We are now predicted to get some significant snow on Christmas Day. May only be 3-5 inches in Lake Placid, but other areas are supposed to get more. Even just the 3-5 in the somewhat firm base (but no breakable crust)will put all popular routes in goo shape for the week - assuming you want to brave the very frigid temperatures. Highs after Tuesday will only be in the single digits, if that, and only a slow warming to 10 degrees by Sunday.
We'll check in with Lake Colden after he storm, so we will be able to pass along those conditions as well.
Saturday afternoon update: Friday's storm did drop 5-7 inches of snow, but it is still quite thin under any thick conifers. Saturday has seen, so far, about six hour of just above freezing temperatures with light rain, and still just above freezing as of 5 PM. So, we go from 5-7 inches of nice fluffy powder to 4-5 inches of wet miserable powder. Once it does cool off tonight tis will turn to breakable crust, so the best skiing will be at the groomed centers. Christmas day may see four more inches of new snow, which should make the breakable crust site skiable, so stay tuned. Otherwise, the coverage as reported yesterday remain basically unchanged.
Skis or snowshoes now definitely recommended for any backcountry travel and required in the High Peaks. No report yet from Lake Colden, but 2-3 feet at 4,000 feet.