The Ultimate Guide to Bungy-Style Jumps and Free-Fall Fun in Lake Placid, NY
Okay, let’s get one thing out of the way right now before anyone straps in or tightens their helmet…
There’s no official bungy (or bungee) jumping spot in Lake Placid.
I know. Heartbreaking. I had my “I’m totally jumping off a bridge today” outfit picked out and everything.
BUT—and this is a big but—that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck if you’re craving a mid-air scream, a mini heart attack, or a solid dose of adrenaline. Because Lake Placid may not have the classic rubber-band-jump-off-a-bridge setup, but it definitely delivers when it comes to next-level thrills.
As someone who has chased adrenaline in just about every way short of shark wrestling (that’s on the bucket list), I can tell you: Lake Placid is low-key an adventure playground, and I’m here to show you exactly how to get your fix.
First of All… Why Lake Placid?
Let me set the scene.
You’re in a mountain town that once hosted the Winter Olympics. You’ve got fresh pine-scented air, postcard-perfect lakes, and enough wilderness to make even the most seasoned adventurer giggle like a kid.
Lake Placid is in the Adirondack Mountains, and it’s gorgeous. But more importantly—it’s got zipline drops, giant swings, ropes courses, cliff jumps, and even skydiving. In other words, if you’re trying to get airborne, you’re in the right place—even without a bungy cord.
So… Is There Bungy Jumping in Lake Placid?
Short answer: Nope. Nada. Not today, thrill-seeker.
Longer answer: You won’t find a commercial bungee tower, bridge, or crane jump in Lake Placid. And yeah, I was a little bummed at first too. But then I realized this region still offers some amazing bungy-like experiences that are just as heart-racing (and usually come with less paperwork and a better view).
Let’s talk alternatives—because you came for the adrenaline, and I’m not letting you leave empty-handed.
Best Bungy-Like (a.k.a. Scream-Worthy) Adventures Around Lake Placid
1. Experience Outdoors Adventure Center – Lake Placid
No actual bungee jump here, but they do have platform jumps, zipline launches, and ropes courses high enough to make your palms sweat.
You’ll be walking across tightropes, climbing trees like a caffeinated squirrel, and launching off platforms like an action movie extra who forgot their lines but still nailed the landing.
Why it rocks:
- Beautiful forest canopy views
- Ziplines with drop zones (that give you just enough time to scream)
- Safety-first staff who are friendly enough to talk you through your pre-jump panic
- Perfect for beginners and “I-want-to-jump-but-not-die” types
Adrenaline rating: 6.5/10
“Did I just do that?” rating: 10/10
2. Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course – Bolton Landing (~1.5 hours away)
Okay, this place? It’s like a ropes course met a zipline park, had a baby, and raised it on pure chaos and energy drinks.
You climb. You swing. You zip. You pray. (Just kidding—kind of.)
They’ve got everything from easy courses for families to “wait… that’s legal?” level obstacles. While you’re not bungy jumping, the giant free-fall swings and mid-air leaps totally scratch the same itch.
Pro tip: Don’t skip the black course unless you want to leave feeling only mostly victorious.
Adrenaline rating: 8/10
Sweat level: High
Likelihood of nervous laughter: 100%
3. Skydive the Falls – Near Lake George (~1.5–2 hours away)
This isn’t just close to bungy… it yeets bungy into the stratosphere.
Yes, I’m talking about skydiving. If you’re serious about confronting gravity and screaming until your throat tickles, this is it.
Strapped to a highly trained human (who’s weirdly calm about all this), you’ll jump out of a plane at 10,000+ feet and free-fall while trying to remember your own name. It’s terrifying. It’s amazing. It’s life-changing.
Why do it?
- Unbeatable views of the Adirondacks
- The ultimate adrenaline rush
- Bragging rights that will last forever
- You’ll feel like James Bond. Or maybe a confused sky pancake. Either way—epic.
Adrenaline rating: 100/10
Chances of you doing it again: Surprisingly high
Whiteface Mountain Gondola + Summit Views
Look, not everything has to involve leaping off a thing. Sometimes, it’s nice to feel your knees wobble from just being on top of the world.
Take the gondola up Whiteface Mountain for insane views of Lake Placid, Canada, and Vermont. And if you’re feeling bold? Hike the last little bit to the summit for that on-top-of-the-world-but-still-attached-to-it feeling.
Not quite bungy, but a great breather between panic-filled plunges.
Chill rating: 10/10
Perfect for: Rebooting your courage levels
What About Cliff Jumping?
You might have heard some folks whispering about cliff diving in the Adirondacks. And yes, there are a couple of popular spots… but please be smart.
Locals Mention:
- Flume Falls (Wilmington) – Some do small jumps here
- Split Rock Falls – About an hour out; can be dangerous
Word of caution: These spots are not commercial. No safety nets, no lifeguards, no guarantees. Check the depth. Know the water level. Go with friends. Or… maybe just stick to places with helmets and harnesses. Your tailbone will thank you.
Safety First, Daredevils Second
Quick reality check:
- Always wear proper gear
- Listen to the instructors (yes, even when they’re younger than you)
- No heavy meals before you jump
- Don’t peer-pressure your friends… unless it’s funny and harmless
- And remember: Screaming is not only allowed—it’s encouraged
What to Pack for a High-Flying Day
- ✅ Closed-toe shoes
- ✅ Flexible, breathable clothes
- ✅ GoPro (because your face mid-jump is priceless)
- ✅ Hair ties, gloves, backup courage
- ❌ Flip-flops, oversized jewelry, and your fear of heights
Best Season for Jumping Around
- Spring & Summer: Warm weather, most places open, max energy
- Fall: Cooler temps, less crowd, stunning foliage (best for scenic thrills!)
- Winter: Not the best for jumping—unless you’re into skiing and sliding instead
FAQs That Deserve a Giggle
Q: Is bungy jumping legal in New York?
A: Yes! Just not in Lake Placid. Head closer to NYC or out of state if you’re after a proper bridge bounce.
Q: Can I fake a bungy jump for my Instagram?
A: You could, but skydiving or a zipline drop will look way cooler.
Q: Do these activities hurt?
A: Only your pride if you chicken out halfway up the platform.
Final Thoughts: Go Big or Go Bungy-ish
So, no—you won’t be dangling from a giant rubber band over a gorge in Lake Placid. But if you’re looking to scare yourself into smiling, there are plenty of ways to defy gravity in this neck of the woods.
Jump, swing, zip, climb—even fall (on purpose). Whatever you do, just get out there and live a little louder.
And when they finally open a bungy jump in Lake Placid? I’ll meet you at the edge. Helmet on. Knees shaking. Big ol’ grin on my face.
