Olympic Ski Jump Complex

If you approached Lake Placid from the east on Route 73, the first thing you undoubtedly noticed were the stark towers of the Olympic ski jumps (off Rte. 73, 518/523-2202, www.orda.org, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. daily May–Oct. and Dec.–Mar., adults $8, children 6–12 $5), looming out of the landscape like giant misshapen thumbs. The site still serves as a training center and is open year-round, thanks to plastic mats, water ramps, and snow-making machines.

Upon entering the complex, stop first at the freestyle aerial facility, where—with any luck—you’ll see athletes practicing their maneuvers by sailing over pools, off water-filled ramps. Next, visit the main lodge to view a photo exhibit on the history of ski-jumping, and catch the chairlift to the 90-meter jump. If training is taking place here, you can watch from an observation deck. If not, take the glass-enclosed elevator to the top of the 120-meter jump for great views of the High Peaks.