There is always something magical about getting outside and skiing under a bright Adirondack full moon. Though it is certainly easy enough to visit any trail with a headlamp and proper gear, it is sometimes the camaraderie of an organized event that pulls everything together.

Most organized activities are family-friendly, but if you are in need of a night off from the kids give Cascade Ski Center a try.

According to Cascade Ski Center’s Maureen Mooney, their full moon ski events are for adults only. The shop and trails are open during regular business hours, but on those nights the rental shop and trails reopen at 7 pm.

“This year the full moon skis are on February 7 and March 7,” says Mooney. “The shop and restaurant are closed during those events, but the rental area is open. We have hotdogs, hot chocolate and popcorn. We ID everyone because we also serve beer. There is live music in the restaurant area with the doors open until 2 am.”

People come after dinner and just snack at the Cascade Ski Center utilizing the lighted trails. There is also the opportunity to warm up alongside one of the bonfires or relax inside in front of the fireplace.

Garnet Hill in North River is hosting their version of the full moon ski and snowshoe event with special activities such as the February 6 Chocolate Fondue (6:30 – 8:30 pm) and March 6 Poker Run (6:30 – 9 pm). Participants can explore the trails by themselves or join a guided tour. Hot chocolate is available at the bonfire and equipment is free for all participants. Prices vary.

The Adirondack VIC in Paul Smiths invites participants to ski the moonlit trails on Thursday, February 5 from 5;30 – 9 pm or follow the tiki lights. There will also be an armchair lectures series, bonfire and potluck dinner. The annual Bunny Boot Ball Full Moon Ski Party takes place March 6 from 7 – 11 pm with live music, food, bonfire and activities inside the VIC building as well as along the trails. Prices vary.

The Tupper Lake Groomed Cross Country Ski Center is planning two free full moon ski, January 31 and March 7, at 6 pm along its groomed trails at the Tupper Lake Country Club. Ski to Cranberry Pond by yourself or with others and enjoy the bonfire.

Lastly Lapland Lake will host a dinner and snowshoe tour on January 31 an March 7 for anyone wishing to get out under the moonlight and enjoy the fresh evening air. This package includes a light meal, snowshoe rentals, s’mores by the lakeside fire and guided tour.

These are just a few places to enjoy a full moon outing. Please keep in mind that even though these are organized events headlamps are a necessity. Those who want a night-ski option, but are not necessarily pulled by the full moon, should check out Dewey Mountain Ski Center in Saranac Lake and Fern Park in Inlet.

Photo of an Adirondack full moon used with the permission of Diane Chase, AdirondackFamilyTime.com