATION

2750 Main St.,

Lake Placid, NY 12946

518-302-5245

Zig Zag’s Pub – The reviews for this place are wild! You may end up having an amazing time or get cheated or accosted by the bartender…if you’re in the mood for an unpredictable night of adventure, Zig Zag’s is the place to be. Be sure to share your experience with us!

LOCATION

2528 Main St,

Lake Placid, NY 12946

(518) 523-8221

Lake Placid Pub & Brewery – home of Lake Placid’s famous UBU Ale. Known for its weekly specials and beer recommendations, this brewery offers a diverse menu for guests to enjoy. During the ski season, they offer a light apres-ski menu from 3 – 5 pm for less than $11. Don’t miss Brat Night on Thursdays, where you can indulge in bratwurst, mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, and gravy for only $8!

LOCATION

813 Mirror Lake Dr,

Lake Placid, NY 12946

(518) 523-3813

Salt of the Earth Bistro – offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience with an international flair. With locally farmed ingredients, their menu transports you to different parts of the world, from West Africa with their Peanut Quinoa to Japan with their take on Katsu. Due to limited space, be sure to call ahead to reserve a table and indulge in this culinary journey!


LOCATION

5956 Sentinel Road

Lake Placid, NY 12946
518-523-5956

Roomer’s – located next to Generations Restaurant on Main Street, is renowned as the best nightlife destination in Lake Placid. Boasting a vibrant atmosphere, Roomer’s is the go-to spot for those looking to experience the town’s nightlife scene. With happy hours running from 8 to 10 pm Thursdays through Saturdays, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the evening.


LOCATION

2539 Main St

Lake Placid, NY 12946

(518) 523-3611

Beyond Skiing and Snowboarding at Whiteface Mountain, Fun Winter Activities at Lake Placid

Get the Legacy Sites Passport – This will give you single access to the Cloudsplitter Gondola at Whiteface Mountain. Even if you’re not into skiing or snowboarding, it’s worth it for the breathtaking views from the top of Little Whiteface. Just remember to bundle up as it can get chilly up there! The gondola’s last call is at 4 pm.

With the pass, you can also visit other attractions like the Lake Placid Olympic Center and Museum, take a tour of the Olympic Jumping Complex, and explore Mt. Van Hoevenberg, where you can experience a thrilling skeleton ride.

For fans of the Miracle on Ice story, don’t miss the chance to visit the Lake Placid Olympic Center, where you might even catch a team training on the rink.

If you are also interested in the Skeleton experience, click here to visit their website for up-to-date schedule information.

And if you’re up for it, lace up your skates or rent a pair, and hit the ice at the James C. Sheffield Speed Skating Oval using your legacy site passport!

Fun Winter Activities at Lake Placid

Toboggan Chute and Dog Sled Rides – these activities rely on the icy conditions of Mirror Lake, so make sure to contact the activity providers for availability confirmation before showing up!

Mike Arnold Dog Sled Rides

On Mirror Lake, Lake Placid  

(518) 323-7622

Thunder Mountain Dog Sled Tours

On Mirror Lake, Lake Placid  

(518) 891-6239

Lake Placid Toboggan Chute

On Mirror Lake, Lake Placid  

(518) 523-2445

Go Window Shopping on Main Street – take a stroll down Main Street in Lake Placid for some charming window shopping, especially at night after a fresh snowfall. The small-town ambiance, with twinkling lights lining the sidewalks, creates a magical atmosphere reminiscent of a scene from a holiday movie. While many shops close in April during the off-peak season, take advantage of the opportunity to explore local delights. Consider trying your hand at candle making at Pure Placid or unleashing your creativity at The Peaks Paint Bar. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy a unique experience during your visit to Lake Placid.


Altogether, a trip to Whiteface Mountain for snowboarding followed by après-ski in Lake Placid promises an unforgettable experience for winter sports enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. With its legendary vertical drop and diverse terrain suitable for all skill levels, Whiteface offers exhilarating slopes and breathtaking views of the Adirondack Mountains. After a thrilling day on the mountain, Lake Placid’s charming Main Street beckons with cozy restaurants, lively bars, and unique shops, providing the perfect setting for unwinding and indulging in après-ski activities. Whether it’s savoring a hearty meal, mingling with fellow travelers, or exploring the local culture, Lake Placid offers something for everyone to enjoy. From thrilling outdoor adventures to vibrant nightlife, a visit to Whiteface and Lake Placid promises to be a memorable winter getaway filled with excitement, relaxation, and cherished memories.

Travel Safely: Secure Your Journey with Travel Insurance!

Concerned about the risk of losing belongings, theft, or falling victim to scams while on the road? Ensure your peace of mind by securing travel insurance coverage. With this protection, you can be fully reimbursed in case of any unforeseen incidents, allowing you to recover your losses. I never embark on a journey without it! Obtain your quote today using the convenient widget below:

TRAVEL PLANNING MUSTS
Travel Safety Tips for Women
Check out our essential travel safety tips to employ before your trip
Packing Guide
Read our travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip.
Book Your Accommodation
Booking.com consistently has the best rates for guesthouses and hotels.
Book Your Flight
Ready to fly? We love Skyscanner to find amazing airline flight deals.
Rent A Car
Discover Cars is a great booking and comparison site for rental car deals.
Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip?
Get Your Guide provides a one-stop platform for discovering and booking a wide range of activities like walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.
Protect Your Trip
Don’t forget travel insurance! Ensure protection against potential injuries and theft during your travels abroad. Read why you should always carry travel insurance.
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links at no additional cost to you. A commission is earned if you make a purchase.

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