Lake Placid, Whiteface Mountain 2-Day Tour from New York

Exploring the Lake Placid and Whiteface Mountain 2-Day Tour from New York

Taking a break from the chaos of New York City to explore some of the most stunning natural sights upstate sounds appealing, doesn’t it? This two-day coach tour promises scenic views, impressive rock formations, and a chance to experience the legendary Lake Placid Olympic Village—all under the guidance of a professional driver and guide. While reviews are mixed, many travelers appreciate the convenience and the opportunity to see Adirondack highlights without the stress of planning.

What we love about this tour is the ease of transportation, allowing you to relax and soak in the scenery instead of worrying about directions or traffic. The inclusion of admission tickets to key attractions like the Olympic Center, plus optional add-ons like Whiteface Mountain lifts and High Falls Gorge, give you flexibility. The hotel stay adds value by simplifying overnight logistics. However, a potential downside is the limited time at each site, which some guests felt was a bit rushed. This tour suits travelers who seek a well-organized, scenic getaway from NYC but don’t mind a busy itinerary.

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation with pickup points across NYC and New Jersey
• All-in-one package with hotel accommodations and activity admissions
• Flexible options for extra activities like mountain lifts and gorge walks
• Group size capped at four per room, perfect for small groups or families
• Authentic experiences at Whiteface Mountain, High Falls Gorge, and Lake Placid
• Good value for those seeking a hassle-free adventure away from city life

What You Can Expect from the 2-Day Tour

This tour is designed for travelers craving a scenic escape with minimal fuss. It combines natural beauty with iconic attractions, all packed into a manageable two-day schedule. Let’s break down what each part offers and how it might fit into your trip plans.

Whiteface Mountain: The Pinnacle of Views

Whiteface Mountain is undeniably the star of the first day. As the fifth-tallest mountain in New York State and part of the Adirondacks, its solitary position promises spectacular vistas. The tour includes an optional lift ride that takes you close to the summit, where you can enjoy panoramic views extending over Lake Placid and the surrounding peaks—on a clear day, the sight of the 8-shaped Lake Placid is breathtaking.

Guests who have experienced this lift note that the admission fee isn’t included in the base price, so budget accordingly if you want to ascend. The ride lasts around 80 minutes, giving enough time to both enjoy the scenery and take photos. Many reviewers highlight the beautiful vistas as a highlight, with one guest saying they “really enjoyed the 2 days trip.”

High Falls Gorge: Waterfalls and Granite Cliffs

Next, the tour visits High Falls Gorge, a 22-acre privately owned nature park just below Whiteface Mountain. This stop features safe trails, sturdy bridges, and walkways that provide great views of four waterfalls cascading over rocks. It’s a perfect spot to capture scenic photographs or simply listen to the soothing sounds of rushing water.

The admission fee to High Falls Gorge is not included, but guests often find it worthwhile for the chance to see waterfalls, especially if they love nature photography. Reviewers mention the tranquility of the gorge, with one saying it’s an “amazing view that fills you instantly with a sense of calm.” Expect about 45 minutes here, enough for a peaceful walk and some memorable shots.

Lake Placid Olympic Village: A Historic Highlight

A visit to the Lake Placid Olympic Center caps off the first day. This must-see spot is packed with Olympic history, and the tour includes admission. It’s a chance to walk where athletes competed and relive the thrill of the 1980 Winter Games.

Guests have noted that this stop is well-organized, with a full hour to explore the village. You can see the Olympic ski jumps, bobsled runs, and the ice skating rink, providing both historical context and visual appeal. It’s a favorite among visitors, especially those interested in sports history.

Day Two: From Ausable Chasm to the Return

The second day kicks off early with a visit to Ausable Chasm, often called the “Grand Canyon of the East.” This natural wonder has formed over nearly 500 million years, boasting remarkable rock formations, narrow gorges, and natural stone walkways.

Ausable Chasm: Geological Marvel

This stop is the tour’s highlight for many geology enthusiasts. Visitors can descend into the chasm, walk along natural pathways, and marvel at the ancient rocks. The admission fee is not included, but the tour offers an option for a scenic float tour and a trail walk, adding extra value for those interested in a more immersive experience.

Reviewers like Jaime_P praise the peacefulness of the chasm, calling it “very peaceful,” and appreciate the chance to see something truly unique. Expect around 2.5 hours here, giving ample time for exploration without feeling rushed.

Scenic Float Tour and Additional Options

If you select the additional package, you can enjoy a float tour that offers a different perspective of the surrounding landscape, floating gently along the river and soaking in the sights from the water. This provides a calm, scenic experience often praised for its relaxing quality.

Return to NYC

After the exploration, the tour wraps up with the journey back to the city. The entire experience is designed to be convenient and stress-free, with hotel accommodations included so you can enjoy a restful night after two busy days.

Practical Details and Tips for Travelers

• Transportation: The tour uses professional vehicles, with pickup points available in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and New Jersey, making it accessible for many travelers. Keep in mind that parking at the meeting points isn’t available, so public transit or rideshare might be your best bet for reaching the pickup site.
• Group Size: The hotel rooms accommodate 2-4 guests, and the bus capacity allows for a maximum of 55 travelers overall. Smaller groups mean more personalized attention from guides, which many guests appreciated.
• Cost & Value: Priced at $272, the tour offers a good balance of transportation, accommodation, and entry to major attractions. Additional activities like mountain lifts and gorge walks cost extra, so if these are on your must-do list, be prepared for some extra expense.
• Guides & Service: According to reviews, guides like “Kitty” have been noted for their friendly attitude and helpfulness, making the experience more enjoyable. Their knowledge seems to enhance the overall trip, especially at popular spots like Lake Placid.
• Timing & Pacing: The itinerary is fairly packed, with each site allocated about an hour or so. Some travelers have expressed that the time at each stop can feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to linger and take photos. Planning ahead of time which stops matter most to you can help.
• Weather & Safety: The tour operates mainly in good weather. In case of bad weather, the schedule might be adjusted or canceled, so checking the forecast is wise. Children under 8 need booster seats, which are available for rent.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Reviews

A notable positive insight comes from Jaime_P, who called the trip “wonderful and very peaceful,” praising guide Kitty for her kindness and the well-timed schedule. This suggests that, when guided smoothly, the trip is both relaxing and enjoyable.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One reviewer, Chris_O, highlighted a disappointment with false advertising, noting that the tour’s title included Lake George, which was not part of the itinerary. This underscores the importance of managing expectations and understanding what’s included.

Many guests appreciated the scenic views and historical significance of Lake Placid, especially the Olympic Village. The combination of natural beauty and historical sites makes it appealing for outdoor lovers and history buffs alike.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This 2-day adventure from New York City offers a comfortable and manageable way to see some of the Adirondacks’ most photogenic sights. It’s best suited for travelers who prefer an organized itinerary, want to avoid the hassle of driving, and are eager to experience iconic locations like Whiteface Mountain and Lake Placid in a short timeframe.

While the limited free time at each stop may frustrate those wanting to explore at their own pace, the tour’s inclusions—such as hotel stays, transportation, and key attraction tickets—provide solid value. The optional activities give room for customization, making it flexible for different interests.

If you’re seeking a scenic, educational escape with a reliable guide and all logistics taken care of, this tour can be a great choice. Just be prepared for a busy schedule and double-check what’s included to avoid surprises.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation from NYC?
Yes, the tour provides professional vehicle transportation with pickup points available across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and New Jersey.

Are tickets to Whiteface Mountain and High Falls Gorge included?
Admission to Whiteface Mountain (lift ride) and High Falls Gorge is not included in the base price; tickets are purchased separately during the tour.

How long is the hotel stay?
You will stay overnight at a hotel in the area, with rooms accommodating 2-4 guests, making it convenient for group travel.

Can I choose to skip any attractions?
The itinerary is structured, but if you have special preferences or concerns, discuss with your guide—though modifications might be limited.

What should I bring for the trip?
Pack comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothes, sun protection, cash or cards for extras, and drinks for hydration.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 8 need a booster seat, which is available for rent. The tour is most suitable for travelers comfortable with a busy schedule and some walking.

In all, this tour offers a practical way to see the Adirondacks’ highlights with the convenience of guided logistics. While it may not be perfect for those seeking extensive free time, it’s an efficient, scenic, and memorable escape for curious explorers looking to connect with nature and history in New York’s stunning mountain region.