There's something magical about a wintertime visit to the Lake George Area. A fresh layer of snow blankets the forests and mountains, transforming every encounter into a scene straight out of Norman Rockwell. The light, fluffy flakes continue their mesmerizing descent, inviting visitors to strap on the snowshoes and skis, or fire up the sleds and hit the trails. Another perfect day in the snowy Adirondack wilderness will eventually come to an end, the cold will take its toll, and you'll slip away to your toasty warm cabin, snuggle up to the roaring fire, and melt into blissful relaxation. Meanwhile, the snow continues to fall outside your frosted window.

 

If you're looking for that picture-perfect cozy cabin, check out these lovely lodging opportunities.


Garnet Hill Lodge – North River

Garnet Hill Lodge fireplace and wine

Nestled near the Hudson River and Gore Mountain, Garnet Hill Lodge boasts a beautiful historic log house situated on a hillside overlooking pristine Thirteenth Lake. The perfect place for a romantic winter getaway, guests may enjoy the added privacy from the Birches and Tea House cottages, which are nestled in the woods a short distance from the lodge. Experience an unforgettable, exciting, rigorous day in the beautiful surroundings of the Adirondack Mountains by exploring all features of the Garnet Hill Outdoor Center and return after a full day of skiing, snowshoeing, and mountain biking to enjoy a warm, welcoming fire and a delicious meal at the Log House Restaurant and Pub!


Hide-A-Way Waterfront Cabins – Lake Luzerne

Hide-A-Way Waterfront Cabins gas burning stove

Your winter escape into the secluded wilderness of Lake Luzerne will nestle you away in a cozy Hide-A-Way Waterfront Cabin overlooking serene Lake Vanare in the stunning Adirondack Mountains. The hustle-and-bustle of summer traffic slows enough to make guests feel they’re more removed from civilization than they actually are. Spend your peaceful days snowshoeing or cross-country skiing across the frozen lake and through the silent woods. Or take a ride on the wild side - a robust snowmobiling community will have you cruising through the trails for a wintertime rush that only a fast sled can provide! Plenty of year-round restaurants are just a short drive away, and a warm cabin awaits your return! Wi-Fi and other comforts are available for the taking, but we suggest you unplug and enjoy!


Dillon Hill Inn & Cabins – Wevertown

Dillon Hill Inn & Cabins

Located on six acres of mountain wilderness, Dillon Hill Inn & Cabins is a true 1800s Adirondack lodge with five uniquely decorated guest rooms and cozy cabins complete with an authentic stone fireplace. Neighboring the vast Adirondack Park, guests may set off in any direction and find themselves at a charming mountain hub, a wilderness trailhead, or a meandering mountain stream. After an exciting day of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking, guests are eager to settle in at the outdoor fire ring for a cup of tea and something baked in the Dillon Hill kitchens. Dinner rounds out the day, and guests are able to retire to their comfortable cabin, welcomed by a toasty warm fire, before doing it all again tomorrow!


Ridin’ Hy Ranch Resort - Warrensburg

A Fireplace in the Main Lodge at the Ridin' Hy Ranch Resort

For a very unique winter escape, the rustic and welcoming Ridin’ Hy Ranch Resort offers a variety of activities all day long and relaxation any time in a spectacular mountain setting. The chalets, log cabins, and lake house accommodations will keep guests warm and cozy, whether it’s a couple looking to escape for a romantic getaway, or an entire family coming for an incredible weekend of winter fun. Guests fill the days of their winter escape with snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sleigh rides, ice fishing, skating, and, of course, horseback riding! To shake off the chill, huddle up to the fireplace, take a dip in the heated pool, or lounge in the hot tub. The ranch offers a daily menu, but guests are encouraged to explore the Warrensburg, North Creek, and Lake George areas and sample the great restaurants that are open year-round.


The Lakeside at Loon Lake – Chestertown

Lakeside at Loon Lake living room and fireplace

Winter vacationers planning to get plenty of sledding time in are going to want to be right on the Warren County Snowmobile Trail System. And that’s exactly what a cabin at The Lakeside is going to provide. Located in the charming Adirondack hamlet of Chestertown, on the shores of remote Loon Lake, guests leave civilization and its trappings behind and immerse themselves in an amazing winter getaway. Select from cabins and retreats complete with a gas fireplace and full kitchen, so that upon return from a day on the trails, guests can whip up a little dinner and snuggle in front of a fire before heading out on the next run. Or give the sleds a rest and spend some time ice skating, snowshoeing, or skiing on the frozen lake. Or, better yet, saunter over to the nearby Circle B Ranch for exhilarating horseback trails or sleigh rides.


Friends Lake Inn – Chestertown

A Room with a Fireplace at the Friends Lake Inn

In the midst of the Adirondacks, overlooking a pristine lake, Friends Lake Inn is an impeccably restored 19th-century Adirondack hotel that is a welcome, cozy complement to the stunning mountains and forest that surround it. The hotel offers luxury accommodations with a cabin-like feel, many with Jacuzzi tubs, lake views, and fireplaces. Rooms range from the warmth of a classic country inn retreat to the rustic luxury of an “Adirondack” lodge. Spend the day exploring the inn’s Snowshoe Center and cross-country trails and return to your toasty fireplace hearth to freshen up before dinner. Guests may select from a variety of dining options, including fine dining in the main dining room, or a more relaxed atmosphere at the Birch Bistro.


Rockwell Falls Inn – Lake Luzerne

Lamplight Inn in Lake Luzerne Jacuzzi tub and fireplace

Tucked in the picturesque foothills of the southern Adirondack Mountains, the grand homestead Rockwell Falls Inn includes a stunning 1890s-era Victorian mansion and carriage house, each featuring unique, intimate spaces. Guests may choose from rooms and suites that entail a beautiful mix of old-fashioned charm and modern amenities, including Jacuzzi tubs and inviting fireplaces to take the chill off during a crisp winter evening. After spending some relaxing private time, step out onto the welcoming wrap-around porch to take in winter splendor. Grab your hat and gloves and stroll around the quaint village awhile before stopping for dinner. A steaming beverage on the porch before retiring to a warm, fire-lit room is a perfect way to round out the evening. Rise the next morning to a hearty breakfast in the sun porch dining room before starting your day.


The Inn at Erlowest – Lake George

Inn at Erlowest bedroom and fireplace

Spend your winter getaway in the halls where millionaires and captains of industry once roamed. A striking turn-of-the-century Queen-Anne stone castle, The Inn at Erlowest presides over a commanding view of Lake George and the surrounding Adirondack Mountains. A short drive to world-class Alpine and Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, and winter hiking, Erlowest is an ideal base from which to head out into the winter wonderland of the Lake George Area. Winter carnivals and ice bars, including one constructed right on the property during the Winterfest at Erlowest, will also help you fill your days. Select from a variety of excellent restaurants that keep the home fires burning for you, or return to the resort to indulge in fine dining at the Shepards at Erlowest, an elegant Four-Diamond restaurant, and curl up in your fireplace suite to enjoy the luxuries of a bygone era!


The Bond 1786 – Warrensburg

Merrill Magee Inn bedroom and fireplace

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Bond 1786 is a charming country estate located in the heart of Warrensburg, the southern gateway of the Adirondack Park, minutes away from Gore Mountain and a variety of interesting and eclectic restaurants. The estate features the regal inn and comfortable guest house surrounded by spacious, picturesque snow-covered grounds that give the inn a fairy tale appearance. A quiet, comfortable, and cozy place to unwind, guests will enjoy luxurious bed linens in finely appointed rooms with a fireplace and an array of amenities to enhance the winter getaway experience. Under the majestic backdrop of the Adirondack Mountains, guests may while away the day or strike off for an outdoor adventure of skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking.


The Sagamore Resort – Bolton Landing

The Sagamore Resort Lodge Suite with fireplace

One of the most historic hotels on Lake George has some secrets to share. A short walk from the hustle and bustle of The Sagamore Resort's iconic main hotel are beautifully appointed one- and two-bedroom lodge suites overlooking the lake itself. From a private balcony, guests may take in the fresh mountain air and views of the snow-covered forest on the lake’s east side while enjoying all of the amenities of a four-diamond resort. A hub of activity in the winter months, The Sagamore hosts a variety of winter happenings, including one of the most popular events of the year, the Glacier Ice Bar & Lounge. Enjoy your winter escape throughout the day, then slip away to your own private fireplace suite, sink into the overstuffed furnishings, and relax.


The Summit at Gore Mountain – North Creek

The Summit at Gore Mountain living room and fireplace

For those looking to include a little downhill excitement in their Adirondack winter getaway, The Summit at Gore Mountain offers comfortable and luxurious vacation rental homes situated only minutes from the ski slopes of Gore Mountain. After a thrilling day on the slopes, return to your spacious mountainside retreat for a relaxing soak in your private Jacuzzi, or sip a hot beverage in front of a crackling fire as you gaze out at the winter wonderland spread out before you. Those with a flair for preparing their own fare have a full kitchen to make use of, but if the inclination strikes for an evening out on the town, The Summit is only minutes from Main Street in North Creek, chock full of restaurants, bars, and shops.


Lodges at Cresthaven – Lake George

Lodges at Cresthaven living area and wood stove

Tucked away on the shores of beautiful Lake George, the Lodges at Cresthaven is an 11-acre resort offering exquisite accommodations and world-class amenities only minutes from Lake George Village. Guests may enjoy panoramic views of the lake from the porch of one of the many deluxe Adirondack lodges that include great rooms with large flat-screen TVs, fireplaces, and fully-equipped kitchens. Only steps from your front door is your own frozen panorama where you can enjoy the goings on during the Lake George Winter Carnival or take a swim in the heated indoor pool facility. The really daring might consider dipping their toes in the frigid lake water. The Polar Plunge is a great rite of passage in the Lake George Area. After your private plunge, warm up at the lakeside fireplace!

 

For more lodging options, make sure you check out our full list of cabins & cottages in the Lake George Area and start planning your winter getaway today!


*Originally Written by Paul Tackett - Nov. 20, 2018

**Edited by Kyle Frenette - Nov. 4, 2024