Where in the ADK? Lake Placid Toboggan Chute
Thrills, chills and maybe a pair of ruined pants if you’re not careful.
Photo courtesy the NYS Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism
This Week’s “Where in the ADK?” is the Lake Placid Toboggan Chute on the shores of Mirror Lake. This classic attraction originated in the 1960s from the remains of an old ski jump. Recently rebuilt from the ground up, the Town of North Elba (the Village of Lake Placid is contained within North Elba) maintains the chute with care and safety in mind.
Good, old-fashioned, thrill-seeking fun
Recent renovations have replaced the 30' high ski jump trestle — now toboggans soar down ice-covered chutes onto frozen Mirror Lake at speeds reportedly as high as 45 mph. Once they reach the frozen lake at the end of the chute, they slide across Mirror Lake for up to 1,000 feet.
It shouldn’t surprise anyone that the Town prefers to have 12 inches of rock-solid ice before they open the chute. We’ve been watching their website since early January, and it seems that day is now at hand. The chute opened on Sunday after the unbelievable arctic cold we experienced on February 3rd and 4th.
Check the Town of North Elba’s website for the latest on operating hours, conditions, and ticket prices.
A few things to know before you go
Admission is “pay-one-price” – that means patrons can slide as often as they like after purchasing their ticket (and during hours of operation).
Toboggans are rented and can hold 2-4 people.
During President's week, lines and wait times between rides may be prolonged due to holiday crowds. The Town will try to make up for this with extended hours.
Dress warmly so you don’t freeze your kiester. Wear winter boots, mittens, hats, etc.
The chute operators advise guests to leave their expensive ski pants at home. The friction created during the ride often wears through certain types of skiwear, so park your Gucci polar jumpsuit at the chalet.
They also advise that sliders should be in good health and free from heart conditions, motion sickness, back or neck problems, or other physical limitations.
Expectant mothers are encouraged to refrain from sliding down the chute.
Keep arms and legs on the sled at all times.
Clear track when the ride is complete.
And, just a reminder, check the Town of North Elba website for current operating hours.
Happy sliding!
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