The 13th Annual Young Members
HIGH PEAKS WINTER WEEKEND
February 14-17, 2025
(Friday – Monday)
The Young Members of Genesee Valley Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club invite you to their annual winter outing in the Adirondack High Peaks.
Those who have come in the past have called it the highlight of their year!
Some of the activities, all self-directed, include:
- Nordic skiing and snowshoeing trails in the High Peaks
- Hiking up Phelps, Rooster Comb, Snowy, Jay, Haystack and other mountains
- Skiing and snowshoeing to the top of Whiteface Mountain
- Ice skating on Cascade Lake
- Shopping in Lake Placid
- Playing board and card games at night
- Dancing and merriment
- And eating tons and tons of very tasty food
There are plenty more things to do in the area — like downhill skiing at Whiteface, or checking out the Lake Placid Olympic sites. Whether you are novice outdoorsman or a die-hard 46er, you’ll find something that suits your interests and abilities in the area; it’s entirely up to you. There is no set schedule or plan, and folks are free to do what they want. Adventures are usually discussed over meals, so if you aren’t familiar with the area you can get ideas from those who are.
We invite Young Members from other chapters to come join us for the fun. The trip is open to guests, so feel free to invite your friends.
Getting There
We will help to organize carpools. The trip takes about 5.5 hours. Most people leave after work on Friday. Many take a half-day or try to at least head out early.
Meals
We will take turns helping out in the kitchen. More details about what we’ll have on the menu will be posted closer to the date of the trip. Vegetarian, Vegan, gluten-free and other dietary requests will be accommodated to the best of our ability.
Lodging
We have reserved all four bunkrooms at Tmax–n–Topos Hostel in Lake Placid. All beds are single bunks.
What to Bring
- Skis, snowshoes, outdoor winter gear. If you want to rent skis or snowshoes there are places in Lake Placid and the High Peaks where you can, as well as rental facilities here in Rochester.
- Your favorite beverage(s) and snacks. (Some snacks and some non-alcoholic drinks will be provided.)
- Your favorite games. (There are tons of books, games and puzzles already there.)
Additional Tips
Skis or snowshoes are REQUIRED in the High Peaks Wilderness, regardless of whether there is snow. Crampons and/or Microspikes are often necessary for icy patches, and are well worth renting.
If you have any questions about appropriate gear or ability level for potential activities, contact any of the organizers. We’re more than happy to assist!
Safety & Liability
While this event is organized by the ADK-GVC Young Members, it is not a “led” trip, which means that the neither the ADK nor the trip’s organizers are responsible for your well-being during whatever activities you choose to participate in during the weekend. Please be aware of the risks inherent in your chosen activity(s) and pick something that coincides with your level of skill.
While most trails are well marked, you must have a map and compass, and be comfortable using them. If you don’t know how, please let us know and we can arrange to show you.
While the Hostel has WiFi, there is very little cell phone coverage in the ADK high peaks! Your cell phone or trail GPS are is no replacement for a map and compass.
Finally, please be respectful of other participants, guests and the hostel owners. There is no tolerance for unbefitting behavior. If you have any concerns, please let a trip organizer know so that they may address it. We’re out to have an excellent time and return with great memories!