Downhill Skiing & Riding

This mountain is something special. Loved by many, its Olympic roots are just one side of the story. From world-class downhill skiing and riding to having the facilities for beginners at the Bear Den Learning Center, Whiteface Mountain's amenities are wide-ranging. Go for some of the best runs in the Northeast, and stay for the on-site food, warm lodges, and close access to lodging, fun activities, and a welcoming community.

Oak Mountain Ski Center is a classic Adirondack ski area known for its welcoming, family-friendly vibe. The mountain features 22 trails that range from gentle runs to steeper, more challenging slopes, offering something for every skier and rider. A 650-foot vertical drop delivers just the right mix of excitement and accessibility, while summit views open up to sweeping panoramas of the surrounding Adirondacks. The lift system includes a quad chair and surface lifts, keeping the experience smooth and easy for all ages. With groomed trails, a lively terrain park, and a cozy lodge waiting at the base, Oak Mountain makes winter adventures both fun and memorable.

Mount Pisgah is a local ski hill, and the locals welcome visitors with open arms and hot cocoa. The T-bar lift, vertical rise of around 330 feet, and gentle slopes make this spot perfect for those nervous about tackling some of the bigger mountains in the region. This ski hill won't break the bank and even offers night skiing. If you're planning a trip to Saranac Lake in the winter, a short five-minute drive to Pisgah is a must.

Gore Mountain in North Creek has the most skiable acres in New York State, offering four peaks of terrain for skiers and riders. The mountain is known for its variety, with gentle beginner runs, wide cruisers, steep expert trails, glades, and multiple terrain parks. Twilight skiing adds extra hours on the slopes, and a modern lift system with RFID gates provides smooth, direct-to-lift access. Visitors can rent ski and snowboard gear on-site, take lessons, and warm up at several base lodges with dining options. With its size, variety, and Adirondack setting, Gore delivers a full mountain experience for winter adventurers, with plenty of seasonal events to spectate.