Gore Mountain: New York’s Largest Ski Resort
Among America’s first ski resorts, Gore Mountain continues to delight visitors in the Adirondacks.
Photos courtesy of Gore Mountain.
Gore Mountain, located in North Creek, N.Y., is a popular Adirondack destination for Alpine and Nordic skiers and snowboarders. Offering a diverse array of trails, breathtaking vistas, and a rich history, Gore Mountain has earned its place as a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts from the region. Gore is not only New York State’s largest ski resort, it’s also one of America’s first ski areas.
New York State’s oldest and largest ski resort.
The first incarnation of Gore Mountain was the North Creek Ski Bowl, sometimes referred to as “little Gore” or “old Gore.” This was the site of the first ski lift in New York State, a rope tow installed in 1934 and powered by a 1929 Buick. The price of a lift ticket was just $0.25 for ten rides.
Photo courtesy Gore Mountain.
In 1964, New York State and the Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA) opened “New Gore,” consisting of the peaks of Gore, Bear, and Burnt Ridge, overshadowing the “Little Gore” Ski Bowl. The authorities didn't unite the new and old gore until 2011, almost 50 years later.
A winter sports destination in New York State’s Adirondack Mountains.
At the heart of Gore Mountain's appeal lies its extensive trail network, encompassing 110 trails spread across four distinct peaks. Whether you're a beginner seeking gentle slopes to hone your skills, an intermediate skier looking for scenic cruisers, or an advanced adrenaline junkie craving steep, challenging terrain, Gore Mountain has something to offer for every level of expertise. Each trail is meticulously groomed and maintained, ensuring optimal conditions for carving turns and enjoying the thrill of the descent.
Photo courtesy: AdirondackHub.com (ROOST)
For those seeking solitude and serenity amidst the hustle and bustle of the slopes, Gore Mountain offers a sanctuary in its glades and tree skiing areas. Tucked away from the main trails, these hidden gems provide an opportunity for skiers and snowboarders to immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the Adirondack wilderness while enjoying some of the best powder on the East Coast.
Navigating through the trees, surrounded by pristine snow and the hushed whispers of the forest, is an experience not to be missed for those who crave adventure off the beaten path. Today, the combined ski area comprises 110 trails and 15 lifts, with a wide variety of Alpine terrain suitable for skiers of all levels.
Gore Mountain’s Nordic Center (located at the original “Little Gore”) offers a well-maintained 4K trail network. The trails feature snowmaking and lighting, which allows for extended on-snow time throughout the evening. Their stadium layout makes it an ideal location for training and racing, while the scenic overlook, challenging hill climbs, and multiple loops cater to different distance preferences.
An Adirondack ski destination and full-service resort.
Gore is a full-service resort offering daily group and private ski lessons and multi-week programs. There is also a season-long Instructor and Ski Patrol program for teens.
The Gore Mountain ski shop offers rental packages for skis and snowboards and a tuning and repair shop. A retail shop has a selection of clothing, souvenirs, hats, and accessories to meet your needs.
Additionally, the mountain's extensive snowmaking capabilities ensure optimal conditions throughout the season, guaranteeing a memorable experience for visitors.
Photo courtesy Gore Mountain.
While at Gore, visitors have numerous on-mountain dining options. At the Base Lodge is The Tannery Restaurant, offering a full-service, sit-down dining experience. Share a Charcuterie Board or enjoy a handmade burger or sandwich.
Check out the large Food Court serving breakfast and lunch daily for a fast-casual option. Also in the base area are the Waffle Cabin and Open Pit Grille.
Mid-Mountain, visit the spacious Saddle Lodge. Renovated and expanded in 2017, this is an excellent spot for connecting with friends while enjoying incredible views of the High Peaks. Enjoy delicious soup, tacos or chili in front of the garnet-spiked fireplace.
Enjoy the incredible natural beauty of the Adirondacks.
Beyond its exceptional skiing and snowboarding opportunities, Gore Mountain is renowned for its panoramic views of the surrounding Adirondack High Peaks. From the summit, visitors are treated to a breathtaking vista of snow-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye can see, creating a scene of unparalleled natural beauty. Whether you're taking a break between runs or simply soaking in the scenery, the view from Gore Mountain is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Gore Mountain.
In addition to its natural splendor, Gore Mountain is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The resort has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives, including energy-efficient snowmaking equipment and waste reduction programs, to minimize its environmental impact and preserve the pristine wilderness of the Adirondacks for future generations to enjoy. By prioritizing sustainability, Gore Mountain ensures that visitors can continue to experience the beauty of the mountains for years to come, all while minimizing their carbon footprint.
Gore on ADK Talks Podcast
Listen to our recent conversation with the good folks at Gore Mountain. We discuss what’s new at Gore this year, the resort’s long history as a winter sports destination and future enhancements.
Plenty of après-ski adventures in the Gore Mountain area.
For those looking to extend their stay, the area around Gore Mountain offers a range of dining and lodging options to suit every preference and budget. From cozy cabins nestled in the woods to luxurious slopeside condos, there's no shortage of accommodations to choose from. Additionally, the nearby town of North Creek boasts a charming array of restaurants, shops, and charming accommodations like Goose Pond Inn and Alpine Lodge, providing ample opportunities for dining and entertainment off the slopes.
Photo courtesy Gore Mountain.
The nearby towns of Schroon Lake and Chestertown offer additional lodging options, from upscale boutique hotels like the Friend’s Lake Inn and Fern Lodge to cottage and cabin rentals. The historic Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing on Lake George is only 30 miles away. All these towns offer great shopping and dining options, too.
We have many fond memories spent at Gore with friends and family. Skiing on the East Coast is not for the faint-hearted. Having hosted numerous friends who ski almost exclusively out West, we are always happy to confirm that if you can ski in the Northeast, you can ski anywhere.
Visit Gore’s comprehensive website to get current snow conditions and trail reports and buy tickets online.
Video highlights of skiing at Gore Mountain in the Adiriondacks.
