Plan Ahead for the Ultimate Lake George Winter Getaway
See Why You'll Want to Secure Reservations Now
The winter season books up fast in Lake George! It’s imperative to plan ahead if you want to experience all that the area has to offer during this season. Below, we've broken down the various events and activities you should check out during your ultimate Lake George winter getaway.
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Lite Up the Village: A Joyful Tradition
Lake George Village will host Lite Up the Village on November 30, 2024. Shepard Park will be illuminated with thousands of lights to celebrate the season, families can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, and there will be refreshments. Best of all, the lights stay up throughout the season.
The Lake George Winter Carnival: 62 Years of Snowtastic Fun
The Lake George Winter Carnival will be in its 63rd year in 2025! The schedule is still to be announced, but this epic event runs every weekend in February.
Festivities typically include wood carving demonstrations, kids activities, pony rides, horse-drawn carriage rides, a chili cook-off, outhouse races, youth hockey, sanctioned car races on the ice, a snowman contest, ice diving demonstrations, and s’mores and hot chocolate on the beach.
The Newest Attraction: Lake George's Lights at the Lake
This year, the community is welcoming a brand-new attraction, Lake George Lights at the Lake! Located in Charles R. Wood Park and in Shepard Park, Lights at the Lake features a collection of holiday light displays open to the public.
Stroll through this winter wonderland, and then head to Beach Road to take part in free ice skating! Ice skate rentals are $5. Lights at the Lake is open Thursday through Sunday, 4pm to 9pm, through March 2, 2025.
Gain Some Vertical By Skiing and/or Tubing
For a fantastic winter family adventure just a stone's throw away from Lake George, West Mountain Ski Area is the ultimate destination. Conveniently situated between Lake George and Saratoga Springs, this ski area offers a host of activities suitable for all ages.
Whether you're a seasoned skier or a first-time snowboarder, West Mountain has you covered with day and night skiing, snowboarding, and even learn-to-ski lessons. Additionally, the Snow Tubing Park, featuring both upper and lower lanes accessible by a moving magic carpet ride, provides an extra dose of excitement.
Go on a Snowshoeing Adventure
Snowshoeing is both a great way to get outside and fulfill your sense of adventure, making it the perfect Lake George winter activity! Just 30 minutes from Lake George Village, Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park is a natural wonder that boasts the largest marble cave entrance in the East.
In the winter, when the snow blankets the landscape, the park transforms into a winter wonderland with over 14 miles of snowshoe trails. These trails offer stunning views of the massive stone bridge cave entrance, glacial erratic boulders, serene ledges, and picturesque waterfalls. It's an excellent opportunity to embark on snowshoe tours and experience the beauty of this unique geological site from a whole new perspective.
Relax After a Long Day at an Ice Bar
After a full day of embracing the various winter activities in and around Lake George, adults often seek the ideal spot to unwind with a drink. Fortunately, Lake George offers a great variety of ice bars each year. These ice bars present a fun and unique chance for relaxation, where visitors can savor their favorite beverages.
Pick Your Home Base for Winter Fun
The Inn at Erlowest: A Top Spot for a Stylish Stay & Stunning Views
For your next getaway, you can’t go wrong with The Inn at Erlowest, located in Lake George just north of the Village. Treat yourself to luxury lodging and dining, including igloo dining, which is typically available seasonally. This combines farm-to-table meals complete with an extensive wine list and impeccable service, all underneath a winter sky (but you’ll be toasty warm in the heated igloo!).
Other perks to staying at The Inn at Erlowest include stunning lake views on their fireplace patio; elegant, old-world style suites, some of which offer fireplaces, balconies, or Jacuzzis; and the entire mansion is adorned with wood floors and comfortable seating areas.
The Inn at Erlowest often provides enticing packages for special getaways, especially if you’re looking for a romantic mini vacation.
Additional Options for Winter Lodging
Other year-round lodging options in the area include Fort William Henry, Lodges at Cresthaven, Trout House Village Resort, or the Quarters at Lake George. Each offers their own cozy amenities, including fireplaces, Jacuzzis, and/or on-site winter trails or activities.
The key takeaway to enjoying winter in Lake George is to think ahead, make reservations, and secure lodging. In other words, nail down those plans as soon as possible so you don’t miss out on the season.