Things to do in the Lake George Area in Winter
Winter Sports & Active Adventures
Winter in the Lake George Area is exceptional for outdoor adventure—and the perfect season for visitors who want to stay active in the Adirondacks. The region’s three premier ski destinations—Gore Mountain, West Mountain, and Hickory Ski Center*—offer some of the steepest and most exhilarating terrain in the Northeast. From New York’s largest ski resort to historic, family-friendly hills with challenging expert-level trails, skiing and snowboarding here are as varied as they are unforgettable.
The area is also a legendary destination for snowmobiling, with more than 300 miles of mapped and maintained trails winding through forests, frozen meadows, and scenic Adirondack backcountry. Riders of all skill levels can enjoy the wide-open routes and thrilling connections that have made Lake George a snowmobiling hotspot for generations.
And if you’re looking for the boldest winter thrill of all, consider taking a polar plunge. Held throughout the season—from New Year’s Day events to Winter Carnival weekends—these icy dips are a rite of passage in the Lake George Area. It’s an unforgettable challenge that earns you instant bragging rights and a place among the truly adventurous.
* Please Note: Due to planned construction and renovations, the Hickory Ski Center is closed for the 2025–2026 ski season.
Winter Celebrations & Adirondack Nightlife
Winter in the Lake George Area comes alive with festive events, handcrafted cocktails, and the kind of Adirondack nightlife that turns chilly evenings into unforgettable memories.
Catch the high-energy action of Adirondack Thunder hockey at Harding Mazzotti Arena, where the sights, sounds, and fast-paced play deliver excitement from the opening faceoff to the final buzzer. As part of the ECHL and affiliated with the New Jersey Devils, the Thunder bring pro-level intensity to every game—making it a perfect night out for families, sports fans, and anyone who loves a lively crowd.
If you’re looking for something uniquely wintry, explore the region’s dazzling ice bars. These pop-up cold-weather creations pair beautifully sculpted ice, glowing winter décor, and handcrafted cocktails for a one-of-a-kind nightlife experience. From the Adirondack Pub & Brewery’s Funky Ice Fest to specialty ice bar events at spots like The Gem and the Fort William Henry Hotel, winter evenings in the Lake George Area are anything but ordinary.
February shines with the long-running Lake George Winter Carnival, held every weekend throughout the month. Visitors can watch—or join in—beloved traditions such as Chili Cook-Offs, Outhouse Races, ATV Poker Run, and more. Stick around for Saturday night fireworks lighting up the winter sky, and don’t miss the annual Winter Carnival Gala with dinner, drinks, dancing, and auctions. Nearby, the Brant Lake Winter Carnival offers another action-packed day filled with broomball tournaments, human foosball, hockey shoot-offs, and spirited competitions that welcome both spectators and participants.
Whether you’re cheering from the stands, sipping cocktails beneath glowing lights, or celebrating with the community all month long, winter in the Lake George Area is always worth staying out for.
Chilling Out in the Chilly Season
Winter doesn’t have to be fast-paced to be unforgettable. If you’re looking to slow things down and savor the season, the Lake George Area offers plenty of relaxing winter experiences that pair perfectly with crisp mountain air and Adirondack scenery.
One of the most unique ways to enjoy winter here is igloo dining—cozy, heated domes set with soft lighting, warm drinks, and a charming atmosphere. These clear igloos transform an evening out into a magical seasonal experience, whether you’re planning a memorable date night or a relaxed gathering with friends and family. A handful of beloved Lake George Area restaurants offer this one-of-a-kind winter dining option each year.
For those who want to enjoy the ice at a gentler pace, ice skating and ice fishing offer a peaceful way to spend time outdoors. Frozen lakes across the region provide plenty of space to explore, and several ice skating rinks in Warren County offer smooth, well-maintained surfaces for skaters of all ages. Ice fishing is equally rewarding—set up on the ice for a quiet day with chances to catch trout, salmon, perch, and more while surrounded by winter’s calm.
No matter how you choose to chill out this season, the Lake George Area makes slowing down feel easy, refreshing, and unmistakably Adirondack.
Plan Your Adirondack Winter Getaway
Winter in the Lake George Area is what Adirondack memories are made of—whether you’re chasing adventure, slowing things down, or celebrating the season with family and friends. Explore our winter events, outdoor recreation, and cozy local favorites to start planning your cold-weather getaway.
However you like to enjoy winter, the Lake George Area is ready to welcome you.
