The Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway was completed in 1936 and has introduced thousands of people to the splendors of Adirondack scenery without the need for strenuous exertion. A ski up the highway, which is closed to automobile traffic from the first snow until the last of it melts, is a wonderful adventure into the wintry alpine without the dangers of steep and rocky trails normally found at such high elevations. The road is generally plowed to a turn-around at the gate house at Lake Stevens. The highway offers a steady 8% grade that is neither too taxing on the ascent nor too steep on the descent. However, waxless skis with scales are recommended for most users both to aid with climbing and reduce speed on the descent. There are great views throughout the length of the road due to its width. However, this openness also means that it is frequently windy, and blowing snow can be a hazard, especially above 4,000 feet. Be aware that the castle and summit observatory are closed from mid October to mid May. For those wishing to summit the peak, it is generally safe to use the trail up the northwest ridge from the castle using your ski boots (due to the metal handrails) except in very icy conditions.