Winter in Old Forge, NY, transforms the Adirondacks into a peaceful, snow-covered wonderland. Whether you’re staying at Great Pines Resort or visiting for a weekend, this season offers something special for everyone. Beyond the well-known ski slopes and snowmobile trails, here are some lesser-known things to do and insider tips for enjoying Old Forge in the colder months.
One of the best ways to experience the Adirondacks in winter is to explore on snowshoes or by foot. Local trails around Inlet and the Haderondah Wilderness offer quiet forest routes perfect for snowshoeing and light winter hiking. The scenery feels untouched, with snow-covered pines and frozen streams creating a truly magical setting.
Insider tip: Dress in layers and bring traction gear, even if you only plan a short hike. Temperatures can drop quickly under the trees.
If you’re looking for something different, try fat-tire biking on snow-covered trails. The wider tires make it easy to glide over packed snow while still getting a great workout. You can ride along scenic forest routes or sections of the Adirondack Rail Trail, which stays open to cyclists through winter.
Old Forge is surrounded by excellent spots for cross-country skiing. You can follow groomed loops at McCauley Mountain or set out on quieter backcountry routes through the Moose River Plains. It’s an ideal way to experience the beauty of the Adirondack woods while gliding through peaceful, snowy terrain.
Insider tip: Early morning is the best time for fresh tracks and soft light. Bring a thermos of coffee or cocoa for a break in the snow.
Old Forge is known as the Snowmobile Capital of the East, but there are still quieter routes that most visitors miss. Look for smaller connector trails that weave through the forest away from the main hubs. You’ll get open stretches, frozen lakes, and fewer crowds.
Insider tip: Talk to local outfitters for the latest trail updates and less-traveled routes. A local map is a must.
When the lakes freeze solid, ice skating outdoors becomes one of the most magical winter activities near Old Forge. On clear days you can skate across mirror-like surfaces surrounded by mountain views.
Insider tip: Head out at sunset for an unforgettable view as the sky turns pink over the ice. Don’t forget hand warmers and hot cocoa for after.
If you’re ready to slow down, spend an afternoon exploring the local arts scene or simply warming up indoors. Old Forge has art galleries, cozy cafés, and local theaters that offer a great break from the cold. After a morning adventure, it’s the perfect way to unwind.
For easy access to incredible views, try winter hikes like Bald Mountain or Rocky Mountain. Both are short climbs that reward you with wide panoramas of snow-covered lakes and peaks. Even with a little snow, the trails are manageable and the views are worth every step.
After a full day of adventure, return to your basecamp at Great Pines Resort on Fourth Lake. Settle into a newly remodeled room with lake and mountain views, warm up by the fire, and watch the snow fall outside. The atmosphere is peaceful, rustic, and perfect for relaxing after a day in the cold.
Old Forge in winter is more than a ski town. It’s a place for quiet discovery, frozen beauty, and cozy nights by the fire. Whether you’re snowshoeing through pine forests, gliding across frozen lakes, or just watching the snow drift over Fourth Lake from your room at Great Pines, winter here feels like an adventure you’ll want to return to year after year.
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