Dewey Mountain Recreation Center
Nestled in the Adirondacks just outside Saranac Lake, Dewey Mountain Recreation Center is a year-round outdoor destination known for its welcoming atmosphere and scenic trail network. Whether visitors arrive for winter cross-country skiing and snowshoeing or warm-weather mountain biking and disc golf, Dewey Mountain offers accessible outdoor recreation for all ages and skill levels. With community-built trails, affordable access, and beautiful forested terrain, Dewey has become a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Getting to Dewey Mountain
From Saranac Lake
Dewey Mountain Recreation Center is located just a few minutes from downtown Saranac Lake. From the village center, take Route 3 west toward Tupper Lake for approximately 2 miles, then turn onto Mount Pisgah Lane where signs direct visitors to the recreation center and trailhead parking area. The drive typically takes less than 10 minutes.
From Malone
Travel south on Route 30 toward Saranac Lake for roughly 40 miles through the northern Adirondacks. Upon reaching Saranac Lake, follow Route 3 west for about 2 miles before turning onto Mount Pisgah Lane to reach Dewey Mountain. The drive from Malone generally takes around one hour depending on weather and road conditions.
Cross-Country Skiing
Dewey Mountain is best known for its outstanding cross-country skiing opportunities during the winter season. The recreation center features a network of groomed and ungroomed Nordic ski trails suitable for beginners, families, and experienced skiers alike. Lower trails are groomed for skate skiing with classic tracks set when conditions allow, while upper mountain trails provide a more rugged backcountry-style experience with rolling climbs and scenic forest views.
One of Dewey’s most popular features is its lighted trail system, allowing visitors to enjoy evening skiing throughout the winter months. Ski rentals are available onsite, making the center an accessible destination for newcomers looking to experience Nordic skiing in the Adirondacks.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing at Dewey Mountain offers a peaceful way to explore the winter landscape. Dedicated snowshoe trails wind through quiet forests on both the east and west sides of the mountain, gradually climbing toward the summit. Along the way, visitors experience scenic Adirondack terrain, snow-covered evergreens, and occasional views overlooking the surrounding area.
The trails vary in difficulty, making them ideal for casual walkers as well as more adventurous winter hikers. Snowshoe rentals are available at the lodge, allowing visitors to easily enjoy the trails without needing their own equipment.
Mountain Biking
During the spring, summer, and fall months, Dewey Mountain transforms into a mountain biking destination with an expanding network of singletrack trails. Built and maintained by the Barkeater Trails Alliance (BETA), the trail system offers a mix of beginner-friendly rides, flowing descents, technical terrain, and steady climbs leading to elevated viewpoints. Dewey Mountain Recreation Center features 5.5 miles of singletrack mountain bike trails. Difficulty ranges from cruiser to hardcore as riders ascend about 450 vertical feet to the summit.
The trails are free to use and connect riders with the natural beauty of the Adirondack forest. Dewey’s mountain biking network continues to grow through community volunteer efforts and has become a popular stop for riders exploring the greater Saranac Lake trail system.
Disc Golf
Dewey Mountain is also home to a free 18-hole disc golf course operated by Barkeater Disc. Open from April through November, the course winds through wooded terrain and rolling hills, creating a challenging and scenic experience for players of all skill levels.
The course blends naturally into the mountain landscape and shares portions of the trail network, giving visitors a unique way to experience Dewey’s forests and terrain. Disc golfers visiting the area often combine a round with hiking, biking, or other outdoor activities available at the recreation center.
