Whiteface Mountain
Iconic Adirondack peak offering stunning summit views via scenic highway, hiking, and world-class skiing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Spectacular foliage, fewer crowds
Whiteface Mountain
Best Time
Spectacular foliage, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Adirondack peak offering stunning summit views via scenic highway, hiking, and world-class skiing.
"The views from the top are magnificent on the drive up and on the top."
🥾 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy shoes are a must for hiking to the summit or exploring trails.
🦟 Bring Insect Repellent
Insects can be prevalent, especially in September.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Whiteface Veterans' Memorial Highway
Summit Road
Scenic drive to the summit with breathtaking panoramic views of the Adirondacks.
Summit Trail
Top of Whiteface Mountain
A short, rewarding hike with railings to the highest point for unparalleled vistas.
Olympic Ski Resort
Whiteface Ski Resort
Experience world-class skiing and snowboarding on 'The Face,' known for its challenging terrain.
High Falls Gorge
Near Whiteface Mountain
Easy-access trails lead to stunning waterfalls, perfect for a nature walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Prepare for the Summit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy shoes are a must for hiking to the summit or exploring trails.
🦟 Bring Insect Repellent
Insects can be prevalent, especially in September.
🚗 Scenic Drive Toll
The Whiteface Memorial Highway has a toll; check current rates. Veterans may get discounts.
⬆️ Elevator to the Top
An elevator is available for easy access to the summit if hiking isn't preferred.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy shoes are a must for hiking to the summit or exploring trails.
🦟 Bring Insect Repellent
Insects can be prevalent, especially in September.
🚗 Scenic Drive Toll
The Whiteface Memorial Highway has a toll; check current rates. Veterans may get discounts.
⬆️ Elevator to the Top
An elevator is available for easy access to the summit if hiking isn't preferred.
📸 Arrive Early for Parking
Limited parking at the summit, especially during peak foliage.
⛷️ Ski Pass Options
Consider the Mountain Collective pass for access to Whiteface and other resorts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Whiteface Mountain for its absolutely breathtaking views and spectacular scenery, especially from the summit. The drive up the Veterans' Memorial Highway is a highlight, offering numerous scenic stops. While the toll can be steep, many find the experience well worth the cost. Some visitors note the presence of insects during certain times of the year and advise on proper footwear for the summit hike.
"Breathtaking views, not overcrowded. Amazing hiking trails. Please bring your insect repellent as when we visit on September 16th it had a lot of insects flying everywhere that we have never seen before. HAVE TO WEAR PROPER SHOES!"
Hasna “Captiveats”
"Great visit on the last Monday of June. We drove to the top. I took advantage of the discounted toll for veterans. We went at approximately 10 a.m. and there was plenty of parking available. The views are magnificient on the drive up and on the top. The hike from the parking lot at the top to the summit is fun. There is also an elevator from the parking lot to the summit for people with limited mobility, or for anyone not willing to hike. It is worth visiting the tunnel to the elevator even if you're not using it. There are plenty of spots to stop on the side of the road on your way up or down to enjoy the view, some with picnic tables. We stopped on our way down, took our camping chairs out and had a picnic with an incredible view. I really enjoyed this visit and would go back."
JF Piché
"Very fun. Elevator ride takes you up maybe 280 feet to the top of the mountain. We were lucky, clear weather so spectacular views in all directions"
John Hinch
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Whiteface Mountain is located in Wilmington, NY, in the Adirondacks. It's accessible by car via I-87 Northway. The Whiteface Veterans' Memorial Highway offers a scenic drive to the summit.
Yes, Whiteface Mountain is very close to Lake Placid, making it a popular destination for those staying in the area. It's about a 15-20 minute drive. +1
You can drive up the Whiteface Veterans' Memorial Highway, hike the summit trail, or take the elevator from the parking lot.
Public transportation directly to Whiteface Mountain is limited. Most visitors drive. Taxis or ride-sharing services from Lake Placid may be available.
Whiteface Mountain is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Montreal, Canada.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Whiteface Veterans' Memorial Highway has a toll, typically around $25 per car and driver, plus $20 per passenger. Check the official website for current pricing.
For the scenic highway and summit access, it's recommended to check if advance booking is required, especially during peak seasons. For skiing, lift tickets should ideally be purchased in advance online for potential savings.
Discounts may be available for veterans on the highway toll, and various passes like the Mountain Collective offer access for skiers.
Operating hours vary significantly by season. The scenic highway is typically open from late May through mid-October. The ski resort operates during the winter months. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours.
Yes, an elevator is available from the upper parking lot to the summit, providing easy access for those with mobility issues or who prefer not to hike.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
During warmer months, you can drive the scenic highway, hike to the summit, explore High Falls Gorge, and enjoy the stunning Adirondack views. +1
Absolutely! Whiteface is part of the High Peaks region and offers numerous hiking trails, including the challenging but rewarding hike to its summit.
The views from the summit are breathtaking and panoramic, offering expansive vistas of the Adirondack Mountains and surrounding lakes.
Yes, Whiteface offers activities for all ages. The scenic drive, accessible summit via elevator, and nearby High Falls Gorge are great for families. The ski resort also has options for beginners.
Pack layers of clothing, comfortable walking or hiking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent, especially for warmer months.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic shots. The scenic highway pull-offs provide stunning landscape views, and High Falls Gorge offers beautiful waterfall photography. +1
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can be spectacular.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and protected areas. Always check local regulations and park rules before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant mountain details. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Weather can change rapidly at higher elevations, so be prepared for wind, fog, or rain. The sun can be intense at the summit, so polarized filters can be useful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Nearby High Falls Gorge is another excellent family-friendly activity, featuring easy trails to impressive waterfalls. For younger children, the Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid is often recommended as a cozy and engaging winter retreat with activities suitable for families.
Reddit Tip: While the summit hike is manageable, ensure children have appropriate footwear and supervision. The drive itself is an adventure, and the views are captivating for all ages.
🚗 Day-Trippers from NYC
Focus your visit on the Whiteface Veterans' Memorial Highway and the summit experience. Driving to the top, taking the elevator, and enjoying the panoramic views can be accomplished in a few hours. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic pull-offs.
Pro Tip: If you have more time, combine your visit with exploring the charming town of Lake Placid, which offers dining and other attractions.
🍂 Fall Foliage Enthusiasts
Peak foliage typically occurs in early to mid-October, but it's advisable to check foliage reports for the most accurate timing. The crisp autumn air and stunning colors create a magical atmosphere, perfect for photography and scenic drives.
Traveler Advice: Arrive early, especially on weekends during peak foliage season, as parking at the summit can be limited.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Driving the Whiteface Veterans' Memorial Highway
As you ascend, the landscape transforms, offering increasingly dramatic vistas of the Adirondack Park. The highway culminates in a parking area near the summit, from which visitors can embark on a short hike to the very peak. For those with limited mobility or who prefer a less strenuous ascent, an elevator is available within the castle-like structure, whisking you to the top.
Remember to check the operating status and toll fees before your visit, as these can vary. Traveler Tip: Many visitors recommend stopping at the picnic areas on the way down to enjoy a meal with an incredible view.
Hiking to the Summit
The path is well-maintained and features railings for safety, allowing you to focus on the stunning 360-degree views that unfold as you climb. Reaching the summit is a significant accomplishment, offering unparalleled vistas of the surrounding High Peaks and beyond.
Community Insight: Hikers often mention the possibility of encountering insects, especially in late summer or early fall, so bringing insect repellent is a good idea.
Whiteface Mountain for Skiers and Snowboarders
The resort offers a variety of trails catering to all skill levels, from beginner-friendly areas to expert-only chutes and bowls. The sheer scale of the mountain and its reputation for challenging conditions attract serious skiers and snowboarders looking for an adrenaline rush.
Partnership News: Whiteface has partnered with the Mountain Collective, offering a pass that provides access to Whiteface and numerous other world-class ski resorts globally. This partnership enhances the value for avid skiers looking to explore multiple destinations.
+1 Be sure to check Whiteface ski conditions and snow conditions before planning your trip. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit