From offering easy-breezy strolls to more challenging Adirondack hikes, the Lake Placid Olympic Sites are welcoming all abilities of hikers. Home to the Mt Van Hoevenberg East Trail and several other hikes, you’ll discover how we have incorporated physical fitness, mountain adventure, and environmental education to make your time with us fun, healthy, and memorable. Our beautiful trails will put you into the wilderness, but keep you close to modern conveniences and attractions.
Overview
MVH East Trail
Difficulty Level: More Difficult
Total Average Time & Distance: 2.5 Hours | 4.7 Miles Round Trip
This is one of the newest trails in the Adirondacks! It was opened to the public in October 2018 and is a model for sustainable trail design. From the register, hikers begin a gentle climb to one of the finest views of the High Peaks. Switchbacks are used throughout the trail so the climb does not get too steep as it meanders through the woods. In the spring, you’ll see tons of bright wildflowers. The hardened trail is easy on the knees.
Existing trail with a trailhead, register, trail markers, and based out of the Mountain Pass Lodge. Parking for hiking is in Lot 3, retail and services are available inside the Mountain Pass Lodge. This is an out-and-back hike.
Sleeping Giant
Difficulty Level: More Difficult
Total Average Time & Distance: 1.25 Hours | 2.7 Mile Loop
Existing trail with a trailhead, register, trail markers, and based out of the Mountain Pass Lodge. Parking for hiking is in Lot 3, retail and services are available inside the Mountain Pass Lodge. This social distancing compliant trail offers an intermediate hike that is a lovely journey in the Adirondack Forest on the Biathlon Side of our Olympic Venue. This is a loop hike.
Nested Loop
Difficulty level: More Difficult
Total Average Time & Distance: 1.75 Hours | 3.3 Mile Loop
Existing trail with a trailhead, register, trail markers, and based out of the Mountain Pass Lodge. Parking for hiking is in Lot 3, retail and services are available inside the Mountain Pass Lodge. This social distancing compliant trail offers an intermediate hike that is a lovely journey in the Adirondack Forest on the Cross Country Side of our Olympic Venue. This is a loop hike.
Lover’s Lane
Difficulty Level: Easier
Total Average Time & Distance: 45 Minutes | 1.4 Mile Loop
Existing trail with a trailhead, register, trail markers, and based out of the Mountain Pass Lodge. Parking for hiking is in Lot 3, retail and services are available inside the Mountain Pass Lodge. This social distancing compliant trail offers an easy family hike that is a lovely journey in the Adirondack Forest on the Cross Country Side of our Olympic Venue. This is a loop hike.
Hi-Notch
Difficulty Level: Most Difficult
Total Average Time & Distance: 2 Hours | 3.3 Mile Loop
Existing trail with a trailhead, register, trail markers, and based out of the Mountain Pass Lodge. Parking for hiking is in Lot 3, retail and services are available inside the Mountain Pass Lodge. This social distancing compliant trail offers a more difficult hike that is a lovely journey in the Adirondack Forest on the Cross Country Side of our Olympic Venue. This is a loop hike.
MVH Mt. Bike & Summer Walking Trails
Difficulty Level: More Difficult
Total Average Time & Distance: Varies | 12 Miles – Variety of Loops
Existing trail with a trailhead, register, trail markers, and based out of the Mountain Pass Lodge. Parking for hiking is in Lot 3, retail and services are available inside the Mountain Pass Lodge. The single-track biking and hiking trails of MVH offer a unique journey in the Adirondack Forest. These are loop hikes and bike trails.
Before You Arrive
Parking
If you are hiking at Mt. Van Hoevenberg, please park in Lot 3.
Registration
The East Mountain Trail Head Registration Kiosk can be found past the outrun of the 1980 track. For front-country hiking and trail running on our trails please register at the kiosk in front of the Mountain Pass Lodge.
Leave No Trace
Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Know the regulations and special considerations for the area you’ll be visiting.
- Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies.
- Always leave your itinerary with someone at home.
- Travel in small groups to minimize impacts.
Travel on Durable Surfaces
- Hike in the middle of the trail; walk through (not around) puddles/mud.
- Stay off of vegetation; walk on rocks where possible.
- Gather in designated sites where possible.
- In other areas, don’t gather within 150 feet of water, trail, or a road.
Dispose of Waste Properly
- Pack out all trash (including toilet paper), leftover food, and litter.
- Use existing privies or dig a 6-8 inch deep cathole at least 150 feet from water.
- Wash yourself and dishes at least 150 feet from water. If needed, use only small amounts of biodegradable soap.
Leave What You Find
- Leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them.
- Let photos, drawings, or journals help capture your memories.
- Do not build structures or furniture or dig trenches.
Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Use a portable stove to avoid the lasting impact of a fire.
- Where fires are permitted, use existing fire rings and collect only downed wood.
- Burn all fires to ash, put out campfires completely, and hide traces of fire
Respect Wildlife
- Observe wildlife from a distance.
- Avoid wildlife during mating, nesting, and other sensitive times.
- Control pets at all times, and clean up after them.
Be Considerate of Others
- Respect others and protect the quality of their experience.
- Let natural sounds prevail; avoid loud sounds and voices.
- Be courteous and yield to other users; take breaks to one side of the trail.