Whiteface Mountain, New York hiking , Adirondacks, New York, United States

Why choose a trail at Whiteface Mountain, New York?

Whiteface Mountain is the fifth-highest mountain in the U.S. state of New York, and one of the High Peaks of the Adirondack Mountains. Set apart from most of the other High Peaks, the summit offers a 360-degree view of the Adirondacks and clear-day glimpses of Vermont and even Canada, where the skyscrapers of Montreal, 80 miles (130 km) away, can be seen on a very clear day. Located in the town of Wilmington, about 13 miles (21 km) from Lake Placid, the mountain's east slope is home to a major ski area which hosted the alpine skiing competitions of the 1980 Winter Olympics. Unique among the High Peaks, Whiteface features a developed summit and seasonal accessibility by motor vehicle. Whiteface Memorial Highway reaches a parking area at an elevation of 4,600 feet (1,400 m), with the remaining 267 feet (81 m) being obtained by tunnel and elevator. Conceived and initiated prior to the Great Depression, Whiteface Castle and the Whiteface Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway were funded entirely by the state of New York, though the timing of the project led to a widespread belief that they were Depression Era public works projects arising from the New Deal. Construction on the toll road began in 1929, after passage of a necessary amendment to the state constitution, with a groundbreaking ceremony featuring then-New York State Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt. Eventually costing 1.2 million dollars and ending vertically within 300 feet (90 m) of the summit, the roadway is 5 miles (8 km) long and features an impressively steep 8% average grade. Officially opened July 20, 1935, in a ceremony featuring Roosevelt, by then President, the highway was dedicated to veterans of the Great War. Whiteface Castle, built with granite excavated during road construction, dominates the summit area. From the adjacent parking lot there are two routes to reach it: The first route is Stairway Ridge Trail—a footpath with handrails and intermittent cement & stone steps approximately .2 miles (.32 km) long; The second option involves traversing through a tunnel into its core before taking an elevator ride up twenty-seven stories high.

The surrounding region offers more than just breathtaking views; visitors can explore nearby attractions such as Whiteface Club & Resort or take on adventures along Wilmington Trail for hiking enthusiasts seeking new challenges amidst nature's beauty! For those looking forward towards relaxation after their outdoor escapades—Lakeside Resort provides serene accommodations while indulging guests at its resort spa facilities ensuring complete rejuvenation during your stay here.

Travelers coming from various cities like Albany or Boston will find easy access via Burlington making this destination perfect whether you're planning short getaways or extended vacations alike! Additionally if visiting between January months remember certain deals may apply specifically labeled "valid Jan" allowing savings opportunities throughout these winter periods too!

For those interested in exploring further beyond mountains themselves consider staying overnight nearby Lake Inn offering comfortable lodging options close proximity not only scenic landscapes but also cultural experiences found within towns surrounding areas including Asrc known hosting events year-round attracting diverse crowds eager partake festivities offered therein.