If you love scenic overviews, then making a reservation at Grand Adirondack Hotel is perfect for your summer getaway. The mountains near Lake Placid provide breathtaking sights regardless of the season. However, it’s not always feasible to spend an entire afternoon climbing a mountain for a spectacular view. Luckily for you, the Whiteface gondola ride, aptly named “Cloudsplitter,” provides 15 minutes of unparalleled mountain scenery.

How Does the Whiteface Gondola Ride Work?

The Cloudsplitter is open weather permitting throughout the year, but there are times when it’s closed, so best to check on the website; whiteface.com for updated schedules. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Adirondacks bathed in fiery colors of fall foliage, coated in the white powder of a picturesque winter wonderland, or painted in the lush greenery of spring and summer. Riders board the gondola at Main Base Lodge. The Cloudsplitter takes you to the top of Little Whiteface, where you can spend more time soaking in the marvelous sights at their observation deck. There’s even a picnic area on Litte Whiteface, so you can pack some food or grab something at a nearby eatery.

What Are the Hours? 

Hours vary according to the seasons, but the Whiteface Mountain gondola ride generally runs longer during the summer months. Typically, here’s how the hours work by season: 

  • Winter (November through April) 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. 
    • You may want to double-check the Whiteface website as some days the ride is only open to skiers and snowboarders.
  • Summer (April through September) 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
  • Autumn (September through November) call ahead to verify Cloudsplitter hours.

How Many People Can Ride at Once?

During peak season, the gondola cart carries up to eight people per lift. However, if you go during a lull, there’s a chance you might get more privacy. 

How Do I Get There from My Lake Placid Resort?

The directions on getting to the Whiteface Mountain gondola from our Lake Placid resort are relatively straightforward. Hop on NY-86 East for about nine miles and take a left at the Whiteface Mountain Ski Area. The Cloudsplitter rides launch from the Main Base Lodge. 

Book a Cozy Lake Placid Hotel for Your Family Vacation

Grand Adirondack Hotel provides comfortable lodgings for your family in the picturesque village of Lake Placid. You’ll have access to several fun activities, like the Cloudsplitter, when you book a stay in the Adirondacks. Please call us at 518-302-7559 if you have any questions about the Whiteface gondola ride or to make a reservation.