Wonders of Wilmington Challenge
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Register Your WOW Completion View the Roster

Experience the Wonders of Wilmington, New York

Time for some trivia! In what town is Whiteface Mountain, famous for the 1980 Olympic Winter Games, located?

If you guessed Wilmington, NY, you are correct!

WOW!

Whiteface Mountain is the fifth highest peak in the Adirondacks. It boasts a vertical drop of 3,430 feet, making it the greatest of any ski area in the east. Often associated with nearby Lake Placid, where the 1932 and 1980 Olympic Winter Games were hosted, Whiteface Mountain is perhaps the most renowned of the “Wonders of Wilmington.” 

We invite you to explore and experience Wilmington by participating in one or all three of our Wonders of Wilmington (WOW) Challenges.

Each WOW Challenge consists of six selected "trails," with the optional experience of visiting the summit of Whiteface Mountain or Little Whiteface in whatever way is most appropriate for you: by foot, by car, by bike, or by gondola. For each challenge you complete, you’ll be able to register online to be added to our finisher’s roster and receive the corresponding 3-inch WOW patch. And, if your pet companions join you, they can be registered and receive a 2-inch WOW patch designed just for them! 

Patches on an Adirondack chair.

The challenges

Hiking Challenge

The WOW Hiking Challenge includes a set of trails not included in any of the other local hiking challenges, yet offers some of Wilmington’s best terrain and views. Trails range in length from 2-miles to 8-miles round trip and in difficulty from easy to challenging.

Learn more about the WOW Hiking Challenge today!

Mountain Biking Challenge

Why let the hikers have all the challenge fun? Here’s a WOW patch-earning challenge just for mountain bikers in the town dubbed "the mountain bike capital of the Adirondacks."

Learn more about the WOW Mountain Biking Challenge today!

Family Fun Challenge

This WOW Challenge is designed intentionally for multi-generational families and groups to enjoy together! It's a great way to get younger challengers started with the fun and rewards of exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more about the WOW Family Fun Challenge today!

 

Hiking boots on an Adirondack trail.

 

Upon completion

Once you've completed your selected WOW Challenge:

  1. Start by celebrating your success with a visit to the Gazebo in the center of Wilmington, sign the book, and take a picture. If you choose to post your photo on social media, include #WondersOfWilmingtonNY.  
  2. Register online to be added to our finisher’s roster and receive your patch(es). Registration fees: $10 per challenge finisher, $5 per pet companion finisher. Please allow for up to 12 weeks for processing.

Register Your WOW Completion View the Roster

Wonders of Wilmington is not-for-profit. Any net proceeds will be used to enhance the challenge, trail maintenance, or be shared with local non-profit organizations that support outdoor experiences.

 

Know before you go

There are certain things to keep in mind before heading out an any adventure!

Leave No Trace and Love Your ADK Pledge

The magic of the Adirondacks is the result of previous generations taking a long view and protecting the mountains, lakes, and rivers within the Blue Line. That tradition continues today as we support and encourage everyone to practice Leave No Trace ethics, which help protect the lands and waters of the Adirondacks.

Today, you can take the Love Your ADK Pledge to join hundreds of others who have committed to protecting the Adirondacks. 

 

Parking

Please follow parking rules at the respective trailheads and take caution when crossing roads.

 

Disclaimer

This website does not guarantee the trail information provided is 100% correct and cannot guarantee your safety on the trails. Hike at your own risk and always be prepared. The Wonders of Wilmington and its creators are not liable for any property loss or damage, personal injury, or any unfortunate death that may occur while hiking, biking, or accessing any trails described on this website.

 

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