Whiteface Mountain: A Guide For First Time Visitors
Whiteface Mountain is located in the Adirondack Mountains of New York and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of upstate NY. Known for its incredible views, outdoor activities, and historic connection to the Winter Olympics, Whiteface Mountain offers a variety of adventures throughout the year. In this post I’ll be sharing some of the best things to do when you visit, what you need to know and how to make the most out of your trip here.
Basic info:
- Name: Whiteface Mountain
- Location: Adirondack Mountains NY
- Fee: $20 per person for driving to the top of the mountain
- Things to do: Scenic drive, hike, overlooks, weddings, picnic and more
- Reviews: 4.5 out of 5 (see reviews and visitor recommendations)
- Hotels: See nearby hotels
Overview:
Whiteface Mountain is one of the highest peaks in the Adirondack Mountains, standing at 4,867 feet. It is the fifth-highest peak in New York and part of the famous “Adirondack High Peaks” range. The mountain is unique in that it offers not only challenging outdoor adventures but also accessible experiences for visitors of all ages and abilities, thanks to its scenic road and elevator access to the summit. Whiteface is also renowned for its role in the 1980 Winter Olympics, where its ski slopes were the site of alpine skiing events. Today, it remains one of the top ski resorts in the Northeast and a year-round destination for outdoor recreation.
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Best Times to Visit:
Whiteface Mountain is a year-round destination but some accessibility is limited to certain seasons (such as driving your car to the top):
- Spring (April-May): Spring is the start of the hiking season, and the mountain begins to come alive with greenery. However, higher elevations may still have snow, so trails can be muddy and wet.
- Summer (June-August): Summer is peak season for hikers, mountain bikers, and visitors looking to enjoy the outdoor activities in the area. Temperatures are warm, and the weather is generally mild. The Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway opens during this time, providing scenic access to the summit.
- Fall (September-November): Fall is a stunning time to visit Whiteface Mountain due to the breathtaking foliage. The colors of the Adirondack forests create a vibrant backdrop, making every viewpoint and overlook even more beautiful. My recommendation is to go on the 2nd week of October to see peak foliage there and in the surrounding areas.
- Winter (December-March): Winter is all about skiing and snowboarding at Whiteface. As one of the largest ski resorts in the East, it offers some of the best winter sports opportunities in the region. For non-skiers, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and simply taking in the snowy landscapes are also popular.
Top Attractions:
- Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway: One of the most iconic features of Whiteface Mountain is the Veterans’ Memorial Highway, a scenic drive that takes you almost to the summit. The road is open from late spring through fall and provides visitors with stunning views of the Adirondacks. Once at the top, you can either hike the short but steep trail to the summit or take the Whiteface Castle elevator to the very top, where you’ll find a stone castle and incredible 360-degree views.
- Hiking: Whiteface Mountain offers a variety of hiking trails for different skill levels. For experienced hikers, the Whiteface Mountain Trail is a challenging but rewarding 9.5 mile round-trip hike to the summit. Along the way, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Adirondack wilderness.
- Easy Hikes: For beginners or those looking for a shorter hike, trails like the Flume Knob Trail (2.5 miles) or Cobble Lookout Trail (2.4 miles) offer beautiful views without the strenuous elevation gain of Whiteface’s summit trails.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Whiteface Mountain is a premier skiing destination in the winter, with over 300 acres of skiable terrain. It boasts the highest vertical drop in the eastern United States at 3,430 feet, making it a favorite for advanced skiers and snowboarders. The resort has trails for all abilities, from gentle beginner slopes to expert black diamonds, as well as terrain parks for snowboarders and freestyle skiers.
- Gondola Ride: The Cloudsplitter Gondola is open year-round and provides a comfortable, scenic ride from the base of Whiteface Mountain to an elevation of 3,676 feet. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Placid and the surrounding Adirondacks, or use it as a starting point for a hike or bike ride.
- Mountain Biking: Whiteface Mountain is a popular destination for mountain bikers during the summer months. The resort offers a range of trails, from beginner-friendly paths to challenging downhill tracks that attract experienced bikers. If you’re looking for a more leisurely ride, there are also family-friendly trails that provide scenic rides through the forest.
Family Friendly Activities/Attractions:
Whiteface Mountain and the surrounding area offer plenty of family-friendly activities, ensuring that visitors of all ages can enjoy the experience.
- Santa’s Workshop:
Located in North Pole, NY (just down the road from Whiteface), Santa’s Workshop is a Christmas-themed amusement park that operates year-round, making it a hit with kids and families. It features rides, shows, and holiday-themed activities, perfect for young children. - Wilmington Flume:
This scenic spot is a short drive from Whiteface Mountain and offers easy access to waterfalls and swimming areas. It’s a great spot for families looking to cool off on a summer day. - Fishing:
The Ausable River, which runs near Whiteface, is famous for its fly fishing. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, this is a great spot to try your hand at fishing for brook trout and rainbow trout.
Lodging and Dining:
- Lodging/hotels: Nearby towns like Wilmington and Lake Placid offer numerous lodging options. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed-and-breakfast, a family-friendly resort, or a rustic cabin, there’s something for every type of traveler. The Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid is one of the top luxury resorts in the area, offering a mix of modern amenities and Adirondack charm. See hotel options.
- Dining: After a day of exploring, visitors can enjoy a range of dining options in Wilmington and Lake Placid. From casual cafés and family-friendly restaurants to fine dining establishments, there’s something to suit every taste. Many restaurants offer locally sourced ingredients and serve traditional Adirondack dishes. See restaurant options.
Final things to know:
Whiteface Mountain is a fantastic destination for first-time visitors, offering a perfect mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re hiking to the summit, skiing down its famous slopes, or simply enjoying the views from the Veterans’ Memorial Highway, Whiteface provides an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Adirondacks. With its year-round appeal and variety of attractions, Whiteface Mountain is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of New York’s Adirondack region. For me personally it’s best to go here during the fall season to really get some amazing sights in.
