Four newsworthy mentions in the Adirondacks this week include ice palace construction, the opening of a super popular Lake Placid winter activity, and more. Find out details and see fun events coming up!

Ice Palace Construction Begins Today
The Saranac Lake Winter Carnival’s famed Ice Palace construction work starts today, January 28. IPW (Ice Palace Workers) Director Dean Baker told Adirondack Enterprise that the weather has not been favorable, and of course there is the ongoing pandemic, but they are moving forward with construction. In fact, a small team has already been hard at work preparing ice for harvesting.
The Ice Palace will be visible on the outside but no one will be allowed inside this year. Make sure to drive by soon, and check out fireworks over the palace on February 6 and 13.
You Can Go Tobogganing Starting This Weekend!
The Lake Placid Toboggan Chute opens for the season this Saturday, January 30! It will be open Saturdays from 12pm to 4pm, and Sundays from 12pm to 3pm.
You can find more details here: https://www.lakeplacid.com/events/toboggan-chute-what-to-know

Survey Seeks Feedback From Those Thinking About a Move to the ADK
The Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST) has joined forces with Warren County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to put together a survey aimed to get a feel for potential year-round residents interested in coming to the Adirondacks.
If you know someone who is considering such a move, you can point them to the confidential survey here.
Women’s Pro Hockey Happening in Lake Placid
The National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL) season is in full swing in Lake Placid this week and next. Although these athletes had not played in a game since last March, they are not disappointing. The players have been bringing their best to the rink, particularly with the Metropolitan Riveters win over the Toronto Six on Sunday.
Next week fans can follow along with the NWHL’s Twitch channel or on the NBC Sports Network.
Warrensburg Restaurant & Inn Purchased, Expects to Reopen by Mid-March
Lotus Group of Companies has purchased the Merrill Magree Inn & Restaurant, according to a recent Facebook post. The Warrensburg establishment will be rebranded as The Bond, 1786. They plan to add a tented wedding venue, renovate the landscaping, and update the inn rooms.
Discover a Slew of Winter Activities at These Upcoming Events

Can/Am Lake Placid Adult Pond Hockey Tournament: The annual hockey tournament is scheduled to take place on Mirror Lake from February 4 to 7.
Lake George Area Winterfest: The Lake George Area Winterfest schedule is up, there are tons of options for activities, and you can buy wristbands online now. Winterfest runs every weekend in February.
Garnet Hill Lodge in North River, photo above, is a Winterfest participant. Check them out for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, but make those reservations soon, because they will fill up!
Warren County Ice Fishing Challenge: This new month-long fishing tournament challenges anglers to do their best at any waterbody in Warren County during February.
Snowshoeing at Up Yonda Farm: Up Yonda Farm in Bolton Landing hosts guided snowshoeing tours, and one is happening on Saturday, January 30.
Virtual Loon Event: If you love loons (and who doesn’t), the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation is hosting a virtual presentation on the creatures on Friday, January 29.
Sources:
- Adirondack Almanac: Adirondack survey seeks feedback from potential residents
- Adirondack Daily Enterprise: Ice Palace work to begin Thursday
- Boston Globe: Lake Placid, forever remembered for miracles, is hosting a golden moment in women’s hockey