Dog Sledding in Lake Placid: History & Where to Go
In the Adirondacks - you can find skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and ice sculpture making. There are polar dips in icy waters and even ice climbing and winter hiking. But of all these wintertime activities, there is one that may surprise you: dog sledding, primarily in Lake Placid!
Garnet Hill Lodge offers options for both activity and relaxation. Spend the day exploring the cross-country ski and snowshoe trail network, then retreat to the cozy Log House to warm up by the fire. Ski passes are included with overnight stays! Learn More »
A Brief History of Dog Sledding
Dog sleds have long been a reliable mode of transportation and recreation for hardy Adirondack winter residents, and dog sledding is still commonly used for winter camping.
Dog sledding was common even at the first Lake Placid Olympics, where the first Olympic dog sled demonstration was held on February 6, 1932.
The sport continues to flourish throughout the Adirondack region to this day, and there are several winter resort communities that offer dog sled rides for their guests.
Adirondack dog sleds have traditionally been crafted from strong, lightweight native ash. There are still local craftsmen who create custom sleds ranging in size from a child's to the more traditional, weighty sleds meant to carry passengers and heavy loads.
Dog Sledding Today
Mirror Lake in Lake Placid is the best place to experience dog sledding in the Adirondacks. You have two primary options:
- Thunder Mountain Dog Sled Tours (518.891.6239)
- Mike Arnold Dog Sled Rides (518.323.7622)
Thunder Mountain Dog Sled Tours are open 10am to 5pm Friday through Monday when in season, and are located behind the Players Waterfront Eatery.
Mike Arnold Dog Sled Rides operate out of the Golden Arrow Resort. They typically take place Thursday through Sunday, 10am to 4pm, from around Christmastime through as long as the lake stays frozen.
Both options are first come, first serve, and they don't take reservations. Please be patient and considerate, as this is a weather dependent and ice dependent activity - conditions must be excellent to ride!
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