New York's Lake Village In The Adirondack Mountains Offers A Scenic Winter Getaway

While most towns transition into hibernation mode during the cold-weather months, some choose to embrace the snowy days of winter and transform into top-tier destinations. Saranac Lake, New York, is one such town. Its unique location deep within the New York Adirondack Mountains allows it to incorporate the winter wilderness directly into its personality.

The Adirondack Mountains are often called one of New York's best mountain ranges, and Adirondack Park became one of the United States' first Forever Wild Forest Preserves when it was founded in 1892. It's the largest publicly protected land area in the lower 48 states and takes up an expansive 6 million acres. Saranac Lake, sitting on the lake of the same name, is one of just 100 or so towns within the protected area and offers direct access to winter activities within the mountain wilderness.

Surrounded by peaks, Saranac is a small town with spectacular views. Its downtown is especially known for its art galleries and museum, but in the winter months, attention shifts toward its love of the chilly and beautiful outdoors. Specifically, Saranac Lake looks forward to its annual Winter Carnival, which stretches more than a week and has been a tradition in the small town since 1897.

Every year, usually in February, the town of Saranac Lake transforms into a winter wonderland in preparation for its annual Winter Carnival. One of the most popular and more unique attractions of the event is the Ice Palace, which is newly constructed each year with thousands of blocks of ice. The palace reflects the carnival's annual theme, and planning includes impressive lighting that allows for access into the structure at night at no charge.

Similar to another iconic festival that takes place along Louisiana's famed Bourbon Street, Saranac Lake's Winter Carnival showcases a royal court, complete with a parade. The festival is also full of entertainment, from games and performances to demonstrations and food options. For the latest updates on the event's calendar and theme, visit the carnival's website.

While the Winter Carnival is certainly the headliner when it comes to winter entertainment options in Saranac Lake, it's certainly not the only option. The snowy weather here provides opportunities to ski, snowshoe, and explore on snow mobiles. There's also an arts and craft show in the appropriately titled Sparkle Village in early December and a special New Year's celebration to top off the year.

Snowy weather is essential for the full winter experience in Saranac Lake. There are several specific corridors dedicated to snowmobiles offering views of the Adirondack Mountain Range. Skiers of all abilities will also appreciate the village's dedicated ski center at Mount Pisgah offering access to downhill skiing and snowshoeing.The best months for snowfall in this upper New York area is from December to March, when collective snowfall can reach totals above 100 inches. Since winter temperatures remain below freezing at an average of 24 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, it's recommended to dress in layers. It's also not uncommon for temperatures to drop below zero at night.

Saranac Lake is rural but easy to reach by car from larger cities in New York like Rochester, Syracuse and Albany. New York City and Boston, Massachusetts, are also just under five hours away by car. Those traveling from farther destinations may want to consider flying to Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG), the closest major airport to Saranac Lake at just 50 miles away.

While Saranac Lake is a magical winter destination, it's also a popular tourist stop in the warmer summer months. Outdoor music, festivals, and boating are especially popular when the weather is warmer here. Saranac Lake is a great base for accessing the many adventures awaiting within the Adirondacks, and it's also among many great U.S. locations to see the northern lights.