Olympic Regional Development Authority wilderness guide
Outdoor Recreation Authority · NY

Olympic Regional Development Authority

The Olympic Regional Development Authority in New York is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, known for its world-class winter sports facilities and summer recreation activities.

Outdoor Recreation AuthorityN/A4+ Trails
DesignationOutdoor Recreation Authority
Total Wilderness AreaN/A
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Olympic Regional Development Authority

The Olympic Regional Development Authority in New York is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, known for its world-class winter sports facilities and summer recreation activities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA) manages several sports facilities used during the 1980 Lake Placid Winter Olympics. Situated in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, ORDA offers a variety of recreational activities throughout the year. It includes facilities like the Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort, known for having the highest vertical drop in the eastern United States. Additionally, the Authority oversees the Olympic Sports Complex, where visitors can experience bobsledding or cross-country skiing on former Olympic trails. During summer, visitors can take advantage of hiking trails, mountain biking, and scenic gondola rides. ORDA also includes the Olympic Jumping Complex and the Lake Placid Olympic Center, sites where spectators and participants can delve into winter sports history. The area's broad appeal is not just in its sports facilities but also in its stunning mountain views and ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Field Guide · Outdoor Recreation Authority
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Olympic Regional Development Authority

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Whiteface Mountain — renowned for skiing and breathtaking views.✦ Olympic Jumping Complex — with year-round visitor tours and views from the top of the jumps.✦ Olympic Sports Complex — offers exciting bobsled experiences.✦ Lake Placid Olympic Center — historic location with a museum and skating opportunities.
Wilderness Visuals & Gallery

Visual Guide to Olympic Regional Development Authority

Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Olympic Regional Development Authority

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Skiing

Available in Olympic Regional Development Authority
Park Recreation

Snowboarding

Available in Olympic Regional Development Authority
Park Recreation

Bobsledding

Available in Olympic Regional Development Authority
Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Olympic Regional Development Authority
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Olympic Regional Development Authority
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Olympic Regional Development Authority
Park Recreation

Ice Skating

Available in Olympic Regional Development Authority
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Olympic Regional Development Authority.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Fees applicable for certain activities and entry to facilities.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Olympic Regional Development Authority

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Olympic Regional Development Authority

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Lake Placid, New York
⌖ 0.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lake Placid, New York

Lake Placid, NY, a gateway to the Adirondacks, is an adventurer's dream with hiking, skiing, and paddling. Its Olympic legacy and mountain vistas ensure a memorable visit.

Year-round, with peak activities differing by season
Explore Town
Saranac Lake, New York
⌖ 8.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Saranac Lake, New York

A hidden gem nestled in the Adirondacks, Saranac Lake is an adventure lover's haven. Enjoy hiking, boating, skiing, and exploring protected forests in this idyllic outdoor destination.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Keene, New York
⌖ 9.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Keene, New York

Keene, NY is a peaceful destination in the heart of the Adirondacks, perfect for hikers, climbers, and winter adventurers. With stunning scenic views and challenging trails, it's an outdoor enthusiast's dream.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Wilmington, New York
⌖ 11.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wilmington, New York

Wilmington, NY is an Adirondack hub for year-round outdoor lovers. Whether skiing Whiteface’s Olympic slopes, paddling the Ausable River, or hiking High Peaks trails, the region offers scenic adventure and authentic mountain charm.

Summer through Winter
Explore Town
Keene Valley, New York
⌖ 11.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Keene Valley, New York

Keene Valley is an adventurer's gateway to the Adirondacks, with iconic trails, climbing spots, and serene campsites. Perfect for hikers and nature lovers seeking exploration in the High Peaks region.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Harrietstown, New York
⌖ 12.00 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Harrietstown, New York

Harrietstown offers year-round outdoor adventure in New York’s Adirondack Park. Hike forest trails, paddle peaceful lakes, ski groomed paths, and fish in pristine waters all from the friendly base of Saranac Lake Village.

Late Spring through Fall, Winter for Snow Sports
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Olympic Regional Development Authority

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Net Park
ADVEXPEDITION
Lake Placid, New York
AttractionADV Bookable

Net Park

Experience Lake Placid's thrilling Net Park, a massive outdoor playground with nets, slides, and trampolines. Perfect for all ages, this unique adventure lets you explore at your own pace with expert guides.

AttractionNew way to explore the outdoors | Ages (3+) | 2 Hour Time LimitCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Adventure Park
ADVEXPEDITION
Lake Placid, New York
ZiplineADV Bookable

Adventure Park

Challenge yourself on 38 thrilling treetop obstacles and zip lines at Lake Placid’s stunning Adventure Park. Discover why this 2-hour self-guided journey is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts!

ZiplineStarting at $50 • Ages 8+ • 2+ HoursCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Kid's Geared MTB 24"
ADVEXPEDITION
Lake Placid, New York
Bike RentalADV Bookable

Kid's Geared MTB 24"

Designed for smaller riders, High Peaks Cyclery’s Kid's Geared MTB 24" program in Lake Placid offers a safe, fun mountain biking experience along the scenic Rail Trail. Perfect for kids between 4'1" and 4'9", this adventure blends skill-building with stunning Adirondack views.

Bike RentalPerfect for the Rail TrailCertified Outfitter
From$30
Book Trip
Micro Spikes
ADVEXPEDITION
Lake Placid, New York
HikingADV Bookable

Micro Spikes

Lightweight, aggressive traction you can rent in Lake Placid to tackle icy Adirondack trails safely. Try them on in-store and pair with poles or snowshoes when conditions demand.

HikingTraction for icy or packed snow trails. See size chart; compatible with any type of shoe/boot.Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Snowshoes
ADVEXPEDITION
Lake Placid, New York
Winter ActivitiesADV Bookable

Snowshoes

Rent MSR snowshoes in Lake Placid to meet High Peaks requirements and move confidently across deep snow. Learn why local rentals are the smart, flexible way to explore Adirondack winter trails.

Winter ActivitiesA necessity for ventures into the winter trails.Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Hiking Poles
ADVEXPEDITION
Lake Placid, New York
HikingADV Bookable

Hiking Poles

Add confidence to snowy, icy, or uneven trails with adjustable trekking poles rented in Lake Placid. These simple tools reduce slips, protect knees, and pair perfectly with micospikes or snowshoes for longer, safer outings.

HikingAdvisable for our rugged trails, especially in winter.Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
XL Hard Tail MTB Aluminum
ADVEXPEDITION
Lake Placid, New York
Bike RentalADV Bookable

XL Hard Tail MTB Aluminum

Join High Peaks Cyclery for an exhilarating mountain biking journey tailored for taller riders amidst stunning granite landscapes. Discover why this area is a top-tier destination for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Bike RentalPerfect for the Rail TrailCertified Outfitter
From$60
Book Trip
Medium Full Suspension MTB Aluminum
ADVEXPEDITION
Lake Placid, New York
Bike TourADV Bookable

Medium Full Suspension MTB Aluminum

Ride through the stunning Rockies on full suspension bikes at High Peaks Cyclery. Discover technical trails, breathtaking scenery, and expert-guided adventures that cater to all skill levels.

Bike TourPerfect for the Rail TrailCertified Outfitter
From$75
Book Trip
Small Gravel DropBar Carbon
ADVEXPEDITION
Lake Placid, New York
Bike RentalADV Bookable

Small Gravel DropBar Carbon

Discover the thrill of mountain biking in the Adirondacks with High Peaks Cyclery’s specially tailored rides. Experience rugged trails, scenic vistas, and a supportive community dedicated to adventure.

Bike RentalPerfect for the Rail TrailCertified Outfitter
From$180
Book Trip
Small E-Bikes Standard
ADVEXPEDITION
Lake Placid, New York
Bike RentalADV Bookable

Small E-Bikes Standard

Discover exhilarating e-bike rides that showcase stunning mountain scenery at High Peaks Cyclery. Perfect for all skill levels, with tailored options for riders between 5'2" and 5'7".

Bike RentalPerfect for the Rail TrailCertified Outfitter
From$70
Book Trip
XS Road DropBar Aluminum
ADVEXPEDITION
Lake Placid, New York
Bike RentalADV Bookable

XS Road DropBar Aluminum

Discover tailored mountain biking adventures designed for smaller riders in the Adirondacks with High Peaks Cyclery. Perfect for thrill-seekers of all sizes, their trips combine technical terrain with scenic beauty.

Bike RentalPerfect for the Rail TrailCertified Outfitter
From$60
Book Trip