Explore Hidden Gem Ski Centers In The Adirondacks of Upstate New York 

Less crowded, affordable slopes – and even free skiing

Accompanying photos available here

One of the best-kept ski secrets in upstate New York is that the Adirondack Mountains have a handful of hidden gems ideal for novice to expert skiers, including two ski areas that offer skiing free of charge.

Nestled into historic mountain towns with a distinct Adirondack feel, all of these under-the-radar ski areas offer visitors the opportunity to ski, snowboard or snow tube on uncrowded slopes with the spectacular scenery for which the Adirondacks are renowned. Many of these fun, smaller hills also offer ski schools, snowmobile trails, snowshoeing or Nordic skiing.

Adding to the appeal of these charming ski areas, many offer extremely affordable ski experiences that make snow sports more approachable for all. Some ski passes start as low as $15; and a couple of the small, community-owned ski areas welcome guests free of charge.

Uncrowded, Affordable Hidden Gems

Among the variety of ski areas in the Adirondacks, visitors will find destination resorts, regional ski centers and community-based ski hills. While skiers are familiar with larger ski resorts like Whiteface and Gore mountains, there are many smaller ski centers to explore. Below are some of these less-explored ski areas, including tips on accommodations and local eats:

• McCauley Mountain (Old Forge): A charming resort near the Adirondack wilderness. Get a great night’s sleep at the Adirondack Lodge Old Forge, stop by Keyes’ Pancake House for breakfast and Tony Harper’s Pizza and Clam Shack for lunch/dinner.
• Mt. Pisgah Recreation Center (Saranac Lake): A welcoming community ski hill with night skiing and tubing, with half-day weekend ski passes available for $15. Kick off your boots at Traverse Lodge or Hotel Saranac, and enjoy dinner at nearby Bitters & Bones.
• Oak Mountain (Speculator): A hidden treasure with varied terrain since 1948. Check out Lake Pleasant Lodge or Cedarhurst Motor Lodge for accommodations, and grab a bite at Logan’s Bar & Grill or Lemon Tree Brewery.
• Titus Mountain (Malone): A family-friendly ski gem a short drive from Plattsburgh, Lake Placid, Watertown and Northern Vermont, with terrain for all levels. Check out the rustic cabins at Deer Valley Trails (and stay for dinner) and stop by The Pines Tap & Table for evening revelry.

Elevating the affordability and fun of skiing in the Adirondack region, three of these hidden gem ski resorts participate in the “SKI NY Passport Program”, which offers free skiing for third and fourth graders (from any state or country) with an adult purchase. McCauley Mountain, Oak Mountain and Titus Mountain participate in the program.

Ski Free at Two Bonus Ski Areas

In addition to the large and medium-sized ski resorts in the Adirondacks, there are two additional ski areas that offer free skiing – a rare treat for newbie and experienced skiers, alike.

• Newcomb Ski Slope is an ultra-local and community-owned ski hill that offers free skiing. For the last fifty years, the Town of Newcomb has owned and operated this two-run ski slope, where generations of residents have learned to ski. The hill also boasts a trail through the adjacent woods along its 200 vertical feet. At this low-elevation summit, skiers are treated to a view of the snowy High Peaks.
• Indian Lake Ski Hill also offers skiing free of charge, with the local feel and charm of a community-owned establishment. The recreation area comprises a small hill, two ski trails, a t-bar lift and even ice skating.

Make it a Weekend Adirondacks Getaway

All of the hidden gem ski areas in the Adirondacks have planned opening dates in mid-December 2023, and visitors are encouraged to check the individual websites when planning a day trip or weekend getaway. The Adirondack region in upstate New York is just a few hours’ drive from the New York metro area and Boston. The expansive region is also within a day’s drive for 25% of the entire North American population.

And a fun fact about skiing in the Northeast: New York state leads the nation with the most ski resorts in the entire United States, with more than fifty ski resorts operating in the state (source: ISKINY).

For more information about hidden gem ski areas and visiting the Adirondacks, go to www.adirondacksusa.com.