The upstate New York mountain town of Lake Placid has become synonymous with the Winter Olympics for good reason: it hosted the games in 1932 and again in 1980. After all, the mix of stunning peaks, rolling hills, and expansive lakes provides all the essentials for the global competition. Despite its brushes with fame, most of the time, the area lives up to its name as a serene getaway. The village, which actually sits at the bottom edge of its namesake lake, is filled with locally owned shops and restaurants — and showcases a laidback lifestyle. But those with Olympic dreams can still find high-adrenaline adventure year round, whether it’s hiking, biking, paddling, skiing, or snowmobiling.

Lake Placid’s knack for snowy scenery shows in its Olympic record. The first flakes tend to fall in November and can last through March, with the highest snowfall chances in late December and January. If you’re booking one of the vacation rentals here during winter, pack your toastiest winter clothes, as temperatures range from single digits to the mid-30s Fahrenheit. April, May, October, and November tend to hover in the sweater weather zone, usually in the 40s and 50s. The summer season, from the end of May to the end of September, hits comfortable highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s, but drops to the 50s after dark, so remember that extra layer — after all, it is mountain weather.

Mirror Lake

Right in the village’s center is the 128-acre, mile-long lake, where the activities reflect the seasons. In winter, the frozen surface is shared by ice skaters and even tobogganers sliding down a 30-foot jump. During the warmer months, runners frequent the 2.7-mile waterfront loop, while kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders take to the waters. On the south end, swimming is allowed at Lake Placid Public Beach.

Lake Placid Olympic Center

The 1980 U.S. men’s hockey victory over the Soviet Union — dubbed the Miracle on Ice — can still be felt inside the arena, which continues to host events and is also home to the Lake Placid Olympic Museum. Also nearby: the Olympic Jumping Complex (take an elevator to the top of the ski jump) and Mount Van Hoevenberg (go for a bobsled ride on the track).

Whiteface Mountain

The Adirondack Mountains’ fifth-highest peak has a winter ski resort, as well as a gondola ride to take in the aerial views in any season.