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Sports complex · Lake Placid, New York
Mount Van Hoevenberg
Olympic sliding- and cross-country-ski sports complex, with the 1932 and 1980 bobsled tracks, winter bobsled rides with pilots and an alpine coaster that runs beside the tracks.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Mount Van Hoevenberg
Mt. Van Hoevenberg, about 11 km from Lake Placid, houses the bobsled, skeleton and luge facilities and the cross-country and biathlon trails used in the Olympics. The 1932 bobsled track, one of the world’s oldest, is preserved as a historic site, and alongside it runs the combined track used from 1980, still in use for international competitions.
In winter visitors can ride a bobsled down the track driven by a professional pilot in a short, very fast run. There are also introductory lessons in biathlon and luge and about 50 km of trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
The Cliffside Coaster, one of the longest alpine coasters in North America, descends rails along the slope beside the tracks and operates year-round depending on weather. In summer the trails become mountain bike and hiking routes.
The Mountain Pass Lodge at the base has exhibits about sliding sports, and guided tours of the tracks are available.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours.
Best time
In winter, December to March, for the bobsled ride and cross-country skiing when the track is iced. The alpine coaster and trails also run in summer and fall. Confirm operation for each activity.
How to get there
It’s on Route 73, about 11 km from Lake Placid, past the ski-jump complex. A car is required. Activities are paid, and reservations are recommended for the bobsled and the coaster; check the current price list.
Tip
Book the bobsled ride in advance: spaces are limited and depend on track conditions. There are age and height restrictions for the runs.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mount Van Hoevenberg
Can you ride a bobsled in Lake Placid?
Yes, in winter at Mt. Van Hoevenberg, in a sled driven by a professional pilot. You must reserve and meet age and height requirements.
What is the Cliffside Coaster?
An alpine coaster that runs on rails down the slope beside the bobsled tracks, one of the longest in North America.
Where is Mt. Van Hoevenberg?
On Route 73, about 11 km from Lake Placid, past the ski-jump complex.