Run the 53rd Annual Lake Placid Classic on October 12

Join the 10K or half marathon and support local youth and wellness programs in the Adirondacks.

The Lake Placid Community and visitors look forward to the Lake Placid Classic every fall, one of the Adirondacks’ premier running events. The 2024 race is on October 12. Runners compete in the 10K and half marathon, giving them stunning views of the mountains and magnificent fall foliage.

It’s easy to register online at the Lake Placid Classic’s website. Don’t miss this scenic running event in the Adirondack Mountains during peak foliage season.

The races start and finish at the North Elba Horse Showgrounds, just outside the village of Lake Placid, surrounded by the stunning Adirondack High Peaks and forever wild forests.

Race routes through some of Lake Placid’s most iconic places.

The 10K and the Half Marathon race courses take runners past some of Lake Placid’s most scenic spots.

The 10K begins at the attractive North Elba Horse Show Grounds, passing by the Olympic Cauldron that still stands from the 1980 Olympics.

Lake Placid Classic Marathon runners on River Road with the Olympic Ski Jumping Complex in the background. All photos courtesy Lake Placid Classic.

Runners will also pass the towering ski jumps at the Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex and the picturesque John Brown Farm. They may be tempted to stop at Big Slide Brewery just before the finish line (we recommend waiting until after the race).

The half-marathon route includes the places mentioned above but continues on River Road along the Ausable River as it flows in and out along the road. Runners will enjoy sensational views of the High Peaks and Ski Jumps, which provide motivation along this run with small rolling hills.

An Adirondack event designed with sustainability in mind.

We love that Lake Placid Classic event organizers planned this year’s event with the intent to minimize the environmental impact on the Adirondack Park we all love so dearly. They are focused on keeping waste to a minimum by conscientiously planning the number and location of aid stations, using fewer products wrapped in paper and plastic, and forgoing bottled water for places for runners to fill their reusable containers and cups.

Lake Placid Classic’s merchandise is produced sustainably.

Sustainable practices also extend to race SWAG and merch. They designed race t-shirts made from a unique blend of fibers that help reduce carbon footprint. The production process for Lake Placid Classic race tees uses less water than conventional methods, too.

​You can also do your part by using the provided compost bins for all compostable items and recycling bins for all recyclable items.

For more information about the race, schedule and to register online, visit the Lake Placid Classic’s website. And for the most recent updates, visit and follow their Facebook page.

Discover places to eat, shop, stay and things to do near Lake Placid.

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

Upcoming events and things to do in the Adirondack Tri-Lakes and High Peaks region.

Navigate to North Elba Horse Show Grounds.