Lake Placid, Whiteface Mountain 2-Day Tour from New York

Exploring Whiteface Mountain, Lake Placid, and Ausable Chasm in Two Days from NYC

Traveling out of the city for a quick escape into nature often sounds perfect—except when planning the logistics feels overwhelming. That’s where a guided 2-day tour from New York City to the Adirondacks can be a game-changer. This particular trip offers visits to iconic spots like Whiteface Mountain, the Lake Placid Olympic Village, High Falls Gorge, and Ausable Chasm. While it promises scenic views and a break from urban hustle, the experience has its ups and downs.

One of the things we appreciate about this tour is its convenience. With transportation, accommodations, and entrance fees included (at least for some attractions), travelers can focus on enjoying the sights rather than stressing over every detail. The guide’s knowledge can add a lot to the experience, making the journey feel more engaging rather than just a bus ride. However, some reviews suggest that not all attractions live up to expectations, and the overall value might depend heavily on what you prioritize in a scenic escape.

This tour seems best suited for nature lovers who don’t mind a packed schedule and are eager to see highlights in a short period. If you’re after a relaxed, unstructured trip, this might not be the best fit, but if you’re craving a taste of Adirondack grandeur with the comfort of group travel, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Comfortable group size ensures you’ll travel with a small, manageable group (maximum 4 per room), which fosters a more intimate experience.
• All-inclusive options like the Lake Placid Olympic Center and scenic spots provide clear value, especially if you want to avoid extra costs.
• Transportation and accommodations are handled for you, removing the hassle of planning logistics.
• Flexible booking allows multiple reservations on the same bus, making it easier for groups to stay together.
• Some attractions have optional fees, so it’s important to consider whether you want to pay for things like Whiteface Mountain lift tickets or Ausable Chasm tours.
• Reviews vary in tone, with some travelers praising the beautiful scenery and guide, while others express frustration over what they feel is misleading advertising.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: From NYC to Whiteface Mountain and Lake Placid

The journey begins early at 7:00 am, with pickups available from New Jersey, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. The first major stop is Whiteface Mountain, the fifth-tallest mountain in New York. Known for its impressive height and isolation from other Adirondack peaks, it offers unparalleled panoramic views—especially from the Whiteface Mountain Lift (which is optional and incurs an additional fee). If the weather cooperates, you might glimpse the entire 8-shaped Lake Placid from the summit, a picture-perfect moment that many travelers cherish.

A key aspect here is the optional lift ride. The 80-minute experience takes you to the top without the strenuous hike, perfect for those who want to save energy or have limited time. However, the lift ticket isn’t included in the base price, so budget accordingly.

Next, we visit High Falls Gorge, a privately owned 22-acre park with waterfalls cascading over ancient granite. The walkways, sturdy bridges, and scenic viewpoints make this a highlight. The scenic walk is about 45 minutes, and the views of the AuSable River rushing through the gorge are breathtaking. While the admission fee is not included, travelers say it’s worth the extra cost, especially if you love dramatic waterfalls and rugged rock formations.

The day concludes with a visit to the Lake Placid Olympic Village, home to the 1980 Winter Olympics. Admission is included, and here you can walk through historic sites, relive Olympic moments, and soak in the town’s charming atmosphere. Many review comments highlight this as a favorite part of the trip—an accessible way to connect with the area’s sporting legacy.

Day 2: Ausable Chasm and Return to NYC

The second day kicks off early with a visit to Ausable Chasm, often termed the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks.” This natural wonder, formed nearly 500 million years ago, features walking trails and stone walkways that descend into the chasm itself. The 2.5-hour guided walk offers close-up views of the rock formations and opportunities for photos and peaceful contemplation. Again, this attraction’s entrance fee is not included, but visitors say it’s a worthwhile visit for geology buffs and nature lovers.

The tour wraps up with a scenic float tour at Ausable Chasm, providing a different perspective of the rugged landscape from the water. This optional activity adds to the adventure, though it’s an extra cost.

The return journey departs in the afternoon, bringing travelers back to New York City by evening, ending the experience on a note of satisfaction or, depending on expectations, some disappointment.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Transportation & Group Size: The guided bus is used based on the number of travelers, and the maximum group size is 55, with most rooms accommodating 2-4 guests. The group aspect can make the trip feel more social but might introduce some scheduling constraints.

Cost & Value: The $272 price covers transportation, hotel accommodation, and certain attractions like the Olympic Center. However, many attractions, including Whiteface Mountain lift tickets and Ausable Chasm trails, are optional and cost extra. Reviewers note that the value depends on how many paid extras you choose, so budget accordingly.

Accommodation: The hotel stay is included, with rooms designed for 2-4 people. Details vary, but guests generally find the rooms comfortable, although some mention that room configurations depend on availability.

Booking & Logistics: Pickup points from various NYC boroughs make it accessible, but it’s crucial to confirm your pick-up location and time. The tour starts promptly at 7:00 am, so punctuality is key. Also, note that parking isn’t available at the meeting point—so plan your transportation accordingly.

Guides & Experience: Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides like Kitty, who are appreciated for their friendly demeanor and helpful information. Expect a mix of scenic commentary and practical tips on the spots you visit.

What Works Well

• The scenic views at Whiteface Mountain and the gorge are undeniably stunning and make for memorable photos.
• Convenience of transportation and hotel stay simplifies the logistics, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.
• The Olympic Village visit offers a unique cultural and sporting history experience in a relaxed town setting.
• For those with limited time, the organized itinerary helps see some of the best sights without the hassle of planning.

Potential Drawbacks

• The pricing model can be confusing, with many attractions requiring additional fees, which can add up.
• Some travelers felt the advertising was misleading regarding the inclusion of Lake George, which is not part of this tour.
• The tight schedule may leave some attractions feeling rushed, especially if you want to spend more time exploring.
• The review scores suggest mixed feelings, with some guests highly satisfied and others disappointed, mainly over perceived value and accuracy of attraction details.

Who Would Appreciate This Tour?

This trip is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts eager to see Adirondack highlights in a short window. It’s perfect if you want a hassle-free experience with transportation, lodging, and guided commentary included. Families or groups wanting to stay together on the bus and share a hotel room will find it convenient. However, travelers seeking more flexibility or a less structured experience might find the schedule a bit restrictive.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour from New York City provides a solid introduction to the natural beauty and history of the Adirondacks. It’s a good choice for those who want to see Whiteface Mountain, Lake Placid, and Ausable Chasm without the stress of planning every detail. The included hotel stay and transportation add convenience, and guided commentary enriches the experience.

If you’re okay with additional costs for certain attractions and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour offers a worthwhile adventure. The scenic views, especially at Whiteface and the gorge, are genuinely impressive, and the opportunity to visit the Olympic Village provides a cultural touchpoint to balance the natural scenery.

Overall, it’s a tour that delivers value for those who prioritize highlights and convenience, making it a suitable choice for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager for an authentic Adirondack experience.

FAQ

Does this tour include transportation from NYC?
Yes, the tour includes transportation via a professional vehicle from designated pickup points in New York City and nearby areas.

Are meals included?
No, food and beverages are not included. The tour guide can assist with meal arrangements, but travelers need to bring cash or plan to buy food at stops.

Can I book multiple attractions or experiences separately?
Optional attractions like the Whiteface Mountain lift and Ausable Chasm tours require additional payment, which you can purchase through the guide during the trip.

What is the group size?
Most groups are small, with a maximum of 55 travelers, and rooms are designed for 2-4 guests, creating a more intimate atmosphere.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, a hotel stay is included for one night. Room configurations depend on availability but generally accommodate 2-4 guests.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children under 8 need a booster seat, which costs $10 per day. Pregnant women under 24 weeks can join.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes, sun protection, sunscreen, cash for extras, and drinks for hydration are recommended.

Can I join with a large group or family?
Yes, multiple bookings are allowed on the same bus, but if your group exceeds four people, consider separate bookings for accommodations.

What happens if attractions are closed?
The tour operator may adjust the itinerary, offering alternative options if a scheduled attraction is unavailable.

In essence, this tour offers a well-organized way to experience some of the Adirondacks’ most photogenic spots, with a few caveats around extra costs and scheduling. It’s most suited for those who want a guided, all-in-one escape into nature with manageable logistics and a chance to learn from friendly guides.