The Ultimate 2025 Review: Lake House at High Peaks Resort


For those dreaming of an unparalleled lakeside retreat, the Lake House at High Peaks Resort 2384 Saranac Ave Lake Placid United States stands as a beacon of Adirondack luxury and natural splendour. This destination is more than just a place to stay; it is an immersive experience that redefines the very essence of a mountain getaway. It masterfully blends rustic Adirondack charm with contemporary sophistication, offering direct waterfront access to the pristine Mirror Lake. The true magic lies in its seamless delivery of year-round four-season activities, complemented by exquisite culinary experiences and, above all, unforgettable views that etch themselves into your memory. This is not merely a holiday; it is an invitation to connect with nature without sacrificing an ounce of comfort.

What Guests Are Saying: A Glimpse into the Guest Experience

Before diving into the intricate details of this magnificent property, it is insightful to understand the collective voice of those who have already walked its halls and gazed out upon its waters. The consensus is overwhelmingly positive, painting a picture of a sanctuary that consistently exceeds expectations. Guests frequently celebrate the breathtaking location, often describing the experience of waking up to the mist rising off Mirror Lake as “genuinely magical.” The direct access to the water for kayaking and paddleboarding in the summer, and the simple joy of stepping out onto the frozen lake in winter, are recurring themes of praise.

The quality of the accommodations themselves is another high point in guest feedback. Many reviewers highlight the thoughtful design that merges a cosy, cabin-like feel with the plush amenities of a high-end resort. The comfort of the beds, the cleanliness of the rooms, and the functionality of the spaces are often mentioned. However, it’s the balconies and terraces overlooking the lake that truly steal the show, providing a private stage for sunrise coffees and sunset reflections. The staff at the Lake House also receive consistent accolades for their warm, attentive, and professional service, making guests feel both valued and well-cared for from the moment they arrive. While some note the premium price point, the vast majority conclude that the experience, ambiance, and unparalleled location provide exceptional value for a truly memorable escape.

An Authentic Adirondack Welcome: The Vibe and Ambiance

From the moment you arrive at the Lake House, there is an immediate sense of having escaped the ordinary. The architecture pays homage to the historic “Great Camps” of the Adirondacks, utilizing natural wood, stone accents, and a design ethos that feels both grand and intimately connected to the surrounding landscape. The lobby, with its crackling fireplace and comfortable seating, invites you to slow down, take a deep breath of the fresh mountain air, and truly arrive.

The ambiance is one of relaxed sophistication. It’s a place where you can feel equally comfortable in hiking gear after a day on the trails or dressed for an elegant dinner. The resort strikes a perfect balance, avoiding the stuffiness that can sometimes accompany luxury properties. Instead, it fosters a welcoming environment where the focus is on personal comfort and connection with the stunning natural setting. The gentle lapping of the lake, the rustle of leaves in the breeze, and the distant call of a loon become the soundtrack to your stay, creating a pervasive sense of peace and tranquillity that is difficult to find elsewhere.

According to travel sociologist Dr. Alistair Finch, “The most successful modern resorts don’t just offer a bed for the night; they curate an environment. The Lake House at High Peaks excels at this by creating a powerful sense of place. Guests aren’t just in a hotel; they are in the Adirondacks, and every detail, from the decor to the view, reinforces that immersive connection.”

Your Private Sanctuary: A Deep Dive into the Accommodations

The rooms and suites at the Lake House are more than just a place to sleep; they are meticulously designed private retreats. Each space is crafted to maximize comfort while continuously drawing your attention to the natural beauty just outside your window. The thoughtful layout and premium furnishings ensure a restful and rejuvenating stay.

The Waterfront Collection: Rooms with a View

The crown jewel of the Lake House is its Waterfront Collection. These rooms and suites offer direct, unobstructed views of Mirror Lake and the surrounding mountains. Waking up in a plush king-sized bed, drawing the curtains, and being greeted by this panoramic vista is an experience in itself. Most of these rooms feature a private balcony or patio, furnished with classic Adirondack chairs, providing the perfect spot for a morning coffee or an evening glass of wine. It’s here that you can truly appreciate the changing light on the water and the majestic silhouette of the peaks.

The interior design reflects a modern rustic aesthetic. Expect warm wood tones, a soothing colour palette inspired by nature, and subtle textures that add a layer of cosiness. The decor is stylish yet unpretentious, ensuring the focus remains on the incredible view. It feels personal, like you’re staying in a beautifully appointed private lakeside home rather than a conventional hotel room.

Modern Comforts Meet Rustic Elegance

While the aesthetic is rooted in rustic charm, the amenities are thoroughly modern. Each room is equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, a large flat-screen television, a Keurig coffee maker, and a mini-refrigerator for your convenience. The bathrooms are a particular highlight, often featuring spa-like walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads, premium bath products, and soft, oversized towels.

The attention to detail is evident in every corner. From the quality of the linens to the placement of lighting, everything has been considered to enhance the guest experience. These thoughtful touches elevate the stay from merely comfortable to truly luxurious, ensuring that your time inside is just as rewarding as your time spent exploring the outdoors.

What Are the Dining Options at The Lake House?

While the Lake House itself provides a serene, private atmosphere, it is part of the larger High Peaks Resort campus, giving guests access to a fantastic array of culinary delights just a short, pleasant walk away. This setup offers the best of both worlds: the tranquillity of a secluded lakeside property and the vibrant dining options of a full-scale resort.

The main culinary hub is The Den, an inviting space that captures the spirit of an Adirondack lodge. It serves as a versatile spot for a hearty breakfast to fuel your day’s adventures, a casual lunch, or a relaxing evening cocktail by the fire. The atmosphere is social and welcoming, making it a popular gathering place for guests.

For a more elevated dining experience, Dancing Bears Restaurant is the resort’s signature eatery. It’s one of Lake Placid’s most popular spots, beloved by locals and visitors alike for its lively ambiance and delicious, all-American comfort food with a creative twist. Whether you’re craving a gourmet burger, fresh seafood, or a perfectly cooked steak, the menu is designed to satisfy. Its patio is especially sought-after in the warmer months, offering prime people-watching on Main Street. The variety ensures that over a multi-day stay, you can enjoy different atmospheres and cuisines without ever needing to get in your car.

Unforgettable Activities: The Ultimate Four-Season Playground

One of the most compelling reasons to choose the Lake House is its identity as a true four-season destination. The experience transforms dramatically with the changing seasons, offering a completely unique vacation no matter when you visit. The resort’s prime location on Mirror Lake is the epicentre of activity year-round.

Summer Bliss on Mirror Lake

During the summer months, Mirror Lake becomes a vibrant hub of activity, and guests at the Lake House have a front-row seat. The resort offers complimentary use of kayaks, paddleboards, and rowboats, allowing you to get out on the crystal-clear water at your leisure. There is nothing quite like an early morning paddle when the lake is perfectly still, reflecting the mountains like a flawless mirror.

The property also features a sandy beach area and a swimming dock, perfect for soaking up the sun or taking a refreshing dip. For those who prefer to stay dry, the lawn leading down to the water is dotted with chairs, providing an idyllic setting for reading a book or simply watching the world go by. The resort also boasts multiple outdoor pools, including one exclusively for Lake House guests, offering another perfect way to cool off on a warm summer day.

A Winter Wonderland Experience

When winter arrives, Lake Placid transforms into a magical wonderland, and the Lake House is at the heart of the enchantment. Mirror Lake freezes over, creating a vast natural playground. Guests can walk directly from the hotel onto the ice for a game of pond hockey or a leisurely skate. The town even maintains a cleared two-mile ice track around the lake’s perimeter for skating and cross-country skiing.

For downhill skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, the legendary Whiteface Mountain, home of the 1980 Winter Olympics alpine events, is just a short drive away. The resort offers convenient shuttle services, making it easy to hit the slopes. After a thrilling day in the cold, returning to the warmth and comfort of the Lake House, perhaps enjoying a hot toddy by the fire, is the perfect end to a perfect day.

ActivityBest SeasonDescription
Paddling & KayakingSummer, FallComplimentary use of watercraft on the calm, clear waters of Mirror Lake.
Ice SkatingWinterDirect access to the frozen lake and the town’s cleared 2-mile skating loop.
HikingSpring, Summer, FallProximity to countless trails in the Adirondack High Peaks region for all skill levels.
Skiing & SnowboardingWinterA short drive or shuttle ride to the world-class slopes of Whiteface Mountain.
SwimmingSummerAccess to a private beach area on the lake and multiple outdoor swimming pools.
Leaf PeepingFallThe resort offers a spectacular vantage point for the vibrant autumn foliage.

Beyond the Resort: Exploring the Heart of Lake Placid

While it might be tempting to never leave the serene confines of the resort, the charming village of Lake Placid is right at your doorstep and begs to be explored. The Lake House’s location on Saranac Avenue provides the perfect starting point for discovering everything this historic town has to offer.

A short stroll will bring you to Main Street, a bustling thoroughfare lined with unique shops, art galleries, cosy cafes, and inviting restaurants. It’s the perfect place to find a unique Adirondack souvenir, browse local art, or simply enjoy an ice cream cone while taking in the views.

Dr. Alistair Finch notes, “The proximity of the Lake House to the village is a key part of its appeal. It allows guests to seamlessly transition between tranquil nature and vibrant community life. This dual experience—the peace of the lake and the energy of the town—is what makes a Lake Placid vacation so uniquely fulfilling.”

Of course, no trip to Lake Placid is complete without exploring its rich Olympic history. You can visit the Olympic Center, where the “Miracle on Ice” happened, or take a trip to the top of the Olympic Ski Jumping Complex for a breathtaking view of the entire region. These sites are not just for sports fans; they are a fascinating glimpse into a significant piece of American history. For nature lovers, the opportunities are boundless, with countless hiking trails, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures just minutes away.

Planning Your Perfect Stay at the Lake House

A stay at the Lake House is an investment in an unforgettable experience, and a little planning can help you make the most of it. Booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially if you plan to visit during peak seasons like the height of summer (July and August) or during major winter holidays. The fall foliage season, typically late September to early October, is another incredibly popular time.

When booking, be sure to specify your preference for a room in the Lake House building to ensure you get the coveted waterfront location. The resort’s website often has packages that bundle accommodation with dining credits or activities, which can offer excellent value. Consider what you want to do during your stay. If you’re an avid hiker, the spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. If skiing is your passion, aim for January through March for the best snow conditions.

Getting to Lake Placid is part of the adventure. It’s a scenic drive from major cities like New York, Boston, and Montreal. The closest major airport is Albany International Airport (ALB), about a two-and-a-half-hour drive away. The journey through the Adirondack Park is beautiful and sets the stage for the natural splendour that awaits you. No matter how you get there or when you visit, a stay at the Lake House at High Peaks Resort 2384 Saranac Ave Lake Placid United States is a truly special escape that promises both adventure and rejuvenation.


Guest Comments

Eleanor Vance
★★★★★
We stayed in a waterfront king room for our anniversary in early October 2023, and it was pure perfection. Waking up to the autumn colours reflected on the perfectly still lake was something I’ll never forget. The staff left a lovely note and a small bottle of prosecco for us, which was such a thoughtful touch. The location is ideal—quiet and private, but just a five-minute walk to the buzz of Main Street. We will absolutely be back.

Marcus Holloway
★★★★★
As an avid skier, I’ve stayed at many mountain resorts, but the Lake House is in a class of its own. We visited in February 2024 and used the resort as our base for skiing at Whiteface. The convenience was fantastic, but the best part was returning to the hotel. It’s so peaceful and luxurious. Skating on Mirror Lake right outside our door was a magical experience for the whole family. Top-notch service from every single staff member.

Sophie Chen
★★★★☆
A truly beautiful property with unbeatable views. We stayed for a week in July 2023. The complimentary kayaks and paddleboards were a huge hit with our kids, and we spent hours on the lake. The room was spacious and immaculate. My only minor critique is that the main resort pool area can get quite crowded. However, the smaller pool exclusive to Lake House guests was a wonderful, quieter alternative. Overall, a fantastic family vacation.

David Chen
★★★★★
My wife and I came for a quiet getaway in May 2024 before the summer crowds. It was exactly what we needed. The property was serene, the views from our balcony were breathtaking, and the sound of the loons on the lake was so calming. We had a corner suite which was worth every penny for the extra space and panoramic view. The concierge, a gentleman named Brian, gave us an incredible recommendation for a moderate hike that led to a secluded waterfall. Exceptional.

Isabelle Dubois
★★★★★
C’était magnifique! We drove down from Montreal for a long weekend in September 2023. The drive itself was beautiful, but arriving at the Lake House was the highlight. The Adirondack architecture is so charming and elegant. We loved having our morning coffee on the balcony, watching the early morning rowers on the lake. It felt very private and exclusive, yet friendly and welcoming. We had dinner at Dancing Bears twice because we loved the lively atmosphere.

Liam O’Connell
★★★★★
We stayed here for the Lake Placid Ironman in July 2023. The location could not have been better for accessing the swim start and finish line. But beyond the convenience, it was an oasis of calm amidst the race weekend chaos. The bed was unbelievably comfortable, which was a godsend after the race. The staff were incredibly supportive and encouraging to all the athletes. A class act all around.

Grace Kim
★★★★☆
A wonderful stay for our family’s first visit to Lake Placid in August 2024. The lake access is the star of the show. Our room was lovely and clean, though perhaps a little smaller than I expected for the price. However, the balcony and the view more than made up for it. The kids loved the s’mores kits available in the evening. A very memorable trip.

Benjamin Carter
★★★★★
I visited for a solo hiking trip in June 2024. The Lake House was the perfect basecamp. After a long day on the trails in the High Peaks, coming back to that level of comfort was incredible. The shower had fantastic water pressure, and the room was so quiet and peaceful. I spent my evenings reading on the Adirondack chair on my patio. It was restorative and exactly the escape I was looking for.

Ava Navarro
★★★★★
Winter Carnival in February 2024 was the perfect time to visit! Our room at the Lake House had a direct view of the ice palace on the lake. It was absolutely magical, especially at night when it was all lit up. The hotel is perfectly situated to enjoy all the festivities. The staff were wonderful and handled the busy weekend with grace and efficiency. Can’t wait to come back and experience it in the summer.

Tom Sterling
★★★★★
My partner and I stayed for three nights in late January 2024. We’re not skiers, but we wanted a winter escape. We had the most relaxing time just enjoying the resort. We ice-skated, walked into town, read by the fire in the lobby, and just enjoyed the stunning, snowy views from our room. It proved you don’t have to be a winter sports fanatic to have an amazing time here. It’s a destination in and of itself. Highly, highly recommend.

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