Adirondack Rail Trail
The Adirondack Rail Trail is a multi-use recreation path that connects the communities of Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake, following the route of a historic rail corridor. Designed for year-round use, the trail is ideal for biking, walking, running, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling — offering a scenic and accessible way to explore the Tri-Lakes region of the Adirondacks.
🚴 Trail Overview
- Total Planned Length: 34 miles
- Open Segments (as of May 2025): Lake Placid to Floodwood Road (Lake Clear) — approx. 25 miles
- Trail Surface: Crushed stone surface for hybrid, gravel, and mountain bikes
- Access Points: Downtown Lake Placid, Saranac Lake Union Depot, Tupper Lake Depot
The trail winds through hardwood forests, wetlands, and along waterways — providing easy, family-friendly riding with minimal elevation change and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the Adirondack Park.
🔧 For real-time updates on construction progress, seasonal closures, and trail conditions, visit the Adirondack Rail Trail Map & Updates page.
🛠️ Project Background
The trail follows the path of the former Adirondack Division Rail Line, once operated by the New York Central Railroad. This rail-to-trail conversion has been managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Office of General Services (OGS), in partnership with local communities and conservation groups.
Construction began in phases in 2020, with additional segments opening annually. The completed route will stretch from Lake Placid to Tupper Lake, offering a one-of-a-kind, car-free corridor through the heart of the Adirondacks.
❄️ Seasonal Use
The Adirondack Rail Trail is open year-round for a variety of recreational activities:
- Spring–Fall: Biking, walking, running, birding
- Winter: Snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, fat biking
❗ Note: Motorized use is limited to snowmobiles in winter months only.
⚡ Class 1 e-bikes (pedal-assist only, no throttle) are permitted on the trail. Class 2 and 3 e-bikes are not allowed.
🐕 The trail is also dog-friendly — just be sure to keep pets leashed and pack out waste.
🐾 Natural Features & Wildlife
The trail passes through diverse habitats, including wetlands, boreal forests, and open meadows — offering opportunities to see loons, herons, otters, and other wildlife. Interpretive signage along the way shares insights into the area’s ecological and cultural history.
For more on local habitats and wildlife, visit WildAdirondacks.org.
📍 Explore the Communities
Each town along the route offers its own charm:
- Lake Placid: Start or end your ride with a visit to the Olympic Village, Mirror Lake, or one of the many cafés and shops
- Saranac Lake: A creative hub with art galleries, parks, and lakeside spots to stop and refuel
- Tupper Lake: Home to the Wild Center and the trail’s western terminus, with mountain views and trail connections