Snowshoe to Marcy Dam in Lake Placid

Destinations Northeast New York Lake Placid

Snowshoe to Marcy Dam in Lake Placid

Snowshoeing to Marcy Dam is a cherished winter activity in Lake Placid, New York. This trail offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the Adirondack wilderness in its snowy splendor. It's unique not just for its scenic views, but also for its accessibility, welcoming both novice and seasoned snowshoers. The journey will lead you through stunning landscapes, with tall pines blanketed in snow and the serenity of nature echoing around you.

Adventure Guide To Snowshoe to Marcy Dam

Marcy Dam Trailhead: Located just five miles from Lake Placid, this trailhead makes for a convenient starting point. The trail to Marcy Dam is well-marked and spans approximately 2.3 miles. It's special for its gentle incline, making it a favorite among families and beginners. The trail provides ample opportunities for wildlife sightings, including white-tailed deer and various bird species.
Scenic Overlook: As you approach Marcy Dam, there’s a picturesque viewpoint where you can pause and take in the beauty of the surrounding mountains, including the towering Mount Marcy. The vantage point is perfect for capturing memories on camera, especially with the sun reflecting off the snow.
Marcy Dam Area: Once at the dam, you’ll find a serene spot to relax and enjoy a snack. The area is also a great starting point for more challenging hikes or snowshoeing adventures into the backcountry. Key features include a wooden bridge across the dam and nearby lean-tos for those looking to extend their outdoor experience.

Local Insights

The Marcy Dam has historical significance, once serving as a key water source for the region. Additionally, it is part of the High Peaks Wilderness Area and is a vital part of local ecology.

Visitor Tips

Best Times to Visit: The optimal time for snowshoeing is from late December to early March, when the snow conditions are best.
What to Bring: Dress in layers, with waterproof gear, snacks, water, and a map. Snowshoes and poles can often be rented in Lake Placid.
Driving Directions: From Lake Placid, take Route 73 for approximately 5 miles, then follow signs to the Marcy Dam Trailhead.

Consider this snowshoeing adventure an essential winter experience in the Lake Placid area.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Yuvraj Ramsaywack2 years ago

A peaceful and beautiful landscape, especially in the winter. The hike to Marcy Dam itself from the Loj is relatively easy and wanders through a mixed coniferous-deciduous forest. Marcy Dam itself is a great jumping off point to other areas such as Avalanche Pass, Indian Falls, and, of course, Mt. Marcy. Highly recommend checking this out, especially in the winter and/or on a Sunday or weekday. There’s also cell service at the dam, but hopefully you won’t want it!

JS F4 years ago

Nice hike with well marked trail. Parking is a PIA. The Adk Log parking is very popular so we parked about 1 mile up the road and walked to trail head inAdk Loj basecamp. Pretty easy trail with minimal climbing. Took us 1 hr 40 min to get to Dam. Another 1.5 to get back. We are not routine hikers so if you are you could easily make much better time.

Erick Linares2 years ago

NY famous and highest mountain peak. We were blessed to have exceptional weather. Clear and sunny skies, cool Temps what more can you ask for! If you are going to the loop, bring comfortable trail shoes, good amount of snacks and plenty of water or filter. Place is filled with creeks. Overall had a great time here. Definitely recommend this spot!

Karine Duchesne3 months ago

Nice and easy hike to the Dam. Nice view at the end. Worth the trip.

Atishay Janda year ago

We decided to go for a trek to do one of the 46ers, with a friend. We went on 7th may - assuming summers would have kicked in by now. The dam is beautifully maintained. The sparkling sunshine on the river was to die for. It was an open group with gorgeous views of the mountains. Some of the peaks still had ice and was a sight to sore eyes. The ranger there we pretty helpful in getting us to the right peak given snow was still present and you needed the right tools to trek that The dam has a good bridge, some poles and subsection are broken but it only adds to the beauty of it. We saw a couple.with their dog there and that dog went crazy. I'm sure anyone looking to get away from the city would have felt the same way. The dam is roughly an hour or two depending on your speed from the lodge. The path is pretty straightforward with the markings however in may, it was a muddy season. So watch out for that. You can dress for summers but high heel shoes will be useful in the mud.

Snowshoe to Marcy Dam in Lake Placid