Winter activities are in full swing in the Adirondacks! Take your pick from the suggestions below to get out there this weekend and beyond. Then, scroll down for news on the Olympic venues and more.

Looking for Stuff to Do in the ADK? We Have Ideas!
Attention Anglers: This is Your Year to Try Ice Fishing
There’s never been a better time to give ice fishing a try than now, when many are anxious to find fun, safe, outdoor activities this winter.
“From small local ponds to large lakes and reservoirs, New York has a tremendous array of ice fishing opportunities for anglers to experience close to home,” DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said in a statement, adding that many fish species continue to be active during the winter months.
If you’re a first-timer, you might consider hiring an ice fishing guide. We recommend Adirondack Mountain & Stream Guide Service.
Free Fishing Weekend
Free Fishing Weekend is February 13 to 14, when you can try ice fishing without a fishing license. Now there’s a unique Valentine’s Day activity! The next free fishing weekend isn’t until June 26 to 27, so take advantage of this one.
Order Ahead for the Saranac Lake Farmers’ Park-It
If you didn’t know, you can place orders from your favorite participating farmers and producers to pick up on Saturdays from 10am to 12pm at Hotel Saranac. This is going on from now through at least the end of May. Check it out here.
Skiing (and More) Recommendation: Mt. Pisgah
Speaking of Hotel Saranac, they’re close to Mt. Pisgah, a mountain that offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and snow tubing. If you’re finding that the larger ski resorts are tough to get into, this is a lesser-known option to consider.
Suggested Activity: Ausable Chasm
Ausable Chasm is open now and offers incredible scenery without the summer crowds. They’re open 9am to 4pm daily and tickets can be pre-purchased on their website. Come see what the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks” looks like in the winter!
Brush Up on What’s New in the ADK
Major Olympic Venue Improvements Are Coming
The Governor’s 2022 Executive Budget was released this week and includes $105 million in new capital funding for the Olympic Regional Development Authority, including $92.5 million for the Olympic facilities and ski resorts. Wow! The funds are expected to go toward energy efficiency upgrades, maintenance, and preparation for the 2023 World University Games.
In the meantime, the Olympic Museum and other venues are open to the public to enjoy, including the Olympic Speed Skating Oval.
News in the Arts Community With ArtWorks and The View

Saranac Lake-based ArtWorks has announced their annual open membership period, when new members are invited to join the nonprofit. Artists who join in January or February are guaranteed to be highlighted in the annual print directory as well as featured on the ArtWorks website.
ArtWorks has recently redesigned its website, and has otherwise worked to stay current and to continue to promote Adirondack artists and organizations throughout the pandemic. Collaboration is key! Email info@saranaclakeartworks.org if you’re interested in joining forces with ArtWorks.

The View in Old Forge is preparing for their annual Central Adirondack Art Show, which will take place April 3 to 6, 2021, with a call for artists to submit their work. The Art Show is open to current artists ages 16 and up who are members of The View and/or reside within 200 miles of Old Forge.
There is a submission fee of $15 for members and $20 for non-members. You can find the details you need at viewarts.org.
Discover more winter fun >>
Sources:
- NYS: Governor Cuomo Outlines FY 2022 Budget: Reimagine | Rebuild | Renew