Ausable Chasm Lights Up the Adirondacks With a New Festival of Lights
Ausable Chasm is known for summer rafting and tubing, but this season it’s showing visitors a side of the gorge they’ve never seen. The new Ausable Chasm Festival of Lights opens November 19, 2026, turning the attraction’s wooded trails into a nighttime holiday walk in the Adirondacks.
The festival runs Thursday through Sunday evenings through January 10, 2027, giving families a fresh reason to head north this winter.
Four Illuminated Worlds on a Half-Mile Trail
The self-guided route starts at the Welcome Center and crosses the Route 9 bridge to the Gatehouse. From there, guests enter four themed worlds along the trail system, each with its own atmosphere and lighting design.
The full walk covers about a half mile, and visitors can move at their own pace. Photo stops are spread throughout, and Ausable Chasm invites guests to share their pictures using #AusableChasmLights.
Hot Chocolate, Carolers, and a Winter Village
Guests can warm up with hot chocolate in the Winter Village, which also has restrooms. Carolers and live music are planned for select evenings, so check Ausable Chasm’s website and social media for performance dates.
Festival of Lights Tickets and Hours
The festival is open 4:30 to 8:30 PM, with the last ticket sold at 7:30 PM. Admission is:
- $19.95 for ages 13 and up
- $14.95 for ages 4 to 12
- Free for ages 3 and under
Advance online tickets are strongly recommended since walk-up availability is limited. Tickets are non-refundable unless Ausable Chasm cancels the event due to weather or trail conditions.
Plan Ahead for Winter Trail Conditions
The route follows natural terrain, so dress in warm layers and wear footwear with good traction. Strollers and pets are not permitted, and the trail is not ADA accessible.
Daytime Hours Change This Fall
Before the lights turn on, Ausable Chasm is open Monday through Friday from October 24 to November 16, with weekends closed. Once the festival begins, the attraction returns to seven-day operations, with daytime trail access until 3 PM.
Read more about Ausable Chasm >>
View the Adirondack Holiday Guide for more things to do >>
