Full Moon Ski & Snowshoe Party at Mt. Van Hoevenberg

Bask in the glow of the Snow Moon on January 31, 2026.

By the end of January, winter in the Adirondacks has found its stride. Snowpack is settled, daylight is slowly creeping back, and there’s a collective confidence that comes from being fully immersed in the season.

On January 31, 2026, Mt. Van Hoevenberg hosts its second Full Moon Ski & Snowshoe Party of the year — a midwinter evening that leans into everything that makes Nordic skiing and snowshoeing here so special: groomed trails, glowing fires, shared adventure, and a warm lodge waiting at the finish.

This event is ideal for skiers and snowshoers who are comfortable getting out at night, as well as visitors to Lake Placid looking for an authentic winter experience that goes beyond the typical après scene.

A midwinter night made for being outside.

Late January often delivers some of the best conditions of the season, and this full moon event takes full advantage. Trails are illuminated by moonlight and firelight, creating an atmosphere that feels energetic without being overwhelming.

Guests can:

• Join an instructor-led group ski or snowshoe

• Explore independently at their own pace

• Pause at bonfires along each trail loop

• Finish the night with live music, food, and drinks inside the Mountain Pass Lodge

The result is an evening that feels social and spirited, but still grounded in the quiet beauty of winter at Mt. Van Hoevenberg.

Trail options for every pace.

Whether you’re skiing regularly this season or easing into nighttime outings, there’s a route designed to match your comfort level:

• Short / Easy
  A welcoming option for beginners, snowshoers, or anyone looking for a relaxed loop under the moon.

• Medium / Intermediate
  A balanced route offering steady terrain and enough distance to fully enjoy the night conditions.

• Long / Advanced
  Designed for experienced Nordic skiers ready to stretch things out and savor extended moonlit miles.

Instructors are present throughout the evening to lead groups and offer guidance, making nighttime skiing approachable and enjoyable.

Bonfires on the trail, lights in the lodge.

Winter bonfire.

Each route features a trailside bonfire, providing skiers and snowshoers a place to warm up, regroup, and take in the surroundings before heading back out.

At the end of the night, the focus shifts to the Mountain Pass Lodge, where your ticket includes one drink ticket to use during the after-party.

Live music sets the tone, and food and additional beverages are available for purchase — making it easy to linger and turn the outing into a full winter evening.

Snowshoers welcome, rentals available.

These full moon events aren’t just for seasoned skiers.

Snowshoers are welcome on designated routes, and ski and snowshoe rentals are available on site for an additional fee. It’s a great option for visitors or locals who want to try something new without committing to seasonal gear.

Event details at a glance.

• Event: Full Moon Ski & Snowshoe Party

• Date: January 31, 2026

• Location: Mt. Van Hoevenberg, Lake Placid

• Meeting point: Outside the Mountain Pass Lodge

• Cost: $6 per person

• Ticket includes: Trail access + one drink ticket for the lodge after-party

• Extras: Ski and snowshoe rentals available for an additional fee

Moonlit ski trail.

Why January 31 hits differently.

This late-January full moon lands at a moment when winter feels fully alive — not rushed, not tentative, just confidently underway. It’s the kind of night that rewards staying out a little longer, pushing one more loop, or lingering by the fire before heading inside.

For Lake Placid visitors, it’s a memorable way to experience one of the region’s most iconic venues after dark. For locals, it’s a reminder that even in the heart of winter, there’s always a new way to enjoy familiar trails.

---

Find the best places to eat, shop, stay and experience near Mt. Van Hoevenberg and Lake Placid.

---

Shop our store for unique Adirondack gifts, clothing, merchandise and cool stuff.

---

ADK Talks Podcast

Love the Adirondacks? You’ll love our podcast. We take listeners beyond the guidebooks and into the heart of the Adirondacks. We share stories from the people behind the best places to eat, shop, stay and explore in the ADK. Find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.

---

---

See the top upcoming events in the Tri-Lakes and High Peaks region.

Find Mt. Van Hoevenberg.