Community Profile: Lake Placid Outdoors

Lake Placid: Outdoor Activities

By Brittany Moorehead

 

    Mt Colden, as viewed from Marcy Dam.

Historic Lake Placid held both the 1932 and 1980 Olympics, which gives it a unique charm. Today, Lake Placid is far more than just an Olympic village with plenty of activities to do and places to see. The outdoor activities keep the locals occupied and the tourists coming back for more.

The active town of Lake Placid offers a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing, golf, fishing, and skating on the Olympic Oval. Due to these fun and exciting activities, tourists from all over the world love visiting this quaint town.

Hiking, biking, rock climbing and golf are enjoyed in the Spring, Summer and the Fall. On the other hand, skiing, snowboarding, and skating on the Olympic Oval can only be enjoyed during the harsh winter months. Fishing is the only one that can be enjoyed all year long. 

 “The most common outdoor activity is probably hiking,” Lake Placid resident Kelli Vossler stated, “because it’s something everyone can do and it doesn’t require much skill.”

“People come from all over the world come to hike the High Peaks,” said Vossler. “I would infer that most of the hikers of the High Peaks are tourists.”

This town is a great place for everyone to visit and explore. “Lake Placid can cater to anyone who is looking for an outdoor activity,” replied Vossler, “regardless of age or gender.”

Tourism is the true money generator in this small town. People come to hike, bike, and do anything imaginable in the beautiful outdoors.

“Tourism is huge,” exclaimed Vossler, “ Lake Placid depends on it to survive.”

While in town, these tourists spend money on hotels, dining, and shopping at the numerous stores located in and around Lake Placid.