Weekend in the Adirondacks: DAY TWO

In my last post, we started our weekend journey from New York City up into the Adirondacks, setting up for a reinvigorating three day escape from city life. With day one stops at The Wild Center, Whiteface Mountain and finally Lake Placid, day two includes not only more fun and adventure, but an even deeper dive into the seclusion and serenity in the vastness of Adirondack Park.

Day Two: 

1. As you wake up in Lake Placid, get ready for a big day ahead, starting with a trip to the world famous Lake Placid Olympic Center. No trip to Lake Placid, or the Adirondacks, would be complete without visiting the Olympic Center. It was here that the US mens hockey team won Olympic gold in 1980, beating the Soviet Union in what is affectionately known as "the miracle on ice." Make your way around the center or hop in a guided tour to hear more about the 7,700-seat Herb Brooks Arena, annual national and international figure skating competitions, USA Hockey events, Stars on Ice, ECAC Hockey Championships, and more. In the summer, the Center hosts Saturday Night Ice Shows where top new skaters perform.
2. Now that you've experienced a taste of what the area has to offer, prepare to venture deeper into the Adirondacks. Day two revolves around the final step/suggestion for the day, where you'll be taking a float plane to a remote camping spot of your choosing, or one suggested by your guide. But before we get there, you'll want to stock up on supplies while you are still among civilization. While you are in Lake Placid, check out Eastern Mountain Sports for any camping gear you may need and fill your cooler with some groceries for the campsite at Hannaford Market. 
3. Weather permitting, call up Helms Aero Service in Long Lake, NY, and ask for a quote to take your crew camping. This will be the highlight of your trip. Float plane charters can range from $80-100 per person round trip, but the additional expense is well worth it, as the family owned "airstrip" located on Long Lake offers short flights to any dozens of secluded campsites in the Adirondacks. While a float plane may sound scary to some, it is perfectly safe and is by far the best way to get deep in the Adirondacks for a night of camping. Park the car in Long Lake, gather your friends and gear and ask your pilot to suggest a campsite. Take plenty of pictures in the air and when you touch down, get ready to set up camp for a night of food, games and fun by the fire. 

Whether you wind down with a whiskey by the water or spend all night playing cards with friends, day two and three in the Adirondacks promise to be something special. There is nothing like sleeping out in the wild and waking up to the sunrise at your lakeside campsite, and it's sure to set you up for a fantastic final day full of hiking and panoramic views. Check back tomorrow for the conclusion of our trip and enjoy being out of the city for a bit!