If you are planning to see the fall colors of the Adirondacks, now is the time to start thinking ahead and booking your accommodations. There is no better road trip than one through the northeastern corner of New York State, where the brilliant foliage typically peaks by late September. After the summer rush, this is one of the most popular times to visit, so booking early is essential.
Lake House – High Peaks Resort – Lake Placid – Margarita Ibbott
I had the opportunity to stay at the High Peaks Resort in Lake Placid twice—once in the spring and again in the fall—and each visit offered a completely different, yet equally memorable, experience. This region is simply stunning, and when paired up with other nearby luxury properties like the Queensbury Hotel in Glens Falls or the Gideon Putnam in Saratoga Springs, it makes for a well-rounded and scenic getaway.
The High Peaks Resort stands out for the unique layout, offering three distinct accommodation experiences. The resort is located right in downtown Lake Placid, within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and local attractions. Just across the street, the Lake House offers a mid-century modern aesthetic with a more relaxed, social atmosphere. For those looking to stay directly on the water, the Waterfront Collection provides lakeside rooms with easy access to Mirror Lake.
Lobby & Lounge – Main Building – High Peaks Resort – Lake Placid – Photo Credit: High Peaks Resort
No matter which option you choose, the location is premium. Mornings can begin with a quiet coffee by Mirror Lake, followed by a stroll along Main Street or a visit to the Lake Placid Olympic Museum. In the warmer months, guests can take advantage of the complimentary paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes on the lake, along with indoor and outdoor pools located throughout the property.
Main Resort
During my stay in the main resort, convenience was key. I was staying with my elderly mother, and the ability to drive directly to our floor made a significant difference. Because it sits on the hill, the lobby is 3 stories above street level. The resort also offers covered, tiered parking—an appreciated feature in both summer and winter conditions. Our room was spacious, with a private balcony overlooking the outdoor pool, making it a great option for families or longer stays.
Poolside Queen Room – High Peaks Resort – Lake Placid – Photo Credit: High Peaks Resort
The room had two queen beds and was very spacious. There was a balcony overlooking the pool and had a spectacular mountain view. The bathroom was large with a great walk-in shower.
The Lake House
For couples, the setting easily transforms into a romantic escape. Sunset views over the lake and surrounding mountains are memorable. There is a wonderful fire pit with comfy red Adirondak chairs. It’s almost like camping but with comfortable beds and charcuterie boards!
The Great Room – Lake House – High Peaks Resort – Lake Placid – Margarita Ibbott
The Great Room is an expansive area where you can sit by the fire in the winter, play pool, fuzball, or board games, and enjoy a cocktail during the summer or a hot chocolate in the winter. It’s the perfect place to hang out if you don’t want to stay in your room but want to relax and feel like you’re at a ski chalet.
Outdoor Pool – Lake House – High Peaks Resort – Lake Placid – Margarita Ibbott
Waterfront Collection
These rooms are directly on the waterfront, and you also have access to an outdoor pool and all of the watercraft. Perfect for easily stepping onto the pool deck or taking a stroll along the Mirror Lake Path, you will get an unobstructed view of the High Peaks across the lake.
Waterfront Collection – High Peaks Resort – Lake Placid – Margarita Ibbott
Amenities
One of the nicest amenities is the multiple seating areas throughout the lobby. Decorated in traditional Adirondack style with plush leather chairs, large fireplaces, and beautiful canoe light fixtures, you can enjoy a good book in the main lounge or see some of the local art featured in the lobby.
Indoor 4th Floor Pool – High Peaks Resort – Lake Placid – Photo Credit: High Peaks Resort
During the summer, there are plenty of amenities you will want to use on the private waterfront: paddling equipment, including kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and pedal boats, to glide on the calm surface as the sun rises, or paddle off into the sunset after a day of Adirondack adventures.
For those that prefer pools to lakes, there are two options: a large outdoor pool with plenty of deck chairs and umbrellas. During a fall and winter visit, you can also frequent the indoor pool.
Waterfront – High Peaks Resort – Lake Placid – Margarita Ibbott
Although you are steps from Main Street, you can enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Dancing Bears restaurant. We enjoyed our brunch before we headed off to our next destination.
Recommendation
This large resort is ideally located to take advantage of Mirror Lake, shops and restaurants, and other activities in Lake Placid. Growing up in Montreal, I often heard about this magical ski town but only had the opportunity to really appreciate what it had to offer a few years ago.
Mirror Lake—Lake Placid, NY – Credit M. Ibbott
I would go back to this property in a heartbeat. Maybe next time, I’ll give the Lake House or the Waterfront Collection a try.
Check rates for High Peaks Resort Lake Placid online at Expedia, Booking.com, Agoda.com, or Hotels.com.
