Summer has flown by and now we are headed into peak foliage season. But as much as I love fall, right now I have snow on the brain! If you are looking for a reason to visit this winter, here it is - it's the perfect opportunity and learn a new skill!
Cross-Country Ski at Lapland Lake
Go Nordic this winter and head to Lapland Lake Ski Center in Benson! Here they offer a wide variety of ski lessons. You can learn classic cross-country skiing or skate-style skiing. Ski rentals are available, so don't worry if you don't have your own equipment. They offer great package deals that include all-day facility use, a one-hour lesson, and your equipment rental. Lodging guests can take advantage of free use of the ski and snowshoe trails, discounted lessons, use of the junior tubing hill, and nightly ice skating. Don't forget to stop by and say hi to Vima - the resident Reindeer!
Ice Skate in Long Lake
Pack up the family and head to Geiger Arena in Long Lake. This is a great place to strap on a pair of skates and hit the ice! Not only can you skate for free at Geiger Arena, but skate rentals are free too (available on a first-come, first-served basis). Open skate hours vary throughout the winter so be sure to call ahead (518-624-3031) to check hours and ice conditions. If you don't feel like skating all day, don't forget to check out the tubing hill! When it's time to warm up, check out the Skate Shack for free popcorn and hot cocoa, and some other snacks for sale to benefit the local youth group.
Snowboard at Oak Mountain 
If speed is a little more your style, then you'll want to check out Oak Mountain Ski Center! Oak's ski school instructors can teach you how to strap on your board, how to stand up (or get back up after a fall!), switch from heel to toe turns, or maybe even help you hit up the terrain park if you have a little more experience. They offer private and group lessons and the mountain offers trails from beginner to black diamond. If hitting the trails isn't everyone's cup of tea, don't forget about the tubing hill. There is also a great bar with a delicious pub menu if you prefer to stay warm.
Snowshoe at Fern Park 
Pedals & Petals is your one-stop shop for snowshoe rentals in Inlet. Stop in to get fitted before you head over to Fern Park to try them out. The trails in Fern Park range from easy to expert. The northeast to southeast section of the park which mostly contains easy to intermediate trails, is groomed for smooth shoeing. There is also a 1-mile section of lighted trails if you enjoy the peacefulness of an evening of snowshoeing. If you are looking for something a little more challenging, check out the 6-mile trail on Black Bear Mountain.
Whether you decide to take up a new outdoor sport like snowboarding or snowshoeing, or prefer to cozy up next to a campfire with a cup of hot cocoa, the Adirondacks are a great place to be in the winter. Don't forget to make your lodging and dining reservations!
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